Top Rated Product
Product Reviews
NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
NorthStar Trifuel Generator packs 8000 surge watts and 6600 continuous watts! Switches effortlessly from gasoline to dry fuel without powering off and starts fast and easy in all weather. Cast iron sleeve. Rubber isolation mounts dampen vibration for smooth operation. Easy access control and outlet panel. Control panel has push to reset circuit breakers. Long-term storage fuel-drain valve quickly drains fuel for storage. Surge Watts: 8,000, Rated Watts: 6,600, Engine Displacement (cc): 390, Engine: Honda GX 390 OHV, Gross Torque: 20 ft-lb at 2,500 rpm, Rated Watts LP: 6,200, Rated Watts NG: 5,200, Surge Watts LP: 7,200, Surge Watts NG: 6,400, Run Time: 9 Hours at 1/2 Load, Receptacles (qty.): 5, Noise Level (dB): 74.5, Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane, or Natural Gas, Fuel Capacity (gal.): 6.5, Start Type: Electric and recoil, Low Oil Shutdown: Yes, Battery Required: Yes, Battery Included: No, Dimensions L x W x H (in.): 31 x 23 x 22
Average Customer Rating:
out of
5
18 of 19(95%)would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Portable Generator,
November 3, 2009
By genxreviews
from Oriental, North Carolina
"We purchased this approximately seven or eight years ago, and it's kept us from doing without in hurricanes and tropical storms every year. It has a dependable engine, and the power is adequate for me to run a chest freezer, two refrigerators, and the heat pump! We're grateful for this product, and highly recommend it."
What is your level of technical expertise? Home Handyman
Share this Review:
Review 2 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
It's a keeper!,
November 2, 2009
By SleepingEasy
from Freeland, WA
Reviewer Images
(click to see full-size image)
"This generator has kept us in power on many stormy Pacific Northwest nights - especially important because my wife uses a CPAP machine for her sleep apnea. We can both rest easy knowing she'll be safe even if the power goes out. The generator is hooked up to the house propane for ease in use. No stress of getting gas when the gas stations are out of power, too! And it has a dedicated outlet by the breaker box so it's flick off main power, flick on generator power. Only problem was changing the spark plug with arthritic fingers. I have recommended this machine to MANY people."
What is your level of technical expertise? Beginner
Share this Review:
Review 3 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Excellent Generator,
November 2, 2009
By laidbackman
from Columbus, Ohio
"I have owned this generator for 3 years. I have it hooked up to natural gas with a quick disconnect fitting. I did this so I could share with my son if necessary. I have needed it several times. The longest was 4 days after Hurricane Ike blew down a slew of trees in my town. I was able to share power with my neighbor. I have not had any issues with this generator. I do have a manual switch over at my panel. I have also run with gasoline at times. The switchover betweens fuels is seamless. The honda engine is great and the generator an electronics provide steady power for my refrigerator, furnace, lights and microwave."
What is your level of technical expertise? Home Handyman
Share this Review:
Review 4 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
northstar trifuel 8k,
July 20, 2009
By CKOERTH
from Houston area
"Easy start, always runs on any fuel,easy to operate. Excellent product that I have recommended to several other people and they have also purchased. It ran flawlessly all during hurricane Ike."
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
Share this Review:
Review 5 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Not bad Generator,
March 23, 2009
By ConstructionGUY
from Exton, PA
"This Generator was easy to assemble, only thing is it does not come with oil or battrey, Runs great and starts easy. The only CON is it is not as quiet as some other generators I have used ."
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
Share this Review:
Review 6 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Almost perfect generator,
November 18, 2008
By lsmi1
from Louisiana
"I bought this generator for emergency power and for use around my home as well as my hunting club. It works great. Starts right up, switches fuel with no problems, and does exactly as stated in the product information.
Being in Louisiana, we experience hurricanes and are sometimes without power for days, sometimes weeks. It does the job quietly without shaking and vibrating all around like my past generator.
It was delivered in a timely fashion and the price was good when you compare it with other generators in its class. There are many other generators out there that are cheaper, but are not near the quality of this one, nor or they equal in features. The trifuel feature allows you to have a continuous supply of fuel without going to the gas station every day. I use mine on natural gas and have no problems whatsoever.
My only dislike is the fact that it did not come with a wheel kit installed. It is listed as an option and is purchased separately. Just raise the price and put the wheels on it. It is very heavy and is hard to move by yourself. I have installed wheels on mine, but it would be nice if they came on it."
Being in Louisiana, we experience hurricanes and are sometimes without power for days, sometimes weeks. It does the job quietly without shaking and vibrating all around like my past generator.
