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expired Posted by redit123 • Jul 5, 2024
expired Posted by redit123 • Jul 5, 2024

FIRMAN WH03242F 4000W Electric Start Dual Fuel Inverter Generator - Refurbished - $399.99

$400

$590

32% off
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Item description from the seller

The FIRMAN WH03242F is a 3200/4000W 30A electric start RV-ready portable generator, running on both propane and gasoline for the best of both worlds.


NOTE - THE ONLY ACCESSORIES INCLUDED WITH THIS CERTIFIED REFURBISHED GENERATOR ARE THE OWNER'S MANUAL AND LPG HOSE WITH REGULATOR.


The WH03242F is a part of the Whisper Hybrid Dual Fuel Generator Series. It runs at a quiet 58dB, well below National Park standards.


It's the ideal solution for those on the go and those who enjoy camping, tailgating, and other recreational activities. Enjoy clean, renewable, quiet power on the go with the WH03242F.


FIRMAN Refurbished generators have a limited 90-day warranty. This product has been REFURBISHED to exacting specifications by FIRMAN technicians. Certified to work as new.

Shipping, returns, and payments
Shipping
Flat Rate Freight
From Peoria, Arizona, United States
Returns
Accepted within 30 days
Seller pays return shipping

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eBay Refurbished
All items are tested by qualified refurbishers and function as intended.

Two-year warranty included
Protected with fast repairs or replacements. U.S residents only. Your email is shared with Allstate for a frictionless experience.

eBay Money Back Guarantee
Get the item you ordered or your money back.

About the seller
firmanpowerequipment's logo
FIRMAN Power Equipment (3464)
96.7% positive feedback

Save seller
Joined Nov 2021
Usually responds within 24 hours
Seller's other items
Contact seller
Registered as a business seller
Detailed seller ratings
Average for the last 12 months
Accurate description

4.8
Reasonable shipping cost

5.0
Shipping speed

5.0
Communication

4.9
Seller feedback (3,973)
This item (634)All items (3,973)

All ratings

e***e (4)- Feedback left by buyer.
Past month
Verified purchase
Arrived super fast and we'll-packaged. Has a few very minor scuffs but otherwise clean and good as new. I am not crazy about the use of 4 screws to remove/replace the access panel of the engine compartment to service motor oil and the battery. Since I'm usually in camp for weeks at a time, I'll probably add some type of velcro setup to use while camping to make it easier to check oil level without having to use a screwdriver every time. Noise level is not too bad.

g***w (25)- Feedback left by buyer.
Past 6 months
Verified purchase
This is a great deal so far. The generator fired right up on propane, once I added oil. It's quiet, and easy to move with wheels and a handle, like a suitcase. It's still light enough to pick up and carry short distances. It kept a constant 126 volts with a 750 watt load. This was clearly marked as reconditioned by the manufacturer. It was very well packed and shipped. I would recommend this purchase.

t***k (80)- Feedback left by buyer.
Past month
Verified purchase
I had bought two of the Firman WHO3242 earlier this month for a great deal of $499 ea. One had some minor scuffs and scratches on the outer case and the other looked like it was brand new! Both engine compartments were spotless and I started them first try on propane. Long story short-they went on deal shortly after for $399 ea. I emailed Firman and 12hrs later they price matched AND credited me back the difference...WOW. OUTSTANDING customer service, I'm completely thrilled!!!
See all feedback
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Select PayPal Credit at checkout to have the option to pay over time.
Qualifying purchases could enjoy no Interest if paid in full in 6 months on purchases of $99+. See terms.

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Product ratings and reviews
Product reviews are item ratings and comments left by buyers who previously purchased the product from various sellers. Learn more
4.8

39 product ratings
5
33 users rated this 5 out of 5 stars
33
4
6 users rated this 4 out of 5 stars
6
3
0 users rated this 3 out of 5 stars
0
2
0 users rated this 2 out of 5 stars
0
1
0 users rated this 1 out of 5 stars
0
Would recommend
Good value
Good quality
Most relevant reviews

by kcpotsmaker
Aug 21, 2023
TOP FAVORABLE REVIEW
Very good experience so far....received 2 Inverter Generators & 1 Large Generator, all Refurbs, & All performed well on propane and gas!

So far to good. Instructions vague on some control features (Propane Hose Hookup). ...
Read more
Verified purchase: YesCondition: RefurbishedSold by: firmanpowerequipment

by latoolman
Aug 31, 2023
Worth the investment. Well pleased with it.

Was delivered quickly after order. Faster than expected. Love the duel fuel feature. ...
Read more
Verified purchase: YesCondition: RefurbishedSold by: firmanpowerequipment

by jaclovelan_0
Aug 26, 2023
Great features, well see longterm how it holds up.

The write-up said it looked and ran like new! There are quit a few large ...
Read more
Verified purchase: YesCondition: RefurbishedSold by: firmanpowerequipment

by jaffolicious
Sep 20, 2023
Absolutely recommend.

Very pleased - Was packed up las if new, and the generator pretty much seems new, ...
Read more
Verified purchase: YesCondition: RefurbishedSold by: firmanpowerequipment

by mlovcar
Sep 10, 2023
Pretty impressed.

