The main reason to consider the Sportsman GEN4000LP is for the fuel – liquid propane.  The vast majority of portable generators run on gasoline.  The main benefit of liquid propane is that it runs cleaner, however there are several other benefits to consider as you read on.

Although burning liquid propane burns cleaner, they still must be run with other safety considerations as they can still produce deadly Carbon Monoxide (up to 40% less) and should never be used in closed areas such as garages or basements.

This generator is not CARB compliant, however Sportsman does make a CARB compliant 7000watt model.  Made in China, these portable generators are distributed by Buffalo Tools in St. Louis, MO.  Their website is informative (www.buffalotools.com) but they do not sell the public.

Table of Contents
(click a title to jump ahead!)
1. Power Considerations – Wattage
2. Engine Type and Fuel Considerations
3. Starting Mechanism
4. Oil Usage Considerations
5. Outlets and Meters
6. Noise Level – Portability
7. Warranty
8. What’s in the Box
9. Dimensions/ Weight
10. Pros and Cons
11. Consumer Reviews
12. Price
13. Summary

This unit is affordable to run.  You can use the same propane tank that you use for your barbeque.  Standard 20 pound LP tanks are easily purchased and refilled at many service stations and big box home improvement stores.

Another reason for liquid propane as the fuel choice of many is that they can be stored for lengths of time without having it go bad on you as when storing gasoline for long periods without fuel stabilizer.  Internally, gasoline can gum up the carburetor when left sitting without periodic use.

You can hook up the regulator hose to a large home storage propane tank to eliminate the need of changing and refilling.  You can also, with minor adjustments hook into your natural gas line.

Although you’ll have to transport the tank separately when you move the unit, the side benefit is that you’re not lifting/pushing a portable generator with a large gas tank full of gas adding 20 or more pounds.

There are many benefits to fueling your portable generator with liquid propane, but also some shortcomings as you’ll see by reading on.

Sportsman portable generators are available in different wattage up to 10,000 watts and in both liquid propane and gasoline models.  There is even a 7000 watt diesel model. The handy table below shows the various models for quick comparison.

Sportsman LP Portable Generators Comparison Table

The Review

Power Considerations – Wattage

You’ve decided that the power range will be suitable for your needs by adding up the various devices that you plan to operate at any given time.  If you need a review of how to determine your wattage requirements, you can review the article on this site, “What Size Portable Generator Do I Need?”

This generator gives 3250 running watts and 4000 surge or starting watts.  It should be sufficient for most requirements in a power outage for necessities, or for use around the house or outdoors in most applications.  But the lack of a 30Amp receptacle or 240V power will limit you with your more power hungry versatility.

With just the two outlets supplying 20Amps each, with a couple of multi-receptacle extension cords, you should be able to run at least a few devices at the same time.  Check out the article on extension cords on this site.  You should never try to draw more than 2400 watts from one outlet as serious damage could occur to the unit.  Even out the load between the two outlets

The video below shows the voltage output under various loads.  The Sportsman GEN4000LP does not have a volt meter.

This generator should not be considered as delivering clean enough power (sine wave) to power sensitive equipment like computers or medical equipment.  If you must run or charge with this unit purchase an uninterrupted power source (UPS) device or other surge protector.  You can also purchase a voltage regulator for less than $75 and you should be able to get a cleaner sine wave.

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Engine Type and Fuel Considerations

This model has a 7HP, 4-stroke OHV, air cooled engine.  As with any 4-cycle engine, you need to add oil to the oil reservoir prior to use and maintain the level.

This model is not CARB approved, so it is not for sale in the State of California.  Sportsman makes a CARB approved model in the 7000watt LP model.  All models are EPA approved for emissions with a spark arrester satisfying the US Forestry Service.

There is an engine on/off switch which must be in the on position to start the engine and can be used to shut off the engine.  This switch, located on top is clearly marked.

The generator head is brushless, so if it loses it’s ‘charge’, you have to do the old ‘plug-in-drill, spun backward’ trick to re-energize/polarize the head.  This recommendation comes straight from a customer review.

Since you supply the liquid propane to a gas inlet via the supplied 5 foot hose with regulator, there is no fuel tank and fuel gauge.  You can purchase an inexpensive propane fuel gauge that you can attach to your LP tank, like on your gas barbeque.  Just remember to detach it before you take your empty tank in for replacement.

Use the same safety precautions with the LP tank and hose as you would when using with your barbeque.  Insure proper attachment and periodically check for leaks in the hose.  Keep the gas supply source closed when not in use.  Your gas cylinder should always be used and stored upright.

Since LP is more efficient than gasoline, your spark plug will last longer.

