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Old 10-09-2024, 05:06 PM   #1
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Onan QD 6K Generator

After retiring from the armed forces my retirement job was as a licensed stationary engineer at a level one trauma facility. Once a week I checked the batteries on the emergency generators. Once a month we did a load test by killing commercial power to force the generators on, then let them run for an hour powering essential parts of the facility.

Completely retired and living in south Texas, I appreciate the idea of having a backup generator for my home, as well as for my camper. I also really appreciate air conditioning when I can’t relocate to where it’s not needed.

So, looking at the various possibilities, to include solar (that won’t cut it for AC unless you go with a mini split), I’m leaning towards an Onan QD 6000 for the bed of my diesel truck (it has a 50 gallon tank). Set it up the way they set up self propelled campers - run off the engine fuel tank, shut down when the tank reaches 1/4 full.

Not interested in a gas generator or carrying gasoline. Also not interested in a propane generator because I find them horribly inefficient.

So what do Airstreamers do about backup power while out and about?
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Old 10-09-2024, 05:52 PM   #2
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Since you've discounted the alternatives, there really is much to say as far as generator advice.

To me, being in an Airstream is a bit of "roughing it". It's not meant to be like living in a fully-connected home. If power is so important for AC or something, then I stay in full service campgrounds. Outside of AC, the power needs of an AS trailer are minimal and can easily be met with sufficient solar and/or running any small generator for a few hours per day where efficiency and fuel consumption don't matter.
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Old 10-09-2024, 09:53 PM   #3
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Originally Posted by jeffb831 View Post
Since you've discounted the alternatives, there really is much to say as far as generator advice.

To me, being in an Airstream is a bit of "roughing it". It's not meant to be like living in a fully-connected home. If power is so important for AC or something, then I stay in full service campgrounds. Outside of AC, the power needs of an AS trailer are minimal and can easily be met with sufficient solar and/or running any small generator for a few hours per day where efficiency and fuel consumption don't matter.
Ruling out isn’t quite the same as discounting. But maybe you’ve never compared efficiency for the various fuels (diesel wins every time).

I roughed it as a Cub Scout, then as a Boy Scout, and then during my career in the armed forces. My personal favorites were taking surgery to Iraq via helicopter and working out of tents during the Gulf War, then a couple of years later living 15 days of 28 out of a stripped down HMMWV in the Mojave Desert regardless or heat, snow, or the rain in between for three years.

I’ve full timed for a total of 4 years in two different campers. It doesn’t matter much who made it, not many of them are very energy efficient.

Not a huge fan of RV parks or campgrounds. But this set up is leaning into potentially full timing in an Airstream, and even RV parks and campgrounds experience power outages.

All of which is one of the funnest aspects of this country, we all get to have our own ideas about stuff, as well as experiences that help shape those ideas.

Thanks for the reply.
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Old 10-10-2024, 10:44 AM   #4
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Your idea is workable. Diesel is a good efficient fuel. The downsides are noise and diesel smell. You might think about combining a sizable battery power bank and your diesel generator, think Ecoflow or Bluetti etc. . For example, look up diesel solar hybrid generator on YouTube. Since most of the time you will run low loads for longer periods, you can run on the power bank, when battery gets low, recharge with gen. Of course you can do the same with a permanently installed solar system. Ecoflow, for example, has a pass through power, so that when gen is running, it goes directly to the powered device, any excess power goes to recharging the power bank. This is also excellent for home standby since most of the time the load is relatively low and the generator is not reqired to run. The Victron people claim up to 80% fuel savings compared to running gen all the time.
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Old 10-10-2024, 08:17 PM   #5
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Originally Posted by Genboy View Post
Your idea is workable. Diesel is a good efficient fuel. The downsides are noise and diesel smell. You might think about combining a sizable battery power bank and your diesel generator, think Ecoflow or Bluetti etc. . For example, look up diesel solar hybrid generator on YouTube. Since most of the time you will run low loads for longer periods, you can run on the power bank, when battery gets low, recharge with gen. Of course you can do the same with a permanently installed solar system. Ecoflow, for example, has a pass through power, so that when gen is running, it goes directly to the powered device, any excess power goes to recharging the power bank. This is also excellent for home standby since most of the time the load is relatively low and the generator is not reqired to run. The Victron people claim up to 80% fuel savings compared to running gen all the time.
Thanks … overly complicated.

