R-pod Owners Forum : Generator Size Question http://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Introduce Yourself : Generator Size Question Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Mon, 04 May 2026 13:50:37 +0000 Wed, 04 May 2016 21:36:07 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=7426 R-pod Owners Forum http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png http://www.rpod-owners.com/ Generator Size Question : The problem is heat dissipation.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74417#74417 Author: techntrek
Subject: 7426
Posted: 04 May 2016 at 9:36pm

The problem is heat dissipation.  The pucks are nothing but a big wad of plastic that holds the heat in, so you run that 1500 watt heater and it overheats.  Eventually the contacts shift, you get arcing, and it fails.  It wouldn't surprise me at all if they all have undersized conductors, as cheap as they are.  That would amplify the problem.

The dog-bone style adapters give you a lot more exposed surface area so they can dissipate the heat, and have properly-sized conductors so there is less heat to begin with.  For the few extra bucks they cost they are worth it.  I just browsed Walmart and found a hockey puck for $6 and dog-bone for $19.
]]> Wed, 04 May 2016 21:36:07 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74417#74417 Generator Size Question : A Camco puck, which is CSA certified,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74387#74387 Author: StephenH
Subject: 7426
Posted: 04 May 2016 at 1:18pm

A Camco puck, which is CSA certified, should hold up to the load of a 1500W heater. If it was rated for 15A, it should be okay up to that limit. Now, if it is put in an environment where there is moisture, causing corrosion, that would be a different situation. The one I have seems to be holding up well. The connectors seem to be pretty heavy-duty. I would not vouch that all pucks are well-made, but the one I have seems to be okay.]]> Wed, 04 May 2016 13:18:07 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74387#74387 Generator Size Question : Originally posted by StephenHI... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74386#74386 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 7426
Posted: 04 May 2016 at 12:55pm

Originally posted by StephenH

I would think that if I were trying to run at the maximum load, it would be a problem. Running the battery charger, refrigerator, fan, and other low-power-draw items should not be an issue. Running the AC in addition to the above would be a scenario where I could expect problems.


You're essentially correct. Low wattage loads, no problem; A/C a definite no-no. The problem is intermediate loads. How 'bout running a 1500W heater for an unexpected overnight freeze; or a quick run of the electric WH to clean up the rig for next weekend? Why not just have a good adapter on hand and trash the cheap junque? No worries.
]]> Wed, 04 May 2016 12:55:06 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74386#74386 Generator Size Question : I would think that if I were trying... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74384#74384 Author: StephenH
Subject: 7426
Posted: 04 May 2016 at 12:20pm

I would think that if I were trying to run at the maximum load, it would be a problem. Running the battery charger, refrigerator, fan, and other low-power-draw items should not be an issue. Running the AC in addition to the above would be a scenario where I could expect problems.]]> Wed, 04 May 2016 12:20:30 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74384#74384 Generator Size Question : Originally posted by TheBum Originally... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74383#74383 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 7426
Posted: 04 May 2016 at 12:15pm

Originally posted by TheBum

Originally posted by techntrek

Don't get the puck style, get the dog-bone style!  Many, many failures of the puck types due to overheating.

That makes little sense. Shorter conductor runs mean less resistance and, therefore, less power loss due to heat. The only explanation would be if manufacturers are grossly undersizing the conductors in the pucks.


Makes perfect sense. In this case it's all about contact resistance, not conductor length.  Poor, cheap contacts cause heating that leads to melting.
]]> Wed, 04 May 2016 12:15:38 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74383#74383 Generator Size Question : Originally posted by techntrekDon't... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74381#74381 Author: TheBum
Subject: 7426
Posted: 04 May 2016 at 11:26am

Originally posted by techntrek

Don't get the puck style, get the dog-bone style!  Many, many failures of the puck types due to overheating.

