Overall ERAYAK 2400P inverter generator performed very well and was able to provide quiet clean power. The only issues found were related to labeling and the perceived calibration issue actually was related to the control knob sticker placement.
I doubt many other reviewers would have noticed the choke cable adjustment. In addition to the low oil light the eco switch was backwards as well, the indicated position for off was on for the switch.
I do not think this company will ask James to review any more of there products he is too honest and tells it like it is . Thanks Jim for the honest review
@@TechOutthe only muff job by the manufacturer was the goober on the output lights and the label on where to turn the fuel and choke to. We know the fuel and choke labels are always inop on every genset I have ever used. Usually the lights are correct though. In this case James would have had to disassemble the led lights to put them where they belong. Not something the normal user will do. James however is a different cat entirely. I have seen him tear the hell out of a muffler when it was only marginally off.
Generally speaking I think prompted review videos like this are a much better deal for the (unknown) vendor than for the (established, well-regarded) channel that does the review. In this case it seems the opposite is true -- by demonstrating their manufacturing problems they've provided opportunity to produce some more good content. Glad you turned what might have been just an advertisement (even if the machine had been perfect) into a good instructional video about small inverter generators.
I'm a ham radio operator, and the inverter type is required for operation with my radio equipment during emergency operation. Thanks for this, I'm still thinking I might spend a bit more to get a name brand, but this is good information.
I can see a lot of returns on this one unless they correct the low oil light. I have a Harbor Freight Predator 2000 Watt Generator that I'm pretty happy with. Doesn't get much use but is handy. I run my whole house on a Generac 7550 EXL that I bought used 10 years ago and have only had to replace the low oil sensor. Good review Jim!
Many of us buy these types of generators for amateur radio purposes. I recently acquired a Ryobi 1800W/2300W RYi2322VNM generator that completely murders the amateur radio frequency bands with RF interference from the inverter. It might be useful to invite a local ham radio operator to bring some equipment and check your generator out. Thanks for the excellent review. --N2GX
Another great video, Jim. Two things: The ECO switch is also installed backwards with the off symbol adjacent to the word ON. But the coolest part of this inverter/generator is the oil filler accessory. EVERY generator should come with one of those! Almost worth the price of the generator. Thanks and keep 'em coming.
Thank you for this video! My girlfriend and I went camping and we were un able to use the generator. I followed yiur steps and now it works like a champ. Great instructions and easy to follow!
To be fair to the utility, I'd say they very likely produce higher quality than what you observed. Odds are, there is an electrically noisy load connected nearby, distorting the nearby waveform. Still, the scope exercise was great for illustrating what to look for, and that generator waveform is plenty good.
Utility power from PSE&G in my NJ neighborhood is anywhere from 5% to a whopping 9% THD as measured on a Fluke 43b power quality meter. Time of day does play a part so I suspect that there is a bad actor on the distribution network somewhere with bad motor controllers. On a side note my Generac XG8000E portable generator with no AVR and just a capacitor, brushless design has typically 5 to 6% THD throughout all output levels. It runs my new Lenox furnace well which is supposed to have big power quality issues. Pretty good. On the other hand a UPS I use, (non sine wave) shows above 30% in power fail mode, so far that has never damaged any of the computer connected equipment.
iff you look good you can see the switching between positive sinewave and negative. Its enough to make clocks run twice the speed. you dont find that in utility power..
I keep a piece of fuel line on hand to get spark plugs in and out of tight spaces by shoving it over the plug nipple, but that flashlight magnet trick looks handy too!!
Great video, looks like Erayak needs to correct some quality controls issues. I would returned the unit, you shouldn't have to fix or adjust anything on a new unit.
I have that exact Yamaha model. Saved me from losing stuff in my freezers and fridge a couple of times. Last one was in March this year, when we lost power for 2 days due to hail storms. Changed the oil and ran it dry after it was all over. Ready for another ass saving!
The Eco Mode switch also appears to be installed the wrong way around (4:41 ON is 0 and OFF is 1). I got the impression, this brand new generator has about the same amount of issues as the broken ones you usually work on ;)
Great video! 8:20 you put the correct amount of oil in the engine. I was going to write the advice , don't over fill it as Nick's Garage channel educated me that too much oil can rob horsepower. All the splashing around inside creates additional work .
Thanks. Was looking at quite a few other generators. I can stop now. This is the one. Meets my power needs. Light weight. Quiet. With plugs 🔌 I use. And accessories I need. Yep. This. Is the one. 😎👍
Well done, James. I followed the Amazon link out of curiosity and soon noticed that page has a screen grab from your video, and then noticed it also has a link to this very video, including mention of the defects. I'd still be tempted, despite the defects you found, because the cost is low. But I already ordered a Honda EU2000i a few months ago, so I'll just keep waiting.
Wrong indicator lights. Ya had to fix the choke cable. And ya let that slide in the end! One thing I like about your demonstrations is how you cover the little details like pre-oiling the cylinder for example. It helps to make me slow down a little and not break things when I work on them. Thanks for the review. I just expected a recap of the faults on this unit. Another consumer might not know to check these things.
excellent overview pinpointing some quality control issues: knob labeling and reversed low oil waning. they should immediately send you another unit with corrections that were addressed. failure to do so will put them under tremendous strain from returns secondary to low oil warning. erik
The magnet trick alone is worth the price of admission. Thanks, James. A couple thoughts: you did the Yamaha SPL test at full load, but not the Erayak. Also, if you had a way to do picture in picture of the Kill-a-Watt during your tests, that would be pretty cool. I know that increases the editing load considerably, though.
