Installing an Onboard Cummins Generator

[TravlinTom]

I’m thinking about having an onboard generator installed.

Any recommendations?

 

[Mikendebbie]

I had plans to mount my Cummins Onan P4500i generator on a slide tray in the front baggage compartment. I think a few members here have done it. The video linked below shows a steel frame being built for the slide tray. I am not a welder, so I was going to figure it out with wood framing. Our travel priorities changed and I never followed thru with this project.

 

[TravlinTom]

Thank you….

I thought the front storage bin was large enough to install onboard generators. I am hoping to install a Cummins QG 7000i DF.

 

[mlh]

That would make you a great generator, it checks all the boxes. It’s built in, clean power, enough power, price?? If you don’t mind paying for it go for it.
Lynwood

 

[DutchmenSport]

Yes, your front storage area is adequately sized to fit the generator. From the web site, here's the dimensions of your generator in question:

Weight 201 lbs (91 kg)
Length 33.6 in (853 mm)
Width 22.2 in (563 mm)
Height 16.7 in (425 mm)
Sound 69 dB(A) Readings at 10 ft (3 m)half load

If you install it yourself, you will need (at a minimum) a transfer switching system to switch from the generator power to shore power and back again. Fuel line (yours looks like its propane). And, a way to exhaust.

Looks like it is 120 / 240 which will give you plenty of power.

As stated above, the Cummins Onan P4500i inverter generator is a good choice except:

In order to run full power @ 50 amps, you need 2 P4500i generators and run them in parallel. These are portable, but weigh in at 106 pounds completely dry. Add about 5 gallons of fuel each and oil, and they can get quite heavy.

The next thing to consider with the P4500i is the fact they now cost about $1400 each. Prices have increased on these over the last years.

I am in the process of purchasing my 5th P4500i in just a few days. 2 purchased for the camper, 2 purchased (as gifts.... really), and another one for the house as a back-up for power outages when we are gone with the camper (my son lives in the house).

Another thing to consider with the portables is how do you transport them, especially if older and the generators are so heavy. I use ramps and can roll them up into the bed of the pick-up truck. But when traveling, they travel inside the camper. They do not leak gas or fumes.

The advantage of the permanently installed generator is the fact it doesn't have to be loaded and unloaded, it's always ready. No lifting. But you do loos storage space in the front compartment.

The real advantage of the portable is the fact if you need a generator for some other purpose other than the camper, it can be used with ease. I use mine also for running power tools (I despise battery operated power tools... battery life is simply way, way too short. You can't run drills and sanders for 10 hours straight on rechargeable batteries unless you have 100 of them on hand, all fully charged! My portables go into fields, building sites, and also for keeping appliances running in the house for power outages. The portability does not exist with a permanently installed generator in the camper.

Your generator is designed to run in your camper and provide the full 50 amp service. You need only the one and it will service everything. But, be warned, it's a propane generator and it will use a lot of propane. This is the down-side of a propane generator. You may also want to rethink getting 40 gallon propane tanks instead of the 30, or if you keep the 30's, consider picking up an extra tank (30 or 40) if you depend on your generator (for example, boondocking).

You are considering a noble contender for your camper. I believe it will serve you well. But again, it does have it's own limitations and concerns, but it also has strong advantages. If it serves your needs, that's what really matters.

 

[TravlinTom]

Thank you Dutchman for your response. I think the 30 amps will be adequate for my needs. I’m concerned about the installation cost as my trailer is not prepped for generators. I’m confident it can still be installed but for additional costs. I really don’t want the burden of lugging around portable generators and would prefer on board option. I really don’t want to depend on the local dealership and am having a hard time locating a trustworthy installer.

 

[jkxtreme]

I installed one on a slide out tray. Here is my YouTube video showing the installation. Skip ahead to 1:24 into the video to get past some of the useless information.

 

[Carl n Susan]

I installed my HF 3500 on a rear rack. Easy, as functional as putting it up front, and with the remote control option, no different than an onboard install.

 

[TravlinTom]

I worry about it getting stolen if it’s not in the secure storage area.

 

[Carl n Susan]

I used a hitch lock to keep the rack from walking away. The genny was strapped down, used a hardened cable lock to add further protection. Then I used hidden J bolts over the axles and bolted to the rack frame to add an extra level of security, Then it is covered all the time when not in use. Anything can be stolen given enough time, but this install will discourage most thieves. Stolen non-Honda gennys are extremely uncommon in our groups experience.

 

[mlh]

I’ve solved the problem in two ways. First I installed a receptacle on the front of my Montana. Then all you need is a 10 foot extension cord to hook it up. And on my motor home I made an aluminum frame with springs to isolate the 5000 watt HF generator from the camper. Yes someone could steal it but would need a bunch of tools and know how it was built.
The MH had a Onan built in but when it broke for the second time in 70 hours I decided it had to go. Now if the HF quits no problem I’ll replace it with a new one. That will be cheaper than having the Onan fixed and can be done on the road. I probably have the only Onan that quit twice in 70 hours.
Lynwood

 

[Kfinnert]

I have a Cummins Onan 4600 in my rig. Mine is a propane generator and it is set up to run off the propane for the rig! The propane generator runs clean, there is less wear and tear on the engine, and I do not need to carry another type of fuel.

One complaint I have heard about a propane generator is that they burn a lot of fuel. I have not found this to be the case, but then I rarely run it; AND I use propane only for the cook top and oven and heater, which are used rarely too.

Onboard is the way to go due to simplicity for use - I start it from inside the trailer, security, and I always have it with me - there is no loading or unloading of the unit.

Best of luck!

 

[jkxtreme]

Our unit can run on propane or gas.