Mounting Generator

[CentralMePistol]

Has anyone used the "bike/cargo" rack on the rear of their camper to mount their generator?

I have the fold down type with the spare tire mounted to the rack. It states that it should not have more than 250lbs on the rack. I assume this includes the tire that is already installed on it. With the bumps we all encounter on the road I'm just afraid this won't hold the weight of the generator with the two pins- one at each end...

I just happened to see a different style mounting rack on amazon that looks more stable than what I have... But not sure I really want to have the generator sitting back there, even with a cover.

So, any experience?

[Maticuno]

How heavy is your generator?

[CentralMePistol]

About 100lbs... 3800 watt champion duel fuel.
Weight wise it would make it. But I have hit a few bumps along the road that would scare me with that much weight back there.
The current plan is to put it in the bed of the truck, but if it were a solid mount I feel like that would be a nice way to carry it...

[clarkbre]

Originally Posted by CentralMePistol

..... But I have hit a few bumps along the road that would scare me with that much weight back there.......

I would be concerned with it hanging off the bumper as well.

If your truck can handle another 100 pounds of tongue weight, this looks like a very good option:

Trailer Tray A-Frame Cargo Carrier

[5picker]

Here is a search link to past discussions on this subject.

Mounting Generator

Other searches such as 'Hauling Generator' will bring up even more discussions.

[CentralMePistol]

Originally Posted by clarkbre

I would be concerned with it hanging off the bumper as well.

If your truck can handle another 100 pounds of tongue weight, this looks like a very good option:

I suppose there isn't a huge difference between 100lbs in the bed and 100lbs on the tongue....
Is there?

[nayther]

I've done it, no problem. Couple of ratchet straps and it is very secure. Yes it bounces around a bit as the rack is not solid with the pin set up but you'll be way under the max rating and that's what the rack is made for, to haul your stuff!

[Nelsflying]

I've carried my 50# generator on my rear 250# rack for the last five years. i use heavy duty tiedown straps and a heavy security chain and lock to prevent theft. Upgrading gen this year to 3500W (100#)

[CentralMePistol]

So I found a photo of what my rack looks like... granted this is not my camper/set-up, just one I found online.
But, I believe that the rack is connected to the frame and not the bumper so much stronger than I thought. I'm thinking some some rubber supports under the rack to give a little cushion to it along the bumper may go a long way in softening the bumps.



Now, to come up with something weather proof to cover it...

[5picker]

Many of the factory racks have the rubber cushioning bumpers you mentioned.
(stock photo from internet)

[gbaldwin]

Originally Posted by CentralMePistol

I suppose there isn't a huge difference between 100lbs in the bed and 100lbs on the tongue....
Is there?

My understanding is that 10-13% OF WHAT IS ON THE TRAILER, TRANSFERS TO TOUNG weight. If it is in truck, 100% weight is on truck.

Just if you are concerned with the weight.

I put my 2000 inside the TT when on the road. Easy fit.

[Reverse_snowbird]

Originally Posted by CentralMePistol

Has anyone used the "bike/cargo" rack on the rear of their camper to mount their generator?

Probably not a good idea. We have a friend who has a rear mounted carrier like the one pictured above.
While the carrier looks like it's mounted to the bumper, he had someone weld braces to the frame in order to carry the weight.

[CentralMePistol]

Originally Posted by Reverse_snowbird

Probably not a good idea. We have a friend who has a rear mounted carrier like the one pictured above.
While the carrier looks like it's mounted to the bumper, he had someone weld braces to the frame in order to carry the weight.

The one on my camper is actually mounted to the frame right behind the bumper... It is rated to 250#'s
I wasn't sure about how it was mounted until I saw the image above... I will have to confirm when I get home but it should hold the weight just fine. I may possibly do some reinforcing myself. I suppose too that the actual dimensions of the gene will determine if I use this location.

I'm also now looking for a solid all weather cover to protect the gene during travel.

[Nelsflying]

My rack is identical and is welded to the frame with no weight on the bumper. I did remove the tire to get additional weight on the rack. Also tire sits so low to the ground could possible drag. Keep truck and trailer spare in the bed of the truck for quick access if needed.