The led thing is unforgivable that they didn't even test it, they could have fixit by just putting some labels in the front for the ON and low oil and that's it, and it would have been fine, also the Eco switch is reversed, the labels are correct but the switch Indicates on which is confusing, cover plastics looks pretty crappy but the primary frame looks really good, the oil channel to prevent getting oil inside is great also the tool that came with the geny to load it up, I loved it! It sound very good and quiet Excellent review James! As always you don't miss anything, and the breaking in method you used, specially putting a drop of oil on the cylinder head, nice, I didn't do that on mine 5 years ago when I bought it and I should have. Thank you
In the scheme of things, Erayak is a usually better brand and source than many of the normal national known brands. They have been selling power equipment almost as long as Champion but only about 5 years in USA.
@@jcondon1 Both Power Smart and Erayak plus a few others don't like paying Honda Clone royalties at 6.5% after it went up in 2020 so they have been doing lots of 2.2% with Yamaha and 3% on Kawasaki based engines. No one wants to pay the rate to clone a Briggs or Kohler at over 15% plus so eventually expect them to disappear. Those China "Briggs" are really Dong Shan Industrial engines, Craftsman - Troy built -MTD with over 30% non Briggs design so although junk, they screwed Briggs too. Get woke go broke 😭. Briggs sold off their 12% in LIFAN in 2019 so watch for their future fire sale.
Thanks Jim. I've been looking at small generators for my prospecting trips and this covered 2 at the same time. I think the oil light is green because the oil level is okay. It probably changes to red for a low oil indicator. Easy enough to check, just drain some out.
Great Sunday morning surprise. It appears that their quality control is lacking on the final inspections. That genny should not have left the factory with those two glaring issues. For me I would not go near that manufacturer. God knows what else they over looked on the stuff you can't see internally. Let's us know if they come back with any excuses. I'll take Yamaha or a Honda over that thing any day. As always great video and great testing.👍👍👍
James is their new QC department, what a GSO (generator shaped object). Try out their customer service by calling them about the light as a regular consumer and seeing what they say.
Nice review. I have a non inverter generator that pretty much gets used almost all year round and i also use it when i weld anything to keep the electric bill lower and where i live nobody really complains about the noise cause my neighbors all have non inverter generators. When I lived in the city I had one but sold it when I moved
Nice to see a less expensive clone produce its rated output. I noticed that a 1800 watt rated Honda used a 121 cc engine so I was surprised to see this unit with a 79cc engine make rated output. It would have been interesting to see what the engine RPM was when running at near 1800 watts. At a price near a third of the big name manufacturers it sure is attractive. Thanks for the video. Very interesting.
Really nice review - the engine nerd in me liked the break-in steps - not many people knows how important that is for the longevity of the engine. I may have to steal this for a video :-) Thanks James.
I need a small generator like this. I want to keep one in my Bug Out Truck full time. For things like Camping, using tools etc. What I question is the availability of parts if and when it needs repair, like carbs etc.
Thanks for the attention to detail regarding the operation switch and for noticing the indicator light problem. In my opinion, that would be cause to return the machine. I would worry about warranty issues. Also I assume that this generator is made in China and I would worry about getting repair parts. Great video as always. Very informative.
My kind of evaluation . Noise, peak output and surplus overload. Well done James, my hope is that with bring a few or more sales from your review, you will be given this model to do as you wish, keep or raffle or use as a reference . As for the indicators, some simple labels will cure that. Q. Was there a note as to the plastic case u v, temperature, and fuel resistant to degrade? Thank you for your professional workmanship. Edit: fuel usage at 50% and 100% load, runtime, also daisy connection with another like unit?
The problem I encountered with a Costco inverter generator after opening and testing that it was OK was to put it away till needed. When pulled out 1 1/2 years later and fueled and started the generator it failed to provide output with the red light on indicating inverter failure. So a different test because of the quality of the inverter is a long term storage test.
There's a reason why the Honda/ Yamaha gen sets are better, my guess is that they under rated. Ya get what you pay for, none the less the ERAYAK seems fine. I wonder how long it will last? Thanks for the Review James.
Another great video James! I think the fix for the indicator light issue could be as simple as relocating the pins on the plastic connector feeding the group of indicator lights. You would have to trace some wires out but it seems do-able. You may only need to swap two wires at most three. Keep ip the good work!
Very interesting and informative video. Don’t know what to say about the manufacturer sending you the unit as is. Credited for honesty or criticized for quality control sending the unit with those faults. I also don’t know if the average user would follow your break in schedule with mineral oil and multiple oil changes. Great tip on securing spark plug. I’m still not knowledgeable enough to know functionality of a generator that can run only one space heater on high . Seems to be a limited niche product.
Running a space heater is probably not the intended use for an inverter generator of this size. The point is that it produces "clean" power and you would want to use it to run or charge sensitive electronics, like a small television, a laptop computer, or charging cell phones. Space heaters run just fine on non-inverters that put out higher wattage but produce dirtier output.
On the subject of THD wreaking havoc with sensitive electronics; Doesn't house current go thru a transformer and rectifier before going into any circuits? Isn't it cleaned up before going anywhere? I'm not up on all this so please excuse my ignorance. Love the channel. Never miss it.
