Traveling with a generator in your RV has become increasingly popular as it offers the convenience of powering appliances and devices when camping off-the-grid or when shore power is unavailable. However, finding the right generator mounting solution for your travel trailer can be a daunting task. There are several methods available, each with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. In this article, we’ll explore five of the best options for mounting a generator onto your travel trailer.
The five options discussed in this article include fixed frame mounts, hitch-mounted generator carriers, generator slides and trays, A-frame tongue mounts, and bumper-mounted generator racks. Each of these options has its unique features and will suit different types of travel trailers and user preferences. By understanding the pros and cons of each mounting solution, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right generator mount for your travel trailer.
Key Takeaways:
- There’s a variety of generator mounting solutions available to suit different travel trailers and preferences
- It’s essential to consider the pros and cons of each mounting option before deciding
- Proper generator mount selection ensures safety and convenience while on the road
Fixed Frame Mounts
Fixed frame mounts are a popular choice for securing generators on travel trailers. These mounts are directly attached to the trailer’s frame, providing a secure and stable platform for your generator.
Advantages of Fixed Frame Mounts
There are several advantages to using fixed frame mounts for your travel trailer generator. First, they offer improved stability as the generator is directly connected to the trailer’s frame. Due to this secure connection, there is less risk of damage from vibrations during travel.
Another advantage is the ease of access to the generator. With a fixed frame mount, the generator is located close to the trailer and can be easily accessed for maintenance or refueling. Additionally, having the generator on the frame frees up valuable storage space inside your RV or travel trailer.
Fixed frame mounts also offer better weight distribution. The location of the generator on the frame helps to maintain the travel trailer’s balance and prevent issues related to improper weight distribution, such as swaying or difficulty steering.
Installation Process
The installation process for fixed frame mounts typically involves the following steps:
- Select a mounting location: Choose a suitable mounting location on the trailer’s frame. Make sure there is enough space for the generator and that the location does not interfere with other components, such as propane tanks or storage compartments.
- Attach the mounting brackets: Securely attach the mounting brackets to the frame using the provided hardware. Ensure that the brackets are level and firmly tightened to prevent movement during travel.
- Place the generator on the mount: Carefully position the generator on the mounting brackets, making sure it is centered and aligned with the brackets.
- Secure the generator: Use the provided straps or brackets to firmly secure the generator to the fixed frame mount. Double-check all connections and tighten any loose hardware.
By following these steps, you can successfully install a fixed frame mount for your travel trailer generator. This mounting solution offers numerous benefits, such as improved stability, ease of access, and better weight distribution, ensuring a safe and enjoyable RVing experience.
Hitch-Mounted Generator Carriers
Benefits of Hitch-Mounted Carriers
Hitch-mounted carriers are a popular choice among RV owners because they offer several advantages. First, they provide a secure and stable platform for your generator, ensuring its safety during transit. Since your generator is mounted on the hitch, it is less likely to bounce or experience excessive vibration, which can cause damage over time.
Another benefit of hitch-mounted carriers is that they free up space inside your RV and storage compartments. As I’ve discovered, space is often at a premium in travel trailers, and using a hitch-mounted carrier allows you to store your generator outside the vehicle. This also keeps any generator noise or fumes away from your living space, improving your overall travel experience.
Lastly, hitch-mounted carriers are compatible with most types of RVs. With the right hitch, you can install a carrier on a travel trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome, ensuring that you have a suitable option for your specific vehicle.
Selecting the Right Hitch
When choosing a hitch for your hitch-mounted generator carrier, you’ll want to consider a few key factors:
- Weight Capacity: Check the weight capacity of both your hitch and the carrier you intend to use. Be sure that the combined weight of your generator, carrier, and any additional equipment does not exceed the maximum capacity of your hitch. Overloading can lead to hitch failure and damage to your RV or generator.
- Compatibility: Make sure your hitch is compatible with your travel trailer. There are different types of hitches, such as receiver hitches and fifth wheel hitches, so ensure you choose a type that is fit for your specific vehicle.
- Ease of Installation: Evaluate how easy it is to install and remove the hitch-mounted carrier. Some models are easier to work with than others, so keep this in mind during your selection process. A carrier that is simple to install and remove will make your travels more enjoyable and hassle-free.
To summarize, hitch-mounted generator carriers offer several benefits, such as providing a secure and stable platform, freeing up space inside your RV, and compatibility with most RV types. Remember to choose the right hitch for your carrier based on factors like weight capacity, compatibility, and ease of installation.
Generator Slides and Trays
In today’s world of RV travel, generators are essential to having a comfortable and reliable experience. As an avid RVer myself, I’ve encountered various ways of mounting generators on my travel trailer. In this section, we will discuss generator slides and trays—two popular methods for securing a generator in place.
Slide-Out Mechanism Advantages
The slide-out mechanism is one of my favorite solutions for mounting a generator on a travel trailer. It features a rail system that securely holds the generator and allows it to easily slide in and out for convenient access. Some of the main advantages of this system are:
- Accessibility: The slide-out mechanism provides easy access to the generator, allowing me to effortlessly refill fuel or perform any routine maintenance tasks.
- Safety: This type of mount ensures a secure and stable placement of the generator, minimizing the risk of it falling off during travel.
- Space-saving: Since the generator is mounted underneath the trailer, it frees up valuable storage space inside the RV.
- Ventilation: The open design of the slide-out mechanism allows for better airflow, which helps prevent overheating during generator operation.
