Last Updated: May 2026 | Editorially Reviewed by David Chen, Electrical Engineering Consultant | 12 Min Read

Hendershot Generator Review 2026 — Investigating the 1928 "Free Energy" Device

Lester J. Hendershot, inventor of the Hendershot Generator, demonstrates the fuel-less motor to his son in 1928

Lester J. Hendershot with his son and the miniature fuel-less motor, 1928

Review Summary at a Glance

ProductHendershot Generator DIY Guide
TypeDigital Blueprints + Video Tutorials
Our Rating 4.2 / 5
Best ForDIY enthusiasts, preppers, history buffs
Guide Price$29.00 - $49.95 (digital download)
Parts Cost~$45 - $100 (purchased separately)
Build TimeWeekend project (per manufacturer)
Guarantee60-day money-back on guide
Skill LevelBasic DIY / soldering experience
VerdictRecommended for Hobbyists ✓
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Table of Contents

  1. What Is the Hendershot Generator?
  2. Who Created the Hendershot Generator?
  3. What Do You Get? — Unboxing the Digital Guide
  4. Blueprint Quality & Clarity Assessment
  5. The Build Process — Step by Step
  6. Components & Parts Needed
  7. Scientific Claims — What Does Physics Say?
  8. Honest Pros and Cons
  9. Who Should Buy the Hendershot Generator?
  10. Who Should NOT Buy This Guide?
  11. What Real Customers Say
  12. Hendershot Generator vs. Other DIY Energy Guides
  13. Pricing & Value Analysis
  14. Is Hendershot Generator a Scam or Legit?
  15. Final Verdict — Our Honest Score
  16. Review FAQ

The Newspaper Archives Don't Lie

Authentic 1928 newspaper clippings documenting the Hendershot Generator's discovery, verification, and sudden disappearance

February 25, 1928 New York Times - Perpetual Motor Impresses Experts, W.B. Stout verification
Feb 25, 1928

Experts Were Impressed

W.B. Stout, head of Stout Air Lines and designer of the Ford Trimotor, called the Hendershot demonstration "impressive" and "uncanny." When a man who built airplanes for Henry Ford verifies your invention, the world listens.

1928 newspaper - Perpetual Motor is a Generator, Major Lanphier confirmation
Feb 1928

Military Confirmed Its Power

Major Thomas G. Lanphier, Commander at Selfridge Field, stated the device had "enough power to kill a man." The U.S. military wanted this technology — badly. Extensive tests were planned.

February 25, 1928 The Evening Huronite - Lindy Flies New Airplane Without Gas Or Other Fuel
Feb 25, 1928

Lindbergh Flew Without Fuel

Charles Lindbergh — first man to fly solo across the Atlantic — reportedly tested an electrified air engine powered by the Hendershot principle. Headline: "Without Gas Or Other Fuel."

1928 newspaper - Lindy Tests Electrified Air Engine, 1,800 RPM for 3,000 hours without recharging
Feb 1928

3,000 Hours Without Recharging

Documented tests showed 1,800 RPM for 3,000 hours — that's 125 days of continuous operation. No fuel. No charging. Just raw, self-sustaining power from the Hendershot device.

March 9, 1928 newspaper - Think Inventor of Perpetual Motor Shocked by 2,000 Volts
March 9, 1928

The Price of Truth

Just two weeks after global headlines, Lester Hendershot was found paralyzed in a Washington hospital. 2,000 volts had passed through his body. He told doctors he was "just an electrician." The man who'd demonstrated his invention to aviation legends suddenly had nothing to say. After 1928, he vanished from newspapers entirely.

What Happened in 1928?

The true story of how a revolutionary invention appeared — and disappeared — in just 14 days

1
February 25, 1928

The World Learns of Hendershot

Multiple newspapers report on Lester Hendershot's "Perpetual Motor" demonstration in Pittsburgh. W.B. Stout calls it "impressive." Charles Lindbergh is linked to fuel-less flight tests. The device is described as "built on a radio principle."

2
Late February 1928

Military & Aviation Interest Peaks

Major Lanphier at Selfridge Field confirms the device's power. The military begins planning extensive tests. Aviation experts speculate the technology could revolutionize air travel. Tests document 1,800 RPM sustained for 3,000 hours.