They're one thought ahead on the oil fill and filler bottle, but I like oil levels which can be checked easily prior to start without removing panels etc. Also how do you run the carb bowl dry before storing? Do you again need to pull a panel then drain it manually? Those problems are generic with these types of generators but could be done better. Unrelated but I was wondering if a B&S Quantum plastic camshaft could be replaced with an older style one? Always good to see your thorough testing and always a pleasure watching.
Most inverter generators you have to remove the panel to drain the carb. You could probably turn the knob most of the way off and run it out of fuel. I have heard you can replace the plastic camshaft with the other style one, but you also need to replace the gear on the crankshaft to match.
James, great job as always! This unit sure falls to the bottom of the list, even for off-brand/clone units. It's price-point isn't much different than other similar units. I saw nothing that stands out as a reason to buy this unit over other cheap ones. The multiple design/QC issues with the choke cable/sticker, status lights backwards, eco-switch backwards, is terrible. Especially for a unit that the company sent to you. You would think that they would have sent you their BEST unit, that they personally made sure was perfect....or maybe they thought they did...
In the manual... does it show the lights for the oil labelled the opposite to the way they appear on this machine? The decal for the Stop, Run and Choke positions... is that one piece or could a human have made the mistake re the position of the labelling in relation to the reality? If so it could also account for the choke lever "reality"...as opposed to the indication on the control...
I noticed the Erayak was surging earlier on in the video, i was really curious to see what would happen. All in all it seemed to do what it was made for.
IMO the Yamaha did a much better job. The engine speed was pretty much constant at each load whereas the Erayak bogged down at load changes and the speed varied at constant loads. I've seen the Yamaha's on sale for around $400 and I'd spend the extra couple of bucks, plus I'm sure we can get parts for the Yamaha and not for the Erayak. All I can find is the spark plug for my no-name inverter generator.....
Good review! Choke cable adjustment is not something a regular use would do. Also, the incorrect indicator lights is not good. The quality of output/sine wave is not that great, right?
@@jcondon1 not really.... tho not that bad.. it has a visable switching between positive an negative part of the sine wave, Enough to make a electrick clok running twice the speed.
If anyone cares, here is my small engine break in procedure. I use a break in oil that has ZDDP additive package. I put a little 2 cycle oil down the spark plug hole. I pull it over without the spark plug like 50 times. I start the motor and let it idle for an hour. Change oil with ZDDP. Then I load it to 50% for an hour. I try to heat cycle it everyday for a week. Then I change the oil with more ZDDP and install a better spark plug. This is just what I do. Cheers
I did notice on the Yamaha it did noticeably increase in speed with every bulb turned on which indicates maximum fuel useage. The Erayak it just turned to high mode and no noticeable difference with load over 1500. Does not mean it will hold better worth with higher wattage. I never saw you read the thd on either machine so no idea what that will be.
That was a cracker, it had only just come up as I was looking for something to watch before my Sunday Lunch, that is ready to go. I've learned how to bed them in, I wouldn't have known that, the colour of the oil amazed me. What to look for, although most of it is common sense you have made the whole thing practical, if I ever need a generator. Thaniks :)
Great review. Bought one due to your thorough testing. I want to use an extended fuel system. What would you recommend? Does it have a fuel pump, or is it gravity fed?
I noticed that right off! We have some Keysight equipment at work with the power switches backwards like that Eco switch - "O" being on and "1" being off.....SMH. It's an $11,000 piece of gear, and you'd think Keysight could get it right.....
Oh my god, so it is! Well Observed I missed that one. If QControl is done, how was it also missed during testing prior to being sent out, doesn't instill confidence. Great review James, love what you do, have learnt so much from watching your channel.
Well…that Yamaha is a sweet unit but for the price I would have to go for the Erayak. I would say that your review was exactly within the parameters that they suggested and quite thorough. It would be interesting to see what the company’s responses is to the quality control issues, however mechanically it was quite sound. I wonder if there is a possibility that the lights are being interpreted wrong??, What does the company say?, Or the manual?. With your experience and integrity, which is massive, I tend to trust you that the light gauges are all wrong. Now with that said the only questions still open are is it going to be reliable and have reasonable longevity and how well the company will stand behind this product. Since the company is willing to put itself out there for this review would you be willing to make this a two part video if there’s any response and what it was? Their response if is also fair and honest could possibly help them sell a lot more of these units “just sayin”. All in all however it speaks to me that this company would send this to you for review, possibly showing interest in making sure this is a good product.
Very helpful review. I would like to know how to properly ground this same generator for charging a chevy Bolt ev 2020. Or if it is possible. This is a matter that was not reviewed. Though I saw a bolt between the two 120V outlets, I don't know if that is for grounding. Can it be possible for any help with this matter for this same model. I just ordered one, I would like to know if I could use it for charging an ev car. Unlimited thanks for all the knowledge offered, best regards.
I have to ask; did the manual address the indicator light operation correctly or at all? It was,IMHO, a significant omission to not explore the scope, and accuracy of the information contained in the manual. (i.e. a schematic?) Perhaps a brief follow up is in order here.
@@elcomandante9299 my record Is 90% failures so I stay away from them, especially on customer equipment as I can’t afford a callback In fact my local Toro dealer automatically replaces them on new equipment.
