Generator for 2018 Bambi 16 sport

[Bambi2018]

Hello - I am a AS newbie. We have a 2018 Bambi sport and was wondering if anyone has tried running the AC with the new Honda 2200 generator. I don’t anticipate using the AC a lot but want to have that option. Anyone have experience with a propane powered generator for the Bambi?

Also what should the battery change read on the wall panel when fully charged? My is around 13.8. Is that right?

Thanks for all your help

[Kay0]

Just purchased the Honda 2200 already converted for propane. It starts up the AC just fine. I have only completed trials as the weather is not hot yet. I also purchased the hose for the LP quick disconnect and the adapter with the neutral ground. I purchased just to run the AC.
Your battery is charged, if you have 2017 AS or earlier the factory battery charger is not a battery tender with stages of charge. If you leave the trailer connected to 120V and the battery connected in “use” position, after they have charged fully, you will overcharge the battery and damage them.

[rossdn]

We purchased a Champion 3400 Watt generator with our 2018 16' Bambi and during the Summer (90-100 degree weather) when the AC Condenser kicked on it would overload this 3400 Watt generator. We purchased the Honda 2200 Watt generator and the companion 2200 Watt generator and when we use both connected together they work great even during hot weather when AC is working hard. I have not attempted using just one but based on calls with Airstream and my experience with the 3400 Watt generator I would imagine a single 2200 Watt generator wouldn't be able to handle the load.

[rmkrum]

With an EasyStart module installed in the A/C unit I’m sure a 3400 can handle the load. The issue is the rather large start current a standard air conditioning unit draws for an instant. The EasyStart reduces the surge greatly.

[rossdn]

Tried a hard start capacitor but this made no difference. There was no problem with the A/C starting it was just on later cycles (after about 5 minutes of running) when the condenser kicked on and the generator was hot that it overloaded. In talking to Airstream they confirmed that 3400 was borderline for running the A/C.

[rmkrum]

A simple hard start capacitor modification is not the same device as an EasyStart from MicroAir.com.

The EasyStart uses microprocessor technology to both easily start an air conditioner compressor and protect the compressor form voltage brownouts, overloads, etc. Basically it learns the characteristics of your compressor and manages start current so a generator can handle the load easily. Search around the forums--many have reported success in running their air conditioners with smallish generators--the Champion 3400 Inverter dual fuel is one that has been used successfully by several Airstreamers...

I do not have a financial or other interest in EasyStart or MicroAir--just a happy owner of an Airstream, an EasyStart, and a Champion 3400 dual-fuel Inverter generator--and it works great...

[Bambi2018]

Originally Posted by rossdn

We purchased a Champion 3400 Watt generator with our 2018 16' Bambi and during the Summer (90-100 degree weather) when the AC Condenser kicked on it would overload this 3400 Watt generator. We purchased the Honda 2200 Watt generator and the companion 2200 Watt generator and when we use both connected together they work great even during hot weather when AC is working hard. I have not attempted using just one but based on calls with Airstream and my experience with the 3400 Watt generator I would imagine a single 2200 Watt generator wouldn't be able to handle the load.

Thanks

[SilverHouseDreams]

There are a lot of discussions on this in the Electrical/Generator category: http://www.airforums.com/forums/f448/

[Kay0]

Good info, technology changes quickly, as does the equipment on the newer trailers. Keep the forum fresh!

[Johnnyooo]

I bought the Honda 3000i which is more than enough to run the things you need...It weighs 78 lbs. and has a large handle and wheels.. No problem for me to pick up and put in truck.. One of the quietest generators on the market...