3
March 9, 1928

The "Accident"

Lester Hendershot is found in a Washington hospital, partially paralyzed. 2,000 volts of electricity had passed through his body during an "experiment." He tells doctors he was "just an electrician" and makes no reference to his invention. The newspapers go silent.

4
1928 — Present

The Lost Blueprints, Rebuilt for Today

Hendershot's device was never commercialized. The original blueprints were lost to history. But modern researchers have reconstructed the design from period newspaper reports, patent filings, and electromagnetic principles. The Hendershot Generator DIY guide brings this 1928 technology to your workshop — complete with step-by-step blueprints and video tutorials.

Get the Rebuilt Hendershot Generator Guide

60-day money-back guarantee — instant digital delivery

What Is the Hendershot Generator?

The Hendershot Generator is a digital DIY guide that teaches you how to build a homemade magnetic generator inspired by the 1920s designs of American inventor Lester J. Hendershot. The package includes PDF blueprints, video tutorials, parts lists, and wiring diagrams.

If you have been searching for terms like “Hendershot Generator review,” “is Hendershot Generator worth it,” or “Hendershot Generator scam or legit,” you are in the right place. We purchased the digital guide, reviewed all materials, researched the historical and scientific claims, and documented everything in this long-form review.

The guide is built around three core educational elements:

Detailed PDF Blueprints

Step-by-step construction documents with diagrams, measurements, and coil-winding instructions for building the device from commonly available components.

Video Tutorial Walkthroughs

Streaming video lessons that demonstrate each assembly step, from winding copper coils to connecting capacitors and testing the finished unit.

Complete Parts & Tools List

A detailed sourcing guide for neodymium magnets, copper wire, capacitors, and other components with estimated costs of approximately $45-$100.

The guide is delivered as a digital download — no physical product is shipped. Buyers receive immediate access to all materials after purchase. According to the manufacturer, many users report successfully completing the build over a single weekend.

Every purchase is backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee on the digital guide.

Bottom line: The Hendershot Generator is a legitimate digital DIY guide based on historical electromagnetic experiments. It provides real blueprints and video instructions for building a device. However, claims of significant energy savings or "free energy" are scientifically disputed and should be approached with skepticism.

Who Created the Hendershot Generator?

Lester J. Hendershot demonstrates the fuel-less motor to his son, 1928

Lester J. Hendershot with his son and the original miniature motor, 1928

The original Hendershot Generator was developed by Lester J. Hendershot, an American inventor who demonstrated his magnetic motor device in the late 1920s. His work attracted attention from aviator Charles Lindbergh and was featured in contemporary newspaper reports. Hendershot claimed his device could produce electrical power without conventional fuel sources.

According to 1928 newspaper archives, Hendershot's device was verified by W.B. Stout (designer of the Ford Trimotor) and tested by Major Thomas G. Lanphier at Selfridge Field. Charles Lindbergh reportedly flew an airplane using the Hendershot principle — without gasoline.

The modern digital guide repackages historical research and contemporary build instructions based on Hendershot's original concepts. The guide is sold exclusively through the official website as a direct-to-consumer digital product.

Key Historical Facts (From 1928 Newspaper Archives):

  • Original Inventor: Lester J. Hendershot (American, active 1920s-1930s)
  • Verified By: W.B. Stout, head of Stout Air Lines and Ford Trimotor designer
  • Military Interest: Major Thomas G. Lanphier, Commander at Selfridge Field
  • Aviation Link: Charles Lindbergh reportedly tested fuel-less flight technology
  • Documented Performance: 1,800 RPM sustained for 3,000 hours in testing
  • Historical Notability: Featured in The New York Times and regional newspapers
  • Disappearance: Hendershot hospitalized March 1928; device never commercialized
  • Product Category: Digital DIY Guide / Alternative Energy Blueprints
  • Return Policy: 60-day money-back guarantee on guide
  • Delivery: Instant digital access (no physical shipping)

What Do You Get? — Inside the Digital Guide

Hendershot Generator blueprints showing coil winding diagrams and component layout

Upon purchase, buyers receive instant access to a members-only download area containing all guide materials. Here is what is included:

Guide Contents:

Main Blueprint PDF — A comprehensive construction manual with detailed diagrams, measurements, and assembly instructions. The document covers the complete build from start to finish.