When I saw the thumbnail, I said to myself...........that looks too new to be broken. I've not had an oil change THAT dark in a short time. Interesting. That generator seems to meet the published specs..........I suppose the question is the engine's longevity, and there's not an easy way to test that.
This is a good review of a product which is a Chinese clone and which has both good and bad features. Quality control is obviously poor with a switch on backwards (so what does this say overall). The drain hose on the carb float bowl is absolutely necessary for long term storage of the unit and is a thoughtful design point. But overall, I have to question why anyone would buy an unknown brand name over an identical priced Champion (for example) which has excellent support, plus the guaranteed availability of parts. These issues are far more important with generators which usually are kept long term and only used intermittently. And if you have some extra cash, buy a Honda for the known quality and support that comes with that excessive price... PS: I own a Honda EU6500 and three 2000 watt Champions so my bias may be showing here.
I have to say, I am one of the guilty ones that has bought a similar style unit. Why? because it was on sale at SAMS and was a stupid impulse buy. It was 350 while the Honda version is 1200.00. The Honda is far better in every way with numerous people having a working generator after 15 years. This one along with mine will be lucky to make it 1 year. But at the time I justified the price. Whats the saying about a sucker born every minute? As for Champion, at the time I thought they were just another Chinese knock off model like the Predator line. I still believe they are but I've heard numerous good things about them and their support. Westinghouse is another one that I hear has good support which surprises me because aren't they like a book publisher or something like that? So many of these once great companies are selling their name to whoever will pay so they can stick it on the label.
@@2metockIf any company goes to China to have a product made for them, the first question the factory asks is how much do you want to pay for it. They can and do build all sorts of products to a variety of different price and quality points. Champion is a US company with facilities in the US (do a search on RUclips) and obviously are having their products built to higher standards. Not all Chinese products are garbage !! The fact they offer a superior product at a cheap price point shows they are interested in building a company for the long term (I own a small company and I know how it works). For example, DJI is a Chinese company and they arguably make the best drones in the world. Pretty much every time I start one of them up, I get a software update that tweeks some operating parameter to improve the product. But they are EXPENSIVE which only proves to me that you get what you pay for !!!! There are loads of generators out there and many of them are good. Many are not and I would have to say it's likely this make will fall into that category. For this company to send out a product with so many obvious defects shows that someone in their marketing department is asleep at the switch - they are begging for a bad review. And as for parts 10 years from now...good luck
I might have missed parallel output plugs. If they are not part of the unit that would be a no for me. Also 80cc engines have to run at a very high rpm to run at rated load. That is also a no in my book. I'm guessing the valves would have to be adjusted more frequently than a 100 or 120 cc engine.
James, I'm hoping you can help me somewhat. I recall you saying on a Honda GSX390 when the pull cord rips from your hand that is an indication of valves out of adjustment?
Excellent review. I learned quite a bit. Sorry, James, I'm a bit of an English freak. Your note, "Better then utility power", should have read, "Better THAN utility power." (Can't help myself. Sorry again! :)
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Overall ERAYAK 2400P inverter generator performed very well and was able to provide quiet clean power. The only issues found were related to labeling and the perceived calibration issue actually was related to the control knob sticker placement.
I dont know how to work the telegram messages !
I ordered the generator and it should be arriving July 27th.
@@stinky7538 good luck
@@zonie1953 Those telegram messages are from a scammer -- I checked already.
@@PeterLawton Figured as much , thanks !
I doubt many other reviewers would have noticed the choke cable adjustment. In addition to the low oil light the eco switch was backwards as well, the indicated position for off was on for the switch.
Yeah I saw they stamped the wrong end of the rocker switch. What else did they do wrong internally? 😂
I do not think this company will ask James to review any more of there products he is too honest and tells it like it is . Thanks Jim for the honest review
you would think they would quality control a demo review unit a little better, but I guess it let you make an honest review.
Looks like it was sent from Amazon they probably didn’t pick it specifically
@@TechOutthe only muff job by the manufacturer was the goober on the output lights and the label on where to turn the fuel and choke to. We know the fuel and choke labels are always inop on every genset I have ever used. Usually the lights are correct though. In this case James would have had to disassemble the led lights to put them where they belong. Not something the normal user will do. James however is a different cat entirely. I have seen him tear the hell out of a muffler when it was only marginally off.
Generally speaking I think prompted review videos like this are a much better deal for the (unknown) vendor than for the (established, well-regarded) channel that does the review. In this case it seems the opposite is true -- by demonstrating their manufacturing problems they've provided opportunity to produce some more good content. Glad you turned what might have been just an advertisement (even if the machine had been perfect) into a good instructional video about small inverter generators.
I'm a ham radio operator, and the inverter type is required for operation with my radio equipment during emergency operation. Thanks for this, I'm still thinking I might spend a bit more to get a name brand, but this is good information.
I can see a lot of returns on this one unless they correct the low oil light. I have a Harbor Freight Predator 2000 Watt Generator that I'm pretty happy with. Doesn't get much use but is handy. I run my whole house on a Generac 7550 EXL that I bought used 10 years ago and have only had to replace the low oil sensor. Good review Jim!
Many of us buy these types of generators for amateur radio purposes. I recently acquired a Ryobi 1800W/2300W RYi2322VNM generator that completely murders the amateur radio frequency bands with RF interference from the inverter. It might be useful to invite a local ham radio operator to bring some equipment and check your generator out. Thanks for the excellent review. --N2GX
Most inverts do not filter the RF noise.
its the same whit kipor, and this one... Honda,s eu sets are usable for ham.
