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Sportsman GEN4000DF - 3500/4000W Dual Fuel Generator

The Sportsman GEN4000DF is a compact open frame dual fuel generator with a rated wattage of 3,500 W and a starting wattage of 4,000 W. (Read full specs)

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Sportsman GEN4000DF
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Price history for the Sportsman GEN4000DF

Current price is in the low range.
Lowest price $299.99
Highest price $793.99
Current price $349.99

Description

Zoom on the Sportsman GEN4000DF

In a few words, the Sportsman GEN4000DF is a compact portable generator perfectly suited for:

  • RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
  • People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
  • DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
  • Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials

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 Sportsman GEN4000DF in use

The Sportsman GEN4000DF

Thanks to its dual-fuel technology, the Sportsman GEN4000DF provides a 120V output and offers both versatility and power. When utilizing gasoline, it delivers a running wattage of 3,500W and a starting wattage of 4,000W. Alternatively, when operating on propane, it provides 3,100 running watts and 3,600 starting watts.

The generator features a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism. It is rated for a noise of 69 dBA (less noisy than background music).

With a fuel capacity of 3.6 gallons, the GEN4000DF can operate for around 10 hours at 50% load using gasoline (fuel consumption around 0.36 GPH), or for around 12 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.39 GPH) using propane.

Outlets

The control panel features the upcoming 5 AC outlets:

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

Additionally, it offers 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle providing easy battery charging capabilities.

Thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer'), this Sportsman generator is RV Ready, making it ideal for powering recreational vehicles.

Portability

Measuring L24.5 x W17 x H16.5 in, the Sportsman GEN4000DF showcases a classic open frame layout, offering stability and simple maintenance access to components, while facilitating air circulation. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.

The 90 lbs of the GEN4000DF's dry weight enables you to use it anywhere you will ever need. Additionally, the generator’s mobility is enhanced by its open frame design, as it can be easily grabbed and shifted.

Features

Panel of the Sportsman GEN4000DF

The GEN4000DF's control panel

The GEN4000DF's status and activity may be monitored conveniently via the control panel, as it features a convenient voltmeter, which provides an easy way to monitor power output anytime.

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

Beyond the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to assist with setup, the Sportsman GEN4000DF ships with supplementary accessories: battery charging cables, propane hose, funnel and tool kit.

Product Videos

The Sportsman GEN4000DF versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Sportsman GEN4000DF compare to dual fuel generators of similar power (between 3000 and 4000 W).

  • At 90 lbs in dry weight, the Sportsman GEN4000DF fits well within the typical weight bracket for dual fuel generators producing 3000 to 4000 rated watts. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Champion 201050, with a dry weight of only 51.8 lbs.
  • The generator's noise output, rated at 69 dBA, falls within the average range expected for devices in its type and power range. 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.
  • Regarding its autonomy, the autonomy of the GEN4000DF, reaching around 10 hours at a 50% load, can be considered as low end, compared to other dual fuel products of a roughly equal output. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, as it provides around 15 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. This generator has an average fuel consumption among comparably powerful devices, as it reaches 0.36 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, with a fuel consumption of 0.23 GPH could be in your good books.

Price comparison

As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3000-4000W dual fuel generators, the Sportsman GEN4000DF 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

STRENGTHS:
  • Inexpensive
  • Dual fuel
  • Several accessories included
  • RV Ready
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (90 lbs)
  • Acceptable noise (69 dBA)
  • Decent fuel efficiency
WEAKNESSES:
  • 1-year warranty
  • No electric start
  • Relatively low run time

Do you own the Sportsman GEN4000DF 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
FuelDual Fuel (gasoline/propane)
Engine212 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty1 year
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Power
GasolinePropane
Running watts3,500 W3,100 W
Starting watts4,000 W3,600 W
Running amps29.2 amps25.8 amps
Peak amps33.3 amps30 amps
Run time @50% load10 h12 h
Run time @25% loadUnknownUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsNo
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R)
DC outlets1x 12V 8A receptacle
Data centerVoltmeter
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tank3.6 gal
Fuel gaugeNo
Misc
Weight90 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)24.5 x 17 x 16.5 in
Noise (lower limit)69 dBA
THDUnknown
ComplianceEPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
Accessories includedFunnel, tool kit, propane hose, and battery charging cables
UPC027077801323

We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.

Spec Improvement×

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About Sportsman Series

Sportsman Series is a small brand registered under the US based Buffalo corporation. Founded in 1964, the Buffalo Corporation is a small company, which sells tools and home products. Their brands include AmeriHome, Black Bull, Buffalo Tools and Sportsman Series – which offers a selection of generators and several other general products. The brand, and in fact, the corporation itself seemingly outsources all of its production overseas and acts only as a distributor, under its own brands.

Warranty Information

The Sportsman GEN4000DF is covered under a warranty for up to 1 year. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Sportsman generators, please contact the Buffalo Tools Customer Support: 1-636-532-9888.

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.
Item Running Watts Starting Watts
At home AC (10,000 BTU) 1500 2200
Refrigerator (energy star) 192 1192
Vacuum cleaner 1075 1175
Total 2767 W 3767 W
For camping RV AC (11,000 BTU) 1010 1600
RV refrigerator 180 600
Electric fry pan 1500 1500
Radio 100 100
Total 2790 W 3380 W
For work Grinder 1400 2500
Demolition hammer 1260 1260
Bug zapper 80 80
Total 2740 W 3840 W
Does this model of generator need a battery as it looks like it doesn't come with one. (Asked November 12, 2020)

No battery is needed, since the unit is recoil start only.

Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.

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Sportsman GEN4000DF
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  1. 5
    Price
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    I made the purchase of this generator from Home Depot for a very reasonable price. I used it the first time at my home when the electric failed for two days it powered my electric furnace, my refrigerator, lights and the micro-wave everything preformed with-out a problem I’m very impressed with the unit, I also use it to power my travel trailer with camping at non-electric sites and it works wells to keep the A/C on the trailer running to stay comfortable this 3500 watt generator will power about anything your attached to it. One needs to be cautious when running multiple items to run at the same time example when running a A/C run it it at a low speed so to keep the wattage draw at a min. Its all about common sense

    + PROS:
    • Fantastic Unit. It also runs on propane I use a 20 lb cyl. Other tanks are avail for more capacity of propane I would think this unit would be perfect for a hunter or a fisherman
    - CONS:
    • Needs a bigger fuel tank if using gas and its not real noisy when running
    Helpful(9) Unhelpful(1)You have already voted this

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