I've flim-flamed all over the place on generator power having returned the 2000 companion model and researched a billion configurations of single setups from the champion 3100, the honda 3000 and 3000 handi, the yammy 3000 and the yammy 2400. Pretty much narrowed my options down to the best bangs for buck as the single champion 3100 versus the 2000 companion.
3000 Honda and yammy ruled out
In trying to decide what makes most sense I've spent a ton of time researching ways to carry them, secure them, load and unload them, etc. big part of my decision is made on the weight factor, followed by ability to power needs, and lastly price. This is how I've ruled out the big 3000 honda and yammy as I just can't find a good way to handle that much weight with my TV and the r-pods available cargo spots.
Ruling this big guys out leaves the yammy 2400, honda 3000 handi, champion 3100 and the Honda 2000 companion.
2400 Yammy ruled out
I ruled the yammy 2400 out when I went to look at it and decided that it just didn't offer enough run time or output as compared to its size. It's just not much smaller than a 3000 model. If it had output similar to the Honda handi it might make more sense.
3000 Honda Handi ruled out
This could have been the perfect generator but it just cost too much in my opinion for what you get. Had this one been around the $1500 mark I'd have jumped on it but for $2300 it has reduced run time, louder engine and reduced continuous run output over the larger 3000. Wanted it to work but didn't make sense to me.
So, I'm down to the Champion 3100 or a second Honda 2000 companion model for about the same price.
3100 Champion pull start
I like the idea of the Champion but just don't know much about them and am having a hard time getting comfortable with the brand inspite of the good reviews. It seems to offer good peak and continuous run time and a fair and manageable weight of 80 lbs. is a little louder than Honda but probably no louder than 2 honda 2000's. Comes with a 30 amp rv plug already on it so no adapter. Run time is less than big Honda but probably still fine for night of AC use.
2000 Honda companion
Didn't want to fool with twin engines and tanks and didn't like idea of dealing with extended run tank as I figure gas will get everywhere when breaking camp down. The positive note is I was able to get my 13.5 AC to start and run on my existing Honda 2000i but it freaked out big time when the compressor kicked on. Would run microwave too but not at same time. Means that two in parallel should have no prob handling whole trailer I would think.
EDIT: So, in the end, I re-purchased the Honda 2000 companion, parallel cable and twist lock adapter from Camping World. Will just need to make a creative mount setup to carry them both with me. I have a handful of ideas to explore based on my TV and some changes I want to make on the tongue converting to twin propane and battery setup. :)