The Pulsar PG3500MR is a compact open frame generator with a rated wattage of 3,000 W and a starting wattage of 3,500 W. (Read full specs)
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Amazon | Price history for the Pulsar PG3500MR |
|---|
| Highest Price $399.00 Lowest Price $196.09 Current Price $329.99 |
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Description
Zoom on the Pulsar PG3500MR
In short, the Pulsar PG3500MR is a compact portable generator adequately designed for:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- Amateur DIY lovers
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
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 Pulsar PG3500MR
The Pulsar PG3500MR's design includes a gasoline-fueled 208 cc (7 hp) Ducar OHV 4-stroke engine. With a 120V output, it gives a running wattage of 3,000W and also a peak wattage of 3,500W.
Rated for 69 dBA (less noisy than background music), the generator's starting mechanism relies on a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.
The fuel capacity of 4 gallons allows the PG3500MR to operate for around 12 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.33 GPH).
Outlets
The control panel features 2 AC outlets as follows:
Furthermore, it showcases 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A output with which charging your batteries is made easy.
Portability
With dimensions of L23.6 x W17.5 x H17.9 in, the standard open frame design of the Pulsar PG3500MR provides stability and easy maintenance access to components, as well as good air circulation. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.
The 92 lbs of the PG3500MR's dry weight enables you to use it anywhere you will ever need. In addition, with its wheel kit and its folding handle, it may be shifted with ease, once placed on the floor.
Features
The PG3500MR's control panel
The device’s light indicator will display 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.
Considering security aspects, the generator boasts an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, offering peace of mind throughout operation.
Alongside the typical set of documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to assist with setup, Pulsar has included a tool kit in the packaging of the PG3500MR.
The Pulsar PG3500MR versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Pulsar PG3500MR compare to generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).
- At 92 lbs dry, the Pulsar PG3500MR is consistent with the standard weight profile for devices ranging from 2500 to 3500 rated watts. Weight-conscious users may find the Pulsar PGD40iSCO appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 46 pounds.
- If compared to generators capable of producing a similar running wattage, this generator with a lowest emitted noise of 69 dBA can be considered somewhat noisy. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may want to take a look at the Honda EU3000iS. It's one of the quietest options among generators of similar power, rated at 50 dBA.
- The PG3500MR provides a higher run time than similarly powerful devices, reaching around 12 hours at 50% load. If extended autonomy is what matters most to you, the Predator 4375 could be an excellent choice, offering one of the longest run times among units in its power category, reaching around 16 hours.
- Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. The generator burns fuel at a rate of around 0.33 GPH when running at a 50% load, which is consistent with the average fuel usage of models of comparable power output. If you're placing a high priority on fuel consumption, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, with a low fuel consumption rate of 0.22 GPH, could be an option to consider.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 2500-3500W generators, the Pulsar PG3500MR is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- High run time
- Decent weight (92 lbs)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No data center
- No electric start
- On the noisy side (69 dBA)
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 208 cc Ducar OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,000 W |
| Starting watts | 3,500 W |
| Running amps | 25 amps |
| Peak amps | 29.2 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 12 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A output |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil |
| Fuel tank | 4 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 92 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.6 x 17.5 x 17.9 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 69 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Tool kit and wheel kit |
| Other model numbers | PG3500M |
| UPC | 814726021139 |
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.
About Pulsar
Pulsar is a brand registered under the Pulsar Products inc., based in California, USA. The company offers a decent choice of air compressors, pressure washers and of course, generators – which range from 1,2 kW to 10 kW and include dual fuel and RV-Ready designs. Pulsar has several facilities scattered throughout the US, including two distribution centers – one in California and second in Illinois. However, the production of their products seems to be outsourced overseas, to the continent of Asia.
Warranty Information
The Pulsar PG3500MR is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Pulsar generators, please contact the Pulsar Customer Support: 1-866-591-8921.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Total | 2392 W | 3392 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 2380 W | 2800 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 2380 W | 3480 W |
How often should the oil be changed (Asked October 11, 2020)
Oil change schedule is detailed page 19 of the owner's manual (opens in a new tab).
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Pull cord assembly was crushed and couldn’t get it to pull,tires so soft they won’t stay on the rim. And the paint was chipped and rust was under the paint,stay away. Emailed Rick at corporate and he was a problem out the gate. Pulsar won’t stand behind their product and that’s with a three year warranty, my generator is less than a day ol
Runs everything in my 24 ft camp trailer with ease, 18000 btu rooftop air, refrigerator, 12 volt battery charger plus all the appliances i use, coffee maker, tv, dvd player…everything! All at once if i so choose. Owned many other brands of generators with same output & this pulsar 3500 beats them all! Its been used for the last 2 years hard. Sum it up…AWESOME generator!