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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 the "Generator Compartment" section.
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.
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.
Figure 2.2 – Typical Suspended Mounting System
The installer must make certain that the selected location will •
permit adequate cooling and ventilating airflow to be supplied.
2.1.4 GENERATOR RESTRAINT
Use four 3/8"-16 hardened steel bolts (Grade 5) to fasten the genera-
tor 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 supporting 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
the "Generator Compartment" section for the location of the generator
mounting holes.
Section 2 – Installation
Recreational Vehicle Generator