Generac Power Systems NP Series - LOCATION AND SUPPORT; Generator Location Planning; Generator Support Framework; Suspended Mounting Methods

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 genera¬
tor 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 mini¬
mum recommended applies to the space between the
generator and such insulation.
• The location must provide adequate cooling and ventilat¬
ing 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
framework on which the generator will rest and which
will restrain the generator set should consist of at
least two horizontal beams. These beams should con¬
sist of (a) 1-1/2 inch square, 11 gauge steel tubing
OR (b) 1-1/2 inch, 11 gauge angle iron. A typical sup¬
porting frame with horizontal support tubing, is shown
in Figure 3.
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 generator
below the horizontal support tubing by means of suit¬
able, structurally sound metal framework. The follow¬
ing 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 support¬
ing frame or support tubing, consider using additional
tubing, angle brackets or other supports to give the sup¬
porting frame sufficient strength.
Figure 3 — 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
following; (a) be able to support the weight of the gen¬
erator; and (b) provide sufficient restraint for the gen¬
erator. One typical suspended mounting system is
shown in Figure 4. 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 cer¬
tain areas of the generator. To make sure the generator is
adequately protected, road test the installation through
mud, water and slush.
Figure 4 — Typical Suspended Mounting System
• The installer must make certain the selected location will
permit adequate cooling and ventilating air flow to be
supplied.
— 5 —