GENERATORS???

You can run your a/c from a Honda 2.2k if you install an Easystart on your a/c to reduce startup load. That would give you a small lightweight, high quality generator for about $1k. The Easystart costs about $300 but is well worth it.

Also consider a propane conversion, much cleaner and easier than carrying around gasoline. You already have propane on your trailer.

As for noise, the inverter generators are quiet when at low power demand because the inverter allows them to run at low rpm. But none of them are quiet when heavily loaded, including the Hondas.

There are numerous studies on the energy balance of corn ethanol, and although the majority conclude that it has a positive energy balance, its certainly not great. Ethanol's main benefit is as an oxygenating agent so it improves air quality. But it's bad for small engines for sure, especially one that sit around unused for long periods.

I purchased a Champion 3100W generator some years ago. It's working well, and runs everything (not at the same time) in my RPOD including the air conditioner. 

Thanks Stephen, I stand corrected...not all premium fuels are ethanol free, even if we wish they were!

:-)

Suffice to say,imho, what ever fuel you use in your seasonal/low use engines, put the best fuel in it you can get in your area and stabilize it.

I always add good quality fuel stabilizer and enough to last 2 years. I use Stabil, Seafoam or Phaseguard to help ensure less chance of the fuel going bad. To further guard against carb issues I also turn off the petcock (where available, and every genny I have had had a fuel shutoff) and run 4 stroke motors until the carb is emptied of fuel. 2 stroke motors like chainsaws please don't run them out of fuel as they need the oil for lubrication. I used to mix my own but for years now I use the engineered premixed fuel. It is good for at least 2 years and I haven't regretted it.

Once the motor has burned all the fuel available and stalls out, I then pull the start cord until firm resistance is felt...this rotates the motor until it reaches its compression stroke which means both intake and exhaust valves are closed. This seals the motor from air/moisture getting in which could lead to corrosion/damage in the motor over time.

Originally posted by campman Whatever genny you decide, always use premium fuel to eliminate ethanol. Ethanol is hydroscopic among other problems that come with it and absorbs moisture from the fuel as well as from the air. The untreated fuel can start breaking down in as little as month or 2, leading to varnish etc creating problems in your carb and lines. Any fuel you use treat immediately with a good quality fuel stabilizer so it is good for at least a year...you will appreciate the lack of fuel issues after your low use or seasonal motors don't fail on you when you need them. This goes for all seasonal motors by the way.

One quibble with what you wrote Andy. Not all premium gasoline is ethanol free. It has to specify ethanol-free in order to be sure it is. Other than that, that is good advice.