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Generator

Printed From: R-pod Owners Forum
Category: R-pod Discussion Forums
Forum Name: Podmods, Maintenance, Tips and Tricks
Forum Discription: Ask maintenance questions, share your podmods (modifications) and helpful tips
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=8075
Printed Date: 06 May 2024 at 9:54pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 9.64 - http://www.webwizforums.com


Topic: Generator
Posted By: Jeff Baurick
Subject: Generator
Date Posted: 01 Jun 2016 at 8:26pm
Is it possible to have a built in generator added to the R-pod 180, with inverter and auto start?  Big enough to run the AC?

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Jeff Baurick



Replies:
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 01 Jun 2016 at 8:42pm
Welcome to the group! Heck of a first question! I am sure someone in the group will be able to address it.

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Leo & Melissa Bachand
2017 Ford F150
2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk
Previously owned
2015 Rpod 179
2010 Rpod 171


Posted By: JandL
Date Posted: 01 Jun 2016 at 9:19pm
I think it would be very expensive and take up a big part of the trailer. Just Google RV built in generator. I have had my trailer 2 years and have only used my generator one time. There are quite a few code requirements for a built in. They are not cheap, a Onan RV QG4000 (4.0kW) RV Generator is around $3000. It's 172 Lbs and 30"L x 19.7"W x 14.4"H

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JandL
2013 Honda Ridgeline
2012 177
2 Paynes in a Pod


Posted By: WillThrill
Date Posted: 02 Jun 2016 at 2:37pm
Originally posted by Jeff Baurick

Is it possible to have a built in generator added to the R-pod 180, with inverter and auto start?  Big enough to run the AC?

I really doubt that there would be adequate space anywhere to install one.  These generators are not typically small units, and space is a premium in Pods.  I suppose that it might be possible to have a very compact model installed in the rear storage unit, but that would eliminate most/all of the exterior storage you need for hoses, extension cables, etc. (ours is quite full).

If you really want this type of unit, I would suggest you consider a larger travel trailer than an Rpod.  Keep in mind, though, that built in generators only come stock in motorhomes, to my knowledge.  I've never seen one in a travel trailer or 5th wheel.


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"Not all those who wander are lost." Tolkien

2014 Hood River 177
2005 GMC Envoy XL


Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 02 Jun 2016 at 2:48pm
See the referenced post from Marwayne. It can be done, but it's more of a built on rather than built in. Marwayne is a master craftsman and this is only a 2000 watt generator. This is not for the faint of heart. Additional searching will provide more details if you're interested.

EDIT: Corrected link

http://rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7495&KW=generator&PID=70657&title=generator#70657 - http://rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7495&KW=generator&PID=70657&title=generator#70657


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Charlie
Northern Colorado
OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD
PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD


Posted By: Jeff Baurick
Date Posted: 02 Jun 2016 at 11:14pm
Thanks guys. I think what I've learned is I will stick with my little Honda 2000 W generator. Will put in an extra battery and inverter so we can use the outlets. To use the AC, I will hope I can plug in at a full-service campground. Love this little trailer! We pull it with a Toyota sienna.

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Jeff Baurick


Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 03 Jun 2016 at 8:40am
Originally posted by CharlieM

See the referenced post from Marwayne. It can be done, but it's more of a built on rather than built in. Marwayne is a master craftsman and this is only a 2000 watt generator. This is not for the faint of heart. Additional searching will provide more details if you're interested.

http://rpod-owners.com/new_reply_form.asp?M=Q&PID=70657&PN=4&TR=32 - http://rpod-owners.com/new_reply_form.asp?M=Q&PID=70657&PN=4&TR=32


There is something wrong with the link you provided. It takes me to a new post page that says I don't have permission to post. Please re-do the link so that it goes to the intended target.


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StephenH
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,...

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods
Former RPod 179
Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS


Posted By: CharlieM
Date Posted: 03 Jun 2016 at 8:47am
Originally posted by StephenH


There is something wrong with the link you provided. It takes me to a new post page that says I don't have permission to post. Please re-do the link so that it goes to the intended target.


You are correct. Try this one:

http://rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7495&KW=generator&PID=70657&title=generator#70657 - http://rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7495&KW=generator&PID=70657&title=generator#70657


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Charlie
Northern Colorado
OLD: 2013 RP-172, 2010 Honda Pilot 3.5L 4WD
PRESENT: 2014 Camplite 21RBS, 2013 Supercharged Tacoma 4L V6 4WD


Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 03 Jun 2016 at 9:52am
That works. Thanks. Thumbs Up

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StephenH
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,...

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods
Former RPod 179
Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS


Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 03 Jun 2016 at 4:34pm
Welcome.  Another consideration with having a generator on the camper itself is vibration and noise.  For that reason I mounted my generators (first a Yamaha and then a Honda) on a cargo tray on the front of the TV.  I barely hear it and definitely don't feel it.

