Inverter Install in Holiday Rambler

[richardkronz]

I am installing a M2812 2800 watt inverter in my 2002 Holiday Rambler. The electrical part is not a problem, but I would like suggestions / pics of how to mount the inverter. The battery compartment is divided in half, with the front half being a normal storage compartment like the rest on the coach. That is where I want to put the inverter. The issue is, this thing is HEAVY. Like 55 pounds. No way can it bolt to a sidewall, which are plastic lined, and even with reinforcement, thats too much weight. The compartment steps up in the back and I can put it up on top of the step, but I need to figure out how to mount it, and have it be removable for access to the wiring on the side of the inverter. IVe seen inverters sitting on shelves in compartments before, but they werent the plastic lined like mine are.
Also, Im planning on making a hole in the ceiling of the compartment and installing a fan to force air from inside the coach into the compartment for cooling. Im unsure if I should put another hole for the air from inside the compartment to go back into the coach, or make a hole to exhaust the air outside. I see benefits both ways. Any ideas would be appreciated. Pics would be superb. My email is rfkjr@juno.com .

Thanks

[vito.a]

I updated the original inverter in my Windsor to a new Magnum ME2012. It was larger than the original inverter, so I made a mount from ¾” plywood.I painted the plywood black and then mounted the new inverter to the plywood.I like to use coated sheetrock screws as they usually do not crack the wood like wood screws.I then installed two-wood 2x2’s across the roof of the compartment, one front and one rear (also painted these black).I then mounted the plywood to the 2x2’s.If you look at OEM inverter installs, most are hung inverted in the compartment.Since my compartment had previously housed an inverter, it had a wire mesh at the rear of the compartment to circulate outside air.
I like your idea of a fan as these inverters get very hot in the summer. You may have to install a large aluminum or plywood piece across your compartment so that you can reinforce it and attach to main crossbeams.
Most inverters use a phone cord (RJ11) from the inverter to the control board. You will need to route this inside the coach to the location you choose for your control panel. I installed mine just inside the coach main door up next to the other control panels.
If you need any advice in wiring or parts, contact Chris at Tekris Power Electronics. He has stores in both Phoenix and NJ and is one of the few that can repair the older inverters.
Best of luck!