I prefer simple.

A new Airstream Classic comes with a decent amount of solar and lithium batteries, enough to keep the fridge happy if the sun shines.

Maybe someday the RV world will get more efficient with climate control and less noisy. I like the hydronic heat. This is a step in the right direction for AC … https://m.youtube.com/watch?si=btl7i...ature=youtu.be

When I took surgery to Iraq via helicopter during the Gulf War we had a couple of diesel generators, loved them. Almost impossible to break and not nearly as fussy as gasoline generators, plus the HMMWVs we had also ran on diesel.

Gasoline is problematic, too volatile. Propane too inefficient.

The Onan QD 6,000 runs at 60 dBA a whopping 3 dBA louder than a Honda EU2200i gas.

On the off chance it’s needed, the generator is back up.
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Old 10-11-2024, 06:51 AM   #6
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Originally Posted by IrisnGerald View Post
…..

The Onan QD 6,000 runs at 60 dBA a whopping 3 dBA louder than a Honda EU2200i gas.

….

The decibel scale is logarithmic. A 3db difference means the Onan QD6000 is approximately twice as loud (or double the volume) of the Honda EU2200i.
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Old 10-11-2024, 08:08 AM   #7
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The decibel scale is logarithmic. A 3db difference means the Onan QD6000 is approximately twice as loud (or double the volume) of the Honda EU2200i.
60 dBA is the National Parks limit.

https://www.nps.gov/subjects/sound/policy.htm

Then there is this …

https://decibelpro.app/blog/how-loud...other-volumes/
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Old 10-11-2024, 06:46 PM   #8
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Wholistic Evaluation Equation?

As stated, “Completely retired and living in south Texas, I appreciate the idea of having a backup generator for my home, as well as for my camper,” it is clear your home power need calculations greatly exceed the wattage any size Airstream requires for self sufficiency. Not counting truck installation and home circuitry incorporation expenses, your target generator runs roughly $13K+ sans deliver charges & taxes. I assume you consider this figure financially viable in retirement to provide for the expected frequency of utility infrastructure failures which have made Texas headlines many times of late.

Posters here will mostly reply based on alternatives that assume a much smaller electrical need in their Airstream versus the mobile, multi-use scenario you envision. I follow the notion of trying to find a way to leverage the “sized for home" unit for travel as well, but have to ask if you are planning for the truck bed mounting to be permanent or temporary [mountable only as needed for travel on occasion]?

I'm trying balance all the factors in the choice outlined. Since the ONAN unit weighs over 400 pounds, your truck will need to be upsized to accommodate both spouse, cargo, and other ‘toys.’ Personally, I wouldn’t want to drag that load around everywhere the truck travels if permanent, nor the backup forklift rental for the in/out process each time the need arises.

ONAN QD 6000 specs
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Old 10-11-2024, 08:32 PM   #9
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Funny … last I checked when Lewster was still around a semi self sufficient solar installation on a big Airstream was around $20,000 with batteries. Weighs about the same and all goes on the trailer reducing your cargo carrying capacity.

Wasn’t really looking for a critique of my idea. I’m an engineer, I understand what it would entail.

I was wondering what other Airstreamers do for backup power.

Our home has a 4k backup generator. Only need to run maybe 2 mini splits, fridge, freezer, and have a couple of lights. Last time I load tested it powering all of that it was only using 1/4 of its power.

Two rooftop RV ACs need 50 amps, so a 6k generator.
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Old 10-12-2024, 06:57 AM   #10
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Originally Posted by IrisnGerald View Post
I was wondering what other Airstreamers do for backup power.
Most Airstreamers use a small 2-3k portable generator to supplement solar and battery storage. There really aren't any other options outside of the Ford Pro-power option or one of those car generator devices.

Why ask or wonder when you already know the answer?
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Old 10-12-2024, 11:34 AM   #11
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Originally Posted by jeffb831 View Post
Most Airstreamers use a small 2-3k portable generator to supplement solar and battery storage. There really aren't any other options outside of the Ford Pro-power option or one of those car generator devices.

Why ask or wonder when you already know the answer?
Thanks!