Bought because it was a super deal. I figured with the 2 year eBay refurbished ...
Read more
Verified purchase: YesCondition: RefurbishedSold by: firmanpowerequipment
Write a review
See all reviews

https://www.ebay.com/itm/314644637511
Community Notes
About the Poster
Deal Details
Community Notes
About the Poster
Item description from the seller

The FIRMAN WH03242F is a 3200/4000W 30A electric start RV-ready portable generator, running on both propane and gasoline for the best of both worlds.


NOTE - THE ONLY ACCESSORIES INCLUDED WITH THIS CERTIFIED REFURBISHED GENERATOR ARE THE OWNER'S MANUAL AND LPG HOSE WITH REGULATOR.


The WH03242F is a part of the Whisper Hybrid Dual Fuel Generator Series. It runs at a quiet 58dB, well below National Park standards.


It's the ideal solution for those on the go and those who enjoy camping, tailgating, and other recreational activities. Enjoy clean, renewable, quiet power on the go with the WH03242F.


FIRMAN Refurbished generators have a limited 90-day warranty. This product has been REFURBISHED to exacting specifications by FIRMAN technicians. Certified to work as new.

Shipping, returns, and payments
Shipping
Flat Rate Freight
From Peoria, Arizona, United States
Returns
Accepted within 30 days
Seller pays return shipping

Shop with confidence
eBay Refurbished
All items are tested by qualified refurbishers and function as intended.

Two-year warranty included
Protected with fast repairs or replacements. U.S residents only. Your email is shared with Allstate for a frictionless experience.

eBay Money Back Guarantee
Get the item you ordered or your money back.

About the seller
firmanpowerequipment's logo
FIRMAN Power Equipment (3464)
96.7% positive feedback

Save seller
Joined Nov 2021
Usually responds within 24 hours
Seller's other items
Contact seller
Registered as a business seller
Detailed seller ratings
Average for the last 12 months
Accurate description

4.8
Reasonable shipping cost

5.0
Shipping speed

5.0
Communication

4.9
Seller feedback (3,973)
This item (634)All items (3,973)

All ratings

e***e (4)- Feedback left by buyer.
Past month
Verified purchase
Arrived super fast and we'll-packaged. Has a few very minor scuffs but otherwise clean and good as new. I am not crazy about the use of 4 screws to remove/replace the access panel of the engine compartment to service motor oil and the battery. Since I'm usually in camp for weeks at a time, I'll probably add some type of velcro setup to use while camping to make it easier to check oil level without having to use a screwdriver every time. Noise level is not too bad.

g***w (25)- Feedback left by buyer.
Past 6 months
Verified purchase
This is a great deal so far. The generator fired right up on propane, once I added oil. It's quiet, and easy to move with wheels and a handle, like a suitcase. It's still light enough to pick up and carry short distances. It kept a constant 126 volts with a 750 watt load. This was clearly marked as reconditioned by the manufacturer. It was very well packed and shipped. I would recommend this purchase.

t***k (80)- Feedback left by buyer.
Past month
Verified purchase
I had bought two of the Firman WHO3242 earlier this month for a great deal of $499 ea. One had some minor scuffs and scratches on the outer case and the other looked like it was brand new! Both engine compartments were spotless and I started them first try on propane. Long story short-they went on deal shortly after for $399 ea. I emailed Firman and 12hrs later they price matched AND credited me back the difference...WOW. OUTSTANDING customer service, I'm completely thrilled!!!
See all feedback
Financing
Select PayPal Credit at checkout to have the option to pay over time.
Qualifying purchases could enjoy no Interest if paid in full in 6 months on purchases of $99+. See terms.

Apply now


Earn up to 5x points when you use your eBay Mastercard®. Learn more

Product ratings and reviews
Product reviews are item ratings and comments left by buyers who previously purchased the product from various sellers. Learn more
4.8

39 product ratings
5
33 users rated this 5 out of 5 stars
33
4
6 users rated this 4 out of 5 stars
6
3
0 users rated this 3 out of 5 stars
0
2
0 users rated this 2 out of 5 stars
0
1
0 users rated this 1 out of 5 stars
0
Would recommend
Good value
Good quality
Most relevant reviews

by kcpotsmaker
Aug 21, 2023
TOP FAVORABLE REVIEW
Very good experience so far....received 2 Inverter Generators & 1 Large Generator, all Refurbs, & All performed well on propane and gas!

So far to good. Instructions vague on some control features (Propane Hose Hookup). ...
Read more
Verified purchase: YesCondition: RefurbishedSold by: firmanpowerequipment

by latoolman
Aug 31, 2023
Worth the investment. Well pleased with it.

Was delivered quickly after order. Faster than expected. Love the duel fuel feature. ...
Read more
Verified purchase: YesCondition: RefurbishedSold by: firmanpowerequipment

by jaclovelan_0
Aug 26, 2023
Great features, well see longterm how it holds up.

The write-up said it looked and ran like new! There are quit a few large ...
Read more
Verified purchase: YesCondition: RefurbishedSold by: firmanpowerequipment

by jaffolicious
Sep 20, 2023
Absolutely recommend.

Very pleased - Was packed up las if new, and the generator pretty much seems new, ...
Read more
Verified purchase: YesCondition: RefurbishedSold by: firmanpowerequipment

by mlovcar
Sep 10, 2023
Pretty impressed.

