Tips for those buying a surplus generator

[Daybreak]

Howdy,
Tips for those buying a surplus generator.

Government surplus generators are sold as is. There could be underlying issues with them. They might work, they might not.

The main household electricity used is known as 120/240 60Hz
The military generators which have this type of output are 10kw and smaller.
MEP-803A 10kw 60Hz
MEP-802A 5kw 60Hz
MEP-831A 3kw 60Hz

The outliars which are similar, but WILL NOT work for your home
MEP-813A 10kw 400Hz <--that does not work for you. Notice the 1 in the middle of the name. People buy them for parts and pieces
The 15Kw and larger generators are 3 phase. If you do not understand what that is, that generator is not for you.

Any military generator which is MEP-81_ means it is a 400Hz generator which will work fine for a radar station, powering a helicopter, or airplane.

OH, you have come to the right place for military generators.

You should join www.steelsoldiers.com and help support the forums.

 

[Chainbreaker]

Also, these military generators are NOT like Big Box store generators that you simply plug in a generator cable or extension cords to distribute electricity. These generators are not plug-n-play. Most people will need to have a licensed electrician install the proper generator hook-up interface to meet National Electrical Code requirements. They have terminal posts that must be properly wired to deliver 120/240 VAC into either:

1. Generator inlet box that is wired in to breaker panel with manual safety interlock and dedicated generator breaker installed in panel.

2. Transfer Panel that senses utility power outage and transfers electrical power from generator.

3. Spider Box with its own breakers and outlets for distributing power via properly rated electrical cords to appliances, lights, etc.

Note: These generators do have a "convenience outlet" for powering such things as a light, drill, etc. but are NOT rated NOR DESIGNED for distributing power to house or appliances.