I asked because I didn’t know.
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Old 10-12-2024, 03:46 PM   #12
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IrisnGerald - You have spent quite some time defending your notion in all your posts subsequent to the original thread, yet claim you are merely seeking insights from others. It doesn't read as receptive when each post expounds on the merits of your concept and swats away at others.

My query [I follow the notion of trying to find a way to leverage the “sized for home" unit for travel as well, but have to ask if you are planning for the truck bed mounting to be permanent or temporary?], was completely sidestepped as you announced you didn't want to be critiqued. Since you say your home is already covered by a 4K unit, I'll state again, the notion of a 6K genny mounted in the truck bed is absolutely unnecessary for common Airstream uses.

As an "stationary" engineer who operates and repairs equipment, you should be aware of a few market offerings that greatly reduce the peak amperage needs of your HVAC units and allow smaller portable generators to be sufficient. Read up on the following type choices popular in the community to augment what jeffb831 replied and provide electrical engineering perspective: SoftStartRV.com or MicroAir.net

Another alternative is to use the SEARCH function to read the vast collection of historical community inputs already stored here. You can select or discard inputs you discover without the public defensive posture.
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Old 10-12-2024, 05:00 PM   #13
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I appreciate the ignore feature of this forum, too bad those you ignore can still see your threads and make useless remarks and observations.

Must be really difficult to answer a simple question.

Contributes to why we sold our first Airstream. Loved the trailer.

Shouldn’t be necessary to defend one’s position in a country as free as the USA, especially when your position is legal and doesn’t hurt anybody. One of the best parts of my armed forces career, it helps to ensure everybody can enjoy their own little version of reality.

Have fun out there.
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Old 10-13-2024, 10:05 AM   #14
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Originally Posted by IrisnGerald View Post
I’m leaning towards an Onan QD 6000 for the bed of my diesel truck (it has a 50 gallon tank). Set it up the way they set up self propelled campers - run off the engine fuel tank, shut down when the tank reaches 1/4 full.

Not interested in a gas generator or carrying gasoline. Also not interested in a propane generator because I find them horribly inefficient.

So what do Airstreamers do about backup power while out and about?
While I cannot offer an apples-to-apples comparison, I can give my experienced-based opinion.

When we had our FC30Bunk and then our Classic33, I used a pair of Honda EU2200i generators with propane conversion kits. While this was workable, the gennies took up a lot of space in the back of the truck and I could only run the ACs for 2 hot, humid, Texas nights per 40lb. propane tank. The noise level wasn't bad, but it did take some time to get everything set up.

We have sold the AS and now camp in a motorhome with on 8k Onan that runs on diesel from chassis fuel tanks. From the outside, I am convinced the Onan is quieter than 2 Hondas. From the inside, it is just some very light white noise with a very subtle sleep-including vibration.

I think your idea is awesome. If you have the time to design the system and the disposable money to pay for it, I say go for it--and please post the pics on this forum when you've got it all installed.
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Old 10-13-2024, 01:12 PM   #15
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While I cannot offer an apples-to-apples comparison, I can give my experienced-based opinion.

When we had our FC30Bunk and then our Classic33, I used a pair of Honda EU2200i generators with propane conversion kits. While this was workable, the gennies took up a lot of space in the back of the truck and I could only run the ACs for 2 hot, humid, Texas nights per 40lb. propane tank. The noise level wasn't bad, but it did take some time to get everything set up.

We have sold the AS and now camp in a motorhome with on 8k Onan that runs on diesel from chassis fuel tanks. From the outside, I am convinced the Onan is quieter than 2 Hondas. From the inside, it is just some very light white noise with a very subtle sleep-including vibration.

I think your idea is awesome. If you have the time to design the system and the disposable money to pay for it, I say go for it--and please post the pics on this forum when you've got it all installed.
At last constructive feedback … thanks!

Total RVs to date 5 - 4 trailers of various makes and sizes, and currently a self propelled. It was the self propelled units generally that made me look back at trailer time. Almost every self propelled unit has a generator big enough to take care of all of its needs (except most Class B or similar van based things). On ours, we can barely hear the 4k QG Onan generator, and not at all if the AC is running. So why are generators an afterthought with trailers?

I’m a disabled retired combat vet and paratrooper. Included in my various potentially questionable skill sets are licensed stationary engineer (we get to work on everything) as well as RV technician. We have a nice home with in a great location. But it’s starting to be a bit much for me with all of my various health issues.