Bought because it was a super deal. I figured with the 2 year eBay refurbished ...
Read more
Verified purchase: YesCondition: RefurbishedSold by: firmanpowerequipment
Write a review
See all reviews

https://www.ebay.com/itm/314644637511

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Jul 5, 2024
15,309 Posts
Joined Aug 2006
Jul 5, 2024
Tourist1292
Jul 5, 2024
15,309 Posts
Good price for this if you don't mind refurbished and missing the battery charger and oil, funnel, etc. It is often on sale at Costco for $599.
Jul 5, 2024
711 Posts
Joined Feb 2016
Jul 5, 2024
FlashPilot
Jul 5, 2024
711 Posts

Our community has rated this post as helpful. If you agree, why not thank FlashPilot

I own 3 of these refurb generators from previous deals, and 2 arrived in good condition. Not great, but satisfactory working order. Aesthetically, the 2 working units were clearly used and had been cleaned up/repaired at the factory before repackaging for resale. Pulling the spark plugs revealed heavy use and far past time for replacement. One had a broken clip inside the spark plug boot and was barley making contact with the spark plug (I made a new clip from sold copper wire). In speaking several times with their CS reps over the phone (when you can actually reach one), Firman is keen to maximize its profits, placing its reputation dead last on its list of its priorities. These generators will not start or sustain a 4000 watt load. They do well up to around 3000-3200 watts, and are not nearly as quiet as the comparable Harbor Freight 4000 watt inverter generator. Where the HF generator easily starts my 12,000 BTU window AC and fridge, the Firman engines bog down when a load is applied, before throttling up, causing a voltage sag that resets the 2 UPS systems that protect my computers. Surge wattage rating on the Firman is drastically overrated, and several others have also noted the same shortcomings.

I decided to roll the dice again for a third generator. As with my first 2 acquisitions, my 3rd Firman WH03242F refurb generator arrived in a nice new box and was well packaged. Upon unpacking, I was shocked to find the generator was banged up, the plastic had faded in the sun and the stickers were peeling off. It probably banged around in the back of someone's pickup truck and was never cared for. I pulled a cover to inspect it and was met with the odor of burnt oil and stale fuel. Most of the interior was dirty and oily, as if the engine had been severely overheated. I drained out about a teaspoon of thin black oil that remained in the crankcase onto a paper towel. The oil was worse than spent, with the consistency of water and smelled of gasoline. I turned over the engine with the recoil starter and it was clearly lacking in compression.

At that point, I had no intentions of keeping it. Just for giggles, I decided to add oil and fuel, connect the battery and give it a try. Not surprisingly, it wouldn't start. It turned over, but there was a fault in the ignition and there was no current being supplied to the coil. I pulled a good deal of it apart but wasn't able to locate the problem.

Costco is/was Firman's largest retailer for this particular model and they often go on sale for $600 new in store. I was told by a Costco store manager that several of their customers use these generators until they are completely shot, then return them under Costco's liberal return policy. Only to buy another one and repeat the same pathetic scam. The used generators are sent back to Firman to be refurbished and resold.

I filed for a return on the dead generator. Ebay told me to keep it and I was issued a full refund. Not wanting to add to mankind's landfill disaster, I gave the generator to a local power equipment repair company, hoping they could make use of it. But they told me it was completely shot and to dispose of it. I had a good laugh when they said they already had several people bring the same model generator to their shop and were quite familiar with Firman's refurb scams, as well as Slickdeals and the safe haven they provide to vast legions of lowly shills! They were able to energize the panel and it showed 0 hours of runtime. They told me Firman resets the hour meters on their refurbs before pawning them off on unsuspecting customers. So no one but Firman knows just how many hours their generators had been ran by their previous owner(s). My other 2 refurbished Firman WH03242F generators also reported 0 hours run time because they were reset at Firman's refurb center. One contained the reminisce of black spent oil, while the other was spent to a lesser degree... so neither were maintained by their previous owners. Both still show good compression and run well, so I guess I got lucky with 2 of the 3.

Its the luck-of-the draw dealing with Firman. You might get a good apple or a rotten one. If you decide to gamble and buy one, regardless of the condition it may arrive, test it right away under load for several hours to make sure it runs properly... before the return/refund window closes and you get stuck with a trip to the landfill and ripped $400. With this particular model, I recommend testing with a 3000 watt load, by using 2 space heaters running on high for several hours continuously. While running, you can turn off one your heaters, then turn it back on periodically to make sure the generator properly throttles its engine speed up and down to adjust its inverter for the varying load conditions you have placed on it.

While these run much more quietly and efficiently than open frame non-inverter generators, they are still comparably loud for an enclosed inverter generator and unsuitable for camp sights (unless you camp in secluded areas and have a 50 foot 12 gauge extension cord to place the generator away from your tent, and with the exhaust pointing the other away. If powering an enclosed RV or home, the exhaust note is almost unnoticeable, with the generator 25 feet away, while you are indoors enjoying your small air conditioner. All in all, I feel these are a luke warm deal, if you have a need for a cheap used 3kW inverter generator. Just tailor your expectations and search for and read the myriad of negative reviews and comments before purchasing. Like 90% of most positive reviews we find online, most happy customers have ZERO experience or knowledge with the tech they are reviewing and posted reviews of their brand new gensets before even burring through the first tank of fuel!

