Champion 201003 - 4000/5500W Dual Fuel Inverter Generator

The Champion 201003 is a compact dual fuel inverter generator with a rated wattage of 4,000 W and a starting wattage of 5,500 W.

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Picture of the Champion 201003

Description

Zoom on the Champion 201003

In a nutshell, the Champion 201003 is a compact portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:

  • RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
  • Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
  • Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
  • Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source

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 201003 in use

The Champion 201003

Thanks to its dual-fuel technology, the Champion 201003 delivers 120V and offers power and versatility. When gasoline-powered, it benefits from a running wattage of 4,000W and a peak wattage of 5,500W. When propane-powered, it has 3,600 rated watts and 5,500 peak watts. Additionally, as the generator is parallel capable (ParaLink (opens in a new tab) not included), it can be linked to a second unit for more power.

The inverter generator is rated for a noise of 61 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a normal conversation). Its starting mechanisms include a conventional pull-start mechanism and a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included). Champion’s EZ Start Dial lets you intuitively start the engine with easy access to all the controls you need.

The running time of the 201003, with its 3.7 gallons fuel capacity, can reach up to 20 hours on a full tank of gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.19 GPH). With propane, it can reach up to 15 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.31 GPH). Thanks to the Fuel Fill Assist LED, an ingenious LED located near the fuel cap, filling up the unit’s tank is highly facilitated in poor lighting conditions. The LED can illuminate the gasoline filling area simply by pushing a button.

Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the 201003 produces a clean sine wave, with a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Outlets

The control panel features the upcoming 3 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle

Additionally, it features 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy. Since a dual port USB adapter is included with the unit, you will also be able to use the DC receptacle to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.

With its TT-30R receptacle (TT as in 'Travel Trailer'), this Champion generator is RV Ready.

Portability

The Champion 201003 is an inverter generator and has an encased design of the following dimensions: L24.6 x W19 x H20.9 in. Thus, it is more aesthetical than conventional, open frame products. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.

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 118 lbs. Nevertheless, it can still be moved quite conveniently with the help of its set of 2 wheels (⌀5.5") and its telecospic handle, once it is placed on the ground.

Features

Panel of the Champion 201003

The 201003's control panel

To help you monitor the 201003's status and activity, its control panel is equipped with a digital Intelligauge data center, giving you information on the frequency, power output, lifetime run hours and voltage. To offer you even more control and easy operation during nighttime, the panel is LED-lit.

In addition to this info, a light indicator serves to show you when the oil level is too low.

As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker).

Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the Champion 201003 also is packed along with the following accessories: funnel, dual port USB adapter, oil and propane hose. The official storage cover and running cover are also available, as separate purchases.

Emissions

The Champion 201003 is EPA approved, but NOT CARB-compliant. Thus, it cannot be purchased or sold in California.

However, it features a spark arrestor and thus, may be used in forested areas.

Product Videos

The Champion 201003 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Champion 201003 compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).

  • Since the generator weighs in at a dry weight of 118 lbs, the Champion 201003 belongs in the expected weight range for inverters which can produce between 3500 and 4500 rated watts. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the WEN GN400i, weighing just 66.1 pounds.
  • Since the inverter generator's noise is rated at 61 dBA, it has the roughly average expected noise for a device of similar type and power. For those who are looking for a less noisy device, we suggest the Westinghouse iGen4500DF. With just 52 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
  • Since the 201003 boasts with a run time of up to 20 hours at 25% load, it can be safely judged as a device of a higher run time than most inverter generators of a comparable output. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Firman W03661OF, which is able to run for up to 25 hours.
  • While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank’s capacity and thus, doesn’t say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. This inverter generator reaches an estimated fuel consumption of 0.19 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 25% load, making it average, for the previously mentioned wattage range. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Champion 200988. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.16 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • Dual Fuel
  • Illuminated control panel
  • Several accessories included
  • RV Ready
  • Electric start
  • Parallel capable
  • Fuel Fill Assist LED
  • Inverter
  • High run time
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (118 lbs)
  • Acceptable noise (61 dBA)
  • Decent fuel efficiency
WEAKNESSES:
  • No remote start
  • Not CARB-compliant

Do you own the Champion 201003 and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterYes
Parallel capableYes, cable not included
RV readyYes
FuelDual Fuel (gasoline/propane)
Engine224 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil, Electric
Warranty3 years
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Power
GasolinePropane
Running watts4,000 W3,600 W
Starting watts5,500 W5,500 W
Running amps33.3 amps30 amps
Peak amps45.8 amps45.8 amps
Run time @50% loadUnknownUnknown
Run time @25% load20 h15 h
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationInverter
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R)
DC outlets1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style)
Data centerPower output, lifetime run hours, voltage and frequency
IndicatorsLow oil
Fuel tank3.7 gal
Fuel gaugeNo
Misc
Weight118 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)24.6 x 19 x 20.9 in
Noise (lower limit)61 dBA
THD< 3%
ComplianceEPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralFloating
Accessories includedOil, funnel, propane hose, dual port USB adapter, and battery
Country of originChina
UPC817198024554

Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.

Spec Improvement×

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About Champion Power Equipment

Founded in 2003, the Champion Power Equipment is a US based power equipment manufacturer. The relatively small company has made a name for itself both in the portable generator industry, but also the power equipment sector in general, with a particular focus on heavy duty equipment, such as log cutters, snow blowers, chipper shredders, etc. All of their products are engineered in the US. However, the company does not provide information on the origin of their components.

Warranty Information

The Champion 201003 is covered under a warranty for up to 3 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Champion generators, please consult Champion's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-877-338-0999.

