R-pod Owners Forum : GENERATORS??? http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : I need HELP!!! : GENERATORS??? Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Wed, 20 May 2026 17:51:10 +0000 Thu, 14 Jul 2022 20:25:59 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=14631 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ GENERATORS??? : I had the same problem and now... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=148923#148923 Author: leon
Subject: 14631
Posted: 14 Jul 2022 at 8:25pm

I had the same problem and now I have Honda portable generator and have no issues with it. I can use for example microwave and a fridge at the same time and everything is ok ]]> Thu, 14 Jul 2022 20:25:59 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=148923#148923 GENERATORS??? : The reason I got the 3200 watt... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145665#145665 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 15 Oct 2021 at 6:49pm

The reason I got the 3200 watt was to avoid the Easy Start.  It runs my AC with no problem so far just not sure about running on eco or not]]> Fri, 15 Oct 2021 18:49:43 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145665#145665 GENERATORS??? : I've run my parallel EU2000i... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145664#145664 Author: TheBum
Subject: 14631
Posted: 15 Oct 2021 at 6:33pm

I've run my parallel EU2000i generators on Eco mode with the 13.5k BTU AC on in my old 179 with no issues. I have not tried it with the 15k BTU AC in my 196. If you do experience issues, you can reduce the surge load when the AC compressor comes on by installing a Micro-Air EasyStart.]]> Fri, 15 Oct 2021 18:33:55 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145664#145664 GENERATORS??? : So far so good.....starts first... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145662#145662 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 15 Oct 2021 at 5:56pm

So far so good.....starts first pull no issues.  I ran it on eco mode and was using my circular saw  seemed to do fine.  Do you leave these in eco mode when you are running your AC or is it better to turn off eco mode?   I assume it adjusts to the demand either way?  When the compressor shuts off by thermostat the load should go down significantly so eco mode may be okay then?]]> Fri, 15 Oct 2021 17:56:53 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145662#145662 GENERATORS??? : I had looked at the Firman and... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145487#145487 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 06 Oct 2021 at 10:17am

I had looked at the Firman and almost pulled the trigger on it but the weight was a deterrant for me.  The one I got weighs 60 lbs which I can handle and keeps me within my weight specs.  We will see how well it holds up but I don't plan on using it a lot with the camper just when I feel like I may need the AC.]]> Wed, 06 Oct 2021 10:17:02 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145487#145487 GENERATORS??? : I have that model that I purchased... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145485#145485 Author: StephenH
Subject: 14631
Posted: 06 Oct 2021 at 8:43am

I have that model that I purchased when it was on sale previously. I am well pleased with it. I have only run it on propane and intend to continue doing so. I think you will enjoy it. It isn't the most quiet generator, but it is quieter than some I have heard. I like that it has an hour meter built in so you can know when it is time to change the oil or do other services.]]> Wed, 06 Oct 2021 08:43:50 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145485#145485 GENERATORS??? : In case anyone is interested Costco... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145477#145477 Author: Ricktoon
Subject: 14631
Posted: 05 Oct 2021 at 10:30pm

In case anyone is interested Costco has the Firman 3200 watt duel fuel inverter generator on sale for $200 off. It cost me $699 delivered. Will let you know how it works out with our R-pod 196. ]]> Tue, 05 Oct 2021 22:30:14 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145477#145477 GENERATORS??? : You do not need to drive a ground... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145290#145290 Author: offgrid
Subject: 14631
Posted: 25 Sep 2021 at 4:04pm

You do not need to drive a ground rid for a little portable generator. The trailer chassis acts as the ground plane, and with the bonding plug your gfcis will function properly. In fact, if you did add a ground rod, you would be invoking Code requirements for that, which are pretty strict nowadays, 8 ft rod and max ground resistance requirements etc.

Glad the generator starts the a/c for you. Sounds like a keeper. The worst case scenario will be a restart on a hot day, you might need to wait till next summer now for those conditions. If it's ever an issue just install an Easystart.

