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Kalidas · 07-31-2015, 08:36 PM

Hello Everyone,
Just joined the forum today. Really looking forward to gleaning through all the information. Just don't have time to do research with any previous post as I have to make a decision on my generator by tomorrow morning.
We have just purchased a 2015 Serenity, picking it up Sunday and in need of getting a generator for it.
I have read that some people use two 2000W Honda generators in series to have enough power to run the A/C. But the trailer comes with a 30A screw plug. Is there another accessory that I will need to purchase to make the 2000W units work? Not against purchasing the 3000W, but would rather have the ease of the lighter units. And will be using the generator primarily for charging the batteries. Thus only requiring the smaller wattage.
If anyone could share how they have made this work, I would really appreciate it.
Thanks
Kalidas

SteveSueMac · 07-31-2015, 08:41 PM

You need the 2000 and the 2000 companion with connection kit. It has a 30a plug that you use your regular cord just like shore power (with the generators as the "post" in the campground and the other end of the cable screws in to either the front or side 30a input on your trailer).

switz · 07-31-2015, 08:44 PM

If one buys the pair of Honda generators, the "companion" model (EU2000i Companion) has the female 30 amp 120Vac twist lock receptacle and a single 120Vac outlet while the other (EU2000i) has the usual home style looking dual 20 amp wall outlet receptacles.

AStreamNerds · 07-31-2015, 09:43 PM

We just bought a pair with connection kit. IMO it was a good purchase and am able to use AC and most everything else we may want to use at same time

fotoman1527 · 07-31-2015, 10:22 PM

I am also considering buying a Honda 2000i generator, but because I use an SUV as a tow vehicle and don't want to carry gasoline cans on or within it, I am contemplating the purchase of that generator converted to propane only usage. I wonder if anyone has done that and can post a user report so the questioner can consider that option, as well.

ROBERT CROSS · 08-01-2015, 06:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fotoman1527

I am also considering buying a Honda 2000i generator, but because I use an SUV as a tow vehicle and don't want to carry gasoline cans on or within it, I am contemplating the purchase of that generator converted to propane only usage. I wonder if anyone has done that and can post a user report so the questioner can consider that option, as well.

Check these threads

I converted our 2000i eight years ago with no regrets at all....a few bugs on the conversion itself but nothing that couldn't be handled......US Carb customer service was a bit iffy back then but newer customers seem to be happy with them now.
Here's an example of what NOT to expect

I like the fact that you can run on gas if needed, (power outage at home), and you do have the ability to adjust the mixture to compensate for altitude. I will usually start on gas, shut off supply, open LPG when it starts to stumble.
You have the option of dual fuel, IMO...might as well use it just in case you need it. I only carry 1/2gal gas when camping

I added a Hardline tach/hour meter to keep track of maint times, and a remote gas shut-off to help with the change over, and run the system dry for storage.

At moderate load it will run 18-20hrs on it's own tank.

It stays/runs out of sight, out of the weather in a 3p tent at the back of the trailer and gets transported in a 24gal Rubbermaid ActionPacker inside the trailer, no fumes, no leaks.

Bob

Belegedhel · 08-01-2015, 07:58 AM

Welcome to the forums!

If all you want to do with the generator is charge batteries (and maybe run a few low power appliances), then you only need a single 2000w generator. You can buy an adapter that goes from your 30A configured main plug to a typical 110V outlet and plug it right into the genny. Just don't turn on the AC units and you're fine.

good luck!

richinny · 08-01-2015, 08:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kalidas

Not against purchasing the 3000W, but would rather have the ease of the lighter units. And will be using the generator primarily for charging the batteries. Thus only requiring the smaller wattage.
If anyone could share how they have made this work, I would really appreciate it.
Thanks
Kalidas

if you're not going to use it for running the air, just one 2000w generator should fill your needs. you get an adapter to use the 15a outlet on the generator to adapt it to the 30a trailer cord.

richinny · 08-01-2015, 08:06 AM

p.s. the trailer converter will do a better job of charging the batteries than the 12v output of the generator.

leedav · 08-01-2015, 08:32 AM

I bought the propane converted honda 2k from genconnex. Works great.

ghaynes755 · 08-01-2015, 08:44 AM

Depending on which AC unit you have (13.5/15k) and altitude where you camp a single Honda 2000 may not start an AC unit. Won't do it a 13.5 unit at 6000 feet here in Colorado. I can start either with the primary & companion and once running either one will run on a single unit. Looking at amp draw on an IPN Pro the seem to pull the same amps when running.

