How many carry Generator

[RivetED]

This is what I've done in the way of generators:
I have one Honda 2000 that always goes with me/us. It's over 10 years old, no problems with fuel, I always use Stabil and run it dry. The problem is the 2000 has no easy way to run it dry other than leaving it on till empty. However there's two easier ways to run the carb out, one is to disconnect a wire from the on/off switch or add a petcock, both of mine (we have 2) have petcocks. YouTube has videos for both options.

My 2nd 2000 is their companion model with the 30amp (not RV type) receptacle for parallel operation. Also have a 5 gal 'long run' tank and accessories for over 8 hour runs. The 2nd unit & acc. only go when we expect to be off-grid for a while.

This set-up evolved over the years, it's real-estate intensive. Today I would seriously look at the Yamaha 2400. The biggest drawback I see there is the gravity feed fuel does not allow 'run-long' tanks, if using gas. Propane is another option and/or solution.

One other issue I've found with the Honda ECO vs Yahaha's auto sys. is start-up current draw for our a/c will stall one or both gens if not turned on, they do not respond quick enough, usually. That uses a lot of fuel.

[Moflash]

Originally Posted by RivetED

This is what I've done in the way of generators:
I have one Honda 2000 that always goes with me/us. It's over 10 years old, no problems with fuel, I always use Stabil and run it dry. The problem is the 2000 has no easy way to run it dry other than leaving it on till empty. However there's two easier ways to run the carb out, one is to disconnect a wire from the on/off switch or add a petcock, both of mine (we have 2) have petcocks. YouTube has videos for both options.

My 2nd 2000 is their companion model with the 30amp (not RV type) receptacle for parallel operation. Also have a 5 gal 'long run' tank and accessories for over 8 hour runs. The 2nd unit & acc. only go when we expect to be off-grid for a while.

This set-up evolved over the years, it's real-estate intensive. Today I would seriously look at the Yamaha 2400. The biggest drawback I see there is the gravity feed fuel does not allow 'run-long' tanks, if using gas. Propane is another option and/or solution.

One other issue I've found with the Honda ECO vs Yahaha's auto sys. is start-up current draw for our a/c will stall one or both gens if not turned on, they do not respond quick enough, usually. That uses a lot of fuel.

I add Seafoam to my fuel then top off the tank before I put my gens away (this eliminates condensation)Then I am good to go in the spring.I do this with every gas powered item that I own (motorcycles,mowers,boats etc).Fuel remains fresh and does not grow algae due to ethanol (the main carburetor killer).Not all fuel stabilizers work anymore due to the ethanol blend.


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[rodsterinfl]

Gamma - how did you convert them to propane? I want to do this for mine.

Here is some info SteveSueMac. They did mine for me but they also sell the kits. Check out the snorkel. They also are good to talk to.

http://www.motorsnorkel.com

[SteveSueMac]

Thanks everyone who provided tips to convert to propane! Will check out over the winter.

[MaineStreamer]

Originally Posted by Gsmblue

We normally leave our champion 3000w gen at home as we stay mostly we hook ups. But we do like to stay at ski resorts in the winter and some remote boondocking in the summer. When I bought the gen I needed something to power the ac and the champ was too good a deal to miss. I am thinking of getting a smaller 1000w or 2000w unit for the winter as funds allow...

If you use your Airstream at ski areas in the winter, how do you avoid having frozen tubes and pipes, especially where the trailer has an outdoor shower and the tanks under the body? I had assumed that using mine in freezing temperatures would not be feasible. Am I wrong about that?

[dznf0g]

Originally Posted by Wayne&Sam

I have more generators than I care to admit, all for different applications.

We rarely need A/C so when we do we just get a site with electric.

I carry a Honda 1000 just to charge batteries and it fits in the rear storage compartment. I run it dry for storage.

Ha, me too. I just love machinery.