Incidentally, I decided to store the worn out gen Firman sent me, just in case I needed spare parts to repair my other two. One of my Firman WH03242F refurb generators has accumulated more than 400 hours without incident. Considering that, on top of what the previous owner may have accumulated (before Firman reset the hour meter), is quite respectable. As with all my power equipment, I ALWAYS operate far below design limits, maintain the filters, re-gap, clean and replace the spark plugs when needed, drain the fuel and carb for long term storage and change the oil periodically with a good synthetic. They produce a good amount more power while running on gas than propane. And a 6 gallon fuel container provides the same amount of run time as three 20 pound propane cylinders while consuming 1/3rd the price and space. The carburetor has a screw that can be turned to drain the carburetor so its a fairly simple process. I live in a dry climate and store my power equipment indoors, so have never needed to use non-ethanol fuel or fuel stabilizers. I do rotate my fuel on the rare occasion it approaches 1 year old. So for me, I will take the added power provided of gasoline over propane, with its lesser strain placed on the engine and lower operational cost... it already struggles to start a 12,000 BTU AC unit. I also own an inverter AC, which works really well with my Firman's, since the starting amperage of inverter AC units is far less than standard AC units. Inverter AC units ramp up power consumption slowly to cool a space, allowing the generator to solely ramp up to power the demand. Standard AC units are either on or off. And when they click on, they momentarily draw a huge amount of current to start the compressor. This is where the Harbor Freight genset I mentioned earlier is superior to the comparable Firman. And the HF unit is far more quit while supplying the same electrical load. My Honda EU3200i beats them both by a mile by every comparison, but the price point is far greater.

Im impressed if you've made it this far without falling asleep! Thanks for reading and good luck!
6
2
Jul 5, 2024
14 Posts
Joined Jul 2008
Jul 5, 2024
cincymrv
Jul 5, 2024
14 Posts
eBay offered a $40 coupon on top of this which makes it as slick as previous offers. Thanks OP!
Jul 5, 2024
8 Posts
Joined Jul 2015
Jul 5, 2024
jerrytjz
Jul 5, 2024
8 Posts
Quote from cincymrv :
eBay offered a $40 coupon on top of this which makes it as slick as previous offers. Thanks OP!
Where did you receive the $40 coupon? Is it targeted?
Jul 6, 2024
5,575 Posts
Joined Dec 2004
Jul 6, 2024
Caleo
Jul 6, 2024
5,575 Posts
Firman refurb lottery time again?

Good luck everyone, they're decent units if you receive a good one. Test yours once received with a load for a while to verify they work well.

I only run mine with propane so it's had no issue coming back alive after sitting. Nice to have the bigger generator option, but my Honda EU2200i's the go-to now.
Jul 6, 2024
291 Posts
Joined Nov 2019
Jul 6, 2024
MaroonPocket778
Jul 6, 2024
291 Posts
I'd opt for a new champion open frame inverter 4250 for backup purposes (too loud for rv or camping though)
Pro
Jul 7, 2024
1,186 Posts
Joined Mar 2009
Jul 7, 2024
lurewars
Pro
Jul 7, 2024
1,186 Posts

Our community has rated this post as helpful. If you agree, why not thank lurewars

Quote from FlashPilot :
I own 3 of these refurb generators from previous deals, and 2 arrived in good condition. Not great, but satisfactory working order. Aesthetically, the 2 working units were clearly used and had been cleaned up/repaired at the factory before repackaging for resale. Pulling the spark plugs revealed heavy use and far past time for replacement. One had a broken clip inside the spark plug boot and was barley making contact with the spark plug (I made a new clip from sold copper wire). In speaking several times with their CS reps over the phone (when you can actually reach one), Firman is keen to maximize its profits, placing its reputation dead last on its list of its priorities. These generators will not start or sustain a 4000 watt load. They do well up to around 3000-3200 watts, and are not nearly as quiet as the comparable Harbor Freight 4000 watt inverter generator. Where the HF generator easily starts my 12,000 BTU window AC and fridge, the Firman engines bog down when a load is applied, before throttling up, causing a voltage sag that resets the 2 UPS systems that protect my computers. Surge wattage rating on the Firman is drastically overrated, and several others have also noted the same shortcomings.

I decided to roll the dice again for a third generator. As with my first 2 acquisitions, my 3rd Firman WH03242F refurb generator arrived in a nice new box and was well packaged. Upon unpacking, I was shocked to find the generator was banged up, the plastic had faded in the sun and the stickers were peeling off. It probably banged around in the back of someone's pickup truck and was never cared for. I pulled a cover to inspect it and was met with the odor of burnt oil and stale fuel. Most of the interior was dirty and oily, as if the engine had been severely overheated. I drained out about a teaspoon of thin black oil that remained in the crankcase onto a paper towel. The oil was worse than spent, with the consistency of water and smelled of gasoline. I turned over the engine with the recoil starter and it was clearly lacking in compression.

At that point, I had no intentions of keeping it. Just for giggles, I decided to add oil and fuel, connect the battery and give it a try. Not surprisingly, it wouldn't start. It turned over, but there was a fault in the ignition and there was no current being supplied to the coil. I pulled a good deal of it apart but wasn't able to locate the problem.

Costco is/was Firman's largest retailer for this particular model and they often go on sale for $600 new in store. I was told by a Costco store manager that several of their customers use these generators until they are completely shot, then return them under Costco's liberal return policy. Only to buy another one and repeat the same pathetic scam. The used generators are sent back to Firman to be refurbished and resold.

