R-pod Owners Forum : recommendation for generator http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : I need HELP!!! : recommendation for generator Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Thu, 21 May 2026 07:44:37 +0000 Wed, 06 May 2020 13:32:21 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=13162 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ recommendation for generator : My geny is built in, exhaust is... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=131049#131049 Author: marwayne
Subject: 13162
Posted: 06 May 2020 at 1:32pm

My geny is built in, exhaust is diverted to the ground reduces noise by more than 50%. There is a hatch underneath, with a bottle jack I can lift the geny 1/4" to 1/2" to eliminate vibration.

 
]]> Wed, 06 May 2020 13:32:21 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=131049#131049 recommendation for generator : By the way mine is on wheels with... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=131041#131041 Author: podwerkz
Subject: 13162
Posted: 06 May 2020 at 11:16am

By the way mine is on wheels with a flip up handle so it's easy to roll it backwards to the tailgate and forward towards the front wall of the bed area.]]> Wed, 06 May 2020 11:16:41 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=131041#131041 recommendation for generator : I would not run a generator in... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=131029#131029 Author: Colt
Subject: 13162
Posted: 06 May 2020 at 1:51am

I would not run a generator in an enclosed space even with the Windows open. Climbing back in to kill the generator, could be dangerous. Pull it out onto the tailgate. ]]> Wed, 06 May 2020 01:51:30 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=131029#131029 recommendation for generator : I have run my 4000 watt genset... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130897#130897 Author: podwerkz
Subject: 13162
Posted: 02 May 2020 at 7:20pm

I have run my 4000 watt genset inside the truck bed, with a truck bed topper on the pickup.

I point the exhaust out towards the open tailgate and the lift window, and the sliding side windows are usually open part way.

Of course this works well to power the trailer when I really need the A/C or microwave.

It also reduces the noise levels to the side and front of the truck...which is nice if you have neighbors in the adjacent campsites.

One problem tho, is that crawling in there to pull the starter cord, is a bit of a pain and you have to get out pretty quick once the genset is running. Of course a genset with wireless remote start would eliminate that problem.
]]> Sat, 02 May 2020 19:20:56 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130897#130897 recommendation for generator : Thanks for the feedback. I already... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130893#130893 Author: Stealth_81
Subject: 13162
Posted: 02 May 2020 at 5:38pm

Thanks for the feedback. I already have a heavy rubber bed mat in the truck so it wouldn’t be sliding. I haven’t decided yet if we need to take the generator or not. I was thinking just for peace of mind on a 3-week trip out west we could take it along. We have the room and it might just go for a ride and not be needed, but that’s a better option than needing it and not having it along.]]> Sat, 02 May 2020 17:38:13 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130893#130893 recommendation for generator : I wouldn't try to lift that... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130763#130763 Author: offgrid
Subject: 13162
Posted: 29 Apr 2020 at 7:22am

I wouldn't try to lift that generator either. Unless you get the genny exhaust directed out of the cap everything back there will wind up with a nice aroma of partially burned hydrocarbons. 

Can you slide the genny onto the tailgate and direct the exhaust away from the truck, trailer, and your neighbors? Of course taking steps to be sure it doesn't walk off as TT warned. 

Depending on how much tree cover there is where you camp, if you're not running a/c, your microwave or other big ac loads, a quieter, lighter, and less messy solution to consider might be to get a portable solar kit. That plus a dual battery bank seems to meet most people's 12V electrical requirements . You can always charge a bit from your tow vehicle via the 7 way connector if you run into a long string of cloudy days. 
]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2020 07:22:47 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130763#130763 recommendation for generator : You might consider a rubber mat... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130752#130752 Author: Tars Tarkas
Subject: 13162
Posted: 28 Apr 2020 at 7:34pm

You might consider a rubber mat under the generator to help hold down he noise and help keep it from walking around on its own.

TT
]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:34:39 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130752#130752 recommendation for generator : Thanks for the confirmation. I... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130751#130751 Author: Stealth_81
Subject: 13162
Posted: 28 Apr 2020 at 7:18pm

Thanks for the confirmation. I figured that the CO and heat dispersal would be fine. I didn’t know if there were any drawbacks that I hadn’t considered. 
We normally don’t run the AC. I think we have run it twice while camping since we have owned it. Most of the time we are outside, anyway. 
]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:18:28 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130751#130751 recommendation for generator : Delete. Double posted. http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130750#130750 Author: Stealth_81
Subject: 13162
Posted: 28 Apr 2020 at 7:16pm

Delete. Double posted.]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:16:51 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130750#130750 recommendation for generator : 2 considerations:1st. Carbon monoxide.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130748#130748 Author: StephenH
Subject: 13162
Posted: 28 Apr 2020 at 7:06pm

2 considerations:
1st. Carbon monoxide. Having the gate and windows open should help prevent this.
2nd: Heat build-up. If the exhaust is aimed toward the open tailgate, then the airflow should be sufficient.