Another great video, Jim. Two things: The ECO switch is also installed backwards with the off symbol adjacent to the word ON. But the coolest part of this inverter/generator is the oil filler accessory. EVERY generator should come with one of those! Almost worth the price of the generator. Thanks and keep 'em coming.
I agree. The oil filler is the best accessory I have received and will be used a lot.
Thank you for this video! My girlfriend and I went camping and we were un able to use the generator. I followed yiur steps and now it works like a champ. Great instructions and easy to follow!
To be fair to the utility, I'd say they very likely produce higher quality than what you observed. Odds are, there is an electrically noisy load connected nearby, distorting the nearby waveform. Still, the scope exercise was great for illustrating what to look for, and that generator waveform is plenty good.
Utility power from PSE&G in my NJ neighborhood is anywhere from 5% to a whopping 9% THD as measured on a Fluke 43b power quality meter. Time of day does play a part so I suspect that there is a bad actor on the distribution network somewhere with bad motor controllers. On a side note my Generac XG8000E portable generator with no AVR and just a capacitor, brushless design has typically 5 to 6% THD throughout all output levels. It runs my new Lenox furnace well which is supposed to have big power quality issues. Pretty good. On the other hand a UPS I use, (non sine wave) shows above 30% in power fail mode, so far that has never damaged any of the computer connected equipment.
iff you look good you can see the switching between positive sinewave and negative. Its enough to make clocks run twice the speed. you dont find that in utility power..
I keep a piece of fuel line on hand to get spark plugs in and out of tight spaces by shoving it over the plug nipple, but that flashlight magnet trick looks handy too!!
Good idea
Great video, looks like Erayak needs to correct some quality controls issues. I would returned the unit, you shouldn't have to fix or adjust anything on a new unit.
I was surprised at the performance of the Erayak generator. I thought the Yamaha would perform as expected. Thanks for the information and review.
I have that exact Yamaha model.
Saved me from losing stuff in my freezers and fridge a couple of times.
Last one was in March this year, when we lost power for 2 days due to hail storms.
Changed the oil and ran it dry after it was all over. Ready for another ass saving!
Great pro tip for removing the spark-plug
You caught me off guard on a Sunday morning!!!
Can't wait to see this video.
Ok, back to it !
The Eco Mode switch also appears to be installed the wrong way around (4:41 ON is 0 and OFF is 1). I got the impression, this brand new generator has about the same amount of issues as the broken ones you usually work on ;)
Why they don't just write ON and OFF?
Great video! 8:20 you put the correct amount of oil in the engine. I was going to write the advice , don't over fill it as Nick's Garage channel educated me that too much oil can rob horsepower. All the splashing around inside creates additional work .
Nice that that built in a little funnel in the body to pore the oil out
Thanks.
Was looking at quite a few other generators.
I can stop now.
This is the one.
Meets my power needs.
Light weight.
Quiet.
With plugs 🔌 I use.
And accessories I need.
Yep.
This.
Is the one.
😎👍
Well done, James. I followed the Amazon link out of curiosity and soon noticed that page has a screen grab from your video, and then noticed it also has a link to this very video, including mention of the defects. I'd still be tempted, despite the defects you found, because the cost is low. But I already ordered a Honda EU2000i a few months ago, so I'll just keep waiting.
I always love your videos man! Great way to start my days.
It works well for it's size, & it produces cleaner power than the power grid to the house.
Wrong indicator lights. Ya had to fix the choke cable. And ya let that slide in the end! One thing I like about your demonstrations is how you cover the little details like pre-oiling the cylinder for example. It helps to make me slow down a little and not break things when I work on them. Thanks for the review. I just expected a recap of the faults on this unit. Another consumer might not know to check these things.
excellent overview pinpointing some quality control issues: knob labeling and reversed low oil waning. they should immediately send you another unit with corrections that were addressed. failure to do so will put them under tremendous strain from returns secondary to low oil warning. erik
Nice review. Almost everyone who will buy a generator like this will not check the accuracy of the run location and the is a worry.
Great job reviewing the product. I'd pay the extra money for a Honda EU2200i or the Yamaha.
Honda and Yamaha are the best.
The magnet trick alone is worth the price of admission. Thanks, James.
A couple thoughts: you did the Yamaha SPL test at full load, but not the Erayak. Also, if you had a way to do picture in picture of the Kill-a-Watt during your tests, that would be pretty cool. I know that increases the editing load considerably, though.
Fuel consumption at load is always good to know but you still put up a great review, thanks for taking the time to show us this unit
The led thing is unforgivable that they didn't even test it, they could have fixit by just putting some labels in the front for the ON and low oil and that's it, and it would have been fine, also the Eco switch is reversed, the labels are correct but the switch Indicates on which is confusing, cover plastics looks pretty crappy but the primary frame looks really good, the oil channel to prevent getting oil inside is great also the tool that came with the geny to load it up, I loved it!
It sound very good and quiet
Excellent review James! As always you don't miss anything, and the breaking in method you used, specially putting a drop of oil on the cylinder head, nice, I didn't do that on mine 5 years ago when I bought it and I should have.
