Community Forums

Toad Haul · 07-08-2017, 06:44 AM

I would like to add a generator switch to the dash of my Class C. The existing switch is at the control panel next to the side door, and adding a switch to the dash would allow me to start the gen you while driving.

Has anyone done this, and if so, documented what they did? There's a thread here about adding a custom panel into the storage slot on the Ford chassis. That's what I'm wanting to do, and installing the gen switch in that.

Any help or guidance from the veterans here?

Gimpyvet · 07-08-2017, 11:20 AM

I too like this idea. I am looking to add rear ac off the existing vans front air as it is common for most commuter vans and ambulances or city buses. The generator switch would make it easier to start the ac for extra cooling or for an onboard compressor.

A few other groups talk about this and it seems the opinions agree just add a MOM/off/MOM switch in parallel with one of the other two. On my Thor I have one at the passenger entry door and one on the generator mounted behind the drivers door. Easiest for me will be to parallel the drivers side switch.

vgabond · 07-08-2017, 11:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Toad Haul

I would like to add a generator switch to the dash of my Class C. The existing switch is at the control panel next to the side door, and adding a switch to the dash would allow me to start the gen you while driving.

Has anyone done this, and if so, documented what they did? There's a thread here about adding a custom panel into the storage slot on the Ford chassis. That's what I'm wanting to do, and installing the gen switch in that.

Any help or guidance from the veterans here?

It is possible.
Having said that I assume that you have experience in wiring electrical controls. This is not really a big deal and really a piece of cake.

Wiring an additional switch (to start the generator) by paralleling is easy. . . but you also have to consider how to shut it down. Most of this start buttons are MOM as the other poster said.
Pushing this same button will not shut is down.

If this is too intimidating for you, I suggest hiring a professional.

hohenwald48 · 07-08-2017, 03:08 PM

I would think it would be pretty simple after you got your hands on a schematic of the generator. I've had 3 class "C" motorhomes and 2 of them had what you're talking about from the factory. Both were 4KW Onan.

Fiesta48 · 07-08-2017, 04:04 PM

Really need to buy same kind of switch for dash as by side of door.
Now how convenient is the A/C thermostat?
If thermostat is not next to new Gen switch you still got to stop to turn on A/C. New gen switch will be a waste.
Why can't you teach your better half how to start gen and a/c?

cruzbill · 07-08-2017, 04:11 PM

Our Motorhome has a gen start switch on the dash. It's a 3 position switch, push (momentary) on top for start, middle position for run, push (momentary) on bottom to stop. The switch does other stuff, but that's the basics.

Dutch Star Don · 07-08-2017, 04:27 PM

How about calling the manufacturer and see if they sell a second switch setup.

hohenwald48 · 07-08-2017, 06:35 PM

Try this

TOPONAUTIC Outdoor News-Events-Recipes: ONAN REMOTE SWITCH WIRING 028-00022

Toad Haul · 07-09-2017, 04:49 AM

Thank you all for the tips and guidance. It just didn't occur to me to contact Onan for a kit! Duh!

My plan is to do the in-dash panel mod by FW28z i found on another RV'ing forum, which is very useful. It replaces that worthless little storage compartmentment on my dash with a custom plate.

I'll use the info provided to run the cabling and mount the switch in that plate. One more question someone raised tho... is it a bad thing to just start the generator with the AC already turned on and just let it kick in when it has power? Same question, I guess for shutting down the generator...should I shut down the AC, first?

hohenwald48 · 07-09-2017, 09:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Toad Haul

Thank you all for the tips and guidance. It just didn't occur to me to contact Onan for a kit! Duh!

My plan is to do the in-dash panel mod by FW28z i found on another RV'ing forum, which is very useful. It replaces that worthless little storage compartmentment on my dash with a custom plate.

I'll use the info provided to run the cabling and mount the switch in that plate. One more question someone raised tho... is it a bad thing to just start the generator with the AC already turned on and just let it kick in when it has power? Same question, I guess for shutting down the generator...should I shut down the AC, first?

With a modern A/C there should be no problem with leaving it on and cranking the generator. The generator power will not get to the A/C until the generator has stabilized and the TX switch has timed out (usually 30 seconds). Then, most A/Cs have a timer circuit that starts the fan then after a delay allows the compressor to kick in. When shutting down, the TX switch simply breaks the current instantly when the relay contacts open much like turning off the circuit breaker would do. Only problem might be some arcing of the TX switch contacts from operating under load which could become an issue over time.

twinboat · 07-09-2017, 09:43 AM

Many high-end DPs have auto start generators tied into the coach temperature and/or the battery chargers. If it gets too hot or the battery level drops, the generator starts, once cool or charged, it shuts down.

Transfer switchs are rated to switch their full load.

If it works for them automaticly, it should work for you with a switch.

OLYLEN · 07-09-2017, 10:00 AM

I think the point here is not what the Gens can do, but how to tie onto the st a Dr stop system. I have not looked in depth but I would almost bet On an or Cumins will have a plug and play "Y" to allow the parallel switch addition. Then it is just a matter of running the wiring from the "Y" to the installation point for the extra start stop switch.

LEN