I filed for a return on the dead generator. Ebay told me to keep it and I was issued a full refund. Not wanting to add to mankind's landfill disaster, I gave the generator to a local power equipment repair company, hoping they could make use of it. But they told me it was completely shot and to dispose of it. I had a good laugh when they said they already had several people bring the same model generator to their shop and were quite familiar with Firman's refurb scams, as well as Slickdeals and the safe haven they provide to vast legions of lowly shills! They were able to energize the panel and it showed 0 hours of runtime. They told me Firman resets the hour meters on their refurbs before pawning them off on unsuspecting customers. So no one but Firman knows just how many hours their generators had been ran by their previous owner(s). My other 2 refurbished Firman WH03242F generators also reported 0 hours run time because they were reset at Firman's refurb center. One contained the reminisce of black spent oil, while the other was spent to a lesser degree... so neither were maintained by their previous owners. Both still show good compression and run well, so I guess I got lucky with 2 of the 3.

Its the luck-of-the draw dealing with Firman. You might get a good apple or a rotten one. If you decide to gamble and buy one, regardless of the condition it may arrive, test it right away under load for several hours to make sure it runs properly... before the return/refund window closes and you get stuck with a trip to the landfill and ripped $400. With this particular model, I recommend testing with a 3000 watt load, by using 2 space heaters running on high for several hours continuously. While running, you can turn off one your heaters, then turn it back on periodically to make sure the generator properly throttles its engine speed up and down to adjust its inverter for the varying load conditions you have placed on it.

While these run much more quietly and efficiently than open frame non-inverter generators, they are still comparably loud for an enclosed inverter generator and unsuitable for camp sights (unless you camp in secluded areas and have a 50 foot 12 gauge extension cord to place the generator away from your tent, and with the exhaust pointing the other away. If powering an enclosed RV or home, the exhaust note is almost unnoticeable, with the generator 25 feet away, while you are indoors enjoying your small air conditioner. All in all, I feel these are a luke warm deal, if you have a need for a cheap used 3kW inverter generator. Just tailor your expectations and search for and read the myriad of negative reviews and comments before purchasing. Like 90% of most positive reviews we find online, most happy customers have ZERO experience or knowledge with the tech they are reviewing and posted reviews of their brand new gensets before even burring through the first tank of fuel!

Incidentally, I decided to store the worn out gen Firman sent me, just in case I needed spare parts to repair my other two. One of my Firman WH03242F refurb generators has accumulated more than 400 hours without incident. Considering that, on top of what the previous owner may have accumulated (before Firman reset the hour meter), is quite respectable. As with all my power equipment, I ALWAYS operate far below design limits, maintain the filters, re-gap, clean and replace the spark plugs when needed, drain the fuel and carb for long term storage and change the oil periodically with a good synthetic. They produce a good amount more power while running on gas than propane. And a 6 gallon fuel container provides the same amount of run time as three 20 pound propane cylinders while consuming 1/3rd the price and space. The carburetor has a screw that can be turned to drain the carburetor so its a fairly simple process. I live in a dry climate and store my power equipment indoors, so have never needed to use non-ethanol fuel or fuel stabilizers. I do rotate my fuel on the rare occasion it approaches 1 year old. So for me, I will take the added power provided of gasoline over propane, with its lesser strain placed on the engine and lower operational cost... it already struggles to start a 12,000 BTU AC unit. I also own an inverter AC, which works really well with my Firman's, since the starting amperage of inverter AC units is far less than standard AC units. Inverter AC units ramp up power consumption slowly to cool a space, allowing the generator to solely ramp up to power the demand. Standard AC units are either on or off. And when they click on, they momentarily draw a huge amount of current to start the compressor. This is where the Harbor Freight genset I mentioned earlier is superior to the comparable Firman. And the HF unit is far more quit while supplying the same electrical load. My Honda EU3200i beats them both by a mile by every comparison, but the price point is far greater.