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3689 - http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=3689


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Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual


Posted By: ron/roscoe
Date Posted: 03 Jun 2016 at 7:45pm
How about those powerhouse black generators that camping world sells?  A lot of power for cheap price?

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Ron Rowland


Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 03 Jun 2016 at 9:34pm
Looks like http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/powerhouse-ph2700pri-2700-watt-150cc-4-stroke-gas-powered-portable-generator/67061 - this one is the biggest one of that brand.  Good that it is the inverter-generator type (saves gas and is quieter).  It won't be as quiet as a Yamaha or Honda, but much cheaper.  It should start the A/C if it lives up to its rating.  

You will be able to run one of the "big 3" appliances at a time, but it wasn't a big deal when we had a similar-sized generator (Yamaha 2400 watt inverter-generator).  A/C, microwave, and the electric element in the water heater.  You'll want to use the gas mode for the water heater when off-grid so that is a non-issue.  You'll only use the microwave for a short time so it won't get too warm with the A/C temporarily off.


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Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual


Posted By: borjon
Date Posted: 07 Jun 2016 at 5:05pm
When you ran the A/C on your Yamaha 2400 did the overload light come on? I tried to run the A/C on our 179 using the 2400 and the light came on. No other electric appliance was on at the time. Thanks for any help you can give me.


Posted By: TheBum
Date Posted: 07 Jun 2016 at 5:36pm
We've decided to sell our Ryobis and get a couple of Honda 2000s (one regular, one Companion). The Ryobis have too many quirks that have weakened my faith in them as an RV power solution. Hondas, on the other hand, have been bulletproof in my experience. I found a package online that includes the generators, covers, parallel cable, and three heavy duty extension cords for just shy of $2100.


Posted By: ronahue
Date Posted: 07 Jun 2016 at 5:44pm
While we are talking generators as I stay at more NP/State campgrounds (which often means no electric hookup) I'm finding that I know people how smoke feel. While they tolerate generators they are not happy about them. In Vermont the rules say that generators may be used only during non-quiet hours,7am-10pm and at the discretion of the park ranger. When you ask the ranger they will tell you 8-10am and 4-6pm which is fine that's all I need to top off my batteries in most cases. Then they say you may not be allowed to use it at all depending. I was unable to get answer on depending on what? 

I understand the frustration of people tenting and will probably buy a Zamp or other solar charger but the mean time if you see my 179 parked 25' outside the Vermont State Park gate be sure to wave as you go by.Wink


-------------
Ron & Sharon
2015 R-Pod 179
2022 Nissan Frontier

No trees were harmed in the sending of this message but a billion electrons were really agitated


Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 07 Jun 2016 at 9:02pm
Originally posted by borjon

When you ran the A/C on your Yamaha 2400 did the overload light come on? I tried to run the A/C on our 179 using the 2400 and the light came on. No other electric appliance was on at the time. Thanks for any help you can give me.

Welcome.  No, we didn't have a problem, but its possible you could have a problem at higher altitudes since you have less power available.


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Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual


Posted By: marwayne
Date Posted: 07 Jun 2016 at 9:13pm
I have no problem with vibration, My generator is suspended.



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If you want something done right, do it yourself.
2011 RP172, 2016 Tundra 5.7 Litre, Ltd.




Posted By: WillThrill
Date Posted: 07 Jun 2016 at 10:51pm
Originally posted by borjon

When you ran the A/C on your Yamaha 2400 did the overload light come on? I tried to run the A/C on our 179 using the 2400 and the light came on. No other electric appliance was on at the time. Thanks for any help you can give me.

We too have the Yamaha 2400.  This sequence may help.  First, turn the fan on and let it run for a minute or so on high.  Then, change the setting to cool.  Our fan briefly stops when the condenser turns on, but then the generator ramps up and the AC runs fine.

If this doesn't work, you may want to turn off the breakers going to your microwave and converter.  The latter, in particular, may draw quite a bit of wattage, especially if the batteries are drained and being recharged.

As Techntrek noted, at high elevation, your generator's output will be reduced.  High temps, over 100 F, also increase the wattage necessary to start the condenser.


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"Not all those who wander are lost." Tolkien

2014 Hood River 177
2005 GMC Envoy XL


Posted By: borjon
Date Posted: 10 Jun 2016 at 3:48pm
I thank you for the welcome. We just bought 2016 R-Pod 179 seven days ago. Before that we had a popup. Loved the popup, but now we are getting to old to set the thing up without having shoulder pain the next day plus it didn't have A/C. We are at 1053 feet. Is that high enough to make a difference?