That makes little sense. Shorter conductor runs mean less resistance and, therefore, less power loss due to heat. The only explanation would be if manufacturers are grossly undersizing the conductors in the pucks.]]> Wed, 04 May 2016 11:26:01 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74381#74381 Generator Size Question : I really thought Leo was more... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74361#74361 Author: fwunder
Subject: 7426
Posted: 03 May 2016 at 11:14pm

I really thought Leo was more a [hockey] puck guy than dog-bone. Guess you just never know on the internets.

fred
]]> Tue, 03 May 2016 23:14:47 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74361#74361 Generator Size Question : Ditto!! http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74350#74350 Author: Leo B
Subject: 7426
Posted: 03 May 2016 at 9:23pm

Ditto!!]]> Tue, 03 May 2016 21:23:44 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74350#74350 Generator Size Question : Don't get the puck style,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74346#74346 Author: techntrek
Subject: 7426
Posted: 03 May 2016 at 8:38pm

Don't get the puck style, get the dog-bone style!  Many, many failures of the puck types due to overheating.]]> Tue, 03 May 2016 20:38:40 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74346#74346 Generator Size Question : Thanks for your reply. It was... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74266#74266 Author: AKRPod
Subject: 7426
Posted: 02 May 2016 at 3:05pm

Thanks for your reply. It was very helpful! ]]> Mon, 02 May 2016 15:05:44 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74266#74266 Generator Size Question : Short answer: Yes, you will... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74264#74264 Author: StephenH
Subject: 7426
Posted: 02 May 2016 at 2:07pm

Short answer: Yes, you will need an adapter.

Longer answer: The Generac iX2000 only has a 20 ampere AC outlet (plus 12V outlet, but that is a separate matter). You can find adapters for your Rpod power cord that look like a puck with 15/20 ampere male plug on one side and 30 ampere female socket on the other side. Mine is yellow, purchased at my local Wal-Mart. It is relatively inexpensive.
]]> Mon, 02 May 2016 14:07:23 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74264#74264 Generator Size Question : Greetings, Just purchased a... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74262#74262 Author: AKRPod
Subject: 7426
Posted: 02 May 2016 at 12:49pm

Greetings,

Just purchased a 2016 R178 and ordered (I live in Alaska and could not find one locally) a Generac IX 2000. Will I need a 30 amp to 15 amp converter to us it with my RPOD? Thanks for your help. ]]> Mon, 02 May 2016 12:49:26 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=74262#74262 Generator Size Question : I know. I really vacillated on... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72666#72666 Author: dacolson
Subject: 7426
Posted: 05 Apr 2016 at 4:43pm

I know. I really vacillated on the decision. 2 x EU2000iS are the same price as 1 x EU3000iS and deliver up to 1000 watts more (4000 watts total) than the single EU3000iS (3000 watts total). AND if you only need 1 for a trip, the 2000 is SOOO much lighter/lighter and easier to live with than the 3000. Right or wrong, my thought process was:
1. a singe gen is easier to deal with than 2
2. 2 gens, even quiet ones, will probably be at least a little louder than 1
3. 2 gens will use more fuel and will need an external fuel source to match the EU3000iS
4. 3000 watts is more than enough for my applications

As to other models/brands - I chose Honda because I have had great luck with all my Honda equipment and trust the brand. They also have the lowest published dB levels. I'm willing to pay the diff. And whether or not I have to turn it off during quiet times, I still want to be as quiet as possible in respect of my neighbors. 

]]> Tue, 05 Apr 2016 16:43:56 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72666#72666 Generator Size Question : Parallel isn't that bad,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72665#72665 Author: TheBum
Subject: 7426
Posted: 05 Apr 2016 at 4:22pm

Parallel isn't that bad, especially if you get an external fuel system. That way, you still only have one gas tank to worry about. As I'm getting ready to travel, I set the generators inside the 'Pod door with a cover over them so that the smell doesn't leach into everything. Thus far, it hasn't.

