View Full Version : small 5th wheel with built in generators
dragoonc5
11-23-2013, 01:25 PM
Trying to decide if I should add a generator to the rear of my 25foot 5th wheel, or look to upgrade to a built in generator , but I want to stay small. Anyone have experience with this quest? Make/models would help get started.
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billr
11-24-2013, 09:26 AM
With the limited storage space in that size 5th wheel, stay away from built in gennys. They are also high in cost. Had one yrs ago and will not have another. They can be troublesome and have to be removed to work on normally.
Best bet is a Honda or Yamaha. Build a rack on the rear and lock it on there. A lot of folks do this and works very well. One 2000 eu Honda will do all you need unless you want AC, then you need two. This also gives you options with two, run one or two as needed and if there s an issue with one you have the other. But the Hondas have basically zero issues.
Bill
Motor31
11-24-2013, 11:15 AM
I wouldn't bother installing a small gen set. Buy a Honda or Yamaha as already mentioned. Store it in the basement until needed. Then just dump some gas in it and go. A single unit, even a little Honda 1000 is enough to run the 110 volt stuff in the trailer for TV and computer as well as charge the batteries. A Honda 2000 will run everything including the microwave but not the AC unit. A pair of 2000's or Yamaha equivalent will run all and a single AC unit.
Leaving the gen set out exposed on the rear platform just exposes it to the elements and potential thieves in the area. If you need it, pull it out and chain it to the jack stand of the rig. Put it away when not used. Been doing that for almost 10 years now. I diod have oe rig with a built in gen set. It was hard to start, loud, used a ton of propane and rarely ran well. Never once used it dry camping but the Honda 2000 gets used each year. Total maintenance cost so far in over 9 years is just the single quart of oil annually that I change myself. I did have to clean and gap the plug, once so far.
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