Are self made gas APUs dangerous contraptions?

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by TallJoe, Aug 10, 2022.

  1. TallJoe

    TallJoe Road Train Member

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    It is not too far from the truth to say that APUs are cost prohibitive for many but those self installed gas generators, that I notice more and more in recent years, start to worry me.

    The gasoline fumes are not to be treated lightly. Way more poisonous than diesel fumes...

    If you installed such a contraption on your catwalk, are you not concerned about the fumes getting to the sleeper of someone who you parked your truck next to, not to mention a fire hazard?

    Am I even correct of being concerned here?
     
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  3. '88K100

    '88K100 Road Train Member

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    Dying in their sleep might be the least dangerous way for these folks to make their exit without taking a bus load of kids with them
    Carbon monoxide poisoning is more common among RV’s
     
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  4. Six9GS

    Six9GS Road Train Member

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    Parked beside a guy using one when I first started. Thing was poorly tuned and stunk. Fortunately, was able to move away to another parking spot. But, went and bought a carbon monoxide alarm. It's right by where I lay my head when I sleep and gives me alittle piece of mind. A very good, just in case, gadget to have!!!
     
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  5. JoeyJunk

    JoeyJunk Road Train Member

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    Right now I have an exhaust hose laying on ground temporarily until I install an exhaust stack. It extends out away from truck. My monitor never goes off. I can’t smell any fumes. And I don’t park near anyone or at truck stops so I can’t bother anyone.

    Not sure about the guys with one just sitting on ground or catwalk.
     
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  6. gentleroger

    gentleroger Road Train Member

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    I worry more about them catching on fire than the exhaust.
     
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  7. Rideandrepair

    Rideandrepair Road Train Member

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    I agree, the gasoline fumes are the danger. Fire hazard.
     
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  8. Studebaker Hawk

    Studebaker Hawk Road Train Member

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    I installed a Honda generator on my then new 1984 IHC 9600. One night when the wind was just right, I almost didn't wake up the next morning.
    Yes, unless there is some effective exhaust stack to carry the fumes way above the top of the cab they can be very dangerous.
    Poorly maintained diesel generators can be just as dangerous for different reasons.

    That is the key, properly installed and properly maintained.
    Alas, an almost non existent circumstance these days.
     
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  9. abyliks

    abyliks Road Train Member

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    Ran a 50’ cord down my frame to behind the rear light panel, usually run it all the way back to the tandems if we’re parked close together so the exhaust goes out the back, out in front of the bumper works to but not protected from rain,
     
  10. sbaumann14

    sbaumann14 Road Train Member

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    I have a step. Mines mounted under the step on rails. Extension cord to plug in bulkhead of trailer. Extension cord ran with pigtail. Never had a problem, and no one alerted me to having one. And get a co’2 detector.
     
  11. Elroythekid

    Elroythekid Road Train Member

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    EVERY truck, somebody sleeps in, should have a SMOKE & C.O. detector.
    This is why mine does. 12 hours earlier, I'd have been in there. IMG_0319.jpg
     
    Last edited: Aug 12, 2022
    Tug Toy Thanks this.
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