Ready ...Set ...Generator !!

Can't read any more about generators or my head will burst. First it was a simple Honda 2000. Then it was the 2000 Companion (mainly because of the 30A outlet - - but then we found out you needed a special plug). Next we thought we just HAD to have the Honda 3000 (because we envisioned using EVERY electrical appliance all at the same time - - NOT). In the meantime the confusion continued and we bought nothing      ....figured the best thing to do was wait and let the dust settle.

Jump to today      ...after reading just about every RV/Camping blog about the "real world"practical" use(s) for a generator we're right back where we started. Headed out to buy the base model Honda 2000i today. For now it will do everything we want/need and if it turns out that we venture out when/where AC is needed we'll get a second base model 2000i.

Anyone else here go through similar generator chaos ??

'Slogger

Originally posted by Camper Bob  Glad you finally made a decision.  We too, purchased the Honda 2000I.  Also I had installed a larger starting capacitor on the A/C.  Have just been camping with full hookups so haven't tried the generator yet with the A/C.  Might suggest getting the larger starting capacitor installed.  Part cost is only about $26.  Safe Travels.

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Hmmm    ...you've got me interested. Is this higher rated capacitor a Dometic part ?    ...and where/with how much difficulty is it installed.

We don't anticipate using the generator for powering the A/C    ...but it never hurts to be prepared - - even if we just want to run it for a few minutes to take the edge off the temp. The majority of our camping out here (even in the heat of summer) doesn't require A/C because of the lower humidity. We've got 3 great little fans that run on 110V or 12V power and generally that's all we need. We generally have a healthy breeze.

Anxious to hear more about the capacitor.

Thanks for your reply,

'Slogger

Originally posted by Camper Bob No.  It is made by an outside vendor, as are most of the other parts. Google "hard start" and all will be revealed.  I would assume it does not void the warranty.  It is a replacement for the original capacitor which is a little undersized, however, as with most manufacturers, cost is most important.  I see some of the prices for the replacement capacitor is $10.  Safe Travels.

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Thanks Bob    ...did the search and one of the links was to the Forest River User Group. One of the members even posted pictures.

Curious - - did you install this yourself or have it done by someone else. It looks like a "plug and play" sort of install. Hardest part would be getting the hood off of the A/C unit.

Thanks again,

'Slogger

Congrats.  Always fun acquiring new techytoys, yes.  Make sure you run it once every 1-2 months for at least 15 minutes, to keep the seals oiled, keep moisture out of the crank case and moisture out of the carb.  Gas storage at home, I would recommend 15-20 gallons even if your area usually doesn't loose power (I don't have optimism for the future of the North American power grid, either from terrorism or age).  On the road will depend on your needs.  If you use it to top the battery off a few times over a week you won't need anything other than what is in the tank.

Originally posted by techntrek Congrats.  Always fun acquiring new techytoys, yes.  Make sure you run it once every 1-2 months for at least 15 minutes, to keep the seals oiled, keep moisture out of the crank case and moisture out of the carb.  Gas storage at home, I would recommend 15-20 gallons even if your area usually doesn't loose power (I don't have optimism for the future of the North American power grid, either from terrorism or age).  On the road will depend on your needs.  If you use it to top the battery off a few times over a week you won't need anything other than what is in the tank.

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Sage advice. I too am dubious about the future of available fuel. Hadn't even thought about "at home" supply though. Am planning on carrying either a 2 or 5 gallon container on the road when we go camping. We're not prisoners of A/C so our main interest is in keeping the battery topped off and the fridge cold (but even that we could get around with dry ice/ice in a cooler).

Thanks for the tip on running the generator on regular basis.

'Slogger