Posted By: borjon
Date Posted: 10 Jun 2016 at 4:00pm
I set the fan selection for a minute, but I couldn't hear anything moving. (I think our A/C is different since I don't see any choices in speed. It just has a control switch that says Fan/Cool/Heat/Off. Is the fan switch located somewhere on the A/C unit its self?) Then switched to cool. I heard a beep coming from the breaker box. The generator's overload light came on then it went out. Is that normal? A/C then ran just fine.


Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 10 Jun 2016 at 9:33pm
Originally posted by marwayne

I have no problem with vibration, My generator is suspended.

I've always liked your innovation for that.


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Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual


Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 10 Jun 2016 at 9:42pm
I would set the fan to low, which will help.  Someone else will need to step in with instructions for the digital thermostat.  1000 feet shouldn't make a noticable difference.  Not until you get up several thousand feet.  The rule of thumb is you lose 3.5% per 1000 feet, plus 1% for every 10 F above 60 F.  So go to 3000 feet at 90 F and you've lost 13.5%.

When I had my Yamaha the fan would drop in speed when the compressor started, and I do believe the overload light would briefly light.


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Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual


Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 10 Jun 2016 at 10:31pm
I just purchased a https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000LDPI26/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 - Supco SPP6 seres hard start capacitor , which I will install as soon as I get a chance. While I have tried the AC with the Generac iX2000 generator successfully, I think this will help with the initial surge and make it work even better.

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StephenH
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,...

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods
Former RPod 179
Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS


Posted By: SNO4ME
Date Posted: 10 Jun 2016 at 10:55pm
A year ago last fall we met a gentleman out in South Dakota. He had his 3k inverter Honda mounted in an aluminum tool box in his pickup. He had it all vented out and locked up. Very quiet and very secure. Nice set up if you have a pickup.


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Bruce & Donna in the Sno Pod
(and Brewer too)
2011 RP 177


Posted By: borjon
Date Posted: 14 Jun 2016 at 4:54pm
Thank you for your input. You have been very helpful. I think it might have been the heat. It was 100 degrees when we tried to run the gen. I'm not sure at this point if the general is going to be of much help when we camp in Arizona.


Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 14 Jun 2016 at 6:03pm
The Supco Hard Start Capacitor is headed back. Instead of helping, it killed performance. Without, the generator would surge as the load kicked in, but settle down and run. I installed the hard start capacitor and it immediately put the generator in overload, which cuts the current feed (I guess, to protect the generator's inverter from being damaged). I removed it, and the generator can run the AC again.

I had hoped this would be an inexpensive way to make the AC work easier with the generator. I was mistaken. I guess I would have to go with Dometic's Smart Start system, but I don't want to spend over $400 to do so.


-------------
StephenH
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,...

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods
Former RPod 179
Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS


Posted By: ron/roscoe
Date Posted: 19 Jun 2016 at 4:13pm
Trying to find out the amp draw of the A/C on my 2016 Rpod 178.  My Honda 2000 puts out about 17 amps, if I turn on just the a/c, will it work?  I just don't want to smoke it!

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Ron Rowland


Posted By: JandL
Date Posted: 19 Jun 2016 at 5:35pm
I have a 2012 RPod and the spec for my air conditioner are AC & fan start is 23 amps and run 16 amps

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JandL
2013 Honda Ridgeline
2012 177
2 Paynes in a Pod


Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 19 Jun 2016 at 9:40pm
Stephen, it should have helped, maybe you received a bad capacitor.

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Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual


Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 19 Jun 2016 at 9:58pm
I was careful to wire it in parallel with the capacitor like I read. I was really disappointed when it caused the generator to overload instead helping the AC to start easier. I also figured that something must have been wrong with it. That's why it went back. Since the generator will start and run the AC, I will wait and see if I need to do anything. Hopefully, I won't need to.




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StephenH
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,...

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods
Former RPod 179
Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS


Posted By: JandL
Date Posted: 20 Jun 2016 at 12:46pm
I think you may be dealing with too much capacitance. Wiring caps in parallel adds to their value, so it may look like a short circuit to your generator. If there is too little capacitance you could limit the current so you don’t get enough phase shift to produce torque to get the motor spinning. The air condition on my trailer is a Dometic 641415 and it comes with a Start cap and a motor run cap. I don’t remember the value of the start cap but it is less than the Supco cap.
From Wikipedia
“Start capacitors briefly increase motor starting torque and allow a motor to be cycled on and off rapidly. A start capacitor stays in the circuit long enough to rapidly bring the motor up to a predetermined speed, which is usually about 75% of the full speed, and is then taken out of the circuit. Afterward the motor works more efficiently with a run capacitor.”

Another issue you are dealing with running an air conditioner with a generator is volt drop. The lock rotor amps for my air conditioner is 61 amps. Typical circuit breakers won’t open if it’s only for a very short time. If you are plugged into a pedestal at an RV park you won’t see any voltage drop. Generators struggle with the motor start load so the generator RPM does not spin fast enough to make 60 Hz and 120 volts it can end up a lot lower. With lower voltage it now requires more current to get the motor to spin. Your generator is rated at 16.6 amps running and 18.3 amps starting. The one thing you will have trouble finding on a generator spec sheet is how long can they can produce this peak amperage.