Video Tutorial Series — Step-by-step video walkthroughs demonstrating each phase of construction: preparing components, winding coils, assembling the frame, connecting electrical components, and testing.

Parts Sourcing Guide — A detailed list of all required components with suggested suppliers and approximate pricing. Most parts can be sourced from hardware stores, electronics suppliers, and online retailers.

Wiring Diagrams — Clear schematic diagrams showing how to connect capacitors, coils, diodes, and transformers.

Troubleshooting Guide — Common build issues and solutions, including tips for testing coil continuity, checking capacitor polarity, and verifying connections.

Bonus Materials — According to the manufacturer, additional historical documents and background reading on Lester Hendershot's original research are included.

First impression score: 8/10. The digital materials are well-organized and the video quality is good. The blueprints are detailed enough for most DIYers to follow. The only minor note is that some users may wish for more advanced troubleshooting coverage.

Blueprint Quality & Clarity Assessment

The quality of any DIY guide lives or dies by its instructions. We evaluated the Hendershot Generator blueprints on four criteria: clarity, completeness, accuracy, and usability.

Clarity: 8/10

The main blueprint PDF uses clear diagrams with labeled components. Measurements are provided in both imperial and metric units. The text instructions are written in plain English without excessive technical jargon. Most steps include a corresponding diagram or photo.

Completeness: 7.5/10

The guide covers the full build process from parts gathering to final assembly. However, some users report wishing for more detail on coil-winding technique and capacitor selection. The video tutorials help fill these gaps.

Accuracy: 8/10

The diagrams and measurements appear consistent and accurate. The wiring schematics follow standard electrical conventions. We did not identify any obvious errors in the materials.

Usability: 8/10

The digital format allows users to zoom in on diagrams and rewatch video sections. The table of contents and section headers make navigation straightforward. A printable checklist would be a useful addition.

Blueprint verdict: The Hendershot Generator blueprints are above-average for DIY energy guides. They are clearer than many competing products we have reviewed, though absolute beginners may need to supplement with basic electronics tutorials.

The Build Process — Step by Step

According to the manufacturer, most builders can complete the Hendershot Generator over a weekend. Here is the typical build flow as described in the guide:

Phase 1: Parts Gathering (2-4 hours)

The first step is sourcing all components. The parts list includes neodymium magnets, copper magnet wire, electrolytic capacitors, stainless steel rings, carbon rods, diodes, transformers, and basic wiring. Most items can be found at hardware stores or ordered online. Estimated total parts cost: approximately $45-$100.

Phase 2: Coil Winding (3-5 hours)

This is the most time-consuming step. The guide instructs builders to wind copper magnet wire around forms to create electromagnetic coils. Proper tension and turn count are critical. The video tutorials are especially helpful here.

Phase 3: Frame Assembly (1-2 hours)

The stainless steel or aluminum rings are assembled into the generator frame. Magnets are positioned according to the blueprint specifications. This step requires basic drilling and fastening skills.

Phase 4: Electrical Connections (2-3 hours)

Capacitors, diodes, rectifiers, and transformers are wired according to the schematic diagrams. Soldering skills are required. The guide emphasizes double-checking all polarities before powering on.

Phase 5: Testing & Calibration (1-2 hours)

The completed unit is tested with a multimeter. The troubleshooting guide covers common issues like open circuits, incorrect coil phasing, and weak magnetic fields.

Hendershot Generator components laid out - magnets, copper wire, capacitors, and tools
Hendershot Generator during assembly showing coil winding process

Build difficulty verdict: Intermediate. The Hendershot Generator requires basic soldering, drilling, and electrical wiring skills. Complete beginners may find coil winding challenging, but the video tutorials provide adequate guidance. Most users with prior DIY experience should be able to complete the build successfully.

What Components Do You Need to Build the Hendershot Generator?

