Generator hookups

[farrider387]

I am a newbie- I will be picking up my 2016 Bambi 16 ft. in a few days. I am looking to buy a generator for boondocking. What I want to know is what type outlets should my generator have ? 110 V or 30 amp. Not sure what type hookup comes with the Bambi. It's a private sale and the lady seller is not helpful with technical questions.

[n2916s]

Well, if you want to use your A/C , then perhaps A Champion dual fuel 3400. If not, the Honda 2100 Companion. Both have 30a plugs.

[Al and Missy]

With a MicroAir EasyStart added to the AC the Honda 2100 will run the AC. Much easier to handle than the 3400. The trailer will come with a power cord which has a 30A connector on it. Adapters are available to convert the 30A plug to a 15 or 20A plug which will mate with the 15/20A socket on the regular Honda 2100 but if you can get the Companion model for the same price or a little more, it's nice to have the 30A connector.

I have the older Honda 2000 (not a Companion) which I converted to run from propane. I had an EasyStart put on my (13,500 BTU) air conditioner and I can run the air conditioner (and little else) on the Honda, even in the ECO mode, from my propane tank.

All that said, air conditioning is largely for use in campgrounds with electricity available. Running the air conditioner on a generator in warm weather will use a LOT of fuel. If you anticipate boondocking at altitude or in cooler weather, almost any generator will do to keep batteries charged.

Also be advised that many boondock-type campgrounds (USFS for example) have quiet hours when generators are not allowed.

Al

[rickst29]

Welcome, Farrider

The job which you need to do first is: Estimating your power usage.

If your 'Boondock' trips will sometimes involve the Air Conditioner, then this is the minimum Generator to run it, and the most-respected Generator of it's size: https://www.amazon.com/Honda-2200-Wa...dp/B07R1HK2RL/. (Per this post: http://www.airforums.com/forums/f295...ml#post1942372).

It includes Receptacles for both 15/20A (a NEMA "5-20R T-slot") and 30A (a NEMA L530P "twist lock").

You will want this adapter, to connect the straight-pinned RV plug.
https://www.amazon.com/Camco-55333-3.../dp/B0011FLODA. You need the '30A 3 prong Generator Version', which converts provides an L5-30 Plug on one side, and a TT-30R Receptacle on the other side.
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If you WILL NOT need air conditioning, then you have a number of other options. (Solar Panels, or a smaller generator, or charging from the Tow Vehicle with something like this: https://www.renogy.com/renogy-12v-dc-to-dc-on-board-battery-charger/)

But it all starts with the question: How much power do you really need?