Community Forums

caryt · 07-14-2019, 03:17 PM

Can you run it without running the generator?

I have a residential Ref and a 3000w sine inverter.

I saw this post so got me thinking, I do not have solar.

http://www.irv2.com/forums/f103/fron...m_medium=email

Need to take the coach to Az for some work and the dash ac isn't working.

Thanks

Mainecoons · 07-14-2019, 03:27 PM

Your engine generator which also charges the coach batteries does not put out near enough amps to run a big AC unit. The Onan will use about 1/2 gallon per hour.

Smitty77 · 07-14-2019, 03:43 PM

Well a direct answer is yes - but with proper modifications charging, battery bank, and probably a soft start module added to the front AC. And of course, the AC CB for the front unit, would need to be changed to un off of your Inverter.

OEM wise, the answer is no.

And heck, it's good to exercise the generator too

!

Best to you,
Smitty

BrianGlenn · 07-14-2019, 06:03 PM

I beleive there are a few coaches that came from factory with this option - I think Deen (Mr D) has one of them (2009 Magna?).

He may be able to share info on his setup. Engine alternator - inverters etc.

Brian

EDIT: Damon Rapozo - 2006 Magna - New Options

**CountryFit** · 07-14-2019, 08:18 PM

We do it regularly in hot days with strong sun. We have a 2750w solar system (see my blog here) which typically outputs 110-120a at 12v nominal in summer time, and a 2800w Magnum inverter. Our alternator contributes 60a (restricted by design). Combined power is more than enough to run our front a/c which consumes about 145a at 12v nominal.

There is a prerequisite though - you'd have to find a way to disperse the heat from the inverter, or it will "overheat" in 15 minutes. I installed a power vent with a thermo switch, so far so good.

tom chelbana · 07-15-2019, 05:54 AM

The Newmar King Aire has this as standard on their coaches but also has 8 extra batteries for a total of 16 and an extra 3K inverter.

mike brez · 07-15-2019, 05:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Smitty77

And heck, it's good to exercise the generator too

!

Best to you,
Smitty

X2 I don't use mine to much so it works out good to run it while traveling with the ac on

gsander1 · 07-15-2019, 09:07 AM

CaryT, I hope you are planning on fixing the chassis air conditioner. Your system is the same as mine and is quite powerful. The dash component is 19K BTU and the evaporator under the bed is 15K BTU. I never need to run the generator and roof air while on the road.

caryt · 07-15-2019, 10:56 AM

Thanks all for the info, I assumed we had a 200-250 amp alt so running a 1800w @12v would not be a issue.

Yes one reason for going down to

Olstrom Custom Coach is to get the AC fixed.

**CountryFit** · 07-15-2019, 02:39 PM

I am not sure on your Magna, but on my Intrigue the charge rate to house battery from alternator is limited to 60a. I believe CC made this to prevent overload to the alternator and ensure the sufficient charge to the chassis battery.

caryt · 07-15-2019, 02:55 PM

Guess I need to look through the CC books and do some web surfing and see just how this all works.

Thanks!~

Greg Moe · 07-25-2019, 03:25 PM

My Dash air has not worked since I bought the coach, talked to my mech. he said run the gen and overhead air costs between 3/4 and 1 mile to gal is less than constantly repairing dash air.