Open frame generators are mostly used for work, but WEN promotes their GN400i as a great choice for powering RVs and travel trailers. Which purpose is it best suited for? Is it worth making the trade off between higher noise and lower weight to get an open frame generator instead of an enclosed unit?
Power and Connections
Pros
Cons
Emissions: EPA and CARB compliant, includes USDA-approved spark arrester
The GN400i makes up to 3,500 watts of 120 volt power, with a surge capacity of 4,000 watts to handle reactive loads from electric motors.
For RV shore power, the GN400i has a built-in TT-30R socket. This generator is parallel capable, and it can be linked to any of WEN’s inverter generators. The parallel kit has built-in TT-30R and L5-30R outlets, making it easy to access the full power of these generators from one socket. This kit has a 6,000 watt limit, so there’s not much point in pairing this generator with one of WEN’s larger models.
For powering household devices directly, there’s a 5-20R duplex outlet with two sockets. This generator also has a pair of USB ports for charging mobile devices. One outlet delivers 2.1 amps for fast charging, while the other outlet delivers just one amp.
The 400i has a 212cc engine that shuts down automatically if it runs low on oil or fuel. Flipping the on/off switch cuts the flow of fuel to the engine. This burns off the remaining fuel inside the carburetor, so you won’t have clogged jets when you pull this generator out of storage. The control panel houses the choke lever, as well as lights indicating low oil, overloads, and active loads. Turn on Eco mode, and the generator will adjust the engine speed automatically to match the current load, conserving fuel. The 1.85 gallon fuel tank can keep this generator running for up to 7 hours at 50% load.
What Can I Power with this Generator?
With its 4,000 watts of surge power, this generator can power most 120 volt RV air conditioners. Most units need 1,000 - 3,500 watts to start, dropping to 300-1,700 watts once the compressor is running. That leaves enough power for most appliances, aside from electric ovens. If your RV or trailer has a 10,000 BTU or smaller AC unit, power should peak at a little over 2,100 watts, so you don’t need to worry about shutting off appliances when you turn on your air conditioner. Since it has an inverter, you can safely use this generator to power electronics.
Are you considering a 400i for work? This generator makes enough power for any hand tool, and it can support one or two bench tools, or a small compressor. The 20 amp 15-20R outlet can flow enough current to keep a small 120 volt welder running at full power. The inverter provides the clean power needed for battery chargers. With 3,500 watts available, it has no problem powering a four battery quick charge station along with lighting and a few AC-powered tools.
What to Expect When Using This Generator
Noise is rated at 67 dBA at 22 feet under 50% load. For comparison, WEN’s fully-enclosed 56380i offers similar output, and it’s rated at 57 db. The decibel scale is logarithmic, so that 10 db difference means the 400i is twice as loud as the 56380i. Still, this is far quieter than most open frame generators, which are usually in the 80-90 dB range.
The open frame leaves all of the components exposed, including some of the circuitry behind the control panel is exposed. While you shouldn’t use any generator in the rain, moisture exposure will likely be more of an issue with the GN400i.
This generator is EPA and CARB compliant, and it has a built-in spark arrester. That means you can use it anywhere in the U.S. and Canada, including California, Quebec and national parks.
What Do I Need to Run This Generator?
The 400i comes with oil, a spark plug wrench and an oil fill funnel. Since it’s an open-frame design, everything is easy to access. Large gauge extension cords should be used to transfer power from the generator to your RV or appliances. That way, you can keep the generator far away from buildings and vehicles to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. If you want to use the full power of this generator for anything but RV power, you’ll also need a power strip or extension cord that connects to the TT-30R outlet and ends with a series of 5-20R or 5-15R sockets.
WEN recommends installing a high altitude kit if you use this generator more than 3,000 feet above sea level. This kit replaces the carburetor jet, adjusting the fuel mixture to work with the lower density air. WEN makes kits for use at 3,000 to 6,000 feet and 6,000 to 8,000 feet.
The generator is neutral grounded through the frame. In some locations, you may need to connect an external grounding rod to meet safety regulations.
Weight and Dimensions
The WEN GN400i measures 19.8 x 13.8 x 18.9 inches and weights 66 lbs. That’s 20-30 lbs. less than a similarly-sized enclosed generator. There’s no wheel kit available for this model. However, the frame rails extend above the fuel tank, so it can be carried by two people.
Warranty
WEN covers the entire generator, including the engine, for two years or 500 hours of personal use. Commercial users are covered for 90 days with no hour limit. The company has a massive dealer network, so you’ll never be far from a service center.
ConClusion
If the noise won’t annoy you or your neighbors, the WEN GN400i is a solid choice for RV power. It has the features you need for shore power, and it’s easier to move around than an enclosed generator. The GN400i is also a good choice for tools and batteries, although you may want something with better weather protection.
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