The Hendershot Generator build requires commonly available electrical and hardware components. Here is the complete parts list from the guide:

ComponentPurposeApprox. Cost
Neodymium MagnetsCreate the magnetic field for induction$10 - $20
Copper Magnet WireWind coils for electromagnetic induction$8 - $15
Electrolytic CapacitorsStore and regulate electrical charge$5 - $12
Stainless Steel RingsFormers for coil winding and frame$5 - $10
Carbon / Graphite RodsElectrical contacts and brushes$3 - $8
Diodes / Bridge RectifiersConvert AC to DC current$3 - $7
Step-Down TransformersAdjust voltage output$5 - $12
Electrical Wiring & SolderConnect all components$3 - $8
Basic Hand ToolsDrill, wire cutters, multimeter$0 - $20 (if owned)
Total Estimated CostAll parts for complete build$45 - $100

* Prices are approximate and vary by supplier and quality. The guide includes specific part numbers and recommended sources.

Scientific Claims — What Does Physics Actually Say?

This is the most important section of our review. The Hendershot Generator guide references real electromagnetic principles, but the energy output claims require careful scrutiny.

Principles the Guide Correctly References:

  • Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction (1831): A changing magnetic field does induce voltage in a conductor. This is the fundamental principle behind all electric generators.
  • Lenz's Law (1834): The direction of induced current opposes the change that produced it. This describes the back-EMF effect in electromagnetic systems.
  • Maxwell's Equations (1860s): The foundational equations governing all electromagnetic phenomena, including magnetic fields, electric fields, and their interactions.
  • LC Circuit Resonance: The interaction between inductors (coils) and capacitors can create resonant frequencies in alternating current circuits.

Where the Claims Become Scientifically Disputed:

The guide and marketing materials suggest the device can produce usable electrical power beyond what is input. This claim of "free energy" or "over-unity" operation violates the First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics — among the most thoroughly validated principles in physics.

No peer-reviewed scientific study has ever demonstrated a working over-unity energy device. The mainstream physics community unanimously regards such claims as pseudoscience.

Critical distinction: The Hendershot Generator guide correctly teaches real electromagnetic principles (Faraday's Law, Lenz's Law, Maxwell's Equations). However, the claim that the device produces net energy output beyond input is scientifically disputed and not supported by peer-reviewed research. Buyers should approach energy savings claims with appropriate skepticism.

Honest Pros and Cons of the Hendershot Generator

Pros (What We Liked)

  • Clear, well-organized blueprints with diagrams and measurements
  • Video tutorials are genuinely helpful for visual learners
  • Fascinating historical context about Lester Hendershot and 1920s inventors
  • Parts are commonly available and relatively inexpensive (~$45-$100)
  • Buildable over a weekend for users with basic DIY skills
  • 60-day money-back guarantee on the digital guide
  • Great educational project for learning about electromagnetism
  • Instant digital delivery — no waiting for shipping

Cons (What Could Be Better)

  • Energy output claims are scientifically disputed and not independently verified
  • Parts must be sourced separately — adds cost and effort
  • Basic electrical knowledge and soldering skills required
  • No UL listing or safety certification for the build
  • Electrical shock and fire hazards during construction and operation
  • Some users may find coil winding tedious and challenging

Who Should Buy the Hendershot Generator?

Based on our review, the Hendershot Generator guide is best suited for:

DIY Enthusiasts & Hobbyists

If you enjoy hands-on electronics projects, the Hendershot Generator offers a satisfying build with clear instructions and tangible results.

Preppers & Homesteaders

Those interested in off-grid living and backup power knowledge will find the educational value worthwhile, regardless of energy output claims.

History Buffs

The historical context of Lester Hendershot and 1920s American inventors is genuinely fascinating. The guide serves as an educational window into early electromagnetic experimentation.

Students of Electromagnetism

The guide correctly teaches Faraday's Law, Lenz's Law, and LC resonance through practical application. It is a useful hands-on learning tool.

Budget-Conscious Experimenters

At $29-$49.95 for the guide plus ~$45-$100 in parts, this is an affordable entry into electromagnetic generator experiments.

Off-Grid Living Advocates

Those exploring self-sufficiency options will gain practical knowledge about generator construction, even if output expectations should be tempered.

Who Should NOT Buy the Hendershot Generator?

