Generac Power Systems 0940-1 - Manual (Page 20)

LOCATION AND SUPPORT
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 generator 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 para­
graph entitled “Generator Support."
• 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 ser­
viced components, such as filters, oil drains, spark plugs
and other common maintenance parts.
• The location must provide sufficient room to allow mini­
mum clearance of at least 1 inch between all sides and 1-
1/2 inches on top of the generator. If sound insulation is to
be used on 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
air flow for the generator without a great deal of work and
expense.
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 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. A typical supporting frame
with horizontal support tubing, is shown in Figure 14.
The generator can be installed so that it sits on top of
the horizontal support tubing, it the vehicle design per­
mits. Another method is to suspend the generator
below the horizontal support tubing by means of suit­
able, structurally sound metal framework. The following
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 sup­
porting 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 14—Typical Horizontal Support Frame
SUSPENDED MOUNTING
If you are going to suspend the generator below the
horizontal support tubing, the suspension method you
use with the vehicle frame members must have the fol­
lowing: (a) be able to support the weight of the genera­
tor; and (b) provide sufficient restraint for the genera­
tor. One typical suspended mounting system is shown
in Figure 15. The location of a suspended mounting
system must be carefully planned, keeping the follow­
ing 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 ade­
quately protected, road test the installation through mud,
water and slush.
Figure 15 — Typical Suspended Mounting System
GENERATOR MOUNTING
HOLES F0R3/8°-16
BOUS (BOTH SIDES)
The installer must make certain that selected location will
permit adequate cooling and ventilating air flow to be sup­
plied.
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