WEN 56160 Spec Review (Discontinued)

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
• DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools

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

Power & Run Time

The WEN 56160 is powered by a 98 cc WEN OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 1400W as well as a peak wattage of 1600W.

Enjoying a noise rating of 72 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a shower), this generator gets running thanks to a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

The fuel capacity of 1.6 gallon allows the 56160 to operate for around 9 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.18 GPH).

Outlets

The control panel provides the upcoming 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

It also sports 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy.

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 device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.

The 56160 can be taken anywhere with you, thanks to its weight of 56 lbs. Moreover, its open frame design makes it incredibly easy to grab the frame in order to change its location.

Features

The 56160's control panel

Thanks to a built-in fuel gauge, the generator allows you to quickly, conveniently and easily check the gas level at a glance.

As for its security measures, the device features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.

Accessory-wise, along with the previously mentioned features, the WEN 56160 is packaged with the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helping you start the device 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 1000 and 2000 W).

• Since the generator weighs in at a dry weight of 56 lbs, the WEN 56160 belongs in the expected weight range for devices which can produce between 1000 and 2000 rated watts. If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above mentioned power range is the ECHO EGi-1200, with a dry weight of just 30 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 one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Honda EU2200i, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 48 dBA.
• Offering around 9 hours of running time on a full tank at 50% load, the 56160 is within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful generators. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Westinghouse WGen2000, which is able to run for around 20 hours.
• While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank’s capacity and thus, doesn’t say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. This generator has an estimated fuel consumption of roughly 0.18 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, rendering it somewhat average compared to devices of a similar output. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Cat INV1250, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.1 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.

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

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