J. Morgan · 08-01-2015, 09:14 AM

I bought a Yamaha EF2400ishc, I dont have any real world use to write about but I did do a six hour test run on a very hot day.

It will start and run my old Armstrong AC quite well.

Kalidas · 08-01-2015, 10:58 AM

WOW❗❗❗❗
You guys are awesome...
Thank you so much for helping me make the right decision.
Looks like I will have to purchase the 'companion' to the Honda 2000w in the US because they don't offer it here in Canada.
No problem, we are beginning our first adventure in October.
Once again, thanks

Jack46 · 08-01-2015, 11:03 AM

We got rid of our Honda 3000 in favor of the two, 2000's. Decision was based on weight and the flexibility of using one or two of the smaller units. Happy we did. You've already heard from other regarding the "companion" hook up. Good luck.

Betty Farmer · 08-01-2015, 12:18 PM

The Hondo 2000, with a companion is great. I prefer the Onan 4000 - with an electric start - as I don't like to be out there in the middle of the night pulling a rope. And you will use that generator more than you think.

MaineStreamer · 08-01-2015, 12:24 PM

Great thread. I spent weeks reading old discussions and following current ones last winter. This has all the info in one place, and great photos from Bob Cross about propane conversion -- even a little tent for the propane tank! Is that little tent designed for a dog?

ROBERT CROSS · 08-01-2015, 01:01 PM

Marty,

No.... the tent is a cheep 3 person from WallyMart. Dog lives inside with us.

Where we camp in the Adirondacks the rain can come quick in the valley. I just got tired of moving it in out of the wet.

Tried the tent...runs well inside with all vents open. I put down two 4"x2"s to set it on and have a two foot slit in the floor to squeegee any standing water out....
I know it's all in my head, but if you can't see it....... it's a lot quieter.

Plus...hidden from prying eyes.

Bob

GammaDog · 08-01-2015, 01:04 PM

Three thoughts (1 and 2 for Kalidas and 3 for fotoman)

1. The 30 amp outlet on the EU2000i companion is NOT a 30 amp RV TT outlet. It's a 30 amp twist lock. You need to buy an adapter to go from the 30 amp twist lock on the generator to the 30 amp fitting on your airstream power cord (at least I had to get one for mine). Here's an example: Arcon Generator Adapter Plug for RV Power Cord - 125V - 30 Amps - Twist Lock Arcon Wiring AR14398 Some sellers provide this adapter and the required connection cables if you buy the pair of generators. Others do not.

2. In lieu of an EU companion, you may buy a third party "parallel kit" to connect two regular EU2000 units. It's a more expensive way to go, but provides the same capability. Google "Honda generator parallel kit" for examples. This usually only makes sense if you already have two standard models and want to buy the connection kit rather than an additional companion model. If you can't get the companion it may be an option for you.

3. Like other folks, I converted both of my Honda EU2000i units to propane. I carry both generators and two 20 lb LP tanks on a roll out platform under the tonneau of the truck. Both generators and their regulators have quick disconnects to match the one on the front of the Airstream (those are MB Sturgis model 250 ). I also have a quick disconnect tee fitting. That allows me to run each generator off its own 20 lb tank, run both off of one tank or connect one or both generators directly to the trailer. If your read Honda generator forums you will find that 90% of the reported issues are related to gasoline. If you leave these generators sitting with gas in the carb for an extended period of time you may find they will not start. No such problem with LP. I also feel much better traveling in hot weather with LP bottles under the tonneau than with cans of gasoline... but that may just be me.

I hope that helps...

B00merang · 08-01-2015, 01:35 PM

Kalidas
There are numerous outfits that will send you these generators...or just the companion model...for free (i.e., its included in the price). But I find it strange why they would sell one model...but not the virtually identical companion models with the 30W outlet. Maybe look at another dealer...or ask Miz Google. Safe travels. jon

TBRich · 08-01-2015, 03:07 PM

I don't see where anyone has mentioned that you need an adapter for the 30-amp plug-in on the Companion 2000w Honda...it converts the twist & turn pm the generator to a standard female three-prong plug that will received the male end of the power cord... (If I am wrong and someone has mentioned it, sorry!)