Review of the Champion 76533 Open Frame Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Should You Buy It?

Although some owners have had issues with their purchases, a lot of other owners give it 5-stars, so the answer is yes. It's a versatile unit that has multiple uses. And it provides a dual fuel assurance you'll be able to keep your essential appliances going during an emergency when one or other of the fuels is scarce.

As with all the heavier models, you need to inspect the generator for damage on arrival and before setting it up. If all looks okay, this model from Champion should give you good and reliable service. 

Key Points about the Champion 76533

Overview of the Generator

This is a reasonably powerful portable generator aimed at providing partial home backup, powering equipment on job sites, and for RV owners. It has the added versatility of running on either gasoline or propane, which some buyers demand. 

Controls and Features

A big plus for many people is that this model has an electric start in addition to a manual easy-to-pull recoil cord.  The panel includes a digital readout (Intelligauge) that displays voltage, hertz, and run-time hours, as well as maintenance intervals, important for ensuring a longer engine life. 

For receptacles/outlets, the generator has a 120v 30A RV (TT-30R), a 120v 30A locking outlet (L5-30R) and two 120v 20A household outlets (5-20R). For connections, extension cords and adapters are needed.

As with all of Champion's generators, this one includes Cold Start Technology to make the process of starting easier in colder climates.

A sensor detects when the engine oil falls below an acceptable level for safe operation and automatically shuts it down until sufficiently more oil has been added.

The unit is CARB Compliant and EPA Certified, so it is safe to use in all 50 states.

You can buy an optional Champion Storm Shield Severe Weather Protective Cover for this generator.

For more information from the manufacturer, have a look at the manual.

As this model is not equipped with a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor, you must exercise care when operating this generator.

Power Output

This generator is equipped with a 224cc engine. It produces 4750 starting watts and 3800 running watts on gasoline and runs for up to 9 hours at 50% load on its 3.4-gallon fuel tank. Using propane, it outputs 4275 starting watts and 3420 running watts. With an industry standard 20lb propane tank the generator runs for up to 10.5 hours at 50% load. 

The 76533 is NOT parallel capable, meaning you cannot connect two of the units together to increase power output. But it's powerful enough to run a 15000BTU RV A/C, and includes Champion's Volt Guard™, a surge protector that prevents overloads. This ensures that any of your connected equipment, such as TVs, computers, and appliances, remain safe. However, with a standard THD rating of 15% or less under load, you shouldn't connect sensitive electronics without using a line conditioner.

Always keep in mind that altitude affects the performance of generators. For more general information on this important aspect, have a read of our blog post on this subject.

Weight

The generator weighs 119lbs and has an included never-flat wheel kit/foldable handle to help you move it around more easily. If you haven't already seen our blog post on this kind of wheel kit, which some owners dislike.

Noise Level

Champion say it is about as loud as a vacuum, with a sound level of 68dB at 23 feet. So don't expect it to run too quietly, especially under a full load.

We all perceive sound differently so any numbers given should be seen as just an indication.

What Most Buyers Like

One buyer describes this particular model as being built like a tank. Another says it needs to be because some shippers manhandle the delivery, leading to instances where the unit arrives damaged.

Other aspects buyers like include easy setup, electric starting, and reliability. And they appreciate the additional items supplied with the generator (oil funnel, wheel kit, engine oil, battery, propane/LPG hose).

They also welcome the 3-year guarantee and Free Lifetime Technical Support, which on the whole was good, though a small number of unhappy customers wouldn't agree.

What Some Buyers Like Less

There are comments about the noise and vibration of this model, with a few suggesting it's louder than advertised. And it's not a good design when you have to remove the battery to access the oil plug.

Some buyers find that their examples "guzzle" fuel.