The other big issue you are dealing with your air conditioner is wire gauge size. Mine is wired with 14 gauge and it should be 12 gauge. It evens says in the installation manual “12 AWG copper up to 24 feet. For distances over 24 feet consult the National Electrical Code”

The measurements I have made on my air conditioner are 23 amps to start and 16 amps to run. My meter is to slow to give me a peak reading. The 23 amps is what it reads while starting and it is only last seconds


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JandL
2013 Honda Ridgeline
2012 177
2 Paynes in a Pod


Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 20 Jun 2016 at 3:06pm
Thanks for the additional information. I'll have to take a look at the wire size.

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StephenH
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,...

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods
Former RPod 179
Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS


Posted By: ron/roscoe
Date Posted: 20 Jun 2016 at 3:30pm
What size generator?

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Ron Rowland


Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 20 Jun 2016 at 3:51pm
It is a Generac iX2000 2000 running Watts, 2200 surge Watts.

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StephenH
Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,...

http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods
Former RPod 179
Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS


Posted By: Sailor John
Date Posted: 20 Jun 2016 at 4:15pm
About small trailers and installed generators, Nash has a compartment set up and wired for a 2500 Onan propane generator in their 22 ft. a nice set up.

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John & Reina
2015 r-179, 2006 Jeep Liberty
Retired Sub sailor
West central ID


Posted By: ToolmanJohn
Date Posted: 20 Jun 2016 at 4:25pm
Don't buy Powerhouse.... Extraordinarily difficult to start. I had one, it was broken (fuel line and pump system was defective), the warranty replacement was also a PITA to get started when cold. The remote start was useless when cold. The auto choke was also USELESS...

 They are terrible machines. Very heavy.   Save yourself some buyers remorse and get a Honda or Yamaha.

 I bought a Honda EU2000i for a little over $1000 and even though I have only used it ONCE in two years, it starts after a couple pulls very easy each time.

 And IF you install a battery disconnect switch to isolate the charger/inverter, the Honda can start and run the 13,5K A/C... When you connect the R-Pod to an A/C source (Shore power, household outlet, generator) the FIRST THING the inverter does is try to charge the battery(s). If you try to run the A/C the generator will trip on overload. If you first disconnect the battery, there is no charge load, and the generator is now only powering the A/C. It works every time for me in the driveway, and once at a campsite when it was 90°F outside at 5pm.

 I checked the load using a Killawatt Meter, and the wattage spikes to near 2000 on startup, but settles to 1300-1400 when running the compressor, less when only the A/C fan is running. The Honda definitely does a "bog down" when starting the A/C and it takes 2 -3 econds for the A/C to runn normally, but it always works.


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2017 ATC 7X20 Custom Toy Hauler
2013 R-Pod 177 (SOLD)
2013 VW Touareg TDI


Posted By: Sandybeach
Date Posted: 21 Jun 2016 at 9:52pm
How does everyone carry their Honda 2000? Does it give fumes if we put inside door of pod? What about gas container once you fill? How do you manage smell?

I tried the Ryobi, It broke first time using, now am onto Honda. Heading out 1 week to dry camp Acadia.


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2015 Rpod 178
2006 Toyota 4 runner
1 happy husband after 25 yrs of tenting.


Posted By: ronahue
Date Posted: 21 Jun 2016 at 10:10pm
We carry ours in the back of our pickup along with the gas can and all the other junk. 

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Ron & Sharon
2015 R-Pod 179
2022 Nissan Frontier

No trees were harmed in the sending of this message but a billion electrons were really agitated


Posted By: ToolmanJohn
Date Posted: 22 Jun 2016 at 6:36am
The gas cap onthe Honda can be shut off (vent closed). You should NOT run the generator at least a day prior to your trip, so exhaust fumes won't be present in the generator.

 I took mine with me in the back of the SUV and used ties downs to prevent it from moving (my SUV has tie down points in the floor). I also had the genny in a large trash bag so no fumes.

 I have concerns about transporting the genny in the camper. If it were to tip, or fume, it would stink up the camper and make me sick all weekend. It is more likely to get bounced and jostled in the camper than the SUV. The SUV has better shocks.


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2017 ATC 7X20 Custom Toy Hauler
2013 R-Pod 177 (SOLD)
2013 VW Touareg TDI


Posted By: TheBum
Date Posted: 22 Jun 2016 at 12:41pm
Put a cover of some sort on the generator. The cover should absorb most of the fumes. We've covered ours and never had an issue with fumes sinking into the upholstery. Our new Hondas came with nice form-fit covers that should accomplish the same task.



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