Section 2 – Installation
Recreational Vehicle Generator
2.1 LOCATION AND SUPPORT
2.1.1 GENERATOR LOCATION
The most desirable location for the generator set is between the vehicle's main frame members. However, this is seldom possible. Most units must be installed on the side of the vehicle and are difficult to rein- force.
Many recreational vehicles have been factory equipped with an area for the generator set. Some vehicles may even have a generator compartment provided by the vehicle manufacturer.
Plan the generator location based on the following:
•The generator set must be installed on a frame- work that is part of the recreational vehicle, as outlined in the "Generator Support" section.
•The location must provide an access opening that is large enough to permit generator removal (unless the generator is to be removed from under- neath the supporting framework).
•The location must provide easy access to fre- quently serviced components, such as filters, oil drains, spark plugs and other common mainte- nance parts.
•The location must provide sufficient room to allow minimum clearances as outlined in "Generator Compartments". If sound insulation is to be used on the compartment walls and ceiling, the mini- mum recommended applies to the space between the generator and such insulation.
•The location must provide adequate cooling and ventilating airflow for the generator without a great deal of work and expense.
•If mounting the generator in an enclosed compart- ment, the base of the generator must rest flat on the floor without any gaps.
•When using a suspended mounting system, ensure the base of the generator is flush with the sur- rounding bodywork. If the unit is mounted higher in the structure, heated air may recirculate into the generator causing it to overheat.
2.1.2 GENERATOR SUPPORT
The generator must be securely attached to a metal framework that has been made part of the vehicle frame structure by bolting or welding. The metal framework on which the generator will rest and which will restrain the generator set should consist of at least two horizontal beams. These beams should consist of (a)
The generator can be installed so that it sits on top of the horizontal support tubing if the vehicle design permits. Another method is to suspend the genera- tor below the horizontal support tubing by means of suitable, structurally sound metal framework. The following general rules apply:
•Vehicle construction MUST be capable of support- ing the weight of the generator.
•Whether the generator is mounted above the hori- zontal support tubing or suspended below the tub- ing, the supporting frame used must be structur- ally sound.
•If the generator cannot be bolted directly to the supporting frame or support tubing, consider using additional tubing, angle brackets or other supports to give the supporting frame sufficient strength.
Figure 2.1 – Typical Horizontal Support Frame2.1.3 SUSPENDED MOUNTING
If the generator will be suspended below the hori- zontal support tubing, the suspension method used with the vehicle frame members must (a) be able to support the weight of the generator AND (b) provide sufficient restraint for the generator. One typical sus- pended mounting system is shown in Figure 2.2. The location of a suspended mounting system must be carefully planned, keeping the following general rules in mind:
•Protect the generator against road splash and debris. Baffles or splash guards may be required to protect certain areas of the generator. To make sure the gen- erator is adequately protected, road test the installa- tion through mud, water and slush.
•The installer must make certain that the selected location will permit adequate cooling and ventilat- ing airflow to be supplied.
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