It was delivered in a timely fashion and the price was good when you compare it with other generators in its class. There are many other generators out there that are cheaper, but are not near the quality of this one, nor or they equal in features. The trifuel feature allows you to have a continuous supply of fuel without going to the gas station every day. I use mine on natural gas and have no problems whatsoever.
My only dislike is the fact that it did not come with a wheel kit installed. It is listed as an option and is purchased separately. Just raise the price and put the wheels on it. It is very heavy and is hard to move by yourself. I have installed wheels on mine, but it would be nice if they came on it."
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
Share this Review:
Review 7 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Tri Fuel Generator,
November 17, 2008
By db153
from Kentucky
"I had purchased this generator for home backup power, we had poweroutage for one week from storm damage and this generator was used power our home through an transfer switch and also ran cords to friends home to give light and power refridgerator. The generator ran flawlessly for a week on gasoline power, now hooking up NG for next storm."
What is your level of technical expertise? Home Handyman
Share this Review:
Review 8 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Trifuel generator 13 HP 8000 watt,
November 17, 2008
By millbluff
from Fredonia, Ky
"I use the generator in my business and also as a electrical backup at home. We heat with propane and the trifuel unit just fit. I installed a propane line and installed a transfer switch to use when the electric power is off. All I have to do is move the generator to my home location and connect it to the propane and plug it in to the transfer switch and we have continuous power. The unit switches easy from gasoline to LP or LP to gasoline."
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
Share this Review:
Review 9 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Built To Work. Built To Last.,
November 17, 2008
By Japers
from Long Island, NY
"I purchased this generator to use in case of an emergency for my home. I chose this generator not only for the tri-fuel feature, but also for the Northern Name.
This is a high quality, heavy duty machine designed for rugged use. It seems to handle exactly what is claimed and most probably more. I would consider this particular generator more for the construction site then to use just for an emergency at home. However, I'm glad that I have it because it is built for reliability.
It would be nice though if this unit came with wheels. Wheels really aren't an option, they are indeed necessary unless you have a dolly or don't plan to move it from where it was delivered. It's heavy. If the wheel kit was in stock at the time, I would have ordered it. Though this wasn't too much of a problem for me because I didn't need to move it immediately. Northern should just include the wheel kit.
Please know that my experience having a generator is with this one only. Therefore, I can't compare it to another generator. I do know not to skimp on tools and equipment though. I've been a wrench turner most of my days and I can tell you that I don't buy cheap tools.
It would also be helpful to know that reading the manual can be an option for you prior to purchasing any particular piece of equipment. There's much to know about multi fuel generators. As well as knowing about operation, different components and other requirements. So do your research ahead of time and ask questions.
There is no such thing as a stupid question!
And in case you didn't know, this generator runs at a substantial throttle speed all the time. Reason being is so it can handle an immediate surge of power that it is specifically designed for. Please know that it doesn't just sit there idling until power is needed. It always runs at a factory pre-set working speed. This is normal.
Whatever use you're planning this generator for, I would recommend to first make a list of what equipment and or appliances you intend to supply power to. Make sure that surge power is included in your calculations because this is a necessary factor in determining what size generator you will need. Knowing about surge power is extremely important.
Also, connecting a transfer switch is not difficult for someone that knows their way around a breaker panel (with the cover off.) Installing a transfer switch requires certain skills and is only easy for those that know how.
I must say that Northern's Customer service really is a good place to start asking your questions. They really know their products, are quite friendly and really helpful. Please spend some extra time asking questions. I've spoken with them before, during and after my generator became part of my residence. Placing an order and delivery really is quite fast.
As the saying goes, "measure twice, cut once."
Good luck! And I hope you have your emergency generator ready should you need it. Though mostly, I hope you never need it."
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
Share this Review:
Review 10 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Best Deal for the Money!,
August 18, 2008
By JimmerJKM
from Richford, Vermont
"I am building an "Off Grid" home and for staters, I needed a reliable generator with some power handing ability This model is getting me thru the build effortlessy and I'll be using propane for my cooking, (some of my) heating, refrigeration and when the solar panel system runs low, this generator is set to kick in. OK, it's not as quiet as a Honda brand name, but it's half the price and the AC current's consistant. Kuddos to Northstar for leaving out the middle man and passing on the savings to ME!"
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
Share this Review:
Review 11 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Excellent Generator,
April 24, 2008
By fuzzyface
from Bristol, VA
"We purchased this generator for a power outage backup. It has performed flawlessly on gasoline and propane. It switches between fuels without a hitch while running for uninterrupted power when we need it!! We could not ask for better service. Thanks Northern Tool!"
