AmpAir 100 Wind Generator - Any input

[aschoenb@rcn.com]

I am thinking of buying a used AmpAir 100 to suppliment my Kyocera 130 Watt solar panel for auxillary power generation. I would mount this on my mizzen mast above my radar dome. Does anyone have this unit and have input to help me understand its capability and what I need for running - do I need an additional regulator to my Balmar ARS-5? What should I need to know when buying a used AmpAir 100. Please give me your input - I have never had a wind generator.
Thanks

[camaraderie]

They have a reputation for being among the noisier generators and output is weak in normal 10-20k winds. I would compare to other brands before making an investment...KISS/AIREX/FOURWINDS are some other well regarded brands.
Yes...if you get the ampair...you need a separate regulator. Some other units come with built in regulator.

[EscapadeCaliber40LRC]

I bought a Hornet wind generator on EBAY for about half the price of a KISS, even after factoring in my cost of wiring, mounting pole, paint, and straps. It looks like a homebuilt (read ugly) but it is whisper quiet until it hits its resonant frequency (at about 33 knots). Even then its doesn't get loud just a vibration. Performance seems to be inline with other wind gens. (ie the pits at 0 to 9 knots, then quickly ramps up.) here's their website:

http://www.hydrogenappliances.com/windturbinetypes.html

Some times they sell new units on ebay at a discount.


My setup - 4 Kyocera 40 watt panels and two flexible 32 watt panel for a total of 224 watt of solar. A Balmar 110 amp alternator on the diesel, a small gas powered portable genset and the Hornet 1000, six 6-volt house bank - 540 amp-hrs. Flexible, multisourced power.

[sailaway21]

With the Ampair you could add the towed water generator by the same manufacturer