WEN 56160 Spec Review

Description

Zoom on the WEN 56160

In summary, the WEN 56160 is a compact and lightweight portable generator especially useful for:

• Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
• Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go

The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, the extra features it benefits from, and any relevant emission compliance details.

Power & Run Time

The WEN 56160's core is the 98 cc WEN OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 1400W and a peak wattage of 1600W.

The generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism. It is rated for a noise of 72 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a dishwasher).

With a full tank, the 56160 can operate for around 9 hours at 50% load (fuel consumption around 0.18 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 1.6 gallon.

Outlets

The control panel includes the following 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

It also sports 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle with which you may charge your batteries with ease.

Portability

The dimensions of the WEN 56160, which are L18.3 x W14.2 x H15.9 in, and its typical, open frame design provides stability and enables the generator to be raised above ground level. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough environments.

The 56160 can be taken anywhere with you, thanks to its weight of 56 lbs. In addition, it is even easier to grab and move the generator around thanks to its open frame design.

Features

The 56160's control panel

The generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.

Security-wise, this product benefits from an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.

As for its accessories, apart from the previously mentioned features, the WEN 56160 also comes with the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), allowing you to start it right away.

Emissions

The WEN 56160 is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.

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

The WEN 56160 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN 56160 compare to generators of similar power (between 500 and 1500 W).

• A weight of 56 lbs makes the WEN 56160 one of the heavier devices in the 500-1500 rated wattage range. If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above mentioned power range is the Sportsman GEN1000i, with a dry weight of just 20.3 pounds.
• Among the generators of a comparable running wattage, this generator with a lowest noise of 72 dBA can be judged as noisy. If noise emissions are important to you, one of the least noisy generators of this power range is the Honda EU1000i with only 42 dBA.
• The 56160 provides a higher run time than similarly powerful devices, reaching around 9 hours at 50% load. Furthermore, considering the run times, one of the generators which have a roughly same power output, with the highest autonomy, is the Pulsar PG2000, as it provides around 12 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. In fact, this generator is not among the most fuel efficient, within the aforementioned wattage range : its estimated gasoline consumption at 50% load is around 0.18 GPH. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Ryobi RYi1000. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.08 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.

The bottom line

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 WEN

WEN Products, founded by Nick Anton in 1951, is an American power tool manufacturer and distributor, which claims to have a part in the development of modern chainsaw, soldering devices and wet sharpeners, through its research in random orbital technology. The Illinois based company expanded its distribution network to include various power tools, such as presses, drills and of course, power generators. As a distributor, WEN’s portfolio largely consists of branded products of different manufacturers, imported from Asia.

Warranty Information

The WEN 56160 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 WEN generators, please consult WEN's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-847-429-9263.

Questions & Answers

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