Im impressed if you've made it this far without falling asleep! Thanks for reading and good luck!
Thanks for the extremely detailed post. Makes me feel much less bad for my dealings with firman. I bought 2 Firmans from a deal or two ago. Both the 2000i from Ebay thru Firman for $200. And the Who3242F direct from Firman for $340. I was hoping and somewhat expecting to get Costco returns that looked close to newish. That's what I was led to believe from some here and other places online. When the 2000i showed up, I was not happy. Lots of blemishes and clearly used allot. Strong smell of gas. I immediately put in for a return. They refunded my money and never asked for it back. I got the generator going, so it does work but who knows for how long. Then the other one showed up. Same thing but worse. Very used looking. Scratches and blemishes, fading on it. The propane adapter literally looked like it had chew marks all over it. I had no intention of keeping it and wanted to put the money into a Harbor Freight generator. Spent allot of time on the phone and emailing with Firman trying to get a refund. Sent them pics of my generator and everything they asked for. Despite that, they insisted on sending a replacement and that there would be directions on sending back the other one. They never did ask for it back. So I decided to try and get the first one going. Seems to run well. Was excited when the meter showed zero hours. Was hoping maybe it had a new motor in an old case. Thought that might be a scam and apparently it is. So all in all I came out pretty well. But I don't know I'd trust my life with these Generators in a real emergency. I'd probably recommend spending more money on a new one from a reputable company.
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Jul 7, 2024
1,863 Posts
Joined Nov 2016
Jul 7, 2024
androssking
Jul 7, 2024
1,863 Posts
Quote from lurewars :
Thanks for the extremely detailed post. Makes me feel much less bad for my dealings with firman. I bought 2 Firmans from a deal or two ago. Both the 2000i from Ebay thru Firman for $200. And the Who3242F direct from Firman for $340. I was hoping and somewhat expecting to get Costco returns that looked close to newish. That's what I was led to believe from some here and other places online. When the 2000i showed up, I was not happy. Lots of blemishes and clearly used allot. Strong smell of gas. I immediately put in for a return. They refunded my money and never asked for it back. I got the generator going, so it does work but who knows for how long. Then the other one showed up. Same thing but worse. Very used looking. Scratches and blemishes, fading on it. The propane adapter literally looked like it had chew marks all over it. I had no intention of keeping it and wanted to put the money into a Harbor Freight generator. Spent allot of time on the phone and emailing with Firman trying to get a refund. Sent them pics of my generator and everything they asked for. Despite that, they insisted on sending a replacement and that there would be directions on sending back the other one. They never did ask for it back. So I decided to try and get the first one going. Seems to run well. Was excited when the meter showed zero hours. Was hoping maybe it had a new motor in an old case. Thought that might be a scam and apparently it is. So all in all I came out pretty well. But I don't know I'd trust my life with these Generators in a real emergency. I'd probably recommend spending more money on a new one from a reputable company.
Wow! That's a long post, comment, and reply
1
4
Jul 7, 2024
94 Posts
Joined Jan 2011
Jul 7, 2024
goblueguy11
Jul 7, 2024
94 Posts
Interesting to hear about the hit or miss here. I bought this exact deal last time it came up and my generator had no blemishes and looked and ran as new. I had to add oil to it and it's been running my camper with no issues.
As others mention, I tested it right away under the return period to make sure everything worked.
Jul 7, 2024
1,651 Posts
Joined Aug 2011
Jul 7, 2024
boat
Jul 7, 2024
1,651 Posts
Hi all! We bought a house that had a transfer switch set up, the box outside has a L14-20 plug. I've been looking at generators since we lose power pretty often here. I noticed that most of these inverter generators have a '120V RV-ready TT-30R receptacle'. Can I buy an adapter like this and connect the transfer switch box to the generator (https://www.amazon.com/AC-WORKS-A...rReviews)? Or because it calls it a RV-ready TT-30R does it mean strictly for RV use? Our transfer switch is set up for the basics (furnace, fridge, lights) Any advice is appreciated. Smilie
Last edited by boat July 7, 2024 at 06:55 AM.
Jul 7, 2024
575 Posts
Joined Dec 2006
Jul 7, 2024
zoocircle
Jul 7, 2024
575 Posts
I bought this generator last year. I received it , tested it on propane and it worked fine. That's the last time I turned it on. We had a power outage last week and I tried using it. It seems completely dead and the electric start makes a very faint noise. Could It be I need a charger to get it working again? Should I just contact Allstate for the warranty? Haven't heard back from firmans customer service so I thought I'd ask here
Pro
Jul 7, 2024
582 Posts
Joined Apr 2010
Jul 7, 2024
ishitalot
Pro
Jul 7, 2024
582 Posts
You can buy this at the Firman websiete for $350 with coupon code MWP30 or BIGHEARTS.

https://firmanpowerequipment.com/...s/wh03242f
Jul 7, 2024
902 Posts
Joined May 2011
Jul 7, 2024
charredangel
Jul 7, 2024
902 Posts
Quote from FlashPilot :
I own 3 of these refurb generators from previous deals, and 2 arrived in good condition. Not great, but satisfactory working order. Aesthetically, the 2 working units were clearly used and had been cleaned up/repaired at the factory before repackaging for resale. Pulling the spark plugs revealed heavy use and far past time for replacement. One had a broken clip inside the spark plug boot and was barley making contact with the spark plug (I made a new clip from sold copper wire). In speaking several times with their CS reps over the phone (when you can actually reach one), Firman is keen to maximize its profits, placing its reputation dead last on its list of its priorities. These generators will not start or sustain a 4000 watt load. They do well up to around 3000-3200 watts, and are not nearly as quiet as the comparable Harbor Freight 4000 watt inverter generator. Where the HF generator easily starts my 12,000 BTU window AC and fridge, the Firman engines bog down when a load is applied, before throttling up, causing a voltage sag that resets the 2 UPS systems that protect my computers. Surge wattage rating on the Firman is drastically overrated, and several others have also noted the same shortcomings.

I decided to roll the dice again for a third generator. As with my first 2 acquisitions, my 3rd Firman WH03242F refurb generator arrived in a nice new box and was well packaged. Upon unpacking, I was shocked to find the generator was banged up, the plastic had faded in the sun and the stickers were peeling off. It probably banged around in the back of someone's pickup truck and was never cared for. I pulled a cover to inspect it and was met with the odor of burnt oil and stale fuel. Most of the interior was dirty and oily, as if the engine had been severely overheated. I drained out about a teaspoon of thin black oil that remained in the crankcase onto a paper towel. The oil was worse than spent, with the consistency of water and smelled of gasoline. I turned over the engine with the recoil starter and it was clearly lacking in compression.

