Generator Recommendations?

[azmuslima]

We have a 2008 Escalade and want to add a generator in the front storage box. Any recommendations on gas vs. diesel and particular brands? We have a diesel F350 pulling the 5th wheel. We have pretty much ruled out propane due to the amount of propane needed to run the generator - we will be using when boondocking, dry camping, and need to run at least 1 a/c unit and applicances, lights, etc.

[wingnut60]

Recently have been dry-camping in Colo Forest Svc campground. Other couples with us have a Honda 2000 and a 3000. 2000 did very well for charging batteries and running everything but AC. 3000 would run 1 AC, tho it was needed only one day when trailer was closed up all day. 2000 is light enough to carry; 3000 needs two people to carry.
One thing we learned---batteries are charged much quicker, more fully, when using a digital battery charger run by the generator rather than the battery charger built into the generator, or using the gen to supply power to the trailer converter. And the gen needs to be on "regular" mode, not the "eco" mode.
No experience with Yamaha or any others.
Joe

[azmuslima]

We are interested in a NON-portable generator that would be mounted in the 5th Wheel...we already have a portable 3000 that we had for our trailer before we upgraded to a 5th wheel...we can use it but it has no inverter...some of the generators we have seen have a built in inverter.

[billr]

We had an Onan 4K microlite gas installed in a prev 5th wheel, it had so many issues and was hard to get parts, had to remove it to work on, never again. Also very costly. Folks that have propane units say they use a lot of fuel.

We went with the Honda 3000 portable and mounted it on a slide out tray in the front lower compartment and just slide it out, plug in and run. Can stow away in a few seconds. Its does us fine. Easy to get repaired if it ever needed it. So far 5yrs no issues. I did build an enclosed compartment to stop any exhaust issues inside while it was running out on the tray.

I would most likely go with 2 2000 units next time. Easier to move around and if one had an issue, still have another. Can run just one for most times and save fuel. Can use at home for many uses too.

Bill

[tmoore2484]

Has anyone ever seen the Ryobi 2000 used. I was thinking of getting two of these with a parrell kit to run everything on my fifth wheel. Available at Home Depot at just under 600 dollars.

[billr]

Best bet is to stick with Honda. Rock solid and proven. The savings with other brands will not be helpful when they need service or parts. Reliability, noise level and function will not be as good. JMHO.

Used Hondas can be found. A lot of RVrs have a couple then buy a unit with built in or a MH. Then they sell.

[PNW_Steve]

I will whole heartedly second the Honda EU series recommendation.

I bought mine 8+ years ago. If you ever see mine for sale please send flowers 'cause I will be six feet under :)

It is the quietest generator I have ever owned. It runs my single roof air and the balance of the trailer with ease. It sips fuel like a miser.

Service at the Honda dealership was fantastic. I have only had to take it in once as I change my own oil, air filter & spark plug. I do wish it had an hour meter though. I am just curious how many hours I have on mine. I would guess at least 2000 hours.

Good luck!