Tray Durability and Materials
Another option for mounting a generator on a travel trailer is the tray system. Generator trays typically consist of a rigid platform attached to the RV chassis, providing a secure surface for the generator to sit on. When looking into tray materials and durability, I’ve noticed the following important factors:
- Materials: Common materials used in tray construction include aluminum, steel, and high-strength plastic. It is important to choose a tray made from a material that can withstand the weight and vibrations of the generator during travel.
- Weight capacity: Many trays are rated by their weight capacity, ranging from 100 lbs to 500 lbs or more. Make sure to choose a tray with sufficient weight capacity to safely hold your generator (found in this generator mount ideas).
- Corrosion resistance: Since generator trays are mounted on the exterior of the trailer, I’ve noticed that they can be exposed to harsh elements, such as rain and road salt. It is crucial to opt for a tray with a corrosion-resistant coating to ensure longevity.
- Easy installation: A tray with easy-to-install clamps or brackets can save time and effort during the mounting process.
By understanding the essential features of generator slides and tray systems, I’ve found them to be highly practical, safe, and space-saving ways to mount a generator on a travel trailer.
A-Frame Tongue Mounts
Tongue Mount Stability
In my experience, the A-Frame Tongue Mount is one of the most secure mounting options for generators on travel trailers. I know that this type of mount generally offers more stability because it connects directly to your trailer’s tongue, which is located between the trailer and the tow vehicle. The A-Frame mount is able to hold up to 300 pounds, which makes it suitable for most generator sizes. I have found that this is an excellent solution for reducing vibrations caused by the generator when it’s running and also, provides good protection from road debris because of its location.
Installation Tips
While looking to install an A-Frame Tongue Mount, I would suggest checking your trailer’s tongue weight capacity first. This is important because adding the weight of the generator might affect the overall weight distribution, and it’s crucial that you do not exceed your trailer’s recommended tongue weight. Once you’ve determined that your tongue can handle the additional load, you’ll need to gather some essential tools such as a drill, wrenches, and possibly a torque wrench. You can find mounts that are easy to install and come with all necessary hardware, like the one at this carrier mount article I stumbled upon.
When installing the mount, I would also recommend checking your generator’s dimensions to ensure that it fits securely on the A-Frame Mount. Make sure to secure and tighten all bolts according to the manufacturer’s specifications, and use lock-washers or thread-locker if needed. As a safety measure, always double-check your work to ensure the generator is firmly attached and won’t come loose while traveling.
In conclusion, A-Frame Tongue Mounts offer a stable and secure way to mount your generator on your travel trailer. By following my installation tips, you can ensure that your generator is both safe and efficient while on the road.
Bumper-Mounted Generator Racks
Considering Bumper Strength
When selecting a bumper-mounted generator rack for your travel trailer, you must take into account the strength of the bumper. Most travel trailer bumpers are not designed to handle heavy loads, so ensure the bumper can support the generator’s weight. In some cases, you may need to reinforce the bumper to ensure safe and secure mounting. I’ve come across reports of people having issues with bumpers that couldn’t handle the load, which could lead to an accident.
Vibration and Noise Management
It’s no secret that generators produce noise and vibration during operation. When mounting your generator to a travel trailer bumper, you’ll need to consider noise and vibration management. One option to minimize noise is using a hitch carrier mount, which is a large platform that mounts directly to the rear square bumper of your trailer. According to the RVBlogger, hitch carrier mounts are the easiest method for attaching your generator to the bumper directly.
To reduce vibrations, you should utilize padding and secure mounting hardware. For example, you may use rubber mats or pads beneath the generator to absorb vibrations and prevent the noise from being transmitted into your trailer. Additionally, using straps or brackets to securely fasten the generator can help prevent unnecessary movement and thus reduce noise further.
Pro tip: When selecting a generator rack, make sure it has a sturdy bar or frame that can support the generator’s weight with ease. Some options, like a Rear-Mounted Frame Connected Hitch Platform, offer greater durability by connecting the cargo tray directly to the trailer’s frame below the bumper.
By carefully considering your bumper strength and managing vibrations and noise, you’ll be able to select the right bumper-mounted generator rack solution for your travel trailer.
General Tips and Best Practices
Maintaining Your Generator Mount
It’s essential to keep your generator mount in good condition as it ensures the security of your generator while traveling. Here are some tips:
- Regularly inspect: Periodically check your mounting hardware for any signs of wear and tear, rust, or loose bolts.
- Keep it clean: Clean your mount regularly to prevent buildup of dirt or debris that could contribute to rust or other issues.
- Proper weight distribution: Ensure your generator mount can handle the weight of your generator. Balance the load by placing the heaviest items near the trailer’s axles.
- Follow manufacturer’s guidelines: Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for proper installation, use, and maintenance of your generator mount.
Safety Precautions
Safety should always be your top priority when mounting and using a generator on your travel trailer. Here are some critical safety precautions:
- Ventilation: Ensure your generator is well-ventilated while running to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
- Proper grounding: Ground your generator according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid electrical hazards.
- Keep fuel secure: Store fuel safely away from the generator and any heat sources, and never refuel the generator while it’s running.
- Clearance: Make sure there is enough clearance around your generator for heat dissipation and easy access in case of emergencies.
- Fire extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher readily available near your generator, and familiarize yourself with its proper use.
Remember, following these tips and best practices will help ensure a safe, reliable, and enjoyable RVing experience.