Generator exhaust location

sailquik · 06-23-2009, 07:12 AM

Can someone with the built in Microlite genset tell me where the exhaust is routed through? Out the back or side? Any problems with running the generator while in motion?

I ask because after reading the "dust coming in through back doors" thread, there is at least the possibility that the same could happen with the genset exhaust gases while in motion due to the "station wagon effect", depending on where the exhaust is located.

Thanks,
C.

jage · 06-23-2009, 07:59 AM

I don't think the exhaust location is as relevant as the intake but this thread might be helpful for things to look for/consider:

viewtopic.php?f=2&t=1539

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeffery

My solution? Extend the air intake tube closer to the side of the van so I can access it. I will then cap off the opening at all times other than when using the heater, which is only while camped. I thought about a foam filter, but that would still allow the very fine dust to get through. Greg did not recommend this, as the slightest restriction to the flow of air could be disruptive to the operation of the unit. He liked the cap idea.

sailquik · 06-23-2009, 08:25 AM

Thanks for replying. I think we got our lines crossed here, though. I don't think I'd have to worry about dust in the air inlet since the generator has an air filter-see attachment (maybe would have to change it more often).

You must have thought I was talking about the Espar Airtronic. I'm actually talking about the Onan Microlite 2800W Generator that SMB installs under the van where the spare tire usually goes.

jage · 06-23-2009, 08:44 AM

No, I know, twolost has one IIRC. My thought was more that if you're really worried about dust in the exhaust then accessiblity to be able to cap it is more important than location. Driving dust gets everywhere, in every location from every direction. The alternative is to have a down shaft exhaust that goes vertically down for the last 6-8".

That being said I've never seen the Onan and have no idea where the exhaust is.

sailquik · 06-23-2009, 09:42 AM

Oh, I see what you're saying now. I didn't explain myself correctly. My concern wasn't dust in the exhaust... My concern is that if dust so easily comes in the back doors, I figure exhaust gases could come in the back doors just as easily while driving.

In other words: Is it unsafe to drive with the generator on and do exhaust gases creep in through the back doors?

jage · 06-23-2009, 10:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sailquik

In other words: Is it unsafe to drive with the generator on

Yes.

Quote:

and do exhaust gases creep in through the back doors?

No.

sailquik · 06-23-2009, 11:51 AM

Thanks!

Langton · 06-23-2009, 10:02 PM

On my 'o3 Dodge RB the exhaust comes out the right side at the rear. I sometimes drive with the generator on with no problems but I never sleep with it on. And I have the alarm for added safety. In my past life as a dog handler I hauled dogs all over the US in various rigs and almost always had the generator on to run the air to keep them cool with never a problem. But again, I never slept with it on. I knew of a family of 4 that went to sleep in their motorhome with it running. They did not have an alarm and sadly they all died from carbon monoxide poisoning.

sailquik · 06-25-2009, 10:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Langton

On my 'o3 Dodge RB the exhaust comes out the right side at the rear. I sometimes drive with the generator on with no problems but I never sleep with it on. And I have the alarm for added safety.

Thank you, that's exactly the info I was looking for. One last question, with the exhaust being on the right side, don't the fumes become a problem if you have a couple of chairs and a table set up by the right side barn doors?

Psomaki · 06-25-2009, 10:54 AM

Yes, the generator exhaust (not to mention the noise) is a problem if you are sitting or working near that side of the van. Also, depending on the wind, the exhaust can easily enter the van when the barn doors are open. I've seen aftermarket exhaust extensions and mufflers but haven't tried them. One innovative solution I found in a post on another site (don't recall which) was to use appropriately heat-resistant piping to route the exhaust into a 5-gallon bucket and to fill the bucket with water to above the end of the pipe but not high enough to siphon back to the generator. Haven't tried this either.