Why not run the AC? That generator is large enough and if the day is really hot, you might appreciate it.
]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:06:43 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130748#130748 recommendation for generator : I have a generator question. We... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130747#130747 Author: Stealth_81
Subject: 13162
Posted: 28 Apr 2020 at 7:03pm

I have a generator question. We have a Honda EU3000is at the house as an emergency backup in case of extended power outage. We have some longer trips planned with the Rpod this summer and I was thinking of taking the generator along as insurance and for use if we stay somewhere without an electric hookup. Since the generator weighs 135# I would like to just leave it in the back of the truck and not have to take it out. Is there any issue with running the generator in the back of the pickup truck (with cap) as long as the side windows and back window and gate are open? I am only anticipating running it every other day to charge batteries as needed. We wouldn’t be running AC if off grid.]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:03:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=130747#130747 recommendation for generator : The benefit of an inverter generator... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=128325#128325 Author: offgrid
Subject: 13162
Posted: 24 Nov 2019 at 12:25am

The benefit of an inverter generator is that it decouples engine speed from electrical frequency. A conventional generator has to run at 3600 rpm all the time to produce 60 cycle output. The engine in an inverter generator can run quietly at low rpm when the electrical load is low because the inverter section is setting the output frequency. You will find that there isn’t much if any difference in noise level between an inverter generator and a traditional generator under heavy loading, For example when running the a/c. Both are sine wave output.

A couple of other considerations before buying a generator:

Consider the weight and how you will load and unload it. The Honda or equivalent 2kw-ish genny weighs in slightly under 50 lbs. Thats already pretty heavy for many folks to lift safely.,The bigger ones get really heavy. That’s why I went with the Honda 2kw and Microair easystart, one disc surgery was enough for me,

The other consideration is that many/most campgrounds won’t allow you to run a generator at night, so if you want it for a/c overnight you might be disappointed.

Then there is fuel. You’ll need to carry that safely somewhere as well as the generator,. I converted my Honda to propane so I don’t need to carry a fuel can around.



]]> Sun, 24 Nov 2019 00:25:18 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=128325#128325 recommendation for generator : Colt is right. Rotary generators... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=128315#128315 Author: GlueGuy
Subject: 13162
Posted: 23 Nov 2019 at 9:43am

Colt is right. Rotary generators do produce a sine wave. However, because they are running from gas or propane engine, the RPM will be varying a bit. Also, some of them use generators with brushes, which can cause noise superimposed on the sine wave. A "better" rotary generator will usually have a brushless generator, but they still can be a little noisy.

Better inverter generators actually produce a nice sine wave (Hondas are the classic example). Cheaper inverter generators will produce a square wave, which is sometimes cleaned up a bit with filters. YMMV.

I think "BTDT" is Been There Done That, but I happy to be corrected.
]]> Sat, 23 Nov 2019 09:43:59 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=128315#128315 recommendation for generator : What is BTDT? I often get lost... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=128312#128312 Author: lostagain
Subject: 13162
Posted: 23 Nov 2019 at 8:15am

What is BTDT?  I often get lost in the acronyms.  Thanks!]]> Sat, 23 Nov 2019 08:15:29 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=128312#128312 recommendation for generator : Originally posted by crankster78Greetings:Contractor... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=128306#128306 Author: Colt
Subject: 13162
Posted: 22 Nov 2019 at 7:38pm

Originally posted by crankster78

Greetings:
Contractor generators produce a 60 cycle square wave Which is not good for electronics of any kind.  Plus they will vary on cycles.  They run at about 3600 RPM, That's why they are noisy.  A inverter runs at vey high cycles and down converts the out put to a pure 60 cycle sine wave.  It only runs as fast as needed for the load.  The engine is running at a lower speed, less wear and noise.  Inverters cost much more but last longer and of course are much quieter.  I've been using my Honda for over 12 years, still runs good.  
Crankster78  2015 R-179


This is incorrect. A conventional rotary generator will not produce square waves. The governor systems are usually incapable of tight control of the RPM. The resulting jitter in RPM may cause some harmonic distortion but never a square wave. And the frequency is never really 60 Hz.

