Champion 46539 Review

The Champion 46539 made by Champion Power Equipment has several benefits over similar powered portable generators.  It has all of the features of a similar 4,000 Watt generator, but the extras make this model a popular choice even over similar powered portable Champion generators.

This Champion unit is a great choice for the outdoorsman for its remote electric start feature alone, let alone its RV Receptacle.  Its “Intelligauge” offers quick reading of not only volts, but also Hertz and operating hours.  These provide much more value than most mid-range portable generators.   And yes, this Champion generator IS CARB compliant for sale in all 50 states.

If you have budget in mind and would like to know the approximate price-tag before you invest your time reviewing further, click on the Amazon button to check the current price:

Table of Contents
(click a title to jump ahead!)
1. Power Considerations – Wattage
2. Engine Type and Fuel Considerations
3. Starting Mechanism
4. Oil Usage Considerations
5. Outlets and Meters
6. Noise Level – Portability
7. Warranty
8. What’s in the Box
9. Dimensions/ Weight
10. Pros and Cons
11. Consumer Reviews
12. Price
13. Summary

Remember the last two number in this model number, Champion 46539.  Champion Power Equipment tends to name its models with similar 5 digit names that differ only in the last two digits.  For example their 46533 model has the same engine and wattage, but the 46533 is a manual start, with one less outlet receptacle, and a simple analog volt meter.

It’s easy for me to remember the 39 over the 33 because my wife is 39.  In fact she’s been 39 for several years now…at least that’s what she tells everyone!

But you don’t have to be an outdoorsman for this unit to be your choice. Of course you’d expect to pay a little more for the features, and you do.   But for these features AND the included wheel kit, it’s well worth the premium over similar price to power ratios.  Read on and I’ll tell you all about this gem.
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Power Considerations – Wattage

This unit is known as a 4000 watt portable generator, but understand that the maximum output of 4000 Watts is its surge wattage is not the amount of power you can expect ongoing.  In fact the running wattage is 3500 watts.  The difference of 500 watts between the maximum watts and running watts is adequate, as long as you aren’t running a few devices at the same time that require a lot of surge wattage.

Keep in mind that the max output is meant to cover the increased needs of starting your appliances and tools.  In a power outage, it may be fine if you space your surge device needs apart such as furnace heaters, well pumps, or even microwaves while running at or near the maximum running watts.  Another high surge appliance, refrigerators, is one that is indispensable for most during a power outage.  If you’re running your refrigerator, you don’t want to be close to the maximum since you don’t want various surges to shut down the generator.

Refer to this table for average running watts and surge watts that you’ll require for the appliances that you plan to use at the same time.

You’ll be able to run the many important appliances such as your refrigerator/freezer along with interspersed necessities such as your microwave, light bulbs and your TV during a power outage  Most camping necessities should be no problem with the exception of high draw appliances such as your RV air conditioner.

Electronic devices, including computers and many programmable appliances and medical devices use components that are designed to operate within a narrow voltage range and may be affected by momentary voltage fluctuations. While there is no way to prevent voltage fluctuations, you can take steps to protect sensitive electronic equipment.  Not the least of which is to consider what an inverter type generator can do for you.

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Engine Type and Fuel Considerations

This unit is a gas powered generator and will run on the regular 85 octane or higher with an ethanol content up to 10%.  The engine is a powerful 196cc overhead valve (OHV), air cooled, 4-cycle engine.  The overhead valve (OHV) makes the unit efficient with more torque while running cooler than a side valve engine.  The 4-cycle vs. two stroke has the obvious benefits of lower fuel consumption, and no need for the expensive two stroke oil.  As mentioned this unit is CARB compliant for our friends in California.

The gas tank holds 3.8 gallons (14.1L) of regular gas (minimum octane rating 85).  A simple fuel gauge is included to eliminate some of the guesswork on when to fill the tank.  If you plan to use it for an extended period, fill it to capacity and it should run about 12 hours at ½ load, or approximately 1600 watts of draw.