Thank you
In the scheme of things, Erayak is a usually better brand and source than many of the normal national known brands. They have been selling power equipment almost as long as Champion but only about 5 years in USA.
Did not know that. I like the engine. It was a clone of the same engine Yamaha uses in the EF2000.
@@jcondon1 Both Power Smart and Erayak plus a few others don't like paying Honda Clone royalties at 6.5% after it went up in 2020 so they have been doing lots of 2.2% with Yamaha and 3% on Kawasaki based engines. No one wants to pay the rate to clone a Briggs or Kohler at over 15% plus so eventually expect them to disappear.
Those China "Briggs" are really Dong Shan Industrial engines, Craftsman - Troy built -MTD with over 30% non Briggs design so although junk, they screwed Briggs too. Get woke go broke 😭. Briggs sold off their 12% in LIFAN in 2019 so watch for their future fire sale.
Thanks Jim. I've been looking at small generators for my prospecting trips and this covered 2 at the same time. I think the oil light is green because the oil level is okay. It probably changes to red for a low oil indicator. Easy enough to check, just drain some out.
Hmmm. I'm not so sure. If that were the case, why wasn't the OK! led lit ??
Great Sunday morning surprise. It appears that their quality control is lacking on the final inspections. That genny should not have left the factory with those two glaring issues. For me I would not go near that manufacturer. God knows what else they over looked on the stuff you can't see internally. Let's us know if they come back with any excuses. I'll take Yamaha or a Honda over that thing any day. As always great video and great testing.👍👍👍
James is their new QC department, what a GSO (generator shaped object). Try out their customer service by calling them about the light as a regular consumer and seeing what they say.
Nice review. I have a non inverter generator that pretty much gets used almost all year round and i also use it when i weld anything to keep the electric bill lower and where i live nobody really complains about the noise cause my neighbors all have non inverter generators. When I lived in the city I had one but sold it when I moved
Nice to see a less expensive clone produce its rated output. I noticed that a 1800 watt rated Honda used a 121 cc engine so I was surprised to see this unit with a 79cc engine make rated output. It would have been interesting to see what the engine RPM was when running at near 1800 watts. At a price near a third of the big name manufacturers it sure is attractive. Thanks for the video. Very interesting.
very thorough and honest review, James. Thank you.
Thank you very much James for the two generator's. They both performed very well. The Arayak seemed to be a little better. Great comparison. ❤🇨🇦
Thanks for the review, I'm going to buy one tomorrow (Monday) and do a run time test after break in.
Really nice review - the engine nerd in me liked the break-in steps - not many people knows how important that is for the longevity of the engine. I may have to steal this for a video :-) Thanks James.
I need a small generator like this. I want to keep one in my Bug Out Truck full time. For things like Camping, using tools etc. What I question is the availability of parts if and when it needs repair, like carbs etc.
just curious... why are there so many of these Portable Inverter Generator units on the market??? thanks for your detail review... 👍😎👍
Thanks for the attention to detail regarding the operation switch and for noticing the indicator light problem. In my opinion, that would be cause to return the machine. I would worry about warranty issues. Also I assume that this generator is made in China and I would worry about getting repair parts. Great video as always. Very informative.
Impressed the Yamaha did 1780 watts and didn't stall
Me too. Did not expect the Yamaha to handle it.
My kind of evaluation . Noise, peak output and surplus overload. Well done James, my hope is that with bring a few or more sales from your review, you will be given this model to do as you wish, keep or raffle or use as a reference .
As for the indicators, some simple labels will cure that.
Q. Was there a note as to the plastic case u v, temperature, and fuel resistant to degrade?
Thank you for your professional workmanship.
Edit: fuel usage at 50% and 100% load, runtime, also daisy connection with another like unit?
The problem I encountered with a Costco inverter generator after opening and testing that it was OK was to put it away till needed. When pulled out 1 1/2 years later and fueled and started the generator it failed to provide output with the red light on indicating inverter failure. So a different test because of the quality of the inverter is a long term storage test.
James, this is the best generator review I've seen. Heck, the best review of anything I've seen. Very well formatted and thoroughly executed. 👍
Went to the amazon link and wow they used your review even though you pointed out defects.
There's a reason why the Honda/ Yamaha gen sets are better, my guess is that they under rated. Ya get what you pay for, none the less the ERAYAK seems fine. I wonder how long it will last? Thanks for the Review James.
Inverter generators put out a more Pure Sign Wave less distortion helps a ton for Electronics IN general
They make awesome quality inverters. The 1500w I have is fantastic
Another great video James! I think the fix for the indicator light issue could be as simple as relocating the pins on the plastic connector feeding the group of indicator lights. You would have to trace some wires out but it seems do-able. You may only need to swap two wires at most three. Keep ip the good work!
This is how an "unboxing" review should be.
Another Great Video! Thank you for the pointers on the break-in. I will use this when I purchase my new Generator!
Straight talk review. !!!!
Looks like a good inverter for the money savings..
!
Great job I would purchase a generator based on you review and opinion. Thanks
Very interesting and informative video. Don’t know what to say about the manufacturer sending you the unit as is. Credited for honesty or criticized for quality control sending the unit with those faults. I also don’t know if the average user would follow your break in schedule with mineral oil and multiple oil changes. Great tip on securing spark plug.
I’m still not knowledgeable enough to know functionality of a generator that can run only one space heater on high . Seems to be a limited niche product.
