Accessories

XP4400E generator
Overall, I'm very pleased with this generator. It is definitely a good value for the money. The FedEx guy delivered it in good condition. The packaging was excellent. I pulled it out of the box, installed the wheel kit (5-10 minutes), filled it with fuel and oil and it started right up. It is fairly quiet for a generator, but keep in mind quiet is a relative thing. I would say it is definitely quieter than a lawn mower or a typical Briggs&Stratton generator with a lawnmower type muffler (this generator has an automotive type muffler which helps keep the noise down).

It seems to be pretty well built and I expect it to hold up just fine. I bought it as an emergency backup generator and I feel it really is perfect for that use. I think if you are looking for a generator that will get a ton of regular use, you would probably be better off to spend the extra money and get a Honda. But for something that will only see occasional use, this genny really fits the ticket.

I plugged a Killowatt into it to monitor the voltage and load and found that it puts out 120V at 60HZ with no draw. As you start to increase the load, it holds the 60HZ very well right up to the top end of what it can deliver. The voltage starts to drop some as you significantly increase the load, but still manages about 110V or so.

The published numbers are not really too realistic but that is pretty common for small portable generators. It is supposed to handle 3500 watts continuous and 4400 watts surge. In actual testing here is what I found it able to do:

0-2500 watts: it works really well. The voltage and frequency are fine and its seems to be perfectly happy in this range.

2500-3000 watts: frequency holds steady at 60HZ but the voltage starts to drop to 110V. You can tell is is starting to struggle as the load approaches 3000 watts.

3000-3300 watts: you are at the top of its capability here. It does handle it but the voltage drops more and the frequency starts to drop below 60HZ. I would personally operate in this range only for short periods of time.

>3300 watts: it really bogs down significantly and any additional load causes the engine to quit.

So, overall I do highly recommend this generator, especially if you are looking for an emergency backup generator. Just keep in mind that its published wattage numbers are a bit overstated. If you are expecting it to be a Honda, you will be disappointed, but considering what it costs I think it is a very good deal for the money.

Power Max XP4400E & XP4400 Generator
By Ernie, Retired Journeyman Lineman. The XP4400E is well worth the extra cost over the XP4400, as starter rope must be pulled out at an angle.
This is an excellent generator for the money. The voltage regulation is excellent. Amazing output for it's size along with being very quite for the output that it has. The discription Amazon has for it is great, so many items are not discribed well enough. There is a couple points I want to share with present owners and would be owners.
(1) The voltage selector switch not only changes the voltage monitor 120 to 240 but it's main function is tap changing, this being the reason it must not be switched unless breaker is off (open) or generator shut down. It parallels the two power windings when set for 120 to the 120 sockets and the 120-240 socket. You can draw full capacity fron the 120 sockets or at the 120-240 socket from terminals Bu & R, the W terminal has no voltage so 240 is not available now. (Refer to owners manual wiring diagram page 23 or 24)
Set for 240 the switch series the two power windings and now the 120 sockets have only one power winding applied and so half capacity is available here, 1750 watts from either one but only 875 watts each if both are used. The 120-240 socket now has both windings in series and now has 240 from terminal W to Terminal R and will have two 120 circuits, one from terminal W to terminal Bu and the other 120 circuit from Bu to R. Full capacity is available with the 240 voltage and half capacity from each of the 120 circuits. (Bu is the common terminal to both sockets)
(2)It isn't specified the engine has a steel cyinder sleeve and I don't think it does as I run it for 6 hrs. and changed oil and the oil in the drain pan was pretty well loaded with aluminum and silicon swirling around. I will change again after 12-14 hrs. and then every 20 then on. A filter would have been a boon for engine life, but be diligent and change oil often and it will run a long time.
I think some have gotten generators and done them in early because they didn't change oil in time. Very, Very important because the cyinder is aluminum and no oil filter. More power to all, Ernie Wireman

PRODUCT SHIPPING AND ADVERTISED COVER
Was called by UPS to be available for a required signature for the product. Took off work only to find out the shipping arrival date was changed to the next day. Just by chance someone was home to sign for it or due to my work schedule I would have had to wait a week for the product. A hurricane was coming the day after the orginal scheduled dilvery date. Don't forget you will have to purchase oil amongst the other things (gas can, extention cords). Box was a bit banged up. Have not fired it up yet. Can't wait. Also print out stated a free cover would come but it did not.

A great generator (especially at the price)!!!
I've been researching portable generators for months prior to deciding on this one. Honestly, I could not be happier with my choice. The product is quality built, even though it is from China. The wheel kit was so easy to install that even a cave man could do it (sorry)! Upon arrival, I put oil and fuel in it and it started immediately. Hooked up the electric chain saw and began trimming tree limbs. The generator is easy to use and has all of the excess power that I will need for my power tools. I have a 1 acre lot, with lots of trees, and it is impossible to get power where it is needed. This unit is the answer.

I actually ordered the recoil start generator, but they must have been out of them and upgraded me to the electric start unit. Talk about making an old guy really happy!

generator
Took a while to receive. Max Tool must not have had them in stock. generator cranked right up and runs well. Have not put it to a real test as yet.