This is a common sight at the track: a generator and an air compressor. You can't have one without the other. This gives the racer more flexibility to perform even the simplest tuning and maintenance tasks.
The only positive trait this generator has is its low cost. You should look past the initial low cost and look at the long term. If the generator won't start on the night of the track championship and you are in contention for the win, the fact that you may have saved $100 will completely escape you at that moment.
Inverter Models
Technology marches on, and we have entered the dawn of a new age for generators. The newest ones utilize inverter technology to generate electricity. Inverter generators are really alternators. They develop a high-frequency current (3 phase AC power up to and over 20,000 Hz). Various brands claim varying levels of high-frequency power. Next, this AC power is converted to DC power, and then it is converted back to AC power at 120 VAC at 60 Hz, which is what we need to run our drills, grooving irons, lights, and possibly our computers.
You don't need a huge generator if you limit the number of tools and equipment that require electrical power. This generator is at home on the pit cart and is enough to run lights and small electric handtools.
What does this new technology mean to you at the track? First, the inverter generators are lighter and easier to transport and move. How light are they? A Yamaha EF1000 inverter generator weighs only 27 pounds. The 2,000-watt models weigh less than 50 pounds. Both Yamaha and Honda have generators in this power level with similar weights. They are lighter because the alternator that the engine has to spin is lighter, which means the engine can be smaller.
Let's add it up: the mechanicals are better, the speeds are slower, and these types have less displacement and more advanced engines than the flat heads in most generators powered by industrial engines. It amounts to a package that yields improved fuel economy and less noise. In fact, many of the manufacturers are claiming that the sound levels generated by the smaller inverter generators have decibel levels just at or below that of normal conversation. They are quieter because the engine can run slower much of the time. Even at full loads the sound level is less than 60 dB at 25 to 30 feet away. The power they create is much cleaner so there is much less risk to delicate electrical instruments. This is a win-win situation for the racers with generators and the people around them who grow tired of the constant drone of the multiple generators all around the pits.
What is wrong with this picture? How about a running engine, hot exhaust, and 85 gallons of racing fuel? The full bottles do not scare me as much as the empty bottles. After the car is fueled, the cap might not be placed on an empty bottle as tightly as a full one. This is a formula for a disaster of epic proportions.
Another neat feature of these new inverter generators is their ability to be plugged into each other to draw power and act as one power source. The Yamaha inverter generators have that ability. All it takes is a special adapter cord.
As a racer, what is the best course of action to follow? Do you buy the inexpensive generator and live with the poor fuel economy, questionable quality, and annoying sound levels? Or do you spring for the higher cost and have improved levels of economy, durability, and noise? I know the path I would choose. I know the racers in the next pit will applaud my decision. How about you?
Safety Tips
The use of portable generators in the close confines of the pits carries responsibility, and the following safety issues need to be kept in mind:
* Read the instruction manual that comes with the generator.
* Do not run the generator in the vicinity of fuel or other flammable materials.
* Keep the generator in a safe position, and do not operate it where it could fall or be knocked over. It needs to be placed on a flat surface.
* Take care when working near a generator that is running. Many of the external surfaces can be hot enough to cause severe burns. It is best to keep the generator away from the workplace or where people are congregating.
* Never refuel the generator while it is running or if it is hot. Let it cool prior to refueling.
* Make sure the generator is in a well-ventilated area. It is still an internal combustion engine emitting deadly fumes.