Caterpillar C9 generator sets have a significant amount of power. They are used for primary and standby applications, and are powered by diesel. When you are in the market for one of these generator sets, it is of the utmost importance that you take the time to shop for the best one. There are some tips to follow to help you through this process.
Compare Models
One of the first things to realize is that Caterpillar makes a wide array of generator sets. The C9 is diesel powered, has a 24 V alternator, 24 V all starter, and 480 hp. It features auto start and safety shutdowns, is three-phase, and has 60 cycles per Hz.
There are other models out there, too. C15 and C13 are two of the other popular ones that Caterpillar has. Each is capable of working within certain environments. If you don’t at least take the time to look at all of the different models, you won’t be sure whether you are getting what you actually need.
Read the Description
It is of the utmost importance to read through the description of the actual generator set that you are looking at buying. This is because it will tell you all about what is included within the set. This includes batteries, battery charger, block heater, muffler, fuel tank, and enclosure. If you don’t read the description, you may be disappointed by what actually arrives on-site.
The last thing you want is for your generator set to arrive, only to find out that you still need to purchase a fuel tank, an enclosure, or something else. This is going to add to the overall expense, and may put you over budget at the same time. The reason that companies include a product description is to avoid confusion. This means that it’s your job to take the time to actually read through everything.
View Photos
When photos are included in the product description, you should view them. This will give you a better idea as to what the model looks like, any issues with it, and what you can expect. This is particularly critical when you are purchasing a used or “almost new” model. It means that it has been in use before, and therefore you may see scuff marks, dents, and various other issues. Familiarizing yourself with the imperfections ahead of time will make it easier for you to sign off on the delivery when it arrives.
Talk to a Professional
Investing in capital equipment is not always easy. You aren’t expected to be an expert on every piece of machine that your business needs. From time to time, you should ask for help. Talking to a professional will make it easier to weigh the pros and cons between several models, explore the logistics of the equipment, and much more. It’s worth a phone call to make sure that you have addressed all of your issues.
Look for a Warranty
When you decide to invest in a generator set, it’s also important to look at the warranty. Not all companies will offer warranties, and they will not be the same, either. You may have the manufacturer warranty. The dealer/distributor may also offer a warranty, particularly if the manufacturer is no longer covering the unit. Getting a warranty in this way demonstrates that the dealer has taken the time to inspect and service the generator, which shows that you are getting a higher quality unit than if you were to purchase from an individual or an auction.
Contact Depco Power System today to learn more about Caterpillar C9 generator sets and how you can get a high quality generator are your business.