There is no fuel drain on the Champions, so Champion Power Equipment recommends that when you are going to leave the equipment for more than 30 days, to 1. Shut off the fuel supply and run the engine to fuel starvation.  2.  Drain the tank usually via siphoning.

If you are planning to operate this generator at high altitude, you might consider the option offered by the company. Champion Power Equipment can provide a high altitude carburetor main jet. The alternative main jet and installation instructions can be obtained by contacting Customer Support.

The density of air at high altitude is lower than at sea level. Engine power is reduced as the air mass and air-fuel ratio decrease. Engine power and generator output will be reduced approximately 3½% for every 1000 feet of elevation above sea level. This is a natural trend and cannot be changed by adjusting the engine. Other high altitude issues can include hard starting, increased fuel consumption and spark plug fouling.

For general safety, campers, you’ll be glad to know that this model comes standard with a spark arrester.  It is recommended that you allow the engine to cool completely before servicing the spark arrester.

The unit has a simple fuel indicator gauge.  Use your common sense in determining how much fuel remains in the tank.  Of course with this or any other gas fueled generator, the level should not be checked or gas tank filled while the unit is running.  See general safety precautions page to assure a long and safe relationship with your portable generator.  The manual included when you purchase Champion generators recounts the specific safety and maintenance information.
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Starting Mechanism

This is where the Champion 46539 really shines.  Imagine yourself snug in your RV or camping tent.  It’s COOOOOLD or raining outside and you simply push the button on your remote control and your unit fires up.  First time, every time.  There is no need to unplug your appliances connected to it, just make sure that they are not turned on.

Over a prolonged period of use as in a power outage, remember you’ll be starting the unit at least a couple of times per day.  It’s nice that even the frail can start this generator.  Power outages do not discriminate who they affect, weak or strong.

The included starter battery is a 12V 9AH, and although it does re-charge while the engine is running, but it is also recommended that the battery be fully charged at least once per month.

Wireless Remote Control

This generator is equipped with a wireless remote control system for starting and stopping. The system consists of (4) main components:

1. Receiver Control Module (RCM)
2. Wireless Remote
3. Battery Switch – Enables/disables starting electrically – via remote or by Ignition Switch.
4. Ignition Switch

The Remote Control functions are enabled when:

1. The Ignition Switch is in the “ON” position, AND if
2. The Battery Switch is in the “ON” position.  The Remote Control functions are disabled if either of the above conditions are not met.

Wireless remote starting is possible within 80 feet.  Which is more than enough for nearly every circumstance.  Even within the house or RV, you won’t have difficulty with this feature.

To start the generator by Remote Control, press the “START” button on the Remote one time. The engine will attempt to start (6) times. The RCM controls the Auto Choke during each attempt to start. So there is no need to adjust this manually (unless you are NOT using the remote, then you do –see below).

To stop the generator by Remote Control, press the “STOP” button on the Remote one time.

Remote Control Power Consumption

While the Ignition Switch is in the “ON” position, the RCM is active and waiting for a remote signal. This function requires electrical current from the battery. If the Ignition Switch is left in the “ON” position for extended periods (several weeks), the battery can be completely drained.

Moving the Ignition Switch to the “OFF” position disables the Remote functions, but the RCM still consumes approximately 2 mA from the battery.  To prevent battery drain, press the Battery Switch to the “OFF” position. This disconnects power to the RCM so there is no current draw on the battery.

When the battery switch is in the “ON” position, the switch will light up if the battery is sending out a charge.

Power Panel Load Management

When the engine initially starts by the Remote, no voltage is supplied to the Power Panel for approximately 5 seconds. This allows the engine to reach full speed before electrical loads are applied to the generator.  That’s why you don’t need to unplug the cords when starting.

When the generator is stopped by the Remote, the voltage to the Power Panel is immediately turned off.

Then the engine stops approximately 5 seconds after the “STOP” button on the Remote is pressed. Turning the Power Panel voltage off before the engine shutdown protects connected appliances from being damaged by non-60 Hz voltage while the generator coasts to a stop.

The on/off voltage delay at start up and shut down only happen when the Remote Control is used. There is no voltage delay when the push button electric start or recoil start method is used.  Here is where you’ll unplug before starting.

