Genset security when running

[Hans627]

I just got a Honda 2200i propane generator from Genconnex. We plan to use it at night to run an A/C.

For those of you have have a generator how do you keep it secure when it is running?

Thanks!

[DKB_SATX]

Nothing is foolproof, of course, but I have a long plastic-coated steel cable and a couple of good padlocks I use to secure my generator(s). Before I had the tonneau I used the cable to secure the generators in the truck as well. With 2 padlocks I'm not limited to half the length of the cable, I can wrap one end of the cable around a tree or post and lock end of the cable to the cable itself, then wrap the other end of the cable through the generator handle and lock it likewise.

[Dennis C]

I bought a thick cable with a lock that I use to secure my generator to the frame of my trailer, near the propane tanks.

[tbrowne]

A quality lock and a chain as strong as the lock are your best bet. I don't think many thefts occur when the campsite is inhabited - they mostly happen when you're away. Out of site, out of mind is good when you aren't using the gen set. Otherwise enjoy the experience and don't fret things you have no control over.

[Donaldo]

If your going to use your generator at night to run your A/C I hope you don't have any neighbors.

[uncle_bob]

Hi

There really are not many places that will let you run a generator overnight. Pretty much all campgrounds and most "free stops" have rules about this. If you are running a generator at night you probably are *way* out in the middle of nowhere.

The more basic question would be: can anybody actually get to your site in the dark to rob you? Indeed, if they have set up an expedition specifically to target you, they probably have come with enough tools to defeat anything you might be using to lock stuff down.

Bob

[jeffmc306]

I saw this recently while looking at bike locks and thought you could adapt it for anything. It’s from a German company called ABUS. They make a folding lock but has a built-in 100db alarm. If someone tampers with the lock, it will chirp then if they don’t stop, activate the alarm. If you’re close enough to hear it you can react.

Here’s a YouTube review demonstrating how the alarm works.

ABUS also makes chain locks that carry a 15 security rating (top in it’s class)

Let us know what you end up using!

[uncle_bob]

Originally Posted by jeffmc306

I saw this recently while looking at bike locks and thought you could adapt it for anything. It’s from a German company called ABUS. They make a folding lock but has a built-in 100db alarm. If someone tampers with the lock, it will chirp then if they don’t stop, activate the alarm. If you’re close enough to hear it you can react.

Here’s a YouTube review demonstrating how the alarm works.

ABUS also makes chain locks that carry a 15 security rating (top in it’s class)

Let us know what you end up using!

Hi

Stray dog decides your generator is a fire hydrant and you get out of bed at 3AM ....

Given the amount of vibration most generators create, I would worry about the device moving around enough to set it off.

Bob

[primepower]

I bought this. Plan to use it soon at a truck stop. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B078X...b_b_asin_title

[Hans627]

I'm the OP on this thread. So thank you all for your input and suggestions. Taking your thoughts into consideration I've decided to get a bicycle security cable and use it to attach the generator to the tie downs provided in the truck bed. Having it in the center of the bed would require someone climbing over the bed sides to get to it (not an easy task with a 3/4 ton truck).

And as was mentioned, if someone really wants to get the generator and is willing to cut the cable there really is not much I can do to prevent it from happening. Plus it will only be exposed to a thief when it is running.

Again, thank you!

[batman]

I also have this security handle for both of mine. It keeps a theife from cutting the plastic handle to remove the cable and lock.

https://www.amazon.com/Deterrent-Sec...9RNAVV9QYYH6A7

Easy to install and may help to make it harder to take the gen.

-Dennis

[uncle_bob]

Originally Posted by Hans627

I'm the OP on this thread. So thank you all for your input and suggestions. Taking your thoughts into consideration I've decided to get a bicycle security cable and use it to attach the generator to the tie downs provided in the truck bed. Having it in the center of the bed would require someone climbing over the bed sides to get to it (not an easy task with a 3/4 ton truck).

And as was mentioned, if someone really wants to get the generator and is willing to cut the cable there really is not much I can do to prevent it from happening. Plus it will only be exposed to a thief when it is running.

Again, thank you!

Hi

Not real sure you want the generator in the center of the bed when running. The exhaust will be blowing in some direction. It's going to get some part of the bed pretty warm ....

Bob

[RMNummi]

Originally Posted by primepower

I bought this. Plan to use it soon at a truck stop. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B078X...b_b_asin_title

Same purchase for me

[Mollysdad]

I recently got this for another project, but it's perfect for generators.
The chain is Pewag, the ultimate in cut resistance, the lock is Pewag's and sells individually for $75. It came packed in a carry case, and the box was about 10" square and I almost couldn't pick it up.
At some point a thief will cut the generator handle, but that makes it harder to resell.

[uncle_bob]

Originally Posted by Mollysdad

I recently got this for another project, but it's perfect for generators.
The chain is Pewag, the ultimate in cut resistance, the lock is Pewag's and sells individually for $75. It came packed in a carry case, and the box was about 10" square and I almost couldn't pick it up.
At some point a thief will cut the generator handle, but that makes it harder to resell.

Hi

Don't kid yourself. If the generator gets resold (vs used as meth lab power) it will go to somebody who is not very picky at all about the missing serial numbers or missing handle ....

Bob

[Kawboy01]

Do they have the anti theft handle guard for the 2200? Makes it so they just don't saw thru the plastic handle.

[Saluda372]

Yes.

[RMNummi]

Yep, just picked up anti-theft handles for the Honda EU2200s.

[Mark of SJC]

Originally Posted by Hans627

I'm the OP on this thread. So thank you all for your input and suggestions. Taking your thoughts into consideration I've decided to get a bicycle security cable and use it to attach the generator to the tie downs provided in the truck bed. Having it in the center of the bed would require someone climbing over the bed sides to get to it (not an easy task with a 3/4 ton truck).

And as was mentioned, if someone really wants to get the generator and is willing to cut the cable there really is not much I can do to prevent it from happening. Plus it will only be exposed to a thief when it is running.

Again, thank you!

Strong Suggestion! The world of locks is a very deceiving area! I strongly suggest you go to YouTube, google “Lock picking lawyer - bike locks” and be prepared to be stunned. So brands I’ve held near and dear for my entire life were faster to defeat physically than they were to open with a key or combination!

[ROBERT CROSS]

^
X2

Bob
🇺🇸

Thats why use the OOSOOM Security System. Including locked inside in its own AP.