Mounting genset

[Shadrach]

So I finally found and bought a newer TT. This one has A/C. In the past we have dry camped a lot. If I want to use the A/C I will have to switch tactics and not rely on my batteries for everything. This means some other form of power, such as a genset. As with most TTs there is no place to install a built in model. While I know that a 2400 will start my A/C to run it on 30 amp service and keep it from surging I will need to go to a 3000 or better. This usually means 135+ lbs for a Cummins/Onan or Yamaha set. I know there are lighter and cheaper models out there but I am not a fan of buying cheap junk, even if it only will get used in the summer. Just like buying a TT I would rather buy a used Mercedes than a brand new Lada with all the bells and whistles.

So this brings up a problem. Where do I put a heavy generator. I am not strong enough to lift it into my truck by myself and even with another person it would be a grunt. I also have a canopy on the truck so I don't think running it inside or even on the tailgate would be a good idea. It would be up higher so the noise level would be more noticed inside the TT.

I saw a new TT at a dealership with a frame above the batteries that was designed to hold a genset. Then there are the "baskets" that you mount on the hitch on the back of the trailer. Won't both of the options affect my tongue weight? Onan at one time had a rear mounted genset called a Juice Box that weight about 360#. It came in either a 3. 6 LP model or a 4. 0 gasoline version and used their Microlite ( Microquiet ) generator.

I thought about making my own version by getting an older Onan RV genset and mounting it , a battery and a LP bottle back there and running the exhaust up the rear ladder out of the way.

What do you "experienced " RVers think? Shadrach

 

[Simplysmn]

I think if you mount it on the back of the trailer you not even going to notice it there because when you pack you can just load foward n make up for it . just a idea

 

[chipster]

Genset

Hi, I have an airstream TT and purchased a Yamaha 3000iseb that is very quiet. It has been converted to tri fuel. [l. p. , propane or gasoline] A remote start so that one can fire it up from inside the trailer makes it real nice.

Off craigslist I purchased an electric wheel chair lift that is rated for 300 lbs. and mounted it in the drivers side rear corner of the bed. the davit swivels so that you can pick the gen. up and swivel it into the bed of the truck.

I usually leave it in the bed and when running, you don't hear it inside the TT. It's a one man [or woman] job. I also have an ARE topper and a Bedslide that makes everything in the truck bed covered and easily accessable.

Works GREAT for me and solved my genset problems.





chipster

 

[SPucillo]

My buddy has a slick setup. He has 2 - 2000 watt Honda generators. They are light weight and can be run in parallel. This runs his AC and is so quiet he sometimes forgets they are running.



Some Yamaha Generators can also be parallel and the remote start is sweet!

 

[Wertles]

If you have a rear 4 in bumper, you can add a trailer hitch receiver and add one of those cargo carriers rated for 300 pounds. I have a Honda 3000 generator that will run the entire camper (AC, fridge, lights etc) but I keep the water heater on propane. The new Honda 3000 can be lifted by one person and comes with wheels and a handle to pull around if you want to move it off the cargo carrier. At NASCAR, most just leave them right on the bumper. Yamaha and Kipor also make a high quality unit.
Another alternative is 2 Honda 2000 generators that are hooked together that will give you 4000 power. Each of those are very light, can be placed anywhere you want and you have the option at times to run only 1 if your electricity needs are small.