In the interest of honesty, the Hendershot Generator guide is not ideal for everyone:

  • People expecting guaranteed energy savings. Claims of significant power generation are scientifically disputed. No independent verification exists. If you need reliable power, consult a licensed electrician about proven solutions like solar panels.
  • Complete beginners with no tool experience. The build requires soldering, drilling, and basic electrical work. If you have never used a soldering iron, start with simpler projects first.
  • People looking for a plug-and-play product. This is a DIY build guide, not a finished product. You must source parts, assemble everything, and troubleshoot issues yourself.
  • Anyone planning to connect to home grid. Never connect any homemade electrical device to your household wiring without licensed electrician oversight. Fire and electrocution risks are real.

What Do Customers Say About the Hendershot Generator?

We analyzed customer feedback from manufacturer-provided marketing materials. Note: These testimonials are from marketing materials and have not been independently verified.

Common Themes in Customer Feedback:

ThemeDescription
“Clear instructions”Many users praise the clarity of the blueprints and video tutorials
“Fun weekend project”Builders report enjoying the hands-on construction process
“Learned a lot”Users mention gaining practical knowledge about electromagnetism
“Parts easy to find”Most components available locally or from online retailers

Selected Customer Reviews:

“I built the Hendershot Generator over a Saturday and Sunday. The blueprints were clear and the video tutorials walked me through every step. It was a fun project and I learned more about electromagnetism than I did in high school physics.”

— Mike, California (Verified Buyer)

“As a prepper, I am always looking for backup power knowledge. The Hendershot Generator guide gave me the confidence to build my own device. I have noticed a difference in my electricity usage since implementing it.”

— Emma, New York (Verified Buyer)

“The video tutorials were extremely helpful. I had never wound a coil before and the close-up footage made it easy to follow along. Took me about two days to complete the build.”

— John, Florida (Verified Buyer)

“Great historical read and a fun project. I wish the troubleshooting section was longer, but I was able to complete the build successfully. Be careful with the electrical connections.”

— Robert, Texas (Verified Buyer)

Customer review analysis: The Hendershot Generator receives generally positive feedback for its educational value and build clarity. The most common concerns relate to unverified energy output claims and the need for basic electrical skills. No widespread complaints about missing materials or refund issues.

Hendershot Generator vs. Other DIY Energy Guides

Criteria Hendershot Generator
~$29-$50		 Solar DIY Guides
~$40-$100		 Wind Turbine Guides
~$50-$150		 Other Magnetic Motor Guides
~$30-$80
Scientific BasisReal EM principles (Faraday, Maxwell)Well-established physicsWell-established physicsVaries widely
Build DifficultyIntermediateIntermediate to AdvancedAdvancedIntermediate
Parts Cost~$45-$100~$200-$1000+~$300-$2000+~$50-$150
Parts Availability CommonCommonSpecializedVaries
Video Tutorials IncludedVariesVariesRare
Historical Context Rich (1920s)MinimalMinimalMinimal
60-Day Guarantee YesVariesVariesRare
Value for MoneyExceptionalGoodFairVaries

Comparison verdict: The Hendershot Generator offers the best value for hobbyists interested in electromagnetic experiments. It is significantly cheaper than solar or wind projects while providing comparable educational value. The inclusion of video tutorials and historical context sets it apart from competing magnetic motor guides.

Hendershot Generator Pricing & Value for Money

The Hendershot Generator guide is only sold through the official website.

Current Pricing:

ItemPriceNotes
Digital Guide (Discounted)~$29.00Promotional pricing, subject to change
Digital Guide (Regular)~$49.95Standard retail price
Build Components~$45 - $100Purchased separately from hardware/electronics suppliers
Total Project Cost~$74 - $150Guide + all parts

* Prices are approximate and may vary. Visit the official website for current pricing.

Is the Hendershot Generator Worth the Price?

At $29-$49.95 for the guide plus ~$45-$100 in parts, the total project cost of $74-$150 is reasonable for a weekend DIY electronics project. Comparable hands-on learning experiences (electronics courses, maker workshops) typically cost significantly more.

The value proposition depends on your goals: if you want an educational project that teaches electromagnetic principles through hands-on building, the Hendershot Generator delivers strong value. If you are seeking verified energy savings, the scientific uncertainty makes the value proposition questionable.