Running a space heater is probably not the intended use for an inverter generator of this size. The point is that it produces "clean" power and you would want to use it to run or charge sensitive electronics, like a small television, a laptop computer, or charging cell phones. Space heaters run just fine on non-inverters that put out higher wattage but produce dirtier output.
Always love your videos and this is no exception.
On the subject of THD wreaking havoc with sensitive electronics; Doesn't house current go thru a transformer and rectifier before going into any circuits? Isn't it cleaned up before going anywhere? I'm not up on all this so please excuse my ignorance. Love the channel. Never miss it.
Hopefully The Erayak people are watching you ! They need to fix the usual quality control issues with chinese generators .
Definitely putting out a super clean Sign wave very nice
They're one thought ahead on the oil fill and filler bottle, but I like oil levels which can be checked easily prior to start without removing panels etc. Also how do you run the carb bowl dry before storing? Do you again need to pull a panel then drain it manually? Those problems are generic with these types of generators but could be done better.
Unrelated but I was wondering if a B&S Quantum plastic camshaft could be replaced with an older style one? Always good to see your thorough testing and always a pleasure watching.
Most inverter generators you have to remove the panel to drain the carb. You could probably turn the knob most of the way off and run it out of fuel.
I have heard you can replace the plastic camshaft with the other style one, but you also need to replace the gear on the crankshaft to match.
James, great job as always! This unit sure falls to the bottom of the list, even for off-brand/clone units. It's price-point isn't much different than other similar units. I saw nothing that stands out as a reason to buy this unit over other cheap ones. The multiple design/QC issues with the choke cable/sticker, status lights backwards, eco-switch backwards, is terrible. Especially for a unit that the company sent to you. You would think that they would have sent you their BEST unit, that they personally made sure was perfect....or maybe they thought they did...
Good review, like the way you do the comparison between Yamaha and Erayak.
But would like to know how good is there warranty?
Hi James good review mate they will need to sort out the warning light indicator at factory source
My understanding is during initial break-in there should be some varying load on it to seat the rings better.
In the manual...
does it show the lights for the oil labelled the opposite to the way they appear on this machine?
The decal for the Stop, Run and Choke positions...
is that one piece or could a human have made the mistake re the position of the labelling in relation to the reality?
If so it could also account for the choke lever "reality"...as opposed to the indication on the control...
I noticed the Erayak was surging earlier on in the video, i was really curious to see what would happen. All in all it seemed to do what it was made for.
not bad James. i like the meter most don't have one..
IMO the Yamaha did a much better job. The engine speed was pretty much constant at each load whereas the Erayak bogged down at load changes and the speed varied at constant loads. I've seen the Yamaha's on sale for around $400 and I'd spend the extra couple of bucks, plus I'm sure we can get parts for the Yamaha and not for the Erayak. All I can find is the spark plug for my no-name inverter generator.....
Good review! Choke cable adjustment is not something a regular use would do. Also, the incorrect indicator lights is not good.
The quality of output/sine wave is not that great, right?
It was better than what you normally get.
The sinewave output was extremely clean.
@@jcondon1 not really.... tho not that bad.. it has a visable switching between positive an negative part of the sine wave, Enough to make a electrick clok running twice the speed.
I'm impressed with that generator inverter
Hello James Codon
I said that I don't know how to do stuff like that on my phone myself
If anyone cares, here is my small engine break in procedure.
I use a break in oil that has ZDDP additive package. I put a little 2 cycle oil down the spark plug hole. I pull it over without the spark plug like 50 times. I start the motor and let it idle for an hour. Change oil with ZDDP. Then I load it to 50% for an hour. I try to heat cycle it everyday for a week. Then I change the oil with more ZDDP and install a better spark plug. This is just what I do. Cheers
Ive never broke in a small engine n never had a problem.
Most people do not.
I did notice on the Yamaha it did noticeably increase in speed with every bulb turned on which indicates maximum fuel useage. The Erayak it just turned to high mode and no noticeable difference with load over 1500. Does not mean it will hold better worth with higher wattage. I never saw you read the thd on either machine so no idea what that will be.
That was a cracker, it had only just come up as I was looking for something to watch before my Sunday Lunch, that is ready to go. I've learned how to bed them in, I wouldn't have known that, the colour of the oil amazed me. What to look for, although most of it is common sense you have made the whole thing practical, if I ever need a generator. Thaniks :)
Great review. Bought one due to your thorough testing. I want to use an extended fuel system. What would you recommend? Does it have a fuel pump, or is it gravity fed?
That eco mode switch has been installed backwards. I=on, O=off.
The Eco switch seems backwards too, the "0" is next to On and the "1" is next to Off.
I noticed that right off! We have some Keysight equipment at work with the power switches backwards like that Eco switch - "O" being on and "1" being off.....SMH. It's an $11,000 piece of gear, and you'd think Keysight could get it right.....
Oh my god, so it is! Well Observed I missed that one. If QControl is done, how was it also missed during testing prior to being sent out, doesn't instill confidence. Great review James, love what you do, have learnt so much from watching your channel.
