Honda Gas Generators

[whitey1]

Has anyone tried using one of these gasoline sipping little jewels to power an A/C unit and other electrical accessories for the sleeper ?
This is mostly driver seat thinking time at this point, but I am thinking you may be able to store/run the genset in an external tool box along with an extra gallon of gas. Of course you would have to drill some holes in the box for intake/ exhaust and ventilation of gas fumes...but the generators are $600-1000 depending on model and are reputed to be very reliable and quiet too.
Add the right camper type RV A/C or maybe a household type window A/C and an electric heater and maybe we have a less expensive way to keep our trucks comfy without the expense and upkeep of other currently available alternatives?
Mods: If this post is more appropriate in another forum please make the necessary adjustment.

 

[OntarioVanMan]

Got the 2000w Honda and a window A/C..running off it as I type. Even though I am in a Sprinter...still twinking the window seals. But its 72 degrees on a 95 degree day and NOT idling!

 

[markafd]

vanman, how and where do you secure the generator overnight. I have seen other vans with a generator on a trailer hitch receiver going down the road. thanks in advance

 

[whitey1]

"Hey Freddie!"
That's what I was hoping to hear, can you share a few details about how you have the gen set up and what type of A/C and how you rigged it up?
One of my big concerns is carrying a galon of petrol across the border Can/US?

 

[lanier1]

I've got a friend with Landstar running a similar setup in a D unit. He has a cheaper, louder generator in a tool box just as you described, a 50 gallon gas tank mounted with a spicket attached to drain to a gas can to transfer to the generator. I was just looking at the Honda EU2000, only 46 lbs and they say will run a 10,000 BTU A/C unit. I want that one with a small roof air unit and heat strip. I can't find a price on the gen though. Anybody know?

 

[OntarioVanMan]

Sprinters have a tow loop on the front, or I put chain thru front wheel covers....

eu2000 I bought at Vandalia Rental off northwood exit I75 in Ohio for abouts 975 with tax. Honda dealer wanted 1075 plus tax.

Am running a 5200 btu unit, laptop and interior fan (for circulation to rear)at same time.

Almost 6 years of border crossing always had a gas can...never a word said about it.

 

[lanier1]

No question the Hondas are the best and quietest available in portable generators but I am looking on ebay at a 3500kw gen for about $400 and a roof air unit for between $500 and $800. I could have both for the price of the Honda... I know... you get what you pay for... Dang it.

 

[Packmule]

OVM,

How long will your honda run on a tank of gas. I have heard/read from 4 1/2 to 11 hours. Whats the real story?

Danny

 

[OntarioVanMan]

Thats about the story...They have an Econo throttle that varies with your power draw. Heavy draw abouts 5 hours, Laptop abouts 10-11 hours

Heres the kicker...The unit has its own fuel pump you can open the front and put on a longer fuel line and draw from a marine fuel tank and "someone" won't have to get out at 4am in minus weather and fill the darned tank!!!!*L*

 

[Packmule]

I did not know the 2000 had a fuel pump? From what I have read it has a gravity fed tank. But I have seen the extended run tanks for the 2000. Interesting~? I will have to check with the H dealer on that one. If true, I will be making a purchase.

Danny