At that point, I had no intentions of keeping it. Just for giggles, I decided to add oil and fuel, connect the battery and give it a try. Not surprisingly, it wouldn't start. It turned over, but there was a fault in the ignition and there was no current being supplied to the coil. I pulled a good deal of it apart but wasn't able to locate the problem.

Costco is/was Firman's largest retailer for this particular model and they often go on sale for $600 new in store. I was told by a Costco store manager that several of their customers use these generators until they are completely shot, then return them under Costco's liberal return policy. Only to buy another one and repeat the same pathetic scam. The used generators are sent back to Firman to be refurbished and resold.

I filed for a return on the dead generator. Ebay told me to keep it and I was issued a full refund. Not wanting to add to mankind's landfill disaster, I gave the generator to a local power equipment repair company, hoping they could make use of it. But they told me it was completely shot and to dispose of it. I had a good laugh when they said they already had several people bring the same model generator to their shop and were quite familiar with Firman's refurb scams, as well as Slickdeals and the safe haven they provide to vast legions of lowly shills! They were able to energize the panel and it showed 0 hours of runtime. They told me Firman resets the hour meters on their refurbs before pawning them off on unsuspecting customers. So no one but Firman knows just how many hours their generators had been ran by their previous owner(s). My other 2 refurbished Firman WH03242F generators also reported 0 hours run time because they were reset at Firman's refurb center. One contained the reminisce of black spent oil, while the other was spent to a lesser degree... so neither were maintained by their previous owners. Both still show good compression and run well, so I guess I got lucky with 2 of the 3.

Its the luck-of-the draw dealing with Firman. You might get a good apple or a rotten one. If you decide to gamble and buy one, regardless of the condition it may arrive, test it right away under load for several hours to make sure it runs properly... before the return/refund window closes and you get stuck with a trip to the landfill and ripped $400. With this particular model, I recommend testing with a 3000 watt load, by using 2 space heaters running on high for several hours continuously. While running, you can turn off one your heaters, then turn it back on periodically to make sure the generator properly throttles its engine speed up and down to adjust its inverter for the varying load conditions you have placed on it.

While these run much more quietly and efficiently than open frame non-inverter generators, they are still comparably loud for an enclosed inverter generator and unsuitable for camp sights (unless you camp in secluded areas and have a 50 foot 12 gauge extension cord to place the generator away from your tent, and with the exhaust pointing the other away. If powering an enclosed RV or home, the exhaust note is almost unnoticeable, with the generator 25 feet away, while you are indoors enjoying your small air conditioner. All in all, I feel these are a luke warm deal, if you have a need for a cheap used 3kW inverter generator. Just tailor your expectations and search for and read the myriad of negative reviews and comments before purchasing. Like 90% of most positive reviews we find online, most happy customers have ZERO experience or knowledge with the tech they are reviewing and posted reviews of their brand new gensets before even burring through the first tank of fuel!

Incidentally, I decided to store the worn out gen Firman sent me, just in case I needed spare parts to repair my other two. One of my Firman WH03242F refurb generators has accumulated more than 400 hours without incident. Considering that, on top of what the previous owner may have accumulated (before Firman reset the hour meter), is quite respectable. As with all my power equipment, I ALWAYS operate far below design limits, maintain the filters, re-gap, clean and replace the spark plugs when needed, drain the fuel and carb for long term storage and change the oil periodically with a good synthetic. They produce a good amount more power while running on gas than propane. And a 6 gallon fuel container provides the same amount of run time as three 20 pound propane cylinders while consuming 1/3rd the price and space. The carburetor has a screw that can be turned to drain the carburetor so its a fairly simple process. I live in a dry climate and store my power equipment indoors, so have never needed to use non-ethanol fuel or fuel stabilizers. I do rotate my fuel on the rare occasion it approaches 1 year old. So for me, I will take the added power provided of gasoline over propane, with its lesser strain placed on the engine and lower operational cost... it already struggles to start a 12,000 BTU AC unit. I also own an inverter AC, which works really well with my Firman's, since the starting amperage of inverter AC units is far less than standard AC units. Inverter AC units ramp up power consumption slowly to cool a space, allowing the generator to solely ramp up to power the demand. Standard AC units are either on or off. And when they click on, they momentarily draw a huge amount of current to start the compressor. This is where the Harbor Freight genset I mentioned earlier is superior to the comparable Firman. And the HF unit is far more quit while supplying the same electrical load. My Honda EU3200i beats them both by a mile by every comparison, but the price point is far greater.

Im impressed if you've made it this far without falling asleep! Thanks for reading and good luck!
" Just for giggles, I decided to add oil and fuel, connect the battery and give it a try."

