Used vs New: Which Generator?

Used Generators & Engines vs. New: Making the Right Choice with KC Decomm

October 30, 20245 min read

For businesses needing reliable power solutions, deciding between new and used generators or engines can be a challenging yet crucial decision. Whether your goal is to power heavy equipment, provide emergency backup, or ensure continuous power in remote locations, understanding the pros and cons of new versus used equipment will guide you toward the most cost-effective solution.


New Generators: The Appeal of a Fresh Start

New generators, much like new cars, come with the security of a manufacturer’s warranty, typically ranging from one to two years depending on intended use. Key advantages of buying new include:

  • Warranty Coverage: New generators come with warranties that cover parts and services, offering peace of mind.

  • Customization Options: New models can often be tailored to specific requirements, ensuring precise operational needs are met.

  • Latest Technology: Advanced monitoring, fuel efficiency, and emission control features are often standard.

However, new units come at a premium price and can involve long wait times due to manufacturing lead times. For clients with the budget and time, new generators provide reliability and the latest technology. But when time and budget are key factors, used generators from KC Decomm offer incredible value without the wait.


Used Generators: The Cost-Effective Choice

Opting for a used generator brings several benefits, particularly in cost savings and availability:

  1. Significant Cost Savings: Used generators with low operational hours are available at prices up to 50% lower than new units.

  2. Immediate Availability: Unlike new generators, which may require a lead time, most used units are ready for immediate purchase and installation.

  3. Proven Durability: High-quality brands like Cummins and Caterpillar design generators for industrial applications, ensuring robust performance even after several years of operation.

Buying Low-Hour Backup Generators: KC Decomm recommends searching for lightly used backup units. Backup generators are generally only used when there’s an outage, meaning many of these units have low hours and years of dependable life left. Be sure to work with reputable sellers like KC Decomm, who verify and test all used generators for optimal function and safety.


Surplus Generators: New Quality at Reduced Costs

Surplus generators can be an ideal choice when looking for new equipment at reduced prices. Often, surplus units are new or barely used, sold as overstock by manufacturers, dealers, or even the military.

Advantages of Surplus Equipment:

  • Unused or Very Low-Hours: Surplus units often come in like-new condition at significantly lower prices.

  • Direct from Inventory: Availability is usually immediate, allowing for quick deployment.

Considerations: Some surplus units are priced close to their original cost. For budget-conscious clients, KC Decomm advises comparing prices with similar low-hour used models to find the best fit.


Rebuilt Diesel Engines: Performance Without the Price Tag

Another popular alternative to buying new is choosing rebuilt diesel engines, which undergo an intensive restoration process to bring them to near-new condition:

  • Rigorous Testing: Each rebuilt engine is tested for horsepower, RPM, oil pressure, and other critical specifications to ensure dependable performance.

  • High Standards of Reassembly: Components like bearings, gaskets, and seals are replaced, and cylinder blocks and crankshafts are checked for integrity.

  • Dynamometer Testing: Engines undergo dynamometer testing, ensuring that rebuilt engines perform to factory standards.

By choosing a rebuilt diesel engine from a trusted provider like KC Decomm, you gain an efficient and cost-effective solution while avoiding the high price tag associated with brand-new engines.


Generator Ends: The Heart of Power Delivery

he generator end, or alternator, is essential for voltage regulation and ensuring steady power output—especially important when sensitive equipment like computers is in use.

  • Used Generator Ends: Opting for used generator ends can save costs while allowing you to replace or upgrade your current system without buying a completely new generator.

  • Customization: Choose generator ends that match your existing setup for improved compatibility and streamlined performance. Diesel engines paired with new or used generator ends can form a customized generator set that meets your specific power needs without the cost of an entirely new system.

The Value of Rebuilt Diesel Engines for Industrial Use

Rebuilt diesel engines undergo a comprehensive restoration process that ensures longevity and reliability at a fraction of the cost of new units. Here’s what the process involves:

  1. Disassembly and Cleaning: All parts are disassembled, cleaned, and inspected. This ensures that any damage is identified and corrected early.

  2. Testing and Inspection: Cylinder blocks, bores, and water passages are tested and repaired as needed.

  3. Remanufacturing of Parts: Key components like water pumps, blowers, and fuel pumps are remanufactured to factory standards.

  4. Reassembly and Testing: With new seals, bearings, and gaskets, rebuilt engines are reassembled and subjected to dynamometer tests. Output, rpm, and oil pressure are measured to ensure top performance.

Note: When purchasing rebuilt engines, select a reputable dealer with proven expertise. Trusted vendors will provide test certificates, warranty, and support.

New vs. Used Generators: Weighing the Benefits

Both new and used generators can be great investments, depending on your specific needs. Here’s a quick comparison:

Generator Comparison Table

Making the Choice: Ask KC Decomm’s Experts

Selecting the right power solution is more than just choosing a new or used generator; it’s about understanding your specific requirements and budget. At KC Decomm, we offer both new and used generator solutions, each tested and certified for performance. Contact us for:

  • Generator Assessments: Our technicians will help determine the best generator size, brand, and specifications based on your site’s needs.

  • Installation and Maintenance: We provide comprehensive support, from selecting a unit to installation and long-term maintenance.

  • Expert Advice: Our team is here to guide you through every step, ensuring your purchase is a reliable, cost-effective investment.

Don’t wait—whether it’s a new unit, a surplus opportunity, or a dependable used generator, we’ll help you find the best power solution for your business.

Reach out to [email protected] today to explore your options!

Chris Hanson is Vice President of Corporate Sales & Marketing

Chris Hanson

Chris Hanson is Vice President of Corporate Sales & Marketing

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