You can build a power inverter using a lawn edger motor, a car alternator, and a DC to AC power converter. In its simplest form, the motor and alternator have to be bolted to the base.  The exact mounting configuration of the alternator depends on the model of alternator, the motor used, and the belt drive configuration.  The next task is to come up with a way to tension the belt.  Use miscellaneous brackets from cars to mount the alternator to a base.  Then, adjuster brackets found on typical car engines are used to tension the belt on the alternator.

 
A home built power inverter can be made using a 3 horse power horizontal shaft motor, a GM 65 amp automotive alternator (with built in voltage regulator), a used car battery, a pulley and V-belt, a 12 volt cigarette lighter outlet box with fuse, a DC to AC power converter, a low voltage control switch, a scrap of 3/4" plywood, a few scraps of 2 x 4 lumber, 4 wheels, and two battery cables.  You can use a custom designed bracket manufactured for Epicenter to make it all come together in a snap. A safety guard should be installed to cover the belt and pulleys.

A lawn mower is the best option for making a power inverter. It has a base that will hold the moor, and a cable for adjusting the motor speed.  It also has wheels which are very convenient to move it around. The biggest task in making a home built generator is figuring out how to attach the alternator and motor so that power from the motor can be transferred to cause the alternator to spin, thereby produce electricity.