Section 2 – Installation
Recreational Vehicle Generator
2.4.1 FUEL TANK
Either the generator must share the vehicle engine's fuel tank, or install a separate fuel tank for the generator set. All fuel tanks installed on the vehicle must be constructed, installed and restrained so they comply with applicable codes, standards and regula- tions.
If the generator is to share the vehicle engine's tank, separate fuel pickup tubes are required for the engine and the generator. The manufacturer recommends that the fuel pickup tube be 2 to 3 inches (51 to 76
mm)shorter than the vehicle engine's pickup tube. This prevents the generator from depleting the entire fuel supply during prolonged generator operating periods.
Do NOT tee the generator fuel supply line into the vehicle engine fuel supply line. If this is done, the generator will be starved of fuel when both engines are operating at the same time. Also, while the vehicle engine is not run- ning, generator operation may drain the vehicle engine supply line, making it difficult to start the vehicle engine.
2.4.2 GENERATOR FUEL SUPPLY LINE
2.4.2.1 Rigid Fuel Lines
Those lines used to supply fuel from a tank to the generator must comply with applicable codes, stan- dards and regulations. The following general rules apply to rigid fuel lines:
•Rigid lines should be of annealed, seamless, drawn aluminum or steel.
•Lines and fittings must comply with SAE J512F, “Standard Automotive Fittings,” or with ANSI B126.26 (latest edition).
•Route the fuel line so that at least 2 inches (51 mm) of clearance is maintained between the line and any exhaust system parts.
•Do not attach electrical wiring to fuel lines. Route the wiring so it cannot come into contact with any fuel line.
•Route fuel lines so if they leak, fuel does not drip onto any electrical or exhaust system parts.
•Use nonferrous metal straps without sharp edges to secure fuel lines.
2.4.2.2 Flexible Fuel Line
Use an approved flexible length of fuel hose between the generator fuel inlet connection and rigid fuel lines. This prevents breaking of the line caused by vibration, shifting, settling or movement. The follow- ing rules apply:
•The flexible hose must comply with SAE J30B, “Standard for Fuel and Oil Hose.” It must be approved for use with gasoline.
•The hose should be at least 6 inches (152 mm) longer than is needed to prevent the hose from rupturing if the generator shifts or settles.
2.5EXHAUST SYSTEM
The generator exhaust system must be safely and properly installed. Only approved mufflers and other exhaust system parts must be used. A properly installed exhaust system must be vapor tight, quiet and completely safe.
DANGER
The generator engine gives off DEADLY carbon monoxide gas through its exhaust system. This dangerous gas, if breathed in sufficient con- centrations, can cause unconsciousness or even death. Never operate the generator set with the vehicle inside any garage or other enclosed area. DO NOT OPERATE THE GENERATOR IF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM IS LEAKING OR HAS BEEN DAMAGED. SYMPTOMS OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING ARE (a) inability to think coher- ently; (b) vomiting; (c) twitching muscles; (d) throbbing temples; (e) dizziness; (f) headaches;
(g) weakness; and (h) sleepiness. IF FEELING ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS, MOVE INTO FRESH AIR IMMEDIATELY. IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, GET MEDICAL HELP. Do not operate the generator until its exhaust system has been inspected and properly repaired.
Never tee the generator engine exhaust pipe into the vehicle engine exhaust piping. This causes excessive back pressure on the generator engine. Also, water from one engine can dam- age the other engine.
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