The rated run time at 50% load and 20 pounds of fuel is 10 hours.

Although not recommended, if the unit bogs down at higher loads (past 2500 watts), you might start by adjusting the choke position.  If necessary you can adjust the governor control screw and the screw on the carburetor.  This recommendation from one of the satisfied reviewers and advice from Buffalo Tools.

It has been reported that when running at high load level, the unit can shake.  Their words were “jumps” or “walks”.  This may be the exception rather than the rule as others did not mention this.  Perhaps loose fittings or uneven surface was involved.

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Starting Mechanism

This unit is a manual start or also called recoil start.  The larger 7000 watt models have an optional electric start feature, but do not supply the battery anyway.  Most report starting on the first or second pull, and that it does not take a great amount of muscle to do so.

To start the engine:

• Hook up the hose to the propane tank.
• Set the choke in the “close” position.  The unit is harder to start if the choke is in the “run” position.
• Full oil.  Proper grounding.  Make sure no load connected to outlets.
• Turn open the LP tank valve.
• Turn engine switch “on”.
• Turn the choke to “run”.
• Run the unit for a few minutes before attaching load.

To stop the engine:

• Turn off all electrical devices drawing the load and unplug them.
• Run for a few minutes without load to stabilize the temperature.
• Turn off the engine switch.
• Close the fuel valve.

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Oil Usage Considerations

You receive this GEN4000LP unit with NO oil included either in the reservoir (for obvious shipping reasons) nor in the box as included.  You must purchase at least 20 ounces of high detergent SAE10W-30 motor oil and fill the oil reservoir prior to starting the unit for the first time.  You’ll need a long neck funnel to accomplish this neatly.  Make sure that you are on a level surface to fill the oil to insure the recommended amount is added.

Running a portable generator with no or low oil can severely damage the unit.  This unit is equipped with a “Low Oil Shut Off” feature.  Meaning when the oil level is dangerously low, the unit will stop.  Unfortunately there is no low oil indicator light to warn you of the impending shut off.

It is recommended that you change the oil for the first time no later than after 20 hours of use.  It can’t hurt to change it earlier, as reviewers have noted metal shavings in their first oil change.

You’ll need a 10mm hex wrench to remove the drain plug on the crankcase underneath the fill cap.  Make sure you have an oil pan to catch the draining oil.  Kitty litter makes a great absorbent.

Check the oil level with the dipstick on the filler cap before each use.

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Outlets and Meters

As you can see in the image, the power panel is equipped with two 120V, 20Amp receptacle outlets and one 12 volt, 8.3A DC outlet for battery charging.  The included AVR automatic voltage regulator helps to equalize the load when both outlets are in use.

Overload protection switches for both AC outlets and the DC are on the main panel.  As previously mentioned, never attempt to draw more than 2400 watts from any one outlet, even though the overload protection switch may not trip.  The overload is to protect the unit from running over 3250 watts total over more than a short period.

Remember to not insert your cords into the unit until it has run for a few minutes, and that the AC reset button is pressed in.  Generally, connect the highest rated watt device first, then the next rated, etc.  Remember to disconnect your cords prior to shutting the unit off.  Review the article on extension cords recommended for portable generators on this site.

There is no voltage meter.  You’ll need a separate meter to determine that the voltage flow remains near the 120V level.  View the video on this review for an example of how voltage fluctuates with the changes in load.

If you require 240V and/or 30A or more, you’ll need to step up to the Sportsman GEN7000 models.

The DC outlet is only for recharging 12 Volt automotive-type batteries. Do not connect any other device to this outlet.  NEVER attempt to jump-start a car with this generator.  The DC connector is not included on the included DC wire.  You will need to find the connector plug or (not recommended) make your own.

The circuit breaker amperage for the DC feature is 8.3A.

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Noise Level – Portability

With a brand name like Sportsman, it has a certain connotation to it doesn’t it?  You can picture using this generator for tail-gating.  Or how about at an outdoor event right?  Or even as a camper’s friend.  It makes you think that it’s real quiet right?

Well at what is reported as “less than” 68 decibels, it’s no more quiet than most comparable, similar horsepower generators.  After all, it’s not an inverter where the noise level is much less, especially with their reduced output feature, and enclosed engine.  Read about the differences of inverter generators on this site.

Reviewers agree.  Some call it noisier than expected.  Some call it as advertised, and some say that it’s quieter than most.  One thing to note is that there are reviews that claim that this generator “walks” or shakes at higher loads.  This might have something to do with its mounting to the steel frame, which is at angles, rather than flat.  But more likely it was due to an uneven surface or uncommon flaw or loose connection to the frame.