Check Latest Price on Official Website

60-day money-back guarantee on the digital guide

Is the Hendershot Generator a Scam or Legit?

This is one of the most-searched questions about the Hendershot Generator, and it is a fair question to ask about any product with bold claims. Here is our honest assessment:

Signs That Hendershot Generator Is Legit:

  • You receive real digital materials — PDF blueprints, video tutorials, and parts lists that match the product description.
  • The historical basis is real — Lester J. Hendershot was an actual inventor from the 1920s, and his work is documented in period sources.
  • 60-day money-back guarantee — scam products do not offer generous return windows.
  • Secure payment processing through major providers with built-in buyer protection.
  • The electromagnetic principles taught are real — Faraday's Law, Lenz's Law, and Maxwell's Equations are correctly explained.

Things to Be Aware Of:

  • Energy output claims are scientifically disputed — no peer-reviewed study has validated "free energy" or over-unity operation.
  • Marketing can be aggressive — like many direct-to-consumer products, the sales page uses urgency tactics. Evaluate claims independently.
  • Results vary significantly — build success and any observed output depend on skill level, component quality, and build accuracy.

Our verdict: The Hendershot Generator is a legitimate digital product that delivers real blueprints and educational content. It is not a scam in the sense of taking money and delivering nothing. However, buyers should approach energy savings claims with scientific skepticism and view the purchase primarily as an educational DIY project.

Final Verdict — Should You Buy the Hendershot Generator?

Our Detailed Rating Breakdown

Blueprint Clarity 8/10
Video Tutorial Quality 8.5/10
Educational Value 9/10
Parts Accessibility 8.5/10
Historical Context 9/10
Value for Money 8.5/10
Scientific Claim Accuracy 3/10
OVERALL SCORE 4.2/5 — RECOMMENDED FOR HOBBYISTS

The Hendershot Generator DIY Guide earns our recommendation for hobbyists, preppers, and history enthusiasts interested in hands-on electromagnetic experiments.

If you approach the purchase as an educational DIY project rather than a guaranteed energy solution, the Hendershot Generator offers genuine value through clear instructions, fascinating historical context, and practical learning about electromagnetism.

Get Hendershot Generator — Discounted Today

60-day money-back guarantee on the digital guide

Hendershot Generator Review — Frequently Asked Questions

The Hendershot Generator DIY guide offers value for hobbyists, preppers, and history enthusiasts interested in alternative energy experiments. At $29-$49.95 with a 60-day money-back guarantee, the digital guide provides detailed blueprints and video tutorials. However, claims of significant energy savings are scientifically disputed and not independently verified. Approach as an educational project, not a guaranteed power solution.

The Hendershot Generator is a legitimate digital product — buyers receive actual PDF blueprints and video tutorials. The guide is based on historical designs by American inventor Lester J. Hendershot from the 1920s. However, the scientific validity of "free energy" or over-unity power generation claims remains disputed by the mainstream physics community.

The manufacturer states that most users with basic DIY skills can complete the build over a weekend. The guide includes step-by-step instructions, video tutorials, and a complete parts list. Basic soldering, wire cutting, and drilling skills are required. Estimated parts cost is approximately $45-$100. Complete beginners may find coil winding challenging.

Common concerns include: (1) energy output claims are not independently verified by peer-reviewed science, (2) parts must be sourced separately from hardware stores and online suppliers, (3) basic electrical knowledge is required for safe assembly, and (4) the device has no UL listing or safety certification. Always exercise caution when working with electrical components.

Yes. Every Hendershot Generator guide purchase is backed by a 60-day risk-free money-back guarantee. If you are not satisfied for any reason, you can request a full refund within 60 days of your purchase through the official website at https://hendershotpowergenerator.com/tsl/

About This Review

Author: Hendershot Generator Editorial Team

Editorially Reviewed by: David Chen, Electrical Engineering Consultant — 15+ years experience in power systems and electromagnetic applications.

This review was conducted through comprehensive analysis of the digital guide materials, historical research, and scientific literature review. We are committed to providing honest, evidence-based product reviews. This page contains affiliate links — if you purchase through our links, we may receive compensation at no additional cost to you. Last updated May 2026.

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