Be sure all electrical loads (appliances) are turned OFF during start up and shutdown. Damage to the generator or the attached appliances can be caused by starting or stopping the generator while appliances are plugged in and turned ON.

Electric Start without the Wireless Remote

1. Make certain the generator is on a flat, level surface.
2. Turn off all electrical loads connected to the generator. Never start or stop the generator with electrical devices plugged in and turned on.
3. Turn the Fuel Valve to the “ON” position.
4. Press the Battery Switch to “ON”.
5. Press the Ignition Switch to “ON”.
6. No need to adjust the choke.  The automatic feature works when starting electronically.
7. A safety feature is provided which delays the electrical power availability during starting mode. The delay lasts for approximately 15 seconds. The delay is provided to prevent damage to the generator if electrical loads are inadvertently turned on during engine start up.
8. Press and hold the ignition switch to the “START” position. Release as the engine begins to roll over. If the engine fails to start within five seconds, release the switch and wait at least ten seconds before attempting to start the engine again.

Recoil Manual Start

1. Make certain the generator is on a flat, level surface.
2. Turn off all electrical loads connected to the generator. Never start or stop the generator with electrical devices plugged in and turned on.
3. Turn the Fuel Valve to the “ON” position.
4. Press the Ignition Switch to “ON”.
5. Move the choke lever to the “CHOKE” position ( this is where you must adjust the choke as the auto adjust is not engaged when manually starting).
6. Pull the starter cord slowly until resistance is felt and then pull rapidly.
7. Do not over-choke. As soon as engine starts, move the choke lever to the “RUN” position.

Although the electric start feature is nice, it’s good to know that the manual start is nearly as easy with generally one pull to get it going.
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Oil Usage Considerations

As with all gas generators, you’ll need to fill the oil reservoir.  One of the nice benefits when you buy a Champion is that you don’t have to go out and buy your oil.  The recommended oil 10W-30 for most environmental conditions (0.63 quart/0.6L) is included with your unit.  Also included is a long neck funnel for easy fill.  Remember to fill slowly so as to not overfill.  Once you see the oil level reach the threads of the cap opening, you’re done.

Draining the oil is easy from the drain plug directly below the fill cap, by removing the oil drain plug with a 12mm socket and extension (not included).

You’ll make use of the easy drain feature early on, with the oil drain recommendation by Champion Power Equipment.  It is recommended that you replace the oil after your first 5 hours of operation.  The next recommended change is every 50 hours.  This seems a bit long between changes.  Check the oil often and if it’s dark, change it, regardless of the hours.  Oil is inexpensive, your Champion genny is not.  It’s a small price to pay to protect your investment.

Of course when you check your oil often, you’ll probably never get use out of the next nice feature- the low oil shut off. When the oil level falls below the safe threshold for operation, this generator will shut off, keeping your engine from seizing if you should overlook your oil level.  What is lacking is a low oil indicator light which is available on other, less expensive portable generators.

Champion Power Equipment makes no recommendation regarding synthetic oil, but being a standard 4-cycle engine, it should handle it just fine.  Of course any deviation from the manufacturer’s suggested operation could void their generous 2 year limited warranty on the Champion line of generators.

Please keep in mind that synthetic oil attracts moisture and due to its makeup can leak through non-automotive quality gaskets and seals easier, which may be the reason that Champion does not mention it as an option.  If you do, you should probably drain it when done and don’t store it for any length of time with the oil in it.

Since the Champions come with the Intelligauge™, run time for changing the oil is less guesswork.  The Intelligauge offers run time (hour meter) along with its volt and hertz readings.  A run time meter is not common in portable generators in this price/power range.
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Outlets and Meters

The main power panel on this unit features the main controls, including the ignition switch, two circuit breakers, battery switch, grounding terminal, Intelligauge™, two 120V, 20 amp, 3-prong outlets, one 120V Twistlock (L5-30R), and 1 RV Receptacle (TT-30R).