]]> Sat, 25 Sep 2021 16:04:19 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145290#145290 GENERATORS??? : Here is a pic of the generator.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145277#145277 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 24 Sep 2021 at 4:29pm

Here is a pic of the generator.  I am not endorsing this as I just got it and can only say it is lightweight and it was able to start my AC.  This is the actual company that built the generator's site:
Company Overview (cqdinking.com)
This is their various generator invertors:  Quiet Inverter Generator (cqdinking.com)
Whoever imports it has them put the Genmax name on it.  The price went up to $549.  I got coupon for 50 off and it was 499 so I paid 460 total
 


]]> Fri, 24 Sep 2021 16:29:40 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145277#145277 GENERATORS??? : I will probably not use the... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145271#145271 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 23 Sep 2021 at 6:03pm

I will probably not use the surge suppressor when I am running the generator but mine just showed a fault in the ground.  Not sure if the surge suppressor is necessary with the gen set.  Good news is it seemed to start the AC without a stumble or anything that I noticed.  ]]> Thu, 23 Sep 2021 18:03:30 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145271#145271 GENERATORS??? : You should still drive a ground... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145269#145269 Author: StephenH
Subject: 14631
Posted: 23 Sep 2021 at 5:35pm

You should still drive a ground rod for safety. This just addresses the floating ground.

It will also bond for the 30A plug. Simple surge protectors will only show a fault. Some of the fancier ones will not allow power to turn on if it senses this fault. That is the reason for the bonding plug. 
]]> Thu, 23 Sep 2021 17:35:28 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145269#145269 GENERATORS??? : And this will fix the ground on... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145268#145268 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 23 Sep 2021 at 5:23pm

And this will fix the ground on the 30amp plug as well?  Does this actually accomplish anything safety wise or will it just satisfy my surge protector?]]> Thu, 23 Sep 2021 17:23:16 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145268#145268 GENERATORS??? : Most, if not all, generators of... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145267#145267 Author: StephenH
Subject: 14631
Posted: 23 Sep 2021 at 3:56pm

Most, if not all, generators of this type have what is called a "floating ground." Even if you drive a ground rod, you may have this. What you need is a Bonding Plug. You can purchase them, or if you want, you can easily make one.

Parts needed:  One male grounding plug such as this one from Lowe's or Home Depot:

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hubbell-15-Amp-Volt-Yellow-3-Wire-Grounding-Plug/3739251

Short length of AWG10 or 12 wire, 10 preferred.

Sealant for hole if desired

Directions:

Open the plug.
Identify the terminals. Brass color is the hot wire, silver the neutral wire, and green is the ground wire connection.
Cut a short length (as in a couple of inches) of wire. Strip enough off of the ends to connect to the terminals.
Connect one end to the neutral (silver) terminal.
Bend and connect the other end to the ground (green) terminal.
Close the plug. Add sealant to the open hole to seal it up if desired (I did).
When the sealant is cured, it is ready to use.

How to use:  Plug this bonding plug into one of the 15A outlets. You will no longer have a floating neutral and your surge protector will be happy.

Why does this work? When you connect to a shore power connection, the neutral and ground are bonded at the breaker panel. When you plug into your generator, they are not bonded. The bonding plug does this so your power source is recognized by your surge protector to be set up properly.
]]> Thu, 23 Sep 2021 15:56:34 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145267#145267 GENERATORS??? : Well the gen set had the proper... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145266#145266 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 23 Sep 2021 at 2:51pm

Well the gen set had the proper plug in for the 30 amp cord so no adaptor was needed.  I was able to get the AC to start up 3 times with no issues.  One question do you need to take a spike and connect it to the gen set ground mine has a connection that says to externally ground.  Reason I ask is when I connected my surge protector I didn't get a blue light that would indicate it was grounded?  I will try to post some pics when I get a chance but is seems like this is going to work.  As with others it is pretty quiet on eco but louder when off and running the AC.....but 60 lbs and I got it for $460.]]> Thu, 23 Sep 2021 14:51:30 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145266#145266 GENERATORS??? : Yes I know when I get it in I... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145193#145193 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 19 Sep 2021 at 6:08pm

Yes I know when I get it in I will see what I need to get it to work.]]> Sun, 19 Sep 2021 18:08:33 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145193#145193 GENERATORS??? : I'm not sure if you realize,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145192#145192 Author: mjlrpod
Subject: 14631
Posted: 19 Sep 2021 at 4:25pm