Well…that Yamaha is a sweet unit but for the price I would have to go for the Erayak. I would say that your review was exactly within the parameters that they suggested and quite thorough. It would be interesting to see what the company’s responses is to the quality control issues, however mechanically it was quite sound. I wonder if there is a possibility that the lights are being interpreted wrong??, What does the company say?, Or the manual?. With your experience and integrity, which is massive, I tend to trust you that the light gauges are all wrong. Now with that said the only questions still open are is it going to be reliable and have reasonable longevity and how well the company will stand behind this product. Since the company is willing to put itself out there for this review would you be willing to make this a two part video if there’s any response and what it was? Their response if is also fair and honest could possibly help them sell a lot more of these units “just sayin”. All in all however it speaks to me that this company would send this to you for review, possibly showing interest in making sure this is a good product.
Very helpful review. I would like to know how to properly ground this same generator for charging a chevy Bolt ev 2020. Or if it is possible. This is a matter that was not reviewed. Though I saw a bolt between the two 120V outlets, I don't know if that is for grounding. Can it be possible for any help with this matter for this same model. I just ordered one, I would like to know if I could use it for charging an ev car. Unlimited thanks for all the knowledge offered, best regards.
Interesting video. I hope you advise the mfr about the indicators improperly positioned. A typical owner would never figure it out.
They are aware and reading the comments
James, nice review! Why or what was was in the residual oil when you first pulled the dip stick/filller, it looked like very black oil... odd???
I have to ask; did the manual address the indicator light operation correctly or at all? It was,IMHO, a significant omission to not explore the scope, and accuracy of the information contained in the manual. (i.e. a schematic?) Perhaps a brief follow up is in order here.
Another great video my friend I’m learning so much thank you
Very nice thank you. What if you changed around the internal wires?
Possible, but the low oil light is orange. Better to keep it green.
thank you, very fair comparison.
Noticed the Torch plug. Wonder how long it will last?
Just pulled a torch plug out of a Poulan chainsaw. Did not know they came with that plug.
Ive run Torch plugs in my small engines for the longest time n never had a problem with em.
@@elcomandante9299 my record Is 90% failures so I stay away from them, especially on customer equipment as I can’t afford a callback In fact my local Toro dealer automatically replaces them on new equipment.
When I saw the thumbnail, I said to myself...........that looks too new to be broken. I've not had an oil change THAT dark in a short time. Interesting. That generator seems to meet the published specs..........I suppose the question is the engine's longevity, and there's not an easy way to test that.
Definitely seems like a good generator nice video @James Condon
Cool testing. Disappointing about the LEDs. QA issue? Thanks for sharing
This is a good review of a product which is a Chinese clone and which has both good and bad features. Quality control is obviously poor with a switch on backwards (so what does this say overall). The drain hose on the carb float bowl is absolutely necessary for long term storage of the unit and is a thoughtful design point. But overall, I have to question why anyone would buy an unknown brand name over an identical priced Champion (for example) which has excellent support, plus the guaranteed availability of parts. These issues are far more important with generators which usually are kept long term and only used intermittently. And if you have some extra cash, buy a Honda for the known quality and support that comes with that excessive price...
PS: I own a Honda EU6500 and three 2000 watt Champions so my bias may be showing here.
I have to say, I am one of the guilty ones that has bought a similar style unit. Why? because it was on sale at SAMS and was a stupid impulse buy. It was 350 while the Honda version is 1200.00. The Honda is far better in every way with numerous people having a working generator after 15 years. This one along with mine will be lucky to make it 1 year. But at the time I justified the price. Whats the saying about a sucker born every minute? As for Champion, at the time I thought they were just another Chinese knock off model like the Predator line. I still believe they are but I've heard numerous good things about them and their support. Westinghouse is another one that I hear has good support which surprises me because aren't they like a book publisher or something like that? So many of these once great companies are selling their name to whoever will pay so they can stick it on the label.
@@2metockIf any company goes to China to have a product made for them, the first question the factory asks is how much do you want to pay for it. They can and do build all sorts of products to a variety of different price and quality points. Champion is a US company with facilities in the US (do a search on RUclips) and obviously are having their products built to higher standards. Not all Chinese products are garbage !! The fact they offer a superior product at a cheap price point shows they are interested in building a company for the long term (I own a small company and I know how it works). For example, DJI is a Chinese company and they arguably make the best drones in the world. Pretty much every time I start one of them up, I get a software update that tweeks some operating parameter to improve the product. But they are EXPENSIVE which only proves to me that you get what you pay for !!!!
There are loads of generators out there and many of them are good. Many are not and I would have to say it's likely this make will fall into that category. For this company to send out a product with so many obvious defects shows that someone in their marketing department is asleep at the switch - they are begging for a bad review. And as for parts 10 years from now...good luck
I might have missed parallel output plugs. If they are not part of the unit that would be a no for me. Also 80cc engines have to run at a very high rpm to run at rated load. That is also a no in my book. I'm guessing the valves would have to be adjusted more frequently than a 100 or 120 cc engine.
James, I'm hoping you can help me somewhat. I recall you saying on a Honda GSX390 when the pull cord rips from your hand that is an indication of valves out of adjustment?
Ok for those of us that have a traditional generator what can we do to protect appliance ??? Do we use a inverted plug to the generator ?????
Excellent review. I learned quite a bit. Sorry, James, I'm a bit of an English freak. Your note, "Better then utility power", should have read, "Better THAN utility power." (Can't help myself. Sorry again! :)
That was never my strength.
Great video James
a good and unbiased review, too bad that the idiot lights were constructed in the wrong positions...
Thank you for shearing your video. a very good bit of information.
Thanks!
Thanks Myles. Very generous!