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Firman P03501 - 3550/4450W Portable Generator

The Firman P03501 is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 3,550 W and a starting wattage of 4,450 W. (Read full specs)

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Firman P03501Firman P03501Firman P03501Firman P03501

Description

The P03501 is an open frame portable generator with a bonus cover and wheel kit. With an ergonomic handle and never-flat wheels, this generator is easy to transport for those weekend camping getaways or portable backup power. It features 4450 starting watts and 3550 running watts, with a reliable recoil start system. (source: Firman (opens in a new tab))

Zoom on the Firman P03501

In short, the Firman P03501 is a portable generator adequately designed for:

  • RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
  • People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
  • Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures

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

Power & Run Time

The Firman P03501 in use

The Firman P03501

The Firman P03501's engine, 208 cc Firman Max-Pro Series OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120V. It provides a running wattage of 3,550W and reaches a peak wattage of 4,450W.

The generator features a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism. It is rated for a noise of 67 dBA (less noisy than background music).

Thanks to its 5 gallons fuel tank, the P03501 can run continuously for around 14 hours at 50% load on a full tank (with an average fuel consumption of approximately 0.36 GPH).

The powering of sensitive electronic devices with the P03501 is not recommended due to its high THD (<25%).

Outlets

The control panel features 4 AC outlets as follows:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle
120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle

With its TT-30R receptacle (TT standing for 'Travel Trailer'), this Firman generator is RV Ready, perfectly suited for powering recreational vehicles.

Portability

Measuring L24.8 x W21.7 x H21.7 in, the Firman P03501 showcases a classic open frame layout, guaranteeing stability and simple maintenance access to components, while facilitating air circulation. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.

Despite its weight of 108.5 lbs, the generator is considered 'portable,' signifying its capability to be moved, albeit its heaviness may hinder easy transport. Nevertheless, thanks to its wheel kit (⌀8") and its folding handle (a decent solution to its lack of maneuverability), the generator can be easily moved, once placed the ground.

Features

Panel of the Firman P03501

The P03501's control panel

The control panel of the P03501 is equipped with a convenient meter, offering voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours readings, aiding in monitoring its status and activity.

In addition to this info, a light indicator shows you if its oil levels are insufficient.

The fuel level of the generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.

From a security standpoint, the product offers an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.

Beyond the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to assist with setup, the Firman P03501 ships with supplementary accessories: funnel, oil, cover and tool kit.

Product Videos

The Firman P03501 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Firman P03501 compare to generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).

  • With a dry weight of 108.5 lbs, the Firman P03501 sits comfortably within the expected weight range for devices generating 3500 to 4500 rated watts. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Genmax GM4600iAEFIC with only 58.4 pounds.
  • As this generator can emit noise as low as 67 dBA, it finds itself in the average expected noise for this kind of power. If you wish to prioritize minimal noise, the Westinghouse iGen5000DF stands out as one of the quietest options among generators of similar power, with a rating of 52 dBA.
  • Compared to devices of similar power, the P03501 stands out with one of the higher run times, lasting around 14 hours at 50% load. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the Predator 4375, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting around 16 hours.
  • Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel tank capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary for a complete understanding. As this generator uses an estimated 0.36 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, it finds itself in the average gasoline consumption range of similar products. If you're placing a high priority on fuel consumption, the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, with a low fuel consumption rate of 0.23 GPH, could be an option to consider.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • Several accessories included
  • RV Ready
  • High run time
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (108.5 lbs)
  • Acceptable noise (67 dBA)
  • Decent fuel efficiency
WEAKNESSES:
  • No electric start

Do you own the Firman P03501 and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterNo
Parallel capableNo
RV readyYes
FuelGasoline
Engine208 cc Firman Max-Pro Series OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty3 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz
Running watts3,550 W
Starting watts4,450 W
Running amps29.6 amps
Peak amps37.1 amps
Run time @50% load14 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R)
DC outletsNo
Data centerVFT
IndicatorsLow oil
Fuel tankSteel, 5 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight108.5 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)24.8 x 21.7 x 21.7 in
Noise (lower limit)67 dBA
THD< 25%
ComplianceEPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedOil, funnel, tool kit, cover, and wheel kit
Country of originChina
SeriesPerformance
UPC840876135013

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.

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About FIRMAN Power Equipment

Founded in 1999, Firman Power Equipment is a company with a short, but established history in the power equipment industry. Based in Arizona, the company offers an immense range of products, including power tools, automotive equipment, storage utilities, work wear, but most importantly, a wide selection of generators of all sizes, designs and outputs. Interestingly, Firman is a wholly owned subsidiary of the China National Machinery Industry Corporation - a somewhat well renowned company in China and acts as a de facto distributor of their products in the US.

Warranty Information

The Firman P03501 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 Firman generators, please consult Firman's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-844-FIRMAN1 (844-347-6261).

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 size calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeRefrigerator (energy star)1921192
Hair dryer18001900
Freezer8101750
Total2802 W3802 W
For campingRadiant heater13001300
RV refrigerator180600
RV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
Slow cooker270270
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Total2815 W3405 W
For workGrinder14002500
Demolition hammer12601260
Bug zapper8080
Total2740 W3840 W
What type motor oil does it take. Firman 208cc.? (Asked February 19, 2021)

SAE 10W-30 is recommended for general, all-temperature use. You may also want to refer to the chart page 12 of the owner's manual (opens in a new tab).

firman 3501 valve lash specs? (Asked August 17, 2021)

Intake/Exhaust: 0.004 - 0.006 in.

What do the symbols mean on the multimeter?.. there's 4 different areas.. (Asked September 15, 2021)

The multimeter and its symbols are explained page 10 of the owner's manual (opens in a new tab).

If I live in yarker, Ontario canada and have problem in the first year what do I do for the warranty, and where ? (Asked November 22, 2022)

Firman has several service centers in Ontario. You may contact their customer support to get the list.: 1-844-347-6261.

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