2 generator compartments, 4 generator restraint, 1 compartment size – Guardian Technologies 04164-3 User Manual
Page 25: 2 compartment construction

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2.1.4 GENERATOR
RESTRAINT
Use four 3/8"-16 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 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.
Figure 2.3 – Typical Generator Restraint
2.2 GENERATOR COMPARTMENTS
Whether the generator set is being installed inside a 
compartment specifically manufactured to house a 
generator or inside a compartment that the installer 
constructs, the compartment MUST meet certain spec-
ifications as outlined in the following sections:
2.2.1 COMPARTMENT
SIZE
Plan the compartment size carefully. Provide a mini-
mum clearance of 1/2 inch (13 mm) on the front and 
top, 1 inch (25 mm) on the sides, and 1/2 inch (13 
mm) from the back for air circulation AFTER the 
compartment has been lined with metal and sound 
insulation (Figure 2.4).
NOTE:
Refer to “Figure 1.2 – Major Features and 
Dimensions”.
Figure 2.4 – Clearances
1" Clearance
in Back
1 1/2" Clearance on Top
1" Each Side
1/2"
in Front
Insulation
Plywood
Compartment
2.2.2 COMPARTMENT
CONSTRUCTION
The generator compartment should be either con-
structed of, or lined with, 26-gauge galvanized 
steel.
NOTE:
Aluminum is NOT an acceptable alternative to 
galvanized steel due to aluminum’s low melting 
point.
If the compartment is lined with galvanized steel,
it may be constructed of any material. The manu-
facturer recommends that the compartment be 
constructed of 1/2-inch thick plywood (not strand-
board), with the floor made of a double thickness 
of 1/2-inch plywood with the grain of the wood at 
cross section for added strength (Figure 2.5).
Figure 2.5 – Typical Compartment Construction
If constructing a compartment, line the exterior
(underside) of the compartment floor with 26-
gauge galvanized steel.
All seams, splices and joints of the compart-
ment walls (unless vapor tight by design) should 
be caulked to prevent poisonous, flammable or 
explosive vapors from entering the vehicle interior.
NOTE:
Caulking must be done so that the caulking mate-
rial will stay in place permanently. Pressing such 
materials as putty tape onto joints and seams is 
NOT acceptable. A high quality silicone rubber base 
sealant is recommended.
Holes and openings made in the compartment
walls to allow for the passage of electrical conduit, 
conductors, hoses, cables, etc., into the vehicle liv-
ing area must be sealed vapor tight with silicone 
rubber base sealant.
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Section 2 – Installation
Recreational Vehicle Generator