You and I have very different ideas of, "just for giggles," but I would like to have you as a neighbor when my car won't start. Thanks for the write up.
Jul 7, 2024
711 Posts
Joined Feb 2016
Jul 7, 2024
FlashPilot
Jul 7, 2024
711 Posts

Quote from lurewars :
Thanks for the extremely detailed post. Makes me feel much less bad for my dealings with firman. I bought 2 Firmans from a deal or two ago. Both the 2000i from Ebay thru Firman for $200. And the Who3242F direct from Firman for $340. I was hoping and somewhat expecting to get Costco returns that looked close to newish. That's what I was led to believe from some here and other places online. When the 2000i showed up, I was not happy. Lots of blemishes and clearly used allot. Strong smell of gas. I immediately put in for a return. They refunded my money and never asked for it back. I got the generator going, so it does work but who knows for how long. Then the other one showed up. Same thing but worse. Very used looking. Scratches and blemishes, fading on it. The propane adapter literally looked like it had chew marks all over it. I had no intention of keeping it and wanted to put the money into a Harbor Freight generator. Spent allot of time on the phone and emailing with Firman trying to get a refund. Sent them pics of my generator and everything they asked for. Despite that, they insisted on sending a replacement and that there would be directions on sending back the other one. They never did ask for it back. So I decided to try and get the first one going. Seems to run well. Was excited when the meter showed zero hours. Was hoping maybe it had a new motor in an old case. Thought that might be a scam and apparently it is. So all in all I came out pretty well. But I don't know I'd trust my life with these Generators in a real emergency. I'd probably recommend spending more money on a new one from a reputable company.
Im glad you lucked-up and was able to make use of all the thrashed generators Firman sent you. The 2000 air intake location was a poor design choice because it sucks air in from the bottom. As others have mentioned, its a good idea to place something under the generator so it doesnt suck in dirt off the ground.


Quote from lurewars :
Thanks for the extremely detailed post. Makes me feel much less bad for my dealings with firman. I bought 2 Firmans from a deal or two ago. Both the 2000i from Ebay thru Firman for $200. And the Who3242F direct from Firman for $340. I was hoping and somewhat expecting to get Costco returns that looked close to newish. That's what I was led to believe from some here and other places online. When the 2000i showed up, I was not happy. Lots of blemishes and clearly used allot. Strong smell of gas. I immediately put in for a return. They refunded my money and never asked for it back. I got the generator going, so it does work but who knows for how long. Then the other one showed up. Same thing but worse. Very used looking. Scratches and blemishes, fading on it. The propane adapter literally looked like it had chew marks all over it. I had no intention of keeping it and wanted to put the money into a Harbor Freight generator. Spent allot of time on the phone and emailing with Firman trying to get a refund. Sent them pics of my generator and everything they asked for. Despite that, they insisted on sending a replacement and that there would be directions on sending back the other one. They never did ask for it back. So I decided to try and get the first one going. Seems to run well. Was excited when the meter showed zero hours. Was hoping maybe it had a new motor in an old case. Thought that might be a scam and apparently it is. So all in all I came out pretty well. But I don't know I'd trust my life with these Generators in a real emergency. I'd probably recommend spending more money on a new one from a reputable company.
Quote from lurewars :
Thanks for the extremely detailed post. Makes me feel much less bad for my dealings with firman. I bought 2 Firmans from a deal or two ago. Both the 2000i from Ebay thru Firman for $200. And the Who3242F direct from Firman for $340. I was hoping and somewhat expecting to get Costco returns that looked close to newish. That's what I was led to believe from some here and other places online. When the 2000i showed up, I was not happy. Lots of blemishes and clearly used allot. Strong smell of gas. I immediately put in for a return. They refunded my money and never asked for it back. I got the generator going, so it does work but who knows for how long. Then the other one showed up. Same thing but worse. Very used looking. Scratches and blemishes, fading on it. The propane adapter literally looked like it had chew marks all over it. I had no intention of keeping it and wanted to put the money into a Harbor Freight generator. Spent allot of time on the phone and emailing with Firman trying to get a refund. Sent them pics of my generator and everything they asked for. Despite that, they insisted on sending a replacement and that there would be directions on sending back the other one. They never did ask for it back. So I decided to try and get the first one going. Seems to run well. Was excited when the meter showed zero hours. Was hoping maybe it had a new motor in an old case. Thought that might be a scam and apparently it is. So all in all I came out pretty well. But I don't know I'd trust my life with these Generators in a real emergency. I'd probably recommend spending more money on a new one from a reputable company.
Im glad you were able to make use of the thrashed generators Firman sent you! While its nice to have redundancy in the event one fails, Id probably opt for a new one next time, since they are often sold new at Costco for $600. And more importantly, they come with Costco's unbeatable return policy.

A chunk of my life was wasted waiting on hold to speak with Firman reps, have them disconnect the call when I cornered them and then dealing with ebay's dispute system.

A lot of people buy the 4000W Firman to power their RV's, and are disappointed when the generator wont start their small AC units or power their microwave (where many other 4000W gensets have no problem). If Firman didn't grossly overstate the surge wattage rating of their generators, Id recommend them.

All in all, not a great experience with Firman and ebay, but Ive dealt with worse companies, which resulted in charge-backs through my credit card.

Id imagine Firman would have a difficult time processing a return on a generator that had been drained of gasoline, since most transportation companies wont ship them becasue they are an explosive hazard. So probably why they sent you replacements and didnt reclaim the duds. Strange business model, to say the least.

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Jul 7, 2024
711 Posts
Joined Feb 2016
Jul 7, 2024
FlashPilot
Jul 7, 2024
711 Posts
Quote from charredangel :
" Just for giggles, I decided to add oil and fuel, connect the battery and give it a try."

You and I have very different ideas of, "just for giggles," but I would like to have you as a neighbor when my car won't start. Thanks for the write up.
Haha! Im usually able to get stubborn things to run again. If I get stuck, youtube and other forums usually have generous souls willing to share their knowledge... and frustration.

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