Community Forums

Homeby5 · 01-19-2022, 04:35 PM

I'll be at show tomorrow. Looking for a genset for my Imagine 2600RB TT. One AC. Propane/elec fridge.
What size genset would suit me when boon docking?
Thanks

CRV2 · 01-19-2022, 04:58 PM

3000+ watts, inverter generator.

You could get by with a less wattage generator if you wanted to install a micro-air easy start kit on the A/C (~$300.00). Some people like to do that as a ~2300W inverter generator is a little lighter and quieter... not much quieter but some, but being a little lighter can make all the difference for some RV'rs. I would just get a strong enough inverter generator though without needed to do anything to the A/C. ~CA

Homeby5 · 01-19-2022, 05:21 PM

Thanks. Any brands you guys recommend that stand out in terms of quiet and reliability?

KD4UPL · 01-19-2022, 07:29 PM

Honda and Yamaha are the top tier. Everything else is not as good. Many like Champion.

The main thing is make sure it's an inverter type.

dons2346 · 01-19-2022, 07:58 PM

If possible, listen to them run. All might say the sound level is, say, 59db the pitch of the sound can make a big difference. My preference is the Yamaha

Marine359 · 01-19-2022, 07:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Homeby5

Thanks. Any brands you guys recommend that stand out in terms of quiet and reliability?

First, while at the show, buy a micro-air easy start. That makes your generator choice sooo much easier. Only takes 40 minutes to install.
I run my A/C on a propane fired 2500w generator with easy start.
It’s a champion 2500w df.
Very lightweight, 39 lbs. quiet, 61 db.
Runs for 30 hours under load off a standard Blue Rhino 20lb propane tank (3.5 gal). I’m very pleased with it, but I know it’s not the quality of Honda. But at $600, it only has to last a few years to pay for itself.

rosebud1218 · 01-19-2022, 08:59 PM

Congrats on the new Travel Trailer and Truck - what a great combo!

Good suggestions from other commenters. My personal experience for what it's worth:

We did not/do not dry camp in hot places frequently enough to justify hauling around a 102lb 3500 Watt inverter generator that my Dometic Air Conditioner required to startup and run.

We did, however, need >12V energy to run the microwave which could be powered by a considerably smaller fuel-based or "solar" generator.

Sold our reliable Harbor Freight Predator 3500 and purchased a Jackery 1500 solar generator (Lithium battery) with 4 x 100 solar panels. More than enough to run the microwave and easily recharged.

As I am something of a belt and suspenders kind of person, I installed the Micro Air Easy Start in our Penguin II 13.5k BTU AC and bought an A-iPower dual fuel 2000 watt inverter generator (52lb). I am able, if needed, to start/run the A-iPower generator directly off my low pressure propane connection. I believe Honda also offers a dual fuel kit. It's great as we don't need to carry gasoline and, if I only needed the AC for a brief period (~30 mins) I could, with the Micro Air actually start/run it off the solar generator alone.

These options have given me more flexibility, easier use, and less bed weight (more of a concern for a Tacoma than a Ford F350).

Good luck and best wishes with your new rig!

jleonard · 01-20-2022, 05:57 AM

I have a Generac 3000i and it works fine for our 2600RB.
At 62 lbs it is still manageable.

Homeby5 · 01-20-2022, 06:38 AM

Thanks guys. Will definately look into the soft start for the AC.

TXiceman · 01-20-2022, 06:44 AM

We have two 12-year-old Honda EU2000i generators to parallel. We run one if no A/C is required and in parallel they will run one A/C unit. I paid the money to get the Hondas and never had an issue. With Honda, you can get parts and repair at Honda Power dealers and some ace Hardware stores. With the other brands, all I can add is good luck. With that said, we see a few that are happy with the Champion inverter generators.

Out of consideration for your neighbors, do get a quiet unit and for the electronics an inverter generator.

Ken

Ken

rosebud1218 · 01-20-2022, 08:54 AM

"Out of consideration for your neighbors, do get a quiet unit and for the electronics an inverter generator."

This! Well-said and I could not agree more! Quiet is best and National Parks have restrictions on if/where/when and noise level allowed by generator use. I would not be surprised to see a significant increase in the use of quiet "solar" generators capable of quick recharging. I run my Jackery from the bed of my truck and you would not even know it was there. Some of these manufacturers are currently building in electric vehicle (EV) recharging capability.

saddlesore · 01-20-2022, 08:57 AM

What Gen set to buy?? WHY.. The one that comes with a Foretravel Motor Coach attached of Course!

Dave Pelletier · 01-20-2022, 10:32 AM

IMO Hondas are at the top of the heap when it comes to noise levels and reliability/longevity....Yamaha would be a close second. They are also top of the heap when it comes to price! I chose a Honda EU3000is and skipped the easy start etc. I also considered a Honda EU2200i which could be twinned, if necessary but that was even more money and the run time was way down. Happy with my choice.

Dave