Re: Small generator sets..
-> JD> Many years ago, I had a tiny engine/generator. It had a
-> weedeater-style JD> engine coupled to an alternator about the size
-> of a small car alternator.
->  JD> I don't remember the power output for sure, seems like it was 11
-> 150
-> JD> watts. It also had a 12 VDC output as I recollect.
->
-> Perhaps it was a Honda unit, for camping and other short time useage.
-> it home- made?? If home made then read on......
->
-> Weedeater [and model aero engines] are designed with
-> absurd high power to weight ratios, and a very short operational
-> life [100 hours?] is possible before these are scrapped. And the
-> fuel consumption is absurdly high ie KWh energy delivered per pint
-> of fuel.
-> Then consider a Briggs and Stratton!.........
I have a three horse Briggs from a factory sweeper (propane)
belted to an older Chrysler alternator.  It's used as a battery
charger away from the AC mains.  Stuck car in the woods sort
of thing.
It works pretty well, but the alternator takes more power at high
ampere loads than the engine can supply.  If you are going to use a
single-cylinder utility engine, consider using a 8 to 10 horsepower
unit.  Then a larger engine pulley will let you run it at a lower
speed.  Wouldn't go too low with those, though.  Cam and timing
optimize it to probably 2,000 to 3,600 RPM.
I have often considered using a V-8 automotive engine with much
altered cam and ignition timing running at 540 RPM (PTO speed)
to run a generator.  By careful selection of components, it
would probably be made to be quite efficient at that speed.
Maybe even run it off piped-in natural gas for co-generation.
-c-
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