•          Ignition Switch – Must be on to start the generator ether via remote electronically or manual pull start.
•          Circuit Breaker(s) – Protects the generator against electrical overload.
•          Battery Switch – Enables/disables starting electrically – via remotely or by Ignition Switch.
•          Ground Terminal – Consult an electrician or your local regulations for grounding requirements.
•          Intelligauge™ – Three mode digital meter for running hours, voltage and hertz.
•          120 Volt AC, 20 Amp Duplex (NEMA 5-20R) – May be used to supply electrical power for the operation of 120 Volt AC, 20 Amp, single phase,  60 Hz electrical loads.
•          120 Volt AC, 30 Amp Twist-Lock Receptacle – (NEMA L5-30R) – May be used to supply electrical power for the operation of 120 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single phase 60 Hz electrical loads.
•          120 Volt AC, 30 Amp Receptacle (NEMA TT-30R) – May be used to supply electrical power for the operation of 120 Volt AC, 30 Amp, single phase 60 Hz electrical loads.  The TT refers to “travel trailer”.  This is sometimes referred to as RV30.  Although a great feature for those wishing to utilize the plugs in most US campgrounds and for your RV, you may also use this one around the home.This may be adapted to a more usable plug with and adapter with the other end being a standard three prong or split end since it delivers 30 Amps.

If planning to attached this to your home’s power via a transfer switch, be aware that it has a L5-30 (three prong twist-lock) outlet not a L14-30 (4 prong w/ 2 hot leads). According to one reviewer, “most transfer switches (required for connection to you home) will require the 4 prong for more than 4 circuits. You can buy an adapter for $50, but that will leave you with 1/2 of the transfer switch working so you must then bridge the 2 hot leads at the outlet box. While that should work fine, it means the single hot is carrying 2x the load which is not ideal.”

This does not have a wattage indicator.  You’ll have to know how much load you’re putting on the unit, or run the risk of it shutting off at you surpass the maximum wattage, especially when one of your plug-ins powers on with its necessary surge.  Just use the easy formula: watts = volts x amps.  If your device required 10amps, and you know 120 volts is being supplied.  10 x 120 = 1200 watts.  Simple, right?  Check out the article on how to understand electricity on this site.

Install UL1449, CSA-listed, plug-in surge suppressors on the outlets feeding your sensitive equipment. Surge suppressors come in single- or multi-outlet styles. They’re designed to protect against virtually all short-duration voltage fluctuations.  These may be referred to as UPS devices – uninterrupted power supply.

And please consider the generator cords you use.  There are safe and functional cords in of all varieties.  Different plug configurations and all Amp ratings make the choice easy.  Read about choosing the right generator cords on this site.

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Noise Level – Portability

This Champion generator is supported by a heavy duty open steel frame.  The motor mounts are secure and keep the vibration to a minimum.  The open frame of this and most portable generators in this category don’t help the noise level as would a higher end, inverter type might, with their enclosed casing.

The noise level however, as shown by the popularity as a camping generator is not too bad.  But this should not be considered a quiet generator.  But, once started, you’ll be surprised that you’re not going to need your earplugs. The decibel rating of 68 is taken at 7 meters which is average for a gas generator of this size.  This could be approximated to about the sound level of a vacuum cleaner, meaning you won’t have to shout to be heard over the noise.  Understand that the engine noise goes up slightly with increasing load.

Let’s face it, generators are heavy (approximately 130 pounds for this unit).  Although the frame at least gives you something for one or two people to grab onto for transport, the included wheel kit assembly is a welcome benefit, included in the purchase price.  It is available for approximately $40 when purchased for a Champion generator that does not include it.  The no-flat 8 inch wheels are durable and will last the life of the generator.

You will need the following tools to install the wheels:

•          17mm wrench or adjustable wrench
•          Socket wrench with a  16mm socket
•          Pliers

The wheel kit is best installed when the unit is new and the oil and fuel has not been added.  It is much easier to attach the wheel assembly by turning the unit on its side.  Obviously when the unit is new without gas and oil, you won’t have to drain everything if you use it first.
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Warranty

The Champion Power Equipment generators are backed by a 2-year limited warranty.  CPE warrants to the original purchaser that the mechanical and electrical components will be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year (parts and labor) and two years (parts) from the original date of purchase.  It is warranted for 90 days (parts and labor) and 180 days (parts) for commercial & industrial use.  This commercial warranty is below the standard 1 year of most companies.

