[UK-CONTEST] Small generators for portable stations

[Tim Hugill]

(I've only just discovered this list, thanks to Pete G4CLA, so apologies if
this have been discussed before.)
 
Having just got G4FJK back on the air again, I'm planning to get out
/Portable on 50 & 70MHz in the South West.
The station will be relatively modest, working out of the back of a Land
Rover.
 
I need to either hire or buy a suitable generator, but I'm not sure how
careful I should be in selecting which one.
And I am also trying to keep a cap on the financial outlay.
At the 2.5-3.0 kVA power level,  the choices appear to revolve around 
1) Whether or not to choose one with a Honda engine for reliability, and 
2) Whether to choose one with an AVR built in.
 
Trade hire centres seem to have only non-AVR gennies available, which would
be fine for a weekend of DIY tools, but perhaps not so kind on my new Yaesu
rig.
Looking to buy new, there are cheaper options available (£250-300) with or
without AVR, or the Honda (higher quality ?) options with AVR options and
high prices to match.
I'm hoping the answer will be to get a low-cost unit with a reliable engine
and long-run tank, but I'm looking for guidance.
 
Looking at the list of contributors to this site, none of you have won many
contests without a reliable power source.  
So hopefully someone can offer some advice, which will probably be obvious
if I'd thought about it a bit longer, and for which I will be very grateful
!
 
(Another solution would be if someone has a suitable generator that they
would be prepared to part with for a sum.)
 
Many thanks
 
Tim Hugill
G4FJK