Why do Baldor / Pow’R Gard Generators cost so much? Is the portable generator sold at the discount do-it-yourself store the same as the one sold by a Baldor Generator Distributor?   What makes one small generator better than another?   A generator or “gen-set” consists of two main components, the engine and the alternator.  The most critical component necessary for dependable performance is the component that actually generates and conducts the electricity.  We call this the alternator.  Unlike some “good”, “better”, or “best” generator manufacturers, Baldor makes only one model alternator … the best; a true industrial unit.   The other part of the generator, the motor, is also important.  The engines on Baldor industrial portable generators are industrial-duty rated, with positive lubrication, not consumer-grade “lawn-mower” engines.  The engines used on Baldor Generators will provide years of dependable service.    Baldor alternators have a much better rotor design including: • Magnetic grade lamination steel for better voltage control and motor starting capabilities. • Fiberglass reinforced insulation, not just paper, to eliminate potential shorts to ground. • Double enamel coated copper windings for additional protection from scratches and shorts.  Copper windings also provide greater efficiency. • Stamped steel winding locks, which allow safe operations to over 4500 RPM.  This eliminates generator failure from governor tampering or over-speed conditions.   • A full dip and bake thermal set epoxy rated varnish to provide maximum winding protection from movement, moisture, and damage from dust, sand, etc. • A rubberized two-part protective coating on the completed rotor to protect the winding from sand, stones, and moisture. • Sealed ball bearings rather than just sleeve bearings. Baldor alternators also feature a much improved stator design with: • Magnetic grade lamination steel for better voltage control and motor starting capabilities. • Double enamel coated copper windings for additional protection from scratches and shorts.  Copper windings also provide greater efficiency. • A full dip and bake thermal set epoxy rated varnish to provide maximum protection from movement, moisture and damage from dust, sand, etc. • A premium extra third stator winding that allows full power with simultaneous multiple voltage ratings. • An extra third winding is standard (most competitors have only two windings and a voltage selector switch). Baldor Portable Generators provide more usable power: • Baldor Portable Generators are capable of providing a minimum of 150% of its nameplate rating in short bursts for electric motor starting applications.  Motor power inrush is often 6 to 10 times the rated nameplate running power for a fraction of a second.  Even small motors will not start if the power is not on tap. • Baldor Portable generators have the Switchless Full Pow’R® feature, meaning that the generator can provide full power both the 120V and 240V receptacles at the same time, up to the generators full power rating.  This takes an extra copper winding not found in cheaper competitor’s generators. • No equipment or generator damage due to having the power switch in the wrong position.  There is an extra winding but there is no switch.   • More steel and more copper make excellent voltage regulation within ± 1-3% Baldor Generators are designed for continuous service: • Industrial-Commercial positive-lubricated, overhead-valve engines, not discount grade lawnmower engines • Inherently balanced construction provides long bearing life and smooth operation. • Neoprene motor mount vibration isolators are more durable than just plain rubber. • An Automatic Idler option idles the engine when the load is removed to reduce noise, save fuel and extend engine life. • Designed and built to serve the tough rental market.  Many rental shops use Pow’R Gard – Baldor Generators because they hold up to rough service well. • Baldor Portable Generators have a 3 year limited warranty.  An industry first. The great Victorian thinker John Ruskin reflects the Baldor philosophy and we think mirrors the belief of wise buyers: "There is hardly anything in the world that some man cannot make a little worse and sell a little cheaper, and the people who consider price only are this man's lawful prey. It's unwise to pay too little. When you pay too much, you lose a little money - that is all. When you pay too little, you sometimes lose everything, because the thing you bought was incapable of doing the thing it was bought to do. The common law of business balance prohibits paying a little and getting a lot - it can't be done. If you deal with the lowest bidder, it is well to add something for the risk you run. And if you do that, you will have enough to pay for something better." Why do you have to pay more for a Baldor Portable Generator?  The answer is simple.  They are built to run better and last longer than their competition.  Don’t buy something cheap.  Buy a Baldor … It’s Built Best.