Generator for the tractor

Why the need for electric start? Let it run all night. Runs for like 10 hours on 1 or 2 gallons. It will need to be on constantly if you are going to run an ac unit anyway

 

What size is the ac? Sure is not 12,000 btu.

 

I saw a picture, locked behind the steering wheel.

 

Well, one can get a custom generator box made specifically for their model of generator and have it mounted to the frame rail like I do. Secure and protected. No messing with it till it needs service. Run any generator like the Honda 2000/3000 or Yamaha 2000/2400/3000 right in the box. These guys are where I got my box. They will make any box custom for your generator, made to your specs. Could easily mount it on a cat walk behind the sleeper also if trailer is not an issue.

http://www.kshmarine.com/generator_box.htm

 

I use a window mount 5000 btu. Works great. The window mount ones are far more efficient than the portable units are. It's a bit of a setup, I generally only use it if I have more than a 10 hour break. I also try to sleep with the window screens and a fan when possible.

 

I'm thinking to have a setup under bunk, like international. That way you don't have to move that ac in the the window all the time, plus Is not safe to have that window down. You know those metal doors on the side. I just need to have some sort of exhaust that take the cold air and move it under bed to cab.

 

We'd have to shut the trucks down if we did that. Just the exhaust systems nowadays would set off a co alarm.

 

Let alone the trucks around one that are idling or the APU's running. Unless the exhaust from a portable is existing the generator directly under the sleeper, seems remote that CO would be a problem. No more so than an APU running behind the sleeper. A Diesel APU creates CO just like a gasoline portable. I suppose it must be said... just don't run a portable inside the cab or sleeper! With the way things are today, someone will try it.

 

Sorry to jump in late on this thread but I'm new here

Everyone seems to have their own requirements and budget for considering a generator for their truck.
Because I have lived "off grid" for more than a couple years of my life, I have my own opinions...

First, for myself, I can't imagine installing a gasoline generator on a diesel truck. Even though I'm a huge Honda fan and am impressed by the EU series for being so darned quiet, I would still have to install a diesel genset if I had the choice. My experience is simply that they are far more reliable, less finicky, and have a much longer lifespan and serviceability. I have simply burned up too many gasoline generators in my time.

For the guy doing everything portable (AC too), I guess it makes sense for occasional use.

Amongst the many generators that I own and use, I have a 15kw diesel Onan in one of my RV's, and a 8kw Powertech diesel in the other ( http://www.powertechgenerators.com/pages/cd8000si).
Of course the 15kw is too large and not required for tractor use, but since I'm presented with the same APU vs generator question myself, I've decided to purchase another 15kw Onan to replace the Powertech in my RV and move the Powertech to the catwalk of my tractor (there is no other place for it).

I run my little Kubota powered Powertech pretty hard... over 18 months right now as my sole power source.
I have 7500hrs on it and it's still going strong with rebuild kits not too pricey. These motors have been reported to go 20,000hrs at times and it's not too loud for a diesel (yet still louder than an EU). Building a box around it helps.

Anyway, just my 2 cents and a link for those who want something that runs from the main tanks and can run 24/7 for years.

P.S. They can be found on the used market with plenty of life left.

Edited to add this link to a 3kw diesel I just discovered (this must be new).
Probably not available used though...
http://www.powertechgenerators.com/pages/pt-3sv2

Best
Sean

 

Ok, I emailed the Powertech rep to ask if the 3kw model in the last link above is 120/240 split phase and to also get the engine rpm since I am interested in this model since it may drop between the frame rails.

It is 2600rpm and 120/240 spit on request by the way.

Anyway, he emailed me a product they make that I couldn't find on their website which has the same machine built into a Peterbuilt type step.
I'll upload the photo he sent in case anyone is interested:


No affiliation, I just have one of their generators and am passing this along.