APU Info

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Terri, May 7, 2006.

  1. northbamatrucker

    northbamatrucker Light Load Member

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    If you go with a company that doesn't have them you could always install your own. They are not a big deal to install.
     
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  3. bowlwinkle

    bowlwinkle Heavy Load Member

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    Ankeny, IA
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    If you have an apu you would have the power for those things. Some companies only allow certain sized inverters, so it's something you would need to ask each company if it is real important to you.
     
  4. Kittyfoot

    Kittyfoot Crusty Ancient

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    Uhuh, not all APU's have or are compatible with AC power; the new Internationals for instance. 12 volt all the way and they suck. I would assume that most of the new "built-ins" are the same.

    Also, I've gotta take issue with the "no big deal" on inverter installation. We've had 2 trucks burn right to the ground because they shorted out with no way to kill power to them. The company won't allow them now unless they're "top of the line" and installed with a "battery interrupt" by someone who knows what they're doing. "Truck stop" inverters are a complete no-no.
     
    Ducks Thanks this.
  5. 18Wheels&DozenRoses

    18Wheels&DozenRoses Light Load Member

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    Please don't laugh but can someone explain to me what an APU is and what it does?
     
  6. red_eye

    red_eye Medium Load Member

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    belpre, ohio
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  7. 18Wheels&DozenRoses

    18Wheels&DozenRoses Light Load Member

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    Gotcha Thank you I thought it was something like that. LOL So if you have an APU you don't need an inverter? Right?
     
  8. red_eye

    red_eye Medium Load Member

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    Not all APU's have AC power..
     
  9. Brickman

    Brickman Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    The only time I bought an APU I did not get one that had 110 on it.

    Heres why. If you pull off the road some where and want to quick nuke a bowl of soup or what ever for only a couple of minutes you have to fire up the APU simply for that. If you want to plug the laptop in to charge while driving you have to start the APU.

    Having a 12v only APU with the proper size of inverter is in my mind the only way to go.

    And installing an inverter yourself on a company truck is a very good way to get fired ...... QUICK. Most companies do not allow the drivers to do much of any thing other than drive the truck.
     
  10. red_eye

    red_eye Medium Load Member

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    Very good response .. not many ppl think of that.. and yes installing a inverter in a company truck is a fast way to get fired.. best way is to ask if truck has an inverter..or one can be installed.. just to cya :)
     
  11. bigkuz379

    bigkuz379 Bobtail Member

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    Oct 26, 2008
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    This may seem like a silly question, but does anybody know if it is bad to have your APU running while the truck engine is running? Will it hurt anything? Thanks.
     
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