Generator Replacement

2800 MicroLite by Onan
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Sector9surf
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Generator Replacement

Post by Sector9surf »

Hi,

Ours came with the generator already removed so we are going with a honda eu2000 or similar. Most for sale are gas, but I do see propane kits for them also. Any input on how long a standard propane tank will run one?

We haven't boondocked yet, but are in FL so must have a generator for a/c. and are wondering what to expect as in how much propane or gas is needed per day to keep a/c running at least 1/2 the day... but preferably for most of it. (I can't sleep without a/c)
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skater
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Re: Generator Replacement

Post by skater »

Sector9surf wrote:
Sun Oct 14, 2018 12:54 pm
Hi,

Ours came with the generator already removed so we are going with a honda eu2000 or similar. Most for sale are gas, but I do see propane kits for them also. Any input on how long a standard propane tank will run one?

We haven't boondocked yet, but are in FL so must have a generator for a/c. and are wondering what to expect as in how much propane or gas is needed per day to keep a/c running at least 1/2 the day... but preferably for most of it. (I can't sleep without a/c)
I'm not sure a 2000 watt generator will be enough to run that A/C unit. It's an 11,000 BTU unit, so it's smaller than most RVs have, but you definitely will want to check on that. If it would handle it, I'd go with that new Honda 2200 - they give a bit more power in the same size package as the old EU2000 did.
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usachris
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Re: Generator Replacement

Post by usachris »

You might want to do a little research into a product called “EasyStart” for your AC.

In essence, it reduces the large electrical load from your AC compressor kicking on, and allows you to start and run your AC with a smaller generator.

Here is a link to a video that would be a good introduction to learning more about EasyStart.

https://youtu.be/IbZxSwYfYvg
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Oldbagpipe
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Re: Generator Replacement

Post by Oldbagpipe »

We decided to go with the Champion 100261 -3100 Watt (3400 max). It came with a wireless remote which works well (starts and shuts down) from inside the rig. Furthermore, it either rides on the trailer if we are racing, or fits on the rear trailer hitch platform with plenty of room for other essentials. It has run everything we have ever tried. We purchased online from Electric Generators Direct, with a total cost of $899.10 and free shipping. Now, in the winter, we have it in the garage and plug it in if we lose power. Worked well for us. And yes, it has a cover and I arrange it to look better when traveling. I just threw it on the back so the viewer could see how it works.
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3Patels
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WATT Generator that makes no noise and runs on propane

Post by 3Patels »

https://www.wattfuelcell.com/uses/rv/ have you heard about these generators at the Pomona rv show that some manufacturers are incorporating on new models, no exhaust, no noise and runs on propane
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Re: WATT Generator that makes no noise and runs on propane

Post by tdashmike »

3Patels wrote:
Wed Oct 24, 2018 9:59 pm
https://www.wattfuelcell.com/uses/rv/ have you heard about these generators at the Pomona rv show that some manufacturers are incorporating on new models, no exhaust, no noise and runs on propane
At least for their 1st gen there will be a power problem because it is only 1150W max.

https://www.wattfuelcell.com/portable-p ... -imperium/
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skater
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Re: WATT Generator that makes no noise and runs on propane

Post by skater »

tdashmike wrote:
Mon Oct 29, 2018 4:06 pm
At least for their 1st gen there will be a power problem because it is only 1150W max.

https://www.wattfuelcell.com/portable-p ... -imperium/
Emphasis on the max part of that...continuous is 500 watts. That's about 4 amps at 120 volts...so, essentially, enough to run the fridge on AC power (just for comparison; it'd make more sense to run the fridge on propane directly), or recharge the batteries. I can definitely see the value of it for boondockers.

It looks like they aren't for sale to the general public yet (at least, I couldn't find it). I wonder what they'll cost.
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tdashmike
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Re: WATT Generator that makes no noise and runs on propane

Post by tdashmike »

skater wrote:
Tue Oct 30, 2018 7:07 am
tdashmike wrote:
Mon Oct 29, 2018 4:06 pm
At least for their 1st gen there will be a power problem because it is only 1150W max.

https://www.wattfuelcell.com/portable-p ... -imperium/
Emphasis on the max part of that...continuous is 500 watts. That's about 4 amps at 120 volts...so, essentially, enough to run the fridge on AC power (just for comparison; it'd make more sense to run the fridge on propane directly), or recharge the batteries. I can definitely see the value of it for boondockers.

It looks like they aren't for sale to the general public yet (at least, I couldn't find it). I wonder what they'll cost.
Yeah, but it is exciting technology though if we can get enough power out of it and it's silent.
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skater
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Re: WATT Generator that makes no noise and runs on propane

Post by skater »

tdashmike wrote:
Tue Oct 30, 2018 7:56 am
Yeah, but it is exciting technology though if we can get enough power out of it and it's silent.
They've been promising fuel cells for this type of application since the 1980s, at least, but in recent years, many practical applications have appeared. I'm guessing they'll be very expensive (on a per-watt basis) for some time, though.
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AdamU
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Re: Generator Replacement

Post by AdamU »

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I went to install the 2.8 onan. I removed the door. It was a bit tough to get the door off. The generator fits in there with little room to spare height wise.

However, it’s weird I know I checked this info but the exhaust and oil ports were supposed to be flopped to the correct side. I talked to generators direct and the board about this but now I can’t find my records on it. I’ve been told now that they only make one version of that generator and it is what is is.

I ended up having onan send me this schematic and i copied a template for myself. Going to try to finish the install on Monday.

Does anybody have any information about about generator replacement for this?
AdamU
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Re: Generator Replacement

Post by AdamU »

Dennis said on FB: My old one had exhaust on the right side new one is on the left. Its a 2017 model when they changed it idk or if the old style is still available not sure ether. But the exhaust had to be moved.
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sparky
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Re: Generator Replacement

Post by sparky »

I just replaced my generator with the new 2800 Onan. Exhaust, cooling air outlet, oil drain are all relocated. Different footprint from old generator. I had to cut into the inside wall under the generator compartment, have a sheet metal duct built to route cooling air outside. Had to cut another hole in this wall to get access to one of the generator bolt locations. Had to fabricate new exhaust piping. It was a lot of work. But new generator can start the AC without bogging down. I like that! I can leave it running without worrying that when AC cycles and starts up compressor it won't kill the generator. It can be done!
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