Just installed custom generator rack on Bambi

[Mwgautreau]

After seeing several different strategies for carrying small Honda generators on an airstream, I worked with a local metal fabricator to build an aluminum rack to bolt over the battery box. It uses the “puck lock and plate” configuration on either end to secure the generators (also made of aluminum) and we put a mount in the middle to secure a crush proof Jerry-can to carry fuel. The center plate on the rack is removable so you can access the batter department without removing the rack. However, removing the batteries would likely require unbolting the rack. I can still use the anti-sway hitch and can still access the spare tire rack underneath the trailer.

[pteck]

Looks like it's solidly built.

Is there a particular reason you're opting to carry 2x gennies? I would think a Bambi has the smaller 13.5k A/C which could be handled by a single genny with easystart?

[rowiebowie]

Originally Posted by Mwgautreau

. . I worked with a local metal fabricator to build an aluminum rack to bolt over the battery box. It uses the “puck lock and plate” configuration on either end to secure the generators (also made of aluminum) and we put a mount in the middle to secure a crush proof Jerry-can to carry fuel.

Welcome to the forum Mwgautreau!


Well designed and executed. But what about rain and weather protection?


./

[uraljohn]

How much does all of that weigh including full Fuel Container?

[Mwgautreau]

Airstream dealer recommended the two small generators for boondocking the 19 Bambi Flying Cloud. I’ve read posts from people who have been successful with just one. Each generator weighs 47 pounds. I haven’t put the rack on a scale yet but it’s aluminum and is lighter than a generator. A gallon of gas weighs about 6 pounds. I can carry 5 in the can. I purchased the covers in the picture below for weather/travel protection.

[JMynes]

That’s very cool! If I didn’t have a front bedroom and the associated front storage door I would do something similar.

[xrvr]

Are you going to remove them for operation?.

[GMFL]

Originally Posted by Mwgautreau

After seeing several different strategies for carrying small Honda generators on an airstream, I worked with a local metal fabricator to build an aluminum rack to bolt over the battery box. It uses the “puck lock and plate” configuration on either end to secure the generators (also made of aluminum) and we put a mount in the middle to secure a crush proof Jerry-can to carry fuel. The center plate on the rack is removable so you can access the batter department without removing the rack. However, removing the batteries would likely require unbolting the rack. I can still use the anti-sway hitch and can still access the spare tire rack underneath the trailer.

Attachment 327298

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Welcome to the Forum,
This is what the 23D Club would call a quality item. Well Done! This looks like it will meet your needs well.
Looks like it is built very well.
180lbs of tongue weigh is nothing to sneeze at but well within a manageable limit. (better than 180lbs on the rear)”my opinion“
Keep us posted on how it’s working out.
Also if you have any more detailed pics that would be nice. I always enjoy studying others design work.

[Mwgautreau]

The rack is designed to run the generators in place. The exhaust faces outward while the controls and ports for linking the generators face inward. Here are some more “technical” pictures;

[Bgibbs]

Looks nice. It looks like two guys could remove the nuts from the u-bolts and haul the whole thing off. I would somehow secure those nuts.

[GMFL]

Originally Posted by Bgibbs

Looks nice. It looks like two guys could remove the nuts from the u-bolts and haul the whole thing off. I would somehow secure those nuts.

Maybe turn the U-bolts over and drill some holes through the top to access the nuts. The holes to remove the nuts would be under the generator when locked in place and would not have access. You would also need to weld a “guard” in place to prevent accessing the outside bolts from the underside.
Just an idea?

[TorchRozee]

Nicely Done!
Did you/fabricator make sketches with dimensions that you/they maybe willing to share?
Tx's

[greenflag]

Have you tried running them in place yet. I wonder about the vibration transferring to the frame and felt inside the trailer specifically the floor.
Great installation though. A good idea if you have limited space available in ones tow vehicle.

[CDONA]

There is one issue that I see, clearance during tight turning.
Please check

[coasttocoast]

Two running slow is better than one running fast. I just spent a night on generator power last week in my Interstate, but I put my Yamaha generators in front of the van on the ground with a 50 foot cord. I pointed the exhaust downwind and put in some earplugs. I also have a secondary sensor in the van for safety. They ran for 10 hours on one tank.

[ROBERT CROSS]

And when they are not running and on the pad...are they protected?

The solution is a bit overkill for us, but with limited TV & AS storage the tongue rack may work well for you.

Sweet streams...

Bob
🇺🇸

[Tschupp]

Nicely done. On a recent caravan we saw something similar with an added aluminum cover. Looked nice.

[greghoro]

Originally Posted by pteck

Is there a particular reason you're opting to carry 2x gennies?

If only to equalize the load, albeit, an expensive way to do so.




Greg

[Raminc]

Nice work. Looks great and should do the job .

[Darby Mc]

I've been trying to figure out how and where to stow a Honda generator. This could be the best solution. I, and from what I read - others would love to have the specs on this if possible. Please advise. I also liked the idea of putting an alumn. cover over it, like the propane tanks have so I can secure it that way.