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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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
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.
Power & Run Time
Delivering 120V, the Sportsman GEN4000DF is enhanced by dual-fuel technology, providing power and versatility. Running on gasoline, it boasts a running wattage of 3,500W and a starting wattage of 4,000W. Alternatively, when propane-powered, it delivers 3,100 running watts and 3,600 starting watts.
The generator features a manual recoil starter system. 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 following 5 AC outlets:
Moreover, it presents 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle providing easy battery charging capabilities.
With its TT-30R receptacle (TT as in 'Travel Trailer'), this Sportsman generator is RV Ready.
Portability
With dimensions of L24.5 x W17 x H16.5 in, the standard open frame design of the Sportsman GEN4000DF 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.
Weighing 90 lbs, the GEN4000DF is practical, ensuring it can follow you wherever power is required. Moreover, the open frame design of the generator simplifies grabbing and relocating it.
Features
The control panel of the GEN4000DF is equipped with a convenient voltmeter, which provides an easy way to monitor power output anytime, aiding in monitoring its status and activity.
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.
Apart from the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to facilitate setup, the Sportsman GEN4000DF features extra accessories: battery charging cables, funnel, tool kit and propane hose.
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).
- Weighing in at 90 lbs, the Sportsman GEN4000DF fits within the expected weight range for dual fuel devices producing 3000 to 4000 rated watts. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Champion 201050 with only 51.8 pounds.
- Since the generator's noise is rated at 69 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 iGen4000DFc. With just 52 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
- Regarding its runtime, the GEN4000DF operates for around 10 hours at a 50% load, positioning it at the lower spectrum among comparable dual fuel products. 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.
- Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. At a 50% load, the generator consumes an estimated 0.36 gallons of gasoline per hour, falling within the average consumption range of units with similar output. 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.
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
- Inexpensive
- Dual fuel
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- Decent weight (90 lbs)
- Acceptable noise (69 dBA)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No electric start
- 1-year warranty
- Relatively low run time
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,500 W | 3,100 W |
| Starting watts | 4,000 W | 3,600 W |
| Running amps | 29.2 amps | 25.8 amps |
| Peak amps | 33.3 amps | 30 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 10 h | 12 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A receptacle |
| Data center | Voltmeter |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 3.6 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 90 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 24.5 x 17 x 16.5 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 69 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Accessories included | Funnel, tool kit, propane hose, and battery charging cables |
| UPC | 027077801323 |
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.
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?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Total | 2792 W | 3792 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Total | 2760 W | 3350 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.




User Reviews
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