So, why not something that requires practically no maintenance like a new Classic 33 FB Twin, and something to drag it around with?

But what happens if the power goes out?

A Classic 33 is 50 amps. If the tow vehicle is diesel, get a 6k diesel generator and tap into the vehicle fuel tank the way Class As and Cs do and have it shut down when the tank reaches 1/4 full.

I’ve had a few diesels before and none of them, not even our Canyon (the smallest one) would know it had 420# in the bed all of the time.

So I came here to ask what others do for generator power.

When we had a smaller trailer, one consideration was putting a Honda EU2200i generator on a stand above the propane tanks, and feed it gasoline, enclose it all in an aluminum box. Total weight added less than 200#. Even the Canyon wouldn’t notice know the difference.

A Classic 33 is 50 amps, not practical to put the generator on the tongue. So the truck bed idea was born. Plus a truck has cargo carrying capacity to play with, a trailer does not.

If we do it, we’ll document it here.

Your experience with the Hondas helps a lot. Thanks again.
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Old 10-13-2024, 01:33 PM   #16
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As a retired contractor I had a 50 gallon diesel tank mounted in the bed of my F350. Used it for equipment refuling as well as for long distance runs with the truck. It gave me almost 1000 miles range. It didn't take up much space and also allowed me to buy cheap fuel when I could.
You could easily hook the generator up to the auxiliary tank and still use it for the truck in an emergency.
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Old 10-13-2024, 03:13 PM   #17
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As a retired contractor I had a 50 gallon diesel tank mounted in the bed of my F350. Used it for equipment refuling as well as for long distance runs with the truck. It gave me almost 1000 miles range. It didn't take up much space and also allowed me to buy cheap fuel when I could.
You could easily hook the generator up to the auxiliary tank and still use it for the truck in an emergency.
Great idea, thanks!

The tow vehicle in consideration is a Ram diesel either 2500 or 3500 (need to see actual payload specs on the truck to decide). The stock 32 gallon tank can be replaced with a 52 gallon tank. Hadn’t considered one in the bed.

They even make some you can put inside of a camper shell.

Thanks again!
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Old 10-14-2024, 10:44 AM   #18
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Mine is inside a fiberglass topper. I have it installed so I can fill it from the outside with a marine deck filter. It's vented the outside with a rollover valve. I have it set up with a gas station type fuel pump and the hose can reach out to fill the truck or other nearby equipment.
The diamond plate aluminum tank only takes up about 12 inches of the 8 ft bed and is shorter than the rear window. The full tank is a little over 400 lbs.
It can be set up to fill it truck's main tank directly if you want.
This is the second truck I have installed this tank into.
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Old 10-14-2024, 05:50 PM   #19
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Mine is inside a fiberglass topper. I have it installed so I can fill it from the outside with a marine deck filter. It's vented the outside with a rollover valve. I have it set up with a gas station type fuel pump and the hose can reach out to fill the truck or other nearby equipment.
The diamond plate aluminum tank only takes up about 12 inches of the 8 ft bed and is shorter than the rear window. The full tank is a little over 400 lbs.
It can be set up to fill it truck's main tank directly if you want.
This is the second truck I have installed this tank into.
Topper info helps as well - thanks!

Prefer out of sight out of mind …

Brief online auxiliary tank shopping yesterday, so many choices.

Onan QD4000 generator fuel consumption …
Half load: 0.25 gallons per hour
Full load: 0.5 gallons per hour

So worst case run full load for 24 hours is 12 gallons of diesel. A 50 gallon tank would be good for 4 days.

Onan 3600 watt propane generator fuel consumption …
Half load 0.6 gallons per hour
Full load 0.7 gallons per hour

I’ll take stinky heavy diesel thanks.

One of the things I’m having fun trying to wrap my head around is perhaps the best built longest lasting camp trailer available but a generator isn’t even a consideration. However in the world of self propelled generators are a given.
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Old 10-16-2024, 11:08 AM   #20
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So what do Airstreamers do about backup power while out and about?
As close to what you are suggesting is is using Ford's Pro Power Onboard system and many RVers have done that. Essentially you suggesting doing just that with your diesel truck. You have clearly thought it through and if you have the $11K and expertise to execute, get it done and get back here so we can all marvel at your mechanical genius. I for one can't wait for the prepper generator truck conversion.
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