Champion 100161 Spec Review

In a nutshell, the Champion 100161 is a portable generator mostly geared towards:

• Food truck owners who want to ensure that their business is fully self-contained and does not rely on potentially unreliable external power
• Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
• Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
• RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level

In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The Champion 100161

The Champion 100161's engine, 439 cc Champion OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120/240V. It provides a running wattage of 7500W and reaches a peak wattage of 9375W.

At a noise rating of 74 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a vacuum cleaner), this generator can be started via a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, or a convenient and easy-to-use electric starter (battery included). The 100161 can also be remotely started, offering further convenience (key fob included).

Thanks to a fuel capacity of 6 gallons, the 100161 can operate for around 8 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.75 GPH).

The 100161 is unsuitable for the powering of sensitive electronic devices due to its relatively high THD (<20%).

Outlets

The control panel features the upcoming 7 AC outlets:

Thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer'), this Champion generator is RV Ready. In addition, because the 100161 is equipped with a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it can power your home during a power outage, as it can be easily connected to your breaker box to power your household.

Portability

The Champion 100161 has a conventional, open frame design, of the following dimensions: L27.8 x W27.3 x H26 in, which offers support and allows it to be raised above ground level. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.

While the generator is considered to be technically 'portable' (in the sense that you can move it), manually lifting and transporting it may be challenging, due to its high weight of 207 lbs. However, this lack of maneuverability is compensated by its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, with which you can conveniently shift it, once it's on the ground.

Features

The 100161's control panel

The control panel of the 100161 includes an Intelligauge meter, which displays voltage, frequency and lifetime hours, helpful for the monitoring of its status and activity.

From a security standpoint, the product offers an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, allowing you to use it with a peace of mind. Champion's built-in surge protector (Volt Guard™) safeguards your equipment and appliances against spikes in voltage.

While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the Champion 100161, the following accessories are also included: oil, funnel and key fob.

Emissions

The Champion 100161 is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor and therefore, can be used in forested areas.