The same company where I got my external fuel system also makes them for single generators.]]> Tue, 05 Apr 2016 16:22:26 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72665#72665 Generator Size Question : show-off http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72663#72663 Author: dacolson
Subject: 7426
Posted: 05 Apr 2016 at 3:38pm

show-off Wink]]> Tue, 05 Apr 2016 15:38:42 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72663#72663 Generator Size Question : I have a 4000 Watt Champion generator... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72653#72653 Author: Keith-N-Dar
Subject: 7426
Posted: 05 Apr 2016 at 2:11pm

I have a 4000 Watt Champion generator that cost about the same as the one you mention.  It is quieter than many generators seen (heard) in campgrounds and runs everything on the pod without problems.  It pushes up my ramps onto the bed of my truck where it stays while we are camping.  I can buy a bunch of them for the price of a Honda that you still can't run during quiet time in the campground.]]> Tue, 05 Apr 2016 14:11:57 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72653#72653 Generator Size Question : Even though it's heavy, I... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72645#72645 Author: dacolson
Subject: 7426
Posted: 05 Apr 2016 at 12:21pm

Even though it's heavy, I traded in my Honda 2000 for the 3000. We do want to use the AC on generator power and the 2000 wasn't enough. And instead of carrying two around to run in parallel, I voted for the simplicity of running a single EU3000iS. Plenty of power, SUPER quiet, long run-time (20 hours on 3.5gal tank) ... and Techntrek pointed out it's too heavy to steal! You'll be hard pressed to find a quieter unit.]]> Tue, 05 Apr 2016 12:21:36 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72645#72645 Generator Size Question : Originally posted by GlibGuyI... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72631#72631 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 7426
Posted: 05 Apr 2016 at 7:54am

Originally posted by GlibGuy

I notice that "Cabela's" has a Champion 4000 Watt Weekender Generator on sale.  It's relatively inexpensive to begin with and they have it on sale for $299.  It's a little louder (68 db) and somewhat heavier (114 lbs or so) than the expensive models but a LOT less money.  Comes with a cover and a wheel kit.

So is there a Podder out there that has one of these or has any information about their performance?


IMO, way too loud for a CG, way too heavy for a trip, and way overkill for an RPOD. But the price is good.
]]> Tue, 05 Apr 2016 07:54:41 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72631#72631 Generator Size Question : I notice that "Cabela's"... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72630#72630 Author: GlibGuy
Subject: 7426
Posted: 05 Apr 2016 at 7:47am

I notice that "Cabela's" has a Champion 4000 Watt Weekender Generator on sale.  It's relatively inexpensive to begin with and they have it on sale for $299.  It's a little louder (68 db) and somewhat heavier (114 lbs or so) than the expensive models but a LOT less money.  Comes with a cover and a wheel kit.

So is there a Podder out there that has one of these or has any information about their performance?
]]> Tue, 05 Apr 2016 07:47:39 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72630#72630 Generator Size Question : Well, it sounds like you had a... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72239#72239 Author: StephenH
Subject: 7426
Posted: 29 Mar 2016 at 9:00pm

Well, it sounds like you had a learning experience. Ermm

]]> Tue, 29 Mar 2016 21:00:49 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72239#72239 Generator Size Question : Originally posted by TheBumI... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72193#72193 Author: TheBum
Subject: 7426
Posted: 29 Mar 2016 at 12:33pm

Originally posted by TheBum

I have a Ryobi 1800/2200W generator that I've been using for field charging of lithium polymer batteries for my RC helicopter hobby for the last few years. It only cost me $450 back then.

I just purchased a 179, mainly for taking to RC helicopter events. Almost all my camping will be dry. During summers down here in Texas, AC is a necessity, even at night, so I will be adding a second Ryobi generator ($549 this time) and a parallel kit ($100), which allows the combined power of the two generators to be used. I'm also adding an extended run fuel system so I don't have to worry about the fuel running out overnight.


An update: I used the parallel generator setup two weekends ago and it worked great. It had no problem at all with the air conditioner while running in auto throttle mode. The only tricky part was clamping off the generators' tank vent lines to allow the gas to siphon from the external tank. I misread the pictorial instructions, opened the wrong panel on each generator, and clamped off the wrong line. ]]> Tue, 29 Mar 2016 12:33:08 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72193#72193 Generator Size Question : Originally posted by Patriot... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72126#72126 Author: Patriot Dave
Subject: 7426
Posted: 28 Mar 2016 at 8:07pm

Originally posted by Patriot Dave

Thanks Charlie for the reply.

