Considering an APU

I have an APU on my truck and I love it. However, it’s not $8500 worth of love. If it blew up tomorrow, I’d replace it with a gas generator and 110 AC.

 

Our DIY system cost about $1500. It's a Pioneer split system 120v AC with heat, powered by a 3100 watt Champion generator. It runs about 8-10 hours on a 1.6 gallon tank. I haven't had any issues with staying cool, even with the Florida heat and sun.

Just make sure you've got the space to install it on the truck. The installation was fairly simple.

 

If you're in the NE. Wouldn't you be idling all winter anyways? Keep the engine warm?
Wait on the APU.

 

After having used an APU and then working somewhere that didn’t have them, I think they are worth their weight in gold. So nice not to have to idle and shake the truck all night to keep cool or keep warm.

 

With no DPF your not at as much risk for idling.
My ISX is a DEF motor, so an APU is a must, and it is awesome.
Mine's a Thermo King, just put it in your mind it's the only one made if you do buy one, and you'll be happy.

 

I've had trouble with every Apu in every truck I've ever driven.
Save your cash.

 

They do require maintenance, which they probably don’t get when they reside in a company truck. In addition, if you’re not mechanically inclined and have to run to Thermo King for every little thing, it will drain your wallet pretty fast.

After rebuilding mine from scratch, it has been relatively trouble free.

 

My wrench also tells me the electric one are garbage.
And wrench is pretty on point.
He said they don't cool well.

 

very good idea for an APU, i was talking with quite a few o/o's that say Onan is the best, but very pricey. so shop around for either a lesser brand or rebuilt, but you will stay pay some coin over all for installation as well.

 

Many of us have been through this one. You’re right.

Idling is terrible for engines.
Money is tight at start up.
APU setups can be costly.

My advice, now? Get an Espar - for winter. Darn thing will cook you out of the cab.

Ensure battery setup is good, maintained, and only idle if it’s REALLY cold, or set the alarm and start it up during the night.

DIY AC setups are abundant. Get through winter, stack cash, learn, research, ask on here, and progress.

Best of luck.