It should last much longer than that, barring something wrong with the unit which could happen from time to time (as with anything with moving parts).

The recommended maintenance for this and most Champions is minimal.  Remember, you’ve heard it before, “you take care of it and it will take care of you.”  Aside from changing the oil every 50 hours of run time, it is recommended check the oil every 8 hours or daily (after changing at 5 hours during the break-in period).  Change the oil more frequently if operating under heavy loads or in hot environments.  Clean around air intake and muffler daily.

Every 50 hours or every season clean the air filter.  Every 100 hours or every season: Clean/Adjust spark plug; Check/Adjust valve clearance; Clean spark arrester; Clean fuel tank and filter.  Every 250 hours Clean the combustion chamber.  Every 3 years Replace the fuel line.

In all, if you treat it with this minimal regimen, you should enjoy this reliable, dependable workhorse for many years.
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What’s in the Box

Here’s what you’ll find in the box:

•          the Champion 46539 portable generator with 12V battery
•          the wheel kit for portability
•          the required 10W-30 motor oil for your first run
•          a long neck funnel
•          spark plug socket
•          starter remote
•          operation manual

You will need the following tools to install the wheels:

•          17mm wrench or adjustable wrench
•          Socket wrench with a  16mm socket
•          Pliers

Remember the useful accessories that make life with any portable generator easier.  Proper cords, fuel stabilizer, extra oil, gas can and generator cover.
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Dimensions/Weight of the Champion 46539

Dimensions:

• Height 22.4 inches (57 cm)
• Width 24.4 inches (62.1 cm)
• Length 26.3 inches (66.7 cm)

Weight:

• Gross Weight 138.9 lbs (63 kg)
• Net Weight 129 lbs (58.5 kg)

The weight per engine size when compared to similar powered units will be a bit heavier  due to the included 12V battery for the electric start feature.
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Pros and Cons

Pros:

•          good price to power ratio – a lot of power for the money
•          electric start with remote effective up to 80 feet.
•          easy to start with one or two easy pulls when started manually
•          Intelligauge™ readings of volts, hertz, run time
•          reliable and durable – last long past the limited 2 year warranty
•          relatively quiet operation
•          efficient  196 cc, 4-cycle engine
•          generous run time at ½ load

Cons:

•         no low oil warning although it does have low oil shut off feature
•         no easy gas drain feature

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Consumer Reviews

This Generator, remains a best seller year after year.  Consumers are happy with the reliability of this generator and especially the electric start with remote.  It is a popular choice for campers for this reason as well as for the included RV receptacle.  Its noise level was rated as average for a non-inverter generator.

There are a number of issues with the condition of the package upon receipt.  Whether this is an issue with the company or the delivery service, the resulting customer service received from CPE was either rated as great or fair.

Damaged parts are replaced quickly.  When repairs are necessary, there are numerous factory authorized repair shops in most cities.  CPE stands behind their equipment.  The company is located in Santa Fe Springs, CA..

Read more here consumer reviews from Amazon:  Champion Power Equipment 46539 Portable Generator Review

Average Rating: 4.6 Stars

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Price

The price of this unit varies depending on where you buy it but Amazon tends to have the lowest price.

Check current pricing discounts:

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Summary

After reviewing the Champion 46539, I confirm that it’s a great choice for someone looking for a dependable portable generator in with mid-level needs.  Many have owned theirs for years, with it performing nicely when they needed it most; during the many days of power outages during recent hurricanes.

It’s a great choice for the outdoorsman, RV’r, handyman, or professional, and especially for the person who wants peace of mind in case of emergency.  You want it to be ready when you need it.

You will not be disappointed with this portable generator.  Over 100 people have given this machine a 5-star review from Amazon alone.
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Filed under: $500 - $999 • Champion • Reviews