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
Share this Review:
Review 12 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Lifesaver,
April 21, 2008
By Content
from Freeland, WA
"In the spring of 2006 we moved from Hawaii to the Pacific Northwest to a brand new home on large acreage surrounded by trees. The home was outfitted, at our request, to accept an external generator in case of power outages. The Pacific Northwest is prone to strong winter wind storms, heavy rains, and periodic snow. In November 2006, shortly after receiving our Northern Tool Tri-fuel generator, we received the ultimate in heavy wind and snow with downed trees and power outages for extended periods of time. The ability to connect the generator to our home propane tanks and the ease of start-up made us the envy of the neighborhood. We not only had power, we didn't have to worry if the gas stations were functioning. Our septic pump pumped; our sump pump pumped; our furnace fan ran; our lights lit; and life was relatively normal for us - aside from the neighbors who came for hot showers and home-cooked meals. We have "sold" 2 generators already and have friends moving to the area who plan to purchase the same model we did."
What is your level of technical expertise? Beginner
Share this Review:
Review 13 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Great generator,
January 24, 2008
By mverley
from NW Oregon
"I have owned this unit for a few months now; it is used as a backup for my entire house during power outages (frequent where I live). Recently it ran for 7 days straight after a large storm with no problems.
I have an interlocked transfer breaker in my load center, so it powers my entire house. I would recommend this method to anybody installing a generator over a prewired transfer panel. I have found that it will power all of my normal loads, and one major appliance (I can't run my electric dryer and my oven at the same time, but it runs each one separately without difficulty).
I read one previous review that stated that it only starts on gasoline. This hasn't been my experience; it starts perfectly in all weather on propane. To get it to start, however, you must press the full pressure button on the Garretson regulator while the engine is cranking over.
I did not buy the wheel kit; the generator will rarely move from it's enclosure. It is quite heavy and difficult for 2 people to carry.
All in all it is a great machine and I would recommend it to anybody."
I have an interlocked transfer breaker in my load center, so it powers my entire house. I would recommend this method to anybody installing a generator over a prewired transfer panel. I have found that it will power all of my normal loads, and one major appliance (I can't run my electric dryer and my oven at the same time, but it runs each one separately without difficulty).
I read one previous review that stated that it only starts on gasoline. This hasn't been my experience; it starts perfectly in all weather on propane. To get it to start, however, you must press the full pressure button on the Garretson regulator while the engine is cranking over.
I did not buy the wheel kit; the generator will rarely move from it's enclosure. It is quite heavy and difficult for 2 people to carry.
All in all it is a great machine and I would recommend it to anybody."
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
Share this Review:
Review 14 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
generator,
October 31, 2007
By Anonymous
from Maryland
"This generator is awesome. I bought it for work and home use and it is very dependable and used quite often, being you can use it for 3 types of fuel especially natural or Lp gas I have a line at my home just for lp gas and it is great because I never have to fill it up when the power goes down"
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
Share this Review:
Review 15 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Northstar 8KW generator,
October 30, 2007
By Hydrologist
from Raleigh, NC
"I bought this to provide backup power for our new house and have had it one year. In that time we've not had an outage, so I have run it only monthly to keep it up.
I initially ran it on gas, but have since installed a 100 gallon LP tank. It runs well on both fuels. It starts easily, which is one reason I bought a generator having a Honda engine. I like the multi-fuel capability as it provides flexibility for an extended outage.
I did not get the wheel kit. The generator is in a large plastic storage container next to the outdoor power receptical. I open the box, plug it in, turn the key, and we can power the critical items at our house.
It is connected to the main panel with a 6-circuit Reliance transfer switch (model 31406CRK). Two of the circuits are used for the 220 volt well pump, two for house lighting circuits, one for the refrigerator and one for the freezer.
I wish I had bought a switch with more circuits though. With proper load management, this generator will also power my water heater. This was my first generator, and I bought the transfer switch the Northern Tool salesman recommended. I don't think he was much more knowledgable about generators than I was, so do your homework and know exactly what you want to run. The generator is fine, though, and that's the main thing you want to get right."
I initially ran it on gas, but have since installed a 100 gallon LP tank. It runs well on both fuels. It starts easily, which is one reason I bought a generator having a Honda engine. I like the multi-fuel capability as it provides flexibility for an extended outage.
I did not get the wheel kit. The generator is in a large plastic storage container next to the outdoor power receptical. I open the box, plug it in, turn the key, and we can power the critical items at our house.
