[Don]

Ron.......thanks

Been reviewing the alternative of a full service company ( sells, installs, services ) using a 10 position transfer switch, 6500 watts, electric start, power cord from electrical panel to portable generator located at the back garage door: $2,800 total with a 2 year warranty.

Other alternative was purchasing a generator and transfer switch separately, then wiring same as above. A Honda 6500 watt unit and transfer switch is in the range of $3,500 + installation. Honda warranty would apply, service from any authorized Honda dealer. An electrician estimated wiring the transfer switch at $300.

Had not thought of your approach ( hard wire a manual 200 amp street/generator switch before my breaker panels and had him hard wire a line to the gen set I use just the 240 V/30 amp output from the gen set) which I now will do.

The full service company did not mention this option. Like it better since the load can be managed and then select just the circuits desired rather than locking in specific circuits with a transfer switch. Had also considered installing a meter to monitor the load when selecting use of the generator

With Northern Tool, how is the engine/generator serviced if their is a problem, during warranty and after ?