Creating a No-Fuss DC Supply

Originally posted by Cap-n-Cray *(It is possible to use a 2000 watt generator if you swap out your A/C's start capacitor with a much bigger one *).* Have you done this? That is very interesting. Maybe another thread on this...

granlobo, If you go with a generator-  I would recommend the Yamaha EF2400iSHC.   This is the newer "high current surge" model designed to start most RV air conditioners.
 Anything smaller and you risk being on the edge and not being able to start the AC, such as high ambient temp or high altitude.
The big drawback I see to the EF2400iSHC is a relatively small tank that may not make it through an overnight if the AC is running a lot.   I made a method to attach a 5 gallon steel military style can to mine.    There is a commercial version marketed also.
As stated campgrounds vary greatly with regards to generator use- my favorite allows only 2 hours per day between 9-6.  My next allows 4 hours between 9-8.  My third allows between 9-8 all you want!   I've personally never encountered a true "campground" that allowed generators 24 hrs a day but I'm sure some might somewhere.  While traveling I have overnighted in WalMart and truck stop parking lots where I ran mine all night...not even noticed with idling big rigs.
Whatever you buy do not get a cheap (LOUD) one as you might be evicted or even worse by other campers

PS the Honda EU3000is is a great generator- Like techntrek I own one also, it is just too heavy for one (normal) person to lift and move.

The engine hoist works well-  I have an Onan 4kw that is designed as a built in-  originally I had it on a receiver platform that I plugged into the front receiver hitch on my F350 when it hauled a large Jayco truck camper.
An engine hoist is exactly how I did it!  The Onan generator alone is 200lb and probably had another 50 of support steel.
That generator is now installed in my 1999 Tahoe toy hauler...book value on that rig is now less than the generator is worth, to me anyway.   Someday I may trash the RV portion, selling the appliances, which all still work, and turning it into a 25ft flat bed.  It has a much stouter frame than travel trailers usually have with a 10k lb GVWR being a toy hauler.   I can't buy a 25' flat bed for what the trailer book is now!