The frame completely encloses the working unit.  That is, you can lay this generator on any of its sides and no part of it is exposed beyond the encased sides of the frame.  This protects it well from flat side force, but not from anything that can contact the generator between the frames.

Many of the complaints in reviews involve damage to the plastic parts which have been described as “flimsy”.  The damage mostly reported as upon receipt by the shipper.  Buffalo tools was reported as replacing damaged parts without question.

A drawback is that like many portable generators in this power range, being at the less than 100 pound weight, wheels are not always made a part of the package.  The GEN4000LP does not come with wheels, NOR is there an optional accessory to purchase one.  Many have reported making their own transportation dolly or using one of the wheel kits like the Durostar kit, and using it with very minor adjustments, such as a couple of different drill holes.

Since it does not have an attached fuel tank as a gasoline version would have, and the LP tank is transported separately, this Sportsman is lighter than it would be with a 5 gallon tank full of gasoline attached.  Still, 93 pounds is considerable, considering the absence of a fuel tank.

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Warranty

The warranty period of 90 days for defects in materials and workmanship is less than most.  However long enough to determine if there is something wrong from the start.  Once you’ve determined that your generator is working fine, little goes wrong with portable generators, other than what most handy owners can fix on their own.

With proper maintenance, many have used their Sportsman generators, both liquid propane and gasoline models for many years without issue.  It serves as a reliable, as needed portable generator.

Recommended maintenance is standard:

• Oil check before each use.
• Replace oil after the first 20 hours (or less).  And then every 6 months or 100hours.
• Air filter check each use.  Clean every 3 months, or each 50 hours
• Spark plug check/clean at 6 months or 100 hours.  Clean every year or 300 hours.

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What’s in the Box

When you receive your Sportsman GEN4000LP out of the box, you will need to remove the tightening brackets fixed under the engine before operation.

There is no oil included, so make sure you have 20oz of 10W/30 for most environmental conditions.  Nor are there any tools, other than the spark plug wrench.  You should have minimally a wrench 10mm hex or comparable.

The included operation manual is full of the important safety precautions, but not as detailed in operating and maintenance instruction.

You Get:

• Set of 2 DC connector wires for connecting 12 Volt automotive-type batteries
• 5 Ft. Regulator Hose Kit
• Spark Plug Wrench
• Instruction Manual

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Dimensions/Weight: Sportsman GEN4000LP

 Dimension (L x W x H):

• 23 inches
• 18 inches
• 18 inches

Weight:

• 93 pounds

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Pros and Cons

PROS:

• Hook into home propane supply for constant long term running without changing tanks
• Getting propane during power outage easier than some waiting in line for gasline.
• Less odor fumes
• LP burns more efficiently making spark plug last longer
• LP produces up to 40% less Carbon Monoxide
• Storage of LP does not degrade
• No gumming of carburetor due to stale gasoline
• Comes with 5 foot LP hose
• Low oil shutoff (no warning light)
• DC charging, comes with DC cord (no plug)

CONS:

• No wheel kit
• No volt or hour meter
• No 240V or L40/30R
• DC plug receptacle uncommon
• No oil included
• Insufficient packing for shipment of new unit

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Consumer Reviews

This Sportsman generator is a consumer favorite as far as the fuel source is concerned.  The majority of reviewers rate this unit 4 or 5 out of 5 Stars (70%)  Of note are the number of 1 star reviews (20%).  Nearly all of the low reviews were in the condition of the unit upon arrival.  This may be due to the plastic parts which are less than sturdy.

A few complained that the unit quit working (producing electricity) after a short time and likened it to being one of the lucky ones when rating it high.  The large range of ratings are the reason for the less than stellar star average. All raved about how customer service at Amazon and spotty review on the customer service at Buffalo Tools.

Read more consumer reviews directly from Amazon here: Sportsman GEN4000LP Reviews

Average Rating: 3.7 Stars

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Price

The price of this Portable Generator varies depending on where you buy it but Amazon tends to have the lowest price.

Check current pricing discounts:

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Summary

The Sportsman GEN4000LP runs on Liquid Propane with the same tank that you might use for your gas barbeque.  The benefits of  burning this type of fuel are many as described above.  The versatility of DC charging is there, but the absence of 240V and a 30A plug makes the unit less applicable for many uses.

It may not be the choice for the work-site, but because of the ability to store many tanks of fuel, a great choice for outdoor recreation and RV’s.

I can recommend this portable generator for those who need the limited power options on only two 20Amp receptacles, but are sold on the benefits of fueling with liquid propane.

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Filed under: $250 - $499 • Reviews • Sportsman