Overview#
The Gillette SP-960 is a 96-kilowatt stationary natural gas (80 kW LPG) standby generator — a made-in-USA alternative to the Kohler KG100 and Generac SG series for commercial gaseous backup. It uses a PSI (Power Solutions International) 8.8L V8 engine with a Stamford alternator and Deep Sea Electronics DSE 7420 MKII controller — all industry-standard components rather than proprietary OEM platforms.
Gillette's value proposition is name-brand componentry from open-architecture suppliers (PSI, Stamford, DSE) assembled in the USA. For facilities that prefer non-proprietary parts and service, the SP-960 is a legitimate option.
The PSI engine platform#
PSI (Power Solutions International) specializes in industrial spark-ignition engines for the stationary power market. Their 8.8L V8 is purpose-built for generator duty:
- Industrial governor with isochronous frequency regulation
- Designed for natural gas and LP (not converted from diesel or automotive)
- Electronic fuel injection for consistent air/fuel ratio across load range
- Catalytic converter compatible for sites requiring additional emissions control
Why consider Gillette#
- Name-brand components: PSI engine, Stamford alternator, DSE controller — all serviceable by any qualified technician (not locked to OEM-specific dealer network)
- Made in USA: assembled and load-tested in Elkhart, Indiana
- UL 2200 listed, configurable for NFPA 110 Level 1
- THD: Gillette publishes max 3.5% total harmonic distortion (per submittal spec sheet)
Our service experience#
We encounter Gillette units less frequently than Kohler in our territory but they're serviceable with standard tools and readily-available parts. The PSI engine is well-documented and the DSE 7420 MKII controller is the same platform we see across many brands. The main consideration: parts inventory is not as immediately available as Kohler (no local dealer), so we recommend customers keep critical spares on-site (spark plugs, oil filters, battery).
