Downsize generator and replace with solar??

[MatthewChase]

1996 Monaco Signature executive 40' no tag axle.

I am adding a 2.5kw roof solar array and new electronics in the coach. I am overweight on the front axle by 800 pounds. I am underweight in the rear by net 800 lbs. My thought is since my solar array will provide all the energy I need the majority of the time, I can delete the 10kw onan generator in the front and put a small, say 2kw honda diesel generator in the back just for battery charging if necessary on cloudy days. This will save a lot of extra weight on my front axle.

I am deleting the power hungry roof ac units and installing a mini split system as well as updating to a residential fridge.

Any thoughts on how crazy I am for deleting a perfectly good 10kw generator?? It is awesome but I just don't think I need it with a huge array.

[okcnewbie]

Good luck. Let us know when you're done.

I'm sorry but if I had a dime for everyone that was gonna run their AC with solar.......

[twinboat]

2K diesel Honda generator ?

[PJStough]

What are you planning for a battery bank?

[dexters]

Originally Posted by MatthewChase

1996 Monaco Signature executive 40' no tag axle.

I am adding a 2.5kw roof solar array and new electronics in the coach. I am overweight on the front axle by 800 pounds. I am underweight in the rear by net 800 lbs. My thought is since my solar array will provide all the energy I need the majority of the time, I can delete the 10kw onan generator in the front and put a small, say 2kw honda diesel generator in the back just for battery charging if necessary on cloudy days. This will save a lot of extra weight on my front axle.

I am deleting the power hungry roof ac units and installing a mini split system as well as updating to a residential fridge.

Any thoughts on how crazy I am for deleting a perfectly good 10kw generator?? It is awesome but I just don't think I need it with a huge array.

What will the batteries you add weight?

[vito.a]

I'm surprised you are that much over weight on the front axle.
The primary problem is what do you do on cloudy days or short winter days?

As far as I know, Honda does not make a 2000w diesel generator. You could use one of the small Honda 2200 or 3000w gas units, but then you will need to carry and store gasoline.

I don't think you should plan on visiting the southwestern US.
You should also consider that it may make this coach difficult to sell at a later date.

[Outbound]

If this is what you have decided to do I would disconnect generator and not remove from coach, you may change your mind after going solar.

[96 Wideglide]

Originally Posted by vito.a

I don't think you should plan on visiting the southwestern US.

Why?
His proposed mod's aren't going to eliminate the option of plugging into shore power at a RV park, if he wants to run AC's.

[vsheetz]

Assuming your plan is to only run air conditioning when shore power is available, right?

Before adding stuff you are 800lbs over on the front? Doesn't seem right.

[dexters]

Originally Posted by 96 Wideglide

Why?
His proposed mod's aren't going to eliminate the option of plugging into shore power at a RV park, if he wants to run AC's.

He could add a soft start to the A/C (one unit) and get a Westinghouse 2500 iGen for $600 at Home Depot. I did it and it works. At lower elevations you don't need the soft start. But it only costs $9. on Amazon and it is a very easy install.

[distaff]

Does yours have a tag axle? If so could be that you have too much pressure in the tag airbags. If not I got nothin.

[rschreifels]

Is the over weight on the front axle from the motorhome stated spec? Or the axle spec? Are your tires rated to take this weight? I would think that your tires are the weak link and would have less tolerance than any other link if they are overloaded.

[gpounder]

Overweight by 800 lbs. There must be an explanation and you need to find out why. I would even say to remeasure your rig.

I know a lot about solar. One thing I have learned is to though out all the specifications you ever read about solar. The only spec which is usually correct is a perfect perpendicular angle to the sun on the day when we are closet to the sun when the temp is cool will tell you the max power.

Put that panel on the top and the performance sucks. Park in the shade and it sucks, clouds and it sucks, get the drift. The only thing solar is good for is keeping the batteries charged in the storage yard. It will not give you enough power otherwise.

[gpounder]

One other option is to short load your rig. Do not fill the fuel tank to full. Same with water. If you know your going to hook up just put in a small amount. Dump tanks asap.