My generator mount

I needed a way to mount our generator which wouldn't transfer vibrations through the frame, would block the sound in the air, and wouldn't require me to move it before using it.  I also needed a way to protect it going down the road and while its operating, but easily fuel it, start it, and give it good ventilation.  So I mounted a receiver hitch on the front of the truck and mounted a cargo tray to it (which we will use to move our bikes locally).  I then built a box which opens like a clamshell, and the sides open as well for ventilation while still giving protection from rain.  There is room inside for a smaller gas can.  I'll be picking up a 2 1/2 gallon can shortly.

 

Two 2 x 4s keep the sides propped open, or I can use one of them to hold the top open while fueling, seen below.  They go in the back of the truck for travel.

I didn't have enough paint for the inside, yet.

Fully closed for travel.  I'll add a tie-down over the top since nothing is really keeping it in place except the really big chains on the back.  They go through holes in the box to two large padlocks attached to holes I drilled in the genset's frame (seen in a prior pic).  Since the chains go through the tray's frame too, nothing should be able to "walk".  I'll use a smaller chain for the gas can.  I added removable corner markers to help me - and other drivers.  This tray can fold up which is why I made the poles removable, although it won't fold up properly when mounted on the front, only on the back.

I got the 2 1/2 gallon can today.  Unfortunately it is about an inch too wide to properly fit inside the box while it is closed up, however I was still able to make it fit by forcing things a bit.  When faced with a problem use a bigger hammer, right?  I still need to get the wiring in place from the front of the truck to the back, a job for tomorrow.

I love this idea except there is no way I could get this rig in my driveway. It has to steep a slope. 

I might have the same generator.  Mine is a Yamaha 2400ishc.  It's the only generator I've ever had -- so can't compare -- but I've been very happy with it.  I also use a front-mounted cargo carrier, which I got for the geny (but I get a lot of other use out of it), and I have exactly the same orange markers mounted on the front corners of my cargo carrier.  I use a Yamaha cover for the generator on the road.

I dismount my geny and leave it at the campsite once I get there.   While I like the idea of your box for use in the rain and as a sound barrier, I'm nervous about heat and oxygen issues so I'm still working on a campsite solution that address those. 

It seems that the extra weight on the front of the vehicle levels me out pretty well while towing the pod and actually increase my gas mileage.

TT 

Both Yamaha and Honda make these little inverter generators. The Honda model has a fuel pump though. This means with a special cap you can connect it to an outboard motor fuel tank and not have to transfer fuel.