I'm not sure if you realize, but a generator 30 amp plug, is not the same as an R.V. 30 amp plug. So you will not be able to plug directly into it. You'll need an adaptor. ]]> Sun, 19 Sep 2021 16:25:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145192#145192 GENERATORS??? : Yes gas powered http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145190#145190 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 19 Sep 2021 at 2:04pm

Yes gas powered

]]> Sun, 19 Sep 2021 14:04:49 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145190#145190 GENERATORS??? : Sounds promising, but I am assuming... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145189#145189 Author: Colonel Podder
Subject: 14631
Posted: 19 Sep 2021 at 1:38pm

Sounds promising, but I am assuming this is a gas powered unit only? Not dual fuel?

Thanks.


Originally posted by pedwards2932

I am taking what i consider to be a real calculated risk.  I ordered a gen set from Amazon that is returnable (calculated risk).  It is 3300 starting and 2800 running watt and has a 30 amp plug.  I won't say what brand or anything yet, just that it is a Chinese build but from what I have seen most of them are built in China.  Weighs 52 lbs and has a 145 cc OHV engine.  I am going to try it out as soon as I get it and see if it will run my AC.  I know from experience a lot of these type of units are purchased by importers that put whatever name they decide on them.  It could be a gigantic mistake but I can send it back if it doesn't work.
]]> Sun, 19 Sep 2021 13:38:18 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145189#145189 GENERATORS??? : I would wager it was imported... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145188#145188 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 19 Sep 2021 at 1:32pm

I would wager it was imported by Honeywell that they didn't actually make it.  Same with a Craftsman they have someone else (China) build it).  The company that actually builds the one I am getting has been around since 2010.  I would suspect if I wanted to import enough of them they would put any name I wanted on it......I could call it Bill or George anything but Sue.  They don't build the engines either so you get whatever manufactorer they use.]]> Sun, 19 Sep 2021 13:32:33 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145188#145188 GENERATORS??? : There is another consideration.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145187#145187 Author: GlueGuy
Subject: 14631
Posted: 19 Sep 2021 at 1:23pm

There is another consideration. Years ago, we got a small 2KW generator made by Honeywell. It worked well, was quiet, and we considered it a good value relative to a similar Honda generator. Then something went wrong with it (can't remember the details), but the big problem was that Honeywell have exited the business, and you could not get parts for it.

I've had similar issues with generic gas grills vs Weber gas grills. The former will work for a while, and then you throw them away. The Weber came with a replacement parts booklet, and you can still buy parts for them (although they also last longer).
]]> Sun, 19 Sep 2021 13:23:53 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145187#145187 GENERATORS??? : The engine doesn't have a... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145181#145181 Author: offgrid
Subject: 14631
Posted: 18 Sep 2021 at 9:17pm

The engine doesn't have a chance to throttle up during compressor startup, it happens too fast. So you are dependent on energy stored in the flywheel and on the generator inverter section being able to handle the high start currents. The Chinese inverter generators tend to use lower spec FETs and protect them by having their protection circuits cut out earlier than say Honda which uses better transistors with more headroom. So we'll see...

Either way, an Easystart will solve the problem, if it was me Id install one anyway just to keep the currents down and have everything run smoothly. They work great and are well worth the price IMHO.

]]> Sat, 18 Sep 2021 21:17:59 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145181#145181 GENERATORS??? : You may be right I was making... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145180#145180 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 18 Sep 2021 at 8:25pm

You may be right I was making my guess on the fact that it has 145 cc engine most of the 2000 watts have 80 cc.  The Craftsman 3300 has 149 cc and it weighs 60 lbs and I have talked to several folks that were able to run their AC with it.  I could be wrong like I said calculated risk. Also it does have a 30 amp recepticle.]]> Sat, 18 Sep 2021 20:25:08 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145180#145180 GENERATORS??? : Here's my guess: it will... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145179#145179 Author: offgrid
Subject: 14631
Posted: 18 Sep 2021 at 8:08pm

Here's my guess: it will run but might not reliably start the a/c. IOW, if you also get an Easystart you will be OK. I'm basing that guess on the light weight. It takes rotating mass, as in a heavy flywheel, to start a compressor motor, or it takes a soft start system. Just a guess, I could be wrong. But my point is that if it doesn't start the a/c you don't necessarily need to return it.p]]> Sat, 18 Sep 2021 20:08:28 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145179#145179 GENERATORS??? : Okay. I will be looking forward... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145178#145178 Author: StephenH
Subject: 14631
Posted: 18 Sep 2021 at 6:10pm

Okay. I will be looking forward to reading the results of your testing.