OLD massive 3800 Generac (circa 1978) that I inherited from my dad when he sold the house

2 Hondas 2000s for RVing

Craftsman 2400 (circa) 1986 ( gave to son for power outages)

One of those cheap Chinese 1000 2 strokes marketed everywhere (was on clearance for $69 an I couldn't resist)

[dcasr]

Originally Posted by MaineStreamer

If you use your Airstream at ski areas in the winter, how do you avoid having frozen tubes and pipes, especially where the trailer has an outdoor shower and the tanks under the body? I had assumed that using mine in freezing temperatures would not be feasible. Am I wrong about that?

________
When we have used our trailer at below freezing temperatures, like in the snow, we have it fully drained and winterized. Then we carry gallon jugs of water with us and we only use the water for sink and as little toilet use as possible, and we pour RV antifreeze in the BW tank and leave the GW tank line open to drain. When we are ready to leave we boil water and pour it down the sink to melt any water that has frozen in the GW line or on the slinky hose, then put everything away.

Dump the BW tank when you get home or to a warmer spot. Without your water system fully operational however, its not the Ritz. If I was skiing I think I'd get a room at the chalet.

[truxpin]

Originally Posted by SteveSueMac

Thanks everyone who provided tips to convert to propane! Will check out over the winter.

One more to add to your research.....

Propane Kits for Honda Inverter Generators by GenConneX

Added this conversion just after purchase of my Honda2000. Pretty simple & I liked the neatness of the regulator being inside the case. It's not the cheapest kit however, but I've been happy with it. Also added a Quick Connect port aft of the dual 40's on the AS. With a 6 foot supply hose I can set the generator in the back of the truck and run it from there. It's a nice clean set-up.

[Rust]

Thanks for all the help with the generator issue and now I have to find a goo deal.

George

[pcskier]

I am considering either a Honda or Yamaha 1000w or 2000w generator as well. I am going to get a Mr. Heater catalytic heater, but want to do some dry winter camping, and might get a generator just to have if needed.

My question: A model like the Yamaha EF2000is is a "inverter generator." What does that mean? Do you plug it into the shore power using a 3-prong 30 amp to 2-prong household converter plug like when plugged in at home?

Also, any advice on 1000w vs 2000w? I don't use a microwave, will use the furnace limited, and likely no tv (I'm not going out there to watch tv )

Would a 1000 watt support the occasional hair dryer use if used on medium?

With the 2000w being only about $180 more than the 1000w, it's tempting to just go ahead and get it to be safe. But if the 1000w is much quieter (it's 52cc vs 78cc), lighter, and fuel efficient...it might be enough?

Thanks all,

Peter

[switz]

We acquired the pair of Honda 2000 watt generators with the first trailer. We usually carry one with e 30 amp twisk lock receptacle with the trailer since we do have solar as well. Looking into the Generator propane conversion.

[graysailor]

2000W for sure.

[fotoman1527]

We own a Honda 2000i inverter generator. It is excellent. It is efficient, quiet, reliable and starts with one pull. I was originally concerned about having to carry gas in the tv, but the solution is a couple of 2-gallon plastic gas cans in the storage area of the AS under the bed. I hope to add a solar option one day, but I thought having this capability was a good first step in providing energy replenishment, and I am happy with the choice we made.

[MaineStreamer]

There is discounted pricing for Internet orders (free shipping) on Hondas this week from Camping World, if you are ready to buy.
- Camping World=

[switz]

Note that if one orders two Honda generators, you need to also acquire the jumper cable to electrically connect the two units.

[gda659]

We have a Yamaha EF2000is. You should be able to get one for less than $900, delivered to your door.
It is very quiet, lightweight, long lasting, and a full tank of gas can last for a week of off the grid: periodically recharging batteries, run the microwave, hair drier, toaster, power tools, occasional TV watching, etc.
It can be paralled to another so you can run an air conditioner.
If you prefer blue vs. red, get the Yamaha. If I could parallel across brands, I'd have one of each.

[J. Morgan]

I bought a Yamaha EF2400iSCH, I can run anything in my trailer with it, air conditioning included with a single 70 pound unit.

It cost me $1,330 delivered.