Questions & Answers

What can it power?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our generator sizing calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeMicrowave (1000 watts)15001500
AC (10,000 BTU)15002200
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Total3192 W4192 W
For campingRV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
RV refrigerator180600
Hair dryer18001900
Mixer200200
Total3190 W3780 W
For workTable saw18004500
Reciprocating saw730960
Drain cleaner250250
Total2780 W5480 W
Is it possible to add a wireless remote kit (Asked May 12, 2021)

Unfortunately, there are no official remote start kits for this unit.

Description says there is a fuel gage, review says not. Which is correct? (Asked May 30, 2021)

It must be a misunderstanding, since the description does not mention a fuel gauge.

Does this generator have a provision to shut off fuel to keep the carburetor dry when not in use? (Asked July 14, 2021)

The EZ start dial can be turned to the "gasoline valve OFF" position to let the generator run until there's no more fuel in the carburetor.

Is there usb ports (Asked September 29, 2022)

The unit does not feature USB ports. However, it comes with a USB adapter that can be plugged into its 12V DC automotive outlet.

Is feed and regulator included for propane? Is it long enough to connect to 40 lb propane tank? (Asked June 24, 2023)

The unit comes with LPG hose and regulator. Hose length is 6 ft.

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Champion 201003
8.6 Total Score
5 reviews
Add your review
Price
8.6
Value
9
Quality
8.8
Performance
7.8

User Reviews

Most Recent Most Helpful Highest Rating Lowest Rating Add your review
  1. 3.15
    Price
    80
    Value
    80
    Quality
    80
    Performance
    10

    Bought today because of the highest Watts of a good name brand. Only would like a 220 plug and 6000w+ so to at least be able to shut everything off so you could heat some hit water, get water from well etc. Can’t believe the only one out there is the Genwin I believe.

    + PROS:
    • Dual fuel, higher Watts then almost all others. Light for side pnl.
    - CONS:
    • Not 220 capable and at least 6000w.
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(2)You have already voted this
  2. 4.5
    Price
    80
    Value
    90
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    90

    Feel a lot more comfortable knowing you have this bad boy incase it’s needed to keep the lights on.

    + PROS:
    • Easy to operate.
    • Easy to move around.
    • A great starter generator.
    - CONS:
    • Alittle pricey, but everything is these days. It’s better to spend the money, then to be sitting in the dark using candles.
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  3. 4.15
    Price
    70
    Value
    80
    Quality
    90
    Performance
    90

    I’ve owned and tested many brands. Champion is a very high quality generator and is assembled very well. Their customer service and parts is awesome! That alone sells a generator! I’m so impressed with this unit. So far it’s only available at Cabelas/Bass Pro. I highly recommend this unit if it fits what your looking for!

    + PROS:
    • Quality Parts, awesome customer service and parts availability, very quiet, loaded pannel, led lights, smooth running, reliable. 3 year warranty.
    - CONS:
    • No gas gauge, no 220 volt outlet.
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  4. Avatar
    David Brocato July 10, 2022 at 3:08 am
    4.9
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    90
    Performance
    100

    I purchased this from Bass Pro Shop. I ordered it on July 4 and it was delivered on July 6. Very fast shipping. Box was fully intact with no damage. Good Job FedEx. Price was inline with like generators of this watt and amperage. I followed the quick guide, connected the battery, added the oil and connected to my small 20 pound propane tank. Set the choke and hit the start for a few seconds. Turned it to run and hit the starter again and she fired right up. I tested the volts and amps and it does what they say it will. I did let her run with a small load that included an ac that cycled to give it a varying load per the break-in period. I changed my oil after the 5 hour run and did have some fine shavings. I have ordered a magnetic dipstick that I plan to install. I decided to run some 10w-30w synthetic oil. I am going to run it another 5 hours or so and change the oil again. Then she’ll be good to go. Probably don’t need to do this, but just something I want to do. Overall I am very pleased with this inverter generator. She is quiet, provides 30 amps and 3600 watts on propane and this is all I need. Hats off the Champion. I really think had Champion not made this exclusive with Bass Pro Shop and Cabelas they would have sold a lot more of them. If the 4500 watt peak and 3500 watt inverter generator isn’t enough check out this one. I did buy a cover for it and I have 2 – 40 pound tanks and a few smaller 20 pound tanks, so I am set. Just hope we don’t have any storms in the Gulf this year, but if we do I am feeling pretty ready.

    + PROS:
    • Easy to start on propane
    • Changing oil is easy with the drain hose.
    • Very quiet
    - CONS:
    • It’s a bit heavy
    • Rubber feet come off easily
    Helpful(2) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  5. 4.75
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    80
    Performance
    100

    It started right up on both gas and propane, of course after I added the oil. It is quiet and has not disappointed me yet. Only dislikes were that the pop up fueling light is powered by a 9v battery instead of off the main battery (one more to keep track of), no gas gauge, and poor sticker application ( a lot of bubbles ). I had it shipped to my local bass pro. Box was actually in good shape but heavy. Unit is 118lbs but in the box it is 140 lbs. Bass pro needs better information for there cs reps. My first order was cancelled buy BP a day later csr had no reason why or when they would be available again. Luckily I received a email from gen bible one night at 230am that it was now available, we placed our 2nd order at 330am. That one went through and was delivered to BP 5 days later.
    I do recommend this model.

    + PROS:
    • Quiet, easy start, rv outlet, intelligauge, extendable handle and wheels.
    - CONS:
    • No gas gauge, no remote start, bubbles under champion stickers, uses 9v battery for fueling light instead of main battery. Poor information thru bass pro customer service on availability.
    Helpful(33) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this

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