It is connected to the main panel with a 6-circuit Reliance transfer switch (model 31406CRK). Two of the circuits are used for the 220 volt well pump, two for house lighting circuits, one for the refrigerator and one for the freezer.
I wish I had bought a switch with more circuits though. With proper load management, this generator will also power my water heater. This was my first generator, and I bought the transfer switch the Northern Tool salesman recommended. I don't think he was much more knowledgable about generators than I was, so do your homework and know exactly what you want to run. The generator is fine, though, and that's the main thing you want to get right."
What is your level of technical expertise? Home Handyman
Share this Review:
Review 16 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Versitile A-Z product,
October 29, 2007
By wizbrodon
from Upstate, NY
"I bought this generator 4 yrs ago to run power tools and lighting while building my new home. For this job I ran gasoline in the unit. When the home was complete, I cleaned out all the gasoline and hooked up a transfer switch and ,quick coupling, propane connection outside my basement door. When power goes out I have 500 gals of propane to run off and I never have to worry about stale gasoline. The unit powers all my pump, furnace (2) freezers, refrigerator, and basic lights in the house with no problems. It has never failed me and I lose power up to 8 times per year out in the country where I live. It's a bit more noisy than some generators or I would have given it a 5 Star rating."
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
Share this Review:
Review 17 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Trifuel advantage,
May 12, 2007
By Dieseldoc
from South Carolina
"I have used this generator since 2001. It has run on gasoline, natural gas and now on LP. The power is good but rpm's need to adjusted from time to time (easy to do) I guess from vibration. It also only starts from gasoline then can be switched to NG or LP with the push of the button. The fuel lines for NG or LP need to be 1/2' or 3/8" minimum. 1/2" did better for the NG. The tires are easier to change after drilling the axle and using cotter pins. The beauty of this unit is the triple fuel option and Honda motor that works great as expected. The frame is very solid and well built."
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
Share this Review:
Review 18 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
BIG and HEAVY,
May 2, 2007
By ratio411
from Pensacola, FL
"The only reason I would not recommend this generator to another professional is the extreme bulk of the product.
Compared to other generators, this one is excessively large.
The frame is big and heavy, but the engine and generator take up much less space. The extra bulk of the oversize frame takes away from important 'real estate' in our company trucks. I can look at the generator and see how the frame could be 6" shorter in every direction.
Compared to other generators, this one is excessively large.
The frame is big and heavy, but the engine and generator take up much less space. The extra bulk of the oversize frame takes away from important 'real estate' in our company trucks. I can look at the generator and see how the frame could be 6" shorter in every direction.
That said, functionally these things are great.
They haven't given a single hiccup of problem in 3 years of HARD service in our fleet. All of our small engines are Honda, with very good reason.
They haven't given a single hiccup of problem in 3 years of HARD service in our fleet. All of our small engines are Honda, with very good reason.
If you are a homeowner and need a low cost and reliable generator, go NorthStar. If you are a pro working from a truck with limited space, get something with a smaller frame.
DO NOT GET THE WHEEL KIT! The handles don't fold, adding to the space problem, and the tires are always flat. Also, the tires are held on with a round keeper, rather than a cotter pin like most, so the tires are very hard to change.
NorthStar:
Please add an idle down control for free load conditions. Will save fuel."
Please add an idle down control for free load conditions. Will save fuel."
What is your level of technical expertise? Professional
Share this Review:
Review 19 for NorthStar Trifuel Generator — 390cc, 8000 Surge Watts, 6600 Rated Watts
Overall Rating:
/
5
Great Trifuel Generator,
November 16, 2006
By Ziggy
from Holland, Vermont
"I have owned the NorthStar 8,000 watt Trifuel generator for three years and am extremely satisfied with it's performance. It is installed in a hybrid solar electric system and has performed flawlessly.The unit is used as an auto-start charging source providing up to 30 amps. @ 220 volts A.C. for extended periods of time. The unit has provided continual, solid electrical energy to my battery charger without fail.
Even though the winter temperatures in our area dip below zero for significant portions of the season, this generator has never failed to start. The unit is presently running on propane and works great, but it performed equally as well on gasoline. Fuel changeover is quick and simple, at the flip of a switch. The Honda engine has been reliable and easy to start either by the electric star or pull cord.
For anyone who needs solid, reliable 110 or 220 volts A.C., this unit is the one to buy. Great features and reasonably priced."
What is your level of technical expertise? Home Handyman
5 of 6 people found this review helpful.
Share this Review:
