Increased Milage/APU Idea

Read the fine print (I haven't) and see under what parameters they are making such claims (if they even list them). As the old saying goes, "Figures don't lie, but liars sure can figure."

 

i came to this thread a little late. Sorry----i was very busy and actually near death last week among other things........

Anyways:
i'm trying to build my own low budget "apu" system as well.

What is/are your exact goals for this system? Are you trying to eliminate all piston engine idling? (a generator still idles)

Is your need primarily cooling? What about other things such as TV, computer, food etc?

2) i don't feel that eliminating the truck's compressor is nessesarily a good idea because while the truck is in operation(driving) i feel this would put too much strain on the secondary sytem in that it would probably be cycling quite a bit. i feel that the on-engine compressor is probably best to use while the engine is running. We can still use the elec compressor for the secondary system.
We want to conserve as much energy as possible in the batteries so we can have max power to use when we are parked. This apu system should be dedicated to parking only? My opinion.

a) i don't feel that eliminating the belt/crank driven fan is nessesarily a good idea because: This engine is over 800 CID, it needs a dependable fan that will move ALOT of air. Also, if the engineers could come up with a good electrical fan setup that's more efficient than the conventional belt driven one, i think they would have used it by now.

i can probably PM you a link to guy who sells/packages/consults all about this type of non-idle solution. He would love to talk your ear off all day. It make take me a while to dig up the link.

 

The problem I see is that anything you slap together is going to be a maintainance hog. By the time to add up all the quality components the cost is getting close to what existing systems cost.

Personally, and I know this doesn't work for you, I like the reefer link idea coupled to a couple of AGM batteries and a Dometic AC unit under the bunk. The inverter I like has the shore power capability so I can plug it in when at home. I also never thought about the small portable gas generator, like this one:

It runs less than $300 and I figure you could run it for a few hours a day to charge the batteries up if you have to sit more than a night.

 

Has anybody ever seen the APU Northern Tool sells?


Diamond Power Systems Auxiliary Power Unit ' 10,000 BTU Air Conditioning, 7500/10,000 BTU Heating, Model# DPS6500

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Diamond Power Systems has developed an auxiliary power unit (APU) built to keep you comfortable, wherever the road takes you. Some days are hot and nights are downright cold. No matter what, the Diamond APU keeps you constantly comfortable and always at ease. The CARB compliant APU saves a lot on fuel and keeps operating costs low because it sips diesel fuel right out of the tank. The easy-to-install 4-pc. unit provides heat, 120V electricity and cooling, and can also be directly hooked into any electrical outlet with the shore line option to save even more fuel and operating costs. Simple, interchangeable modular system with 4 key components is easy to install and replace. Over 100 cities and states now have fines against idling more than 15 minutes. This APU helps truckers comply with these rules and provides reliable, all-night comfort for the driver. Be smart and save money. Cut your operating costs with the new Diamond Power APU.

Was $5999.99
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i promise i'll get back to you----just very innudated with work and other things. Veeeryy stressed out.