Will be buying a diesel generator very soon to take me off the grid whether anything happens or not. Looking at buying a China Diesel Generator from a company called Hardy Diesels and Equipment in Jamul, CA. Their website says they used to be known as China Diesel Imports. Could anyone let me know if this is a reputable company? Have a clue why the Lister diesels are so much more money? Lastly, how safe is my money when dealing with a company so far away? (I live in Kansas). Thanks, all

-- Brian (scout@kanokla.net), December 06, 1999

Answers

Don't know about their reputation, but think spare parts & service. Are you going to ship the gen back to them when it needs repairs -- if you could even do that? And parts, if the transportation system fails, how will you get parts for it? (Made in China) At this late date, could you possibly receive the gen before 1-00-00? There are probably still plenty of gens available locally in your area. It would be wise to buy locally and avoid high shipping costs and other problems.

-- (no@parts.com), December 07, 1999.

China Diesel has received numerous complaints this year about quality. Try Imperial Diesel (http://imperialdiesel.com).

-- BigDog (BigDog@duffer.com), December 07, 1999.

If I were thinking of buying a diesel generator I would look at something with parts available locally, even a Yanmar or similar brand of engine, where the engines are also used in lawn or farm equipment. The chinese-made generator sets that I have looked at are cheap and crude, and make me wonder about real longevity of the engine.

-- Jim (jiminwis@yahoo.com), December 07, 1999.

We hear a lot about China Diesels them from readers. Some love them and others rue the day they bought one. Frankly I'd rather something with a name brand engine in it such as a Kubota.

-- Don Kulha (dkulha@vom.com), December 07, 1999.

GO HERE. Ask them. The Juice Page.

And, um, in case you haven't noticed, you're running out of "soon".

-- Dennis (djolson@cherco.net), December 08, 1999.