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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 reinforce.
Many recreational vehicles have been factory equipped with an
area for the generator set. Some vehicles may even have a genera-
tor compartment provided by the vehicle manufacturer.
Plan the generator location based on the following:
The generator set must be installed on a framework 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 underneath the supporting framework).
The location must provide easy access to frequently serviced •
components, such as filters, oil drains, spark plugs and other
common maintenance 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 minimum 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 compartment, 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 surrounding 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) 1-1/2-inch
square, 11-gauge steel tubing OR (b) 1-1/2-inch, 11-gauge angle
iron. A typical supporting frame with horizontal support tubing, is
shown in Figure 2.1.
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 generator below the horizontal support tubing by
means of suitable, structurally sound metal framework. The fol-
lowing general rules apply:
Vehicle construction MUST be capable of supporting the weight •
of the generator.
Whether the generator is mounted above the horizontal support •
tubing or suspended below the tubing, the supporting frame
used must be structurally 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 Frame
2.1.3 SUSPENDED MOUNTING
If the generator will be suspended below the horizontal support
tubing, the suspension method used with the vehicle frame mem-
bers 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 generator is adequately protected,
road test the installation through mud, water and slush.
The installer must make certain that the selected location will •
permit adequate cooling and ventilating airflow to be supplied.
Figure 2.2 – Typical Suspended Mounting System
GENERATOR
SUPPORT FRAME
(MODEL 004718-0)
GENERATOR MOUNTING
HOLES FOR 5/16" - 18
BOLTS (6 PLACES)
2.1.4 GENERATOR RESTRAINT
Use four 5/16"-18 hardened steel bolts (Grade 5) to fasten the
generator to the supporting frame or the support tubing. These
bolts must pass through (a) the generator mounting base, (b) the
compartment floor (if a compartment is used) and (c) the sup-
porting framework (Figure 2.3). All bolts must be long enough so
that when tight, at least three threads are visible past the retaining
lock nuts. Refer to "Generator Compartments" for the location of
the generator mounting holes.
Installation