OTOH, inverters use switching electronics to create square waves to convert DC to AC but then have to filter it to smooth it enough have a sine wave. How would you know the filters were working well enough?

Either design will produce power good enough to run household (and RV) appliances and electronics. BTDT.

Bottom line, for everyday use buy a generator that is quiet enough for your use and that you can afford.

Dometic says their 13,500 BTU roof AC pulls 15.1 amps or about 1750 watts. Electric motors require 2 or more times the running watts to start. A 3500 watt generator will safely start the AC. ]]> Fri, 22 Nov 2019 19:38:51 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=128306#128306 recommendation for generator : I've powered my R-Pod with... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=127084#127084 Author: beardman
Subject: 13162
Posted: 12 Sep 2019 at 1:56pm

I've powered my R-Pod with two different generators. The first week we had it, we decided to boondock with an old Honda EN2500. It kicked the AC just fine, and allowed us to watch TV. 

I found a used Predator 3500 (Honda EU3000is clone) for $425, and it's been fine ever since. With this thing, the only thing I wouldn't do is run the microwave/oven or a blowdryer, at the same time as the AC. No big deal. For the money it's been a decent stop-gap, as a paid of Honda 2200s or an EU3000 will cost in excess of $2500. 

Eventually I'll replace this thing with a Honda, but for now it works perfectly. 

]]> Thu, 12 Sep 2019 13:56:57 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=127084#127084 recommendation for generator : Greetings:Contractor generators... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=127077#127077 Author: crankster78
Subject: 13162
Posted: 11 Sep 2019 at 3:53pm

Greetings:
Contractor generators produce a 60 cycle square wave Which is not good for electronics of any kind.  Plus they will vary on cycles.  They run at about 3600 RPM, That's why they are noisy.  A inverter runs at vey high cycles and down converts the out put to a pure 60 cycle sine wave.  It only runs as fast as needed for the load.  The engine is running at a lower speed, less wear and noise.  Inverters cost much more but last longer and of course are much quieter.  I've been using my Honda for over 12 years, still runs good.  

Crankster78  2015 R-179
]]> Wed, 11 Sep 2019 15:53:34 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=127077#127077 recommendation for generator : Originally posted by Happy TrippingNEVER... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=127035#127035 Author: TheBum
Subject: 13162
Posted: 09 Sep 2019 at 10:14am

Originally posted by Happy Tripping

NEVER get a 'contractor's generator' - too loud


And the power is usually rather "dirty" because it typically doesn't have an inverter. It runs at one speed and relies on that speed for 50/60 Hz.]]> Mon, 09 Sep 2019 10:14:04 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=127035#127035 recommendation for generator : This forum is amazing ! Thanks... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=126999#126999 Author: MRuss
Subject: 13162
Posted: 07 Sep 2019 at 11:15am

This forum is amazing ! Thanks for the prompt & helpful replies.
I appreciate your suggestions & expert advice.
Happy podding!!!😊]]> Sat, 07 Sep 2019 11:15:51 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=126999#126999 recommendation for generator : This is a common question.An 'advanced... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=126981#126981 Author: Happy Tripping
Subject: 13162
Posted: 06 Sep 2019 at 10:18am

This is a common question.

An 'advanced search' here or an internet search will give you a lot of relevant info.

Bottom line, if no 'Easy Start', a 2400 Yamaha or equivalent probably will suffice for a/c, run alone, away from hi mountains. Test first.

NEVER get a 'contractor's generator' - too loud
]]> Fri, 06 Sep 2019 10:18:29 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=126981#126981 recommendation for generator : The furnace runs mostly on propane... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=126972#126972 Author: TheBum
Subject: 13162
Posted: 05 Sep 2019 at 5:58pm

The furnace runs mostly on propane (it needs 12V for controls and ignition), so no problem there. A Honda 2200 would run the AC if you installed a slow start device on the AC. One that gets high praise is the Micro-Air EasyStart 364.]]> Thu, 05 Sep 2019 17:58:49 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=126972#126972 recommendation for generator : I have a 2011 rPod 177 model (purchased... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=126965#126965 Author: MRuss
Subject: 13162
Posted: 05 Sep 2019 at 1:52pm

I have a 2011 rPod 177 model (purchased used).

I want to be able to camp for extended periods and need a generator. I've looked at the Honda 2200 watt but have no experience with generators and don't know if this will run the heater/AC. Please advise. Thanks.]]> Thu, 05 Sep 2019 13:52:26 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13162&PID=126965#126965