]]> Sat, 18 Sep 2021 18:10:53 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145178#145178 GENERATORS??? : I am taking what i consider to... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145177#145177 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 18 Sep 2021 at 5:58pm

I am taking what i consider to be a real calculated risk.  I ordered a gen set from Amazon that is returnable (calculated risk).  It is 3300 starting and 2800 running watt and has a 30 amp plug.  I won't say what brand or anything yet, just that it is a Chinese build but from what I have seen most of them are built in China.  Weighs 52 lbs and has a 145 cc OHV engine.  I am going to try it out as soon as I get it and see if it will run my AC.  I know from experience a lot of these type of units are purchased by importers that put whatever name they decide on them.  It could be a gigantic mistake but I can send it back if it doesn't work.]]> Sat, 18 Sep 2021 17:58:47 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145177#145177 GENERATORS??? : Originally posted by TheBumSince... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145136#145136 Author: offgrid
Subject: 14631
Posted: 14 Sep 2021 at 11:58pm

Originally posted by TheBum

Since I converted my two Honda EU2000i generators to propane operation, I'll probably have to use both of them in parallel to run the AC even with an EasyStart now unless I want to mess with gasoline again (which I don't). I wanted to get away from gasoline due to the mess and smell. Propane tanks are clean enough that they can ride in the passenger compartment of my SUV.



I could start my a/c with Easystart just fine on my one Honda EU2000i with propane conversion. Where I would anticipate problems is running it after startup at high altitudes in hot conditions. You're starting to get close to maximum engine output. I never tried at over about 3500 ft elevation or so. Mixture readjustment with altitude definitely helped as well, not sure it that can be done on all conversion kits. It was easy to do on my Century Fuels one.]]> Tue, 14 Sep 2021 23:58:19 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145136#145136 GENERATORS??? : I have someone local that has... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145125#145125 Author: pedwards2932
Subject: 14631
Posted: 14 Sep 2021 at 1:38pm

I have someone local that has a Craftsman that was 3000/3400 watt that was used.  New was 899 he wanted $800 or best offer said it was only used once?......the Firman is $699 new with warranty.  Seems less risky to me if it will run the AC.  Several reviews indicated people were running RV ACs with it and no issues.]]> Tue, 14 Sep 2021 13:38:28 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145125#145125 GENERATORS??? : Since I converted my two Honda... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145123#145123 Author: TheBum
Subject: 14631
Posted: 14 Sep 2021 at 11:43am

Since I converted my two Honda EU2000i generators to propane operation, I'll probably have to use both of them in parallel to run the AC even with an EasyStart now unless I want to mess with gasoline again (which I don't). I wanted to get away from gasoline due to the mess and smell. Propane tanks are clean enough that they can ride in the passenger compartment of my SUV.]]> Tue, 14 Sep 2021 11:43:46 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145123#145123 GENERATORS??? : I purchased a used honda on e-bay... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145121#145121 Author: Casey179
Subject: 14631
Posted: 14 Sep 2021 at 9:45am

I purchased a used honda on e-bay from a pawn shop gently used for 600.00   works great very quiet ]]> Tue, 14 Sep 2021 09:45:57 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145121#145121 GENERATORS??? : It will probably start the a/c... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145112#145112 Author: offgrid
Subject: 14631
Posted: 13 Sep 2021 at 8:41pm

It will probably start the a/c without an Easystart. Might be close though if it's overload protection circuit is fussy. If it won't start it then you can return it or put in an Easystart.

Your back might not survive though. Your alternative is an Easystart and a sub 50 lb 1-ish kw generator. The Easystart is well worth not having to have back surgery IMHO. ]]> Mon, 13 Sep 2021 20:41:50 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=14631&PID=145112#145112