|
05-16-2009, 11:12 PM
|
#1
|
Member
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: San Diego, CA
Posts: 38
|
Add a generator?
Is it possible to add a generator to a sportsmobile that doesnt already have one? I have a 91 Sportsmobile that is based on the next older platform than most everybody elses SMBs on here. I periodically have a need for power and while I can schlep around a regular generator, I would love to be able to install one somewhere in my van so that when I do need extra power, I have it. Is it possible to mount a generator somewhere under the body outside of the passenger cabin?
|
|
|
05-17-2009, 08:01 AM
|
#2
|
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Austin, Texas
Posts: 1,543
|
Re: Add a generator?
I am sure it is possible to add an on-board generator, but I also imagine it could be costly.
...and if it is not an all-the-time need, it could seem even more costly.
Quiet 2k watt low-maintenance generators can be had for around $900, and 1k watt versions for even less.
....and you can carry it outside the passenger comparment also...
__________________
Greg in Austin
2008 Ford 6.0PSD EB/E-PH SMB 4X4 Aluminess f/r bumpers (13.5mpg avg, 15mpg hwy) 52k miles [Texas McBeast]
2006 Toyota Prius (48 to 68 mpg) 120k miles [Penelope]
2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon (15 to 18 mpg) [Johnnie]
2012 Mitsubishi MiEV (no gas required) ($.50/day in electricity) [Evie]
https://badge.facebook.com/badge/1232...3.32047100.png
|
|
|
05-17-2009, 10:03 AM
|
#3
|
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: Parker, CO
Posts: 7,643
|
Re: Add a generator?
The generator SMB adds to the Fords goes in place of the underfloor storage or factory spare as it were (they are the same place).
You can see it on Twolost's build in this thread a few photos down: http://www.sportsmobileforum.com/vie...llow+generator
Alternatively, you can get a lightweight Honda 2000 and it will fit several of the Aluminess setups, and apparently can be run in the bumper box (couldn't find the thread tho...)
__________________
it was good to be back
|
|
|
05-19-2009, 09:05 PM
|
#4
|
Member
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: San Diego, CA
Posts: 38
|
Re: Add a generator?
Im thinking that just using a regular generator and bringing it as needed is the best way to go. Periodically I have a need for a generator when camping but its not typical so it seems like actually mounting something would just be an uneccessary expense.
|
|
|
05-20-2009, 10:01 AM
|
#5
|
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Austin, Texas
Posts: 1,543
|
Re: Add a generator?
I think that is probably your best approach.
__________________
Greg in Austin
2008 Ford 6.0PSD EB/E-PH SMB 4X4 Aluminess f/r bumpers (13.5mpg avg, 15mpg hwy) 52k miles [Texas McBeast]
2006 Toyota Prius (48 to 68 mpg) 120k miles [Penelope]
2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon (15 to 18 mpg) [Johnnie]
2012 Mitsubishi MiEV (no gas required) ($.50/day in electricity) [Evie]
https://badge.facebook.com/badge/1232...3.32047100.png
|
|
|
05-21-2009, 04:02 PM
|
#6
|
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Lake Tahoe, NV
Posts: 296
|
Re: Add a generator?
We purchased the Honda 2,000 watt unit and it is terrific. It's small and quiet. We used it to charge the batteries and if we wanted to cook using a toaster oven. We take it if we are going to be out in the boonies for extended periods. Last winter we lost our power for two days so I plugged the refrigerator/freezer into it. worked great. oclv
|
|
|
06-01-2009, 10:17 PM
|
#7
|
Junior Member
Join Date: Feb 2009
Posts: 6
|
Re: Add a generator?
What is the trick to using a generator in general? I am a newbie - just got my Sportsmobile (used) and trying to figure out how it all works. Once I start my generator do I just plug my power cord into the side of my Ford 2005 Sportsmobile? Does that mean all the plugs, radio etc will be working off the generator and the reserve batteries or just the generator? It's not obvious to a newbie!
|
|
|
06-01-2009, 11:40 PM
|
#8
|
Site Team
Join Date: May 2007
Location: Turlock Ca
Posts: 10,407
|
Re: Add a generator?
Quote:
Originally Posted by Grebitus
What is the trick to using a generator in general? I am a newbie - just got my Sportsmobile (used) and trying to figure out how it all works. Once I start my generator do I just plug my power cord into the side of my Ford 2005 Sportsmobile? Does that mean all the plugs, radio etc will be working off the generator and the reserve batteries or just the generator? It's not obvious to a newbie!
|
They are all different. Some SMB's have power supplies like generators tied to the on board AC system, others don't. Most "Plug and Play" type systems simply plug into where you tie into shore power. Al the stuff will work.
Post if you have other problems please post
__________________
2006 Ford 6.0PSD EB-50/E-PH SMB 4X4 Rock Crawler Trailer
Sportsmobile 4X4 Adventures.......... On and off road adventures
|
|
|
06-02-2009, 07:18 AM
|
#9
|
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Austin, Texas
Posts: 1,543
|
Re: Add a generator?
Assuming you have shore-power hook-up capabilities, you should be able to plug the cord into your generator just like you would any other shore-power outlet, and your SMB should then act just the same as when hooked to shore-power... ...whatever that is for you
__________________
Greg in Austin
2008 Ford 6.0PSD EB/E-PH SMB 4X4 Aluminess f/r bumpers (13.5mpg avg, 15mpg hwy) 52k miles [Texas McBeast]
2006 Toyota Prius (48 to 68 mpg) 120k miles [Penelope]
2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon (15 to 18 mpg) [Johnnie]
2012 Mitsubishi MiEV (no gas required) ($.50/day in electricity) [Evie]
https://badge.facebook.com/badge/1232...3.32047100.png
|
|
|
06-02-2009, 07:28 AM
|
#10
|
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Azusa, California
Posts: 1,092
|
Re: Add a generator?
You should run the generator for five minutes , prior to reengaging the Breakers inside the SportsMobile . I didn't realize this until I read our 2007 manual the other day . I have not done this in the past and I am not really sure with this reasoning but will do so from now on .
Greggde
|
|
|
|
Thread Tools |
|
Display Modes |
Linear Mode
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
» Recent Threads |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|