Buying a new fifth wheel: "Generator Prep"

[manowell]

I've had RV dealers tell me don't even try to put in a generator without this, which I'm fine with.

I am curious what all it adds, what else I need to add have have a generator working.

I assume that gas lines, electricity lines, maybe starter switch wiring and automatic transfer switch is in there?

Still have to add exhaust tube, maybe evap canister?

I'm comfortable working mechanically and electrically, managing the 280lbs of a Onan 5.5K LP genset.

Anyone been down this road?

Thanks,

Marc

[BFlinn181]

It might vary by manufacturer, but in some 5th wheel trailers it consists of a mounting base and vapor isolating shroud in the front storage compartment, an automatic electrical transfer switch in the front compartment, the start switch and monitoring controls at the lighting control panel, and associated wiring. You'll have to see if the wiring is properly bonded for the neutral wire from the generator.

[plasma800]

Yeah it adds all the electrical wire, gas lines and stuff back to the transfer switch. they are right about that.

However, one can always use an offboard genset.. but I can tell you this, I LOVE my onboard generator.

BUT we also travel with a small child.. sometimes SHE dictates when and where we stop... and being able to run the A/C for a couple hours is a godsend. Totally worth it.

[Stranger]

Make sure they install the control panel inside. We ordered our ALFA "Gen Prepped". Did not come with the control panel.


Many calls and arguing with them and they had the dealer install the panel, finally.

[trx430ex]

Am I reading this right “LP” Genny? i would keep it simple, abandon LP Go with a Honda EU3000 and a boat 5 gallon diaphragm pump tank in gas. Then just plug in and start. Very simple. Just have to leave the compartment open for air/exhaust.

[manowell]

Originally Posted by trx430ex

Am I reading this right “LP” Genny? i would keep it simple, abandon LP Go with a Honda EU3000 and a boat 5 gallon diaphragm pump tank in gas. Then just plug in and start. Very simple. Just have to leave the compartment open for air/exhaust.

I have a pair of Honda EU2000i generators that I've used for fifteen years. I'm tired of lifting them in and out of the compartment every time I need to use them, running a security cable through them if I want to leave for a couple of hours, and having to refuel them overnight if I want to have power all night. Good "whoops" solution, don't want it for the main use solution.

I think running the combustion engine in the coach without proper exhaust is reckless, too. I don't want to store gasoline in the bed of my truck and secure THAT, either.

I understand this need isn't for everybody, but it is for us, and I want to do it right.

[2Yung2 Quit]

We love our on board Onan LP generator.

[trx430ex]

This is what I am doing once the Onan is sold, install drawer slides
https://www.google.com/search?q=rv+d...rU5jPtaMpAH8M:

Then install the Honda EU3000, then it is simple. Open hatch, slide out tray with genny on, start, plug in. When your done, unplug, turn off, slide back in, close side door.


Honda EU3000 holds 3.7 gallons of fuel, more than enough to run all night.

Typing in mobile app, so, could explain better in desktop.

[greenenvy1]

Originally Posted by trx430ex

This is what I am doing once the Onan is sold, install drawer slides
https://www.google.com/search?q=rv+d...rU5jPtaMpAH8M:

Then install the Honda EU3000, then it is simple. Open hatch, slide out tray with genny on, start, plug in. When your done, unplug, turn off, slide back in, close side door.

Typing in mobile app, so, could explain better in desktop.

We use that same set up on our fire trucks. Pull drawer out and it locks In the out position. Use generator as needed, push back in when done.

[consolenut]

Onboard Genny is nice in a 5ver. Crank it up an hour so before you stop and run the AC. Thus you have a cool 5ver when you get to your destination.