How come trailer makers don't install generators?

[markb422]

I would bet that for a manufacturer to install a gasoline tank on a TT would require them to meet a whole new set of DOT regulations.

[babock]

Originally Posted by markb422

I would bet that for a manufacturer to install a gasoline tank on a TT would require them to meet a whole new set of DOT regulations.

Which is probably why most generators on trailers run on propane.

[BandJCarm]

Because...........
A) they'd charge too much.


B) they'd screw up the installation


C) I don't want one and don't want to pay for it.

[jozack]

In 1999 I went to a my local RV dealer and every TT had a generator. I convinced momma finally seven years to get one,and no more generators. The sales reps did not know what I was talking about.

[Flybob]

Because people are different and have different needs and financial situations. The same reason there are cars available from $15,000 to $13,000,000

[rockfordroo]

Originally Posted by Paul Dershem

Our 2304DS has no place to store a genset, and I wish it did. I'm considering various places to put one (we tow with a van, so no truck bed), like a rack over the propane tanks, or installing a front-mounted tow hitch on our van.

Seems like a reasonable compromise would be for manufacturers to provide a compartment prepped for a genset, with start switch in the living area- the buyer could add a generator, or use the space for other storage.

IMHO, YMMV, etc...

Last week I saw an over-the-LP-tanks generator rack at Camping World.

https://www.campingworld.com/trailer...fault&start=14

Here it is on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Stromberg-Car.../dp/B00U8AXRPW

Actually cheaper at CW. Who'd have thunk?

[Iwannacamp]

I would rather have a stand alone.... except for the storing it.
I pretty much know that my next unit will be a medium sized toy hauler as I am fascinated by the ability to have what "they" have. I do have several concerns, but the positives out weigh them. When I do get one... I will have a good portable generator and some system for storage and use. I can easily opt for TV fuel storage.

[NMWildcat]

What I think is funny that most folks I know that have built in generators, also have a portable. Usually a 2000. They do it to save fuel mainly when all they need to do is watch TV and/or charge the batteries.
Built ins using propane, use a lot of propane. Our hunting buddies usually carry an extra 100lb tank just to make it through a week running the AC in the summer. Ok, they usually carry it all the time so they don't have to skimp on generator usage. They got tired of that, and now have a portable also.
Our toy hauler friends that have gas generators, were amazed at the amount of fuel used by their Onan. So they only use it to run the A/C's or the coffee pot in the morning when they aren't ready to come outside.
Otherwise they run the little 2000s for economy. I just find it interesting and amusing.........

[5picker]

Originally Posted by NMWildcat

What I think is funny that most folks I know that have built in generators, also have a portable. Usually a 2000. They do it to save fuel mainly when all they need to do is watch TV and/or charge the batteries.
Built ins using propane, use a lot of propane. Our hunting buddies usually carry an extra 100lb tank in the winter just to make it through a week running the heater.
Our toy hauler friends that have gas generators, were amazed at the amount of fuel used by their Onan. So they only use it to run the A/C's or the coffee pot in the morning when they aren't ready to come outside.
Otherwise they run the little 2000s for economy. I just find it interesting and amusing.........

And I find your observations very astute.
Thanks for sharing.

[Iwannacamp]

Originally Posted by NMWildcat

What I think is funny that most folks I know that have built in generators, also have a portable. Usually a 2000. They do it to save fuel mainly when all they need to do is watch TV and/or charge the batteries.
Built ins using propane, use a lot of propane. Our hunting buddies usually carry an extra 100lb tank just to make it through a week running the AC in the summer. Ok, they usually carry it all the time so they don't have to skimp on generator usage. They got tired of that, and now have a portable also.
Our toy hauler friends that have gas generators, were amazed at the amount of fuel used by their Onan. So they only use it to run the A/C's or the coffee pot in the morning when they aren't ready to come outside.
Otherwise they run the little 2000s for economy. I just find it interesting and amusing.........

I don't now what astute is(Arkansas), but the voice of experience should often be heard and heeded.

[Iwannacamp]

as·tute
/əˈst(y)o͞ot/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage.

[briannbutler78]

My Shockwave came with a 4K Onan. It runs off my toy tank and we love it for boondocking. It also came with solar and we added a 1500 watt GoPower Inverter. We run the generator for the microwave and the ac but that’s about it. Solar keeps us charged. This was a package we wanted from the start without having to add more items all the time.
I agree, it is mostly cheaper to have all your wish items at the time of purchase compared to spending a lot on the installs after.

[boatnik]

I am buying a Generac IQ 3500. They are the quietest I have ever heard. Plenty of power for 1 air and tv or what ever else you need to power. I do not think you could run your fridge and air at the same time, Use your gas for fridge. You cannot use it for hot water heater and air at the same time as both are power hogs. They are pretty compact and can be locked. They are a hell of a lot quieter than the pricey Hondas that I thought were the quietest. These generators rock.

[CaptnJohn]

Ok I’m old with a bad back and legs. Ordered an Onan in my last Montana. I started it every other month and only used it once. It would not help at the S&B if the power went out. I have 2 Champion 2000 paired if needed in the new 5er and a 3500 that stays home due to weight. Much better and less expensive for me.

[dongreg]

When I bought my 2019 Wildcat Maxx I asked the factory rep why not an option for the generator. His response was a few years ago it was an option on most FR’s and they sold a grand total of 2 of them. I guess it’s all about demand or lack there of. The Artic Fox it is an option at about 6K. I bought a Champion inverter duel fuel at Cablas for $995.00 for the 3500 about a year ago and it’s still in the box in the garage!

[Iamcanadian]

As-tute pronounced "As toot".

I thought that was some kind of disgusting noise.

I use a Firman 3500 in the back of the truck. Quiet, runs for at least 6 hours on a tank of gas and the trailer plugs right into it. I run a portable EMS just in case.

don't think I would want the vibs, noise or exhaust smell that close to or even inside my trailer. And the cost of an inside genny

IMHO

[RET.LEO]

Grand Design Momentum toy hauler has a gas powered gen from the fuel tank at the garage area.
Great idea! Wish "regular" TTs would have the same capability. A LP gen is just useless to me. One of the BIG, HUGE, GIGANTIC advantages to a Class C or A

[babock]

Except then you have to have a TOAD. I love being able to disconnect and have that vehicle to drive around.

Originally Posted by RET.LEO

Grand Design Momentum toy hauler has a gas powered gen from the fuel tank at the garage area.
Great idea! Wish "regular" TTs would have the same capability. A LP gen is just useless to me. One of the BIG, HUGE, GIGANTIC advantages to a Class C or A

[RET.LEO]

Originally Posted by babock

Except then you have to have a TOAD. I love being able to disconnect and have that vehicle to drive around.

That is very true and a great point. The way I look at it for a Class C: For a TT figure 35K for the TT, 55K for a new F250, if a toy hauler figure north of $70K, then figure the F350 at $60K, a new F450 at $70K
For a new Minnie Winnie or Greyhawk for around $80K, a good clean 2 or 3 year old Kia Soul set up to be a Toad for around $15K
For me the Class C with a late model Toad is the better value. If there's a problem with the MH the Toad can be used. For side trips it would get 25-30MPG
Reality is what works for one doesn't work for another. I would love to see gens with a gas tank as a option on travel trailers. As many people that dry camp anymore it would be a good seller.

[markb422]

There are absorption type refrigerators that run on LP gas why don't they make a absorption air conditioner that runs on LP gas? Even if it only did 80 degrees on a 100 degree day and take the humidity out of the air.