Not sure if I understand the 6 volt vs 12 volt statement???? Must be something to do with capacity, could you explain?

Thanks


p]]> Mon, 28 Mar 2016 20:07:38 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=72126#72126 Generator Size Question : One thing the Generac iX2000 lacks... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=70579#70579 Author: StephenH
Subject: 7426
Posted: 01 Mar 2016 at 1:51pm

One thing the Generac iX2000 lacks is the ability to hook up another generator in parallel. For that, one would have to go with the iQ2000, but that would have run $300 more plus another $799 (current Amazon and Northern Tool price) for a second one plus the cost of the paralleling kit. I didn't see the Ryobi, but just looked at it and saw that Home Depot has it for $599. $549 looks to be a good price.]]> Tue, 01 Mar 2016 13:51:17 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=70579#70579 Generator Size Question : I have a Ryobi 1800/2200W generator... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=70575#70575 Author: TheBum
Subject: 7426
Posted: 01 Mar 2016 at 11:48am

I have a Ryobi 1800/2200W generator that I've been using for field charging of lithium polymer batteries for my RC helicopter hobby for the last few years. It only cost me $450 back then.

I just purchased a 179, mainly for taking to RC helicopter events. Almost all my camping will be dry. During summers down here in Texas, AC is a necessity, even at night, so I will be adding a second Ryobi generator ($549 this time) and a parallel kit ($100), which allows the combined power of the two generators to be used. I'm also adding an extended run fuel system so I don't have to worry about the fuel running out overnight.]]> Tue, 01 Mar 2016 11:48:29 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=70575#70575 Generator Size Question : Okay Thanks http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69746#69746 Author: Patriot Dave
Subject: 7426
Posted: 08 Feb 2016 at 8:01pm

Okay

Thanks]]> Mon, 08 Feb 2016 20:01:47 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69746#69746 Generator Size Question : I went with orange. That is,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69733#69733 Author: StephenH
Subject: 7426
Posted: 08 Feb 2016 at 5:09pm

I went with orange. That is, a Generac IX2000, which is rated 2,000 Watts with 2,200 surge Watts. I can't test it right now because our RP-179 is at the dealer for service. However, I am confident that it will be adequate. It was purchased at Costco for $499.00 plus tax.

http://www.generac.com/all-products/generators/portable-generators/ix-series/ix2000?lang=en-US
]]> Mon, 08 Feb 2016 17:09:05 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69733#69733 Generator Size Question : SOC is State of Charge, the percentage... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69714#69714 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 7426
Posted: 08 Feb 2016 at 8:27am

SOC is State of Charge, the percentage of full charge in the battery.]]> Mon, 08 Feb 2016 08:27:59 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69714#69714 Generator Size Question : I will probably pick up Blue today.... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69710#69710 Author: Patriot Dave
Subject: 7426
Posted: 08 Feb 2016 at 6:00am

I will probably pick up Blue today.

Thank you for your comments.]]> Mon, 08 Feb 2016 06:00:15 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69710#69710 Generator Size Question : Also what is S.O.C. ............. http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69706#69706 Author: Patriot Dave
Subject: 7426
Posted: 08 Feb 2016 at 5:38am

Also what is S.O.C. .......... Standard Operational Capacity?]]> Mon, 08 Feb 2016 05:38:08 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69706#69706 Generator Size Question : Patriot Dave wrote:Qualified and... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69704#69704 Author: shroomer
Subject: 7426
Posted: 07 Feb 2016 at 10:33pm

Patriot Dave wrote:
Qualified and certified service techs and their locations also seem to be important. I have a few more Honda service dealers near by however, there is a couple Yamaha dealers not that far away. One of the Yamaha dealers I have some good experience with regarding service on a motorcycle.

Make sure that your Honda dealer fixes Honda generators. My local authorized Honda repair shop wasn't authorized to fix generators, only other power equipment. Don't know if this is usual or what, but it was my experience. Be careful - don't assume.
]]> Sun, 07 Feb 2016 22:33:43 +0000 http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7426&PID=69704#69704