Review of the Champion 100307 Dual Fuel Open Frame Portable Generator

Based on buyer feedback, we think you can buy this generator with confidence. It's fairly powerful and has the versatility of dual fuel. Although we shouldn't overstate this, your machine may arrive damaged because of poor handling in transit. So it's important to check the state of the box on delivery and then look for poor welds after removing the unit.

As a lot of reviewers note the difficulties of moving the generator around without the optional wheel kit, you may want to add it to your shopping list too.

Below you will find more information on the features of this model.

The Champion 100307 is a versatile dual fuel generator designed for RVs, jobsites, and home backup of basic essential appliances during emergencies and power outages. It's powerful enough to start and run an RV's 15000 BTU air conditioner. 

As with all of Champion's generators, this model includes Cold Start Technology to help make starting easier in cold weather. 

To protect the engine, a sensor detects low oil levels and automatically shuts it down. It won't run again until more oil is added 

The unit is CARB compliant and EPA Certified, meaning it can be used in all 50 states, including California. 

The generator does not have an electric starter, but a manual easy to pull recoil cord. Nor does it have a fuel gauge or an Eco Mode (the latter is only available on inverter generators).

This model incorporates a feature Champion call Volt Guard™. This is a built-in surge protector to help prevent overloads and ensure your connected equipment, such as TVs, computers, your appliances, remain safe. The standard THD rating is 15% or less under load. But if you need to connect sensitive electronics, Champion recommend you use a line conditioner, or consider choosing an inverter generator, such as their model 100574.

If you intend to operate the generator at high altitude Champion can provide a high altitude carburetor main jet. You will need this because engine power and generator output reduces by about 3½% for every 1000 feet above sea level. Champion's Technical Support Team can give you instructions on how to install it. You can also read some important information here about operating a portable generator at altitude. 

For more detailed information on the 100307 have a look at the manual here.

Be warned, this generator does not have a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor.

A 224cc Champion engine powers the generator, which is capable of producing 4375 starting watts and 3500 running watts when using gasoline. It runs for up to 9 hours at 50% load on its 3.4-gallon fuel tank.

On propane, it outputs 3950 starting watts and 3150 running watts. With a 20lb propane tank, it lasts for up to 10.5 hours at 50% load. Champion supply as standard a 3.3-foot propane hose with a built-in regulator.

Switching safely between gasoline and propane is as simple as turning the dedicated selector.

This model is NOT parallel capable. If you plan on connecting any sensitive electronics the advice is to use a line conditioner/UPS.

Weighing in at 110lbs you won't want to lift this generator on your own. And you will want get the optional wheel kit to move it around more easily.

With a sound level of 68dB at 23 feet this generator is moderately quiet. But bear in mind that noise levels are subjective, and our individual perceptions and acceptance of noise can vary quite a lot.

Most buyers give this model 4 and 5-star reviews and recommend it to other potential customers. The majority like the quality of the product, even though a few others haven't been so impressed.

Most, but not all, buyers have found customer service to be fast, positive and responsive.

One owner comments that this model may not be a big power house generator, but it's more than adequate for a small household, and the price can't be beaten.

Some customers are not happy with the use of cheap plastic and poor frame welds on their units.

Buyers are warned that this is a bulky and heavy generator. One young and fit man said it's too big to move around by hand. And being a heavy machine, poor packaging may have been the cause of a few units being damaged in transit. But where the box did arrive intact, some customers suggest any damage might be a result of quality control problems at the factory.

The wheel kit is essential and should be included with the generator as a standard fitting.

Some buyers found their particular units to be much louder than claimed, while others say the sound level is as advertised. 

A few owners say the customer support they received was not what they expected.