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2.1
LOCATION AND SUPPORT
Be sure the installation complies with all standards
and codes listed in the "Standards Booklets" section
of this manual.
2.1.1
GENERATOR LOCATION
The most desirable location for the generator set is
between the vehicle's main frame members.
Many recreational vehicles have been factory-
equipped with an area for the generator set. Some
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 frequent-
ly serviced components, such as, filters, oil drains,
and other common maintenance parts.
• The location must provide sufficient room to
allow minimum clearances for air circulation. If
sound insulation is to be used on the compart-
ment walls and ceiling, the minimum recom-
mended clearance 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 affixed to the vehicle frame
structure by bolting or welding. The metal frame-
work 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.
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.
22
Section 2 – Installation
Recreational Vehicle 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, con-
sider using additional tubing, angle brackets
or other supports to give the supporting frame suf-
ficient strength.
2.1.3
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 2.1. 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 2.1 – Typical Suspended Mounting System
• The installer must make certain that the selected
location will permit adequate cooling and ventilat-
ing airflow.
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