I work out in oil fields . I ripped out back seat put put $ 375.00 Hess Portable 5000 BTU behind the driver side . Cut a hole threw the back the cab for the exhaust on left side .drilled a small hole on back cab for drainage . Drilled another hole on right side for the power cord . Bought a Quite 3200 predator generator for $650.00 . I very been using it all the month June. Generator takes about 2.2 gallons for 10 hours . That's $ 10 night in this Texas Desert heat . I freeze at night at 67 degrees . So in month it's paid for itself ! It's works toward that self contained operating at lowest denominator mentality . Your not having to run to hotel 30 miles away and driving back costing what? 6 gallons at 4.50 gallon .
ok for all you guys that are concerned about ingress air flow for the a/c unit... remember that the on board a/c /hvac unit goes to outside air when the truck is shout off. So... fresh air is being drawn in through the trucks on board hvac system and it is adequate for the air flow for the condenser... i have been using one for 6 months and this is how it works with no problems... i dont use a genny though but i have a CO detector when i do..... adequate low dollar design ther folks..... good on you sir!
That is first class way to go. I really like your bed set up. Would very much be interested in a video of how you did that. I myself I’m not a big fan of idling at night. Thanks for the video be safe everyone.
A dual hose portable AC will work much better, and like other people have said here, if you can convert that one into a dual hose by adding a fresh air hose intake to the condenser side, it will greatly improve both the capacity and efficiency of the unit.
That ac unit is designed to cool a medium sized bedroom with the inefficiency that you point out. There wouldn't be much issue with just using it as designed. I'd prefer to have the active air exchange in that small space.
I just want to point this out. Having the genny running outside and you also have the condenser air that is pulling air from within the cab and putting it outside and is putting the cab in negative pressure with CO floating around outside.
Correct, I would spend a few dollars and just buy a CO detector to be on the safe side. When I run my portable generator I put a fan blowing on it in one of the outlets, helps keep it cool and blows the exhaust away.
I was gonna say the same thing. I use these in my rentals as emergency backups and they will definitely allow you to discover where you have leaks in the house cuz it will suck in all the hot air so one part of the house was nice....the other would be hot. In his application I would worry about it sucking in the exhaust. Be careful
Yes if you understand how air conditioners work those units are really poorly designed and should not have been made. It should have a dedicated and isolated fresh air intake from the outside to cool the condenser and then blow the hot air from it back out. They do make units like that and they have two hoses. When you have only one hose, and it's constantly blowing the hot air out from the condenser, where do you think that air is coming from? It's also sucking all the cold air that it just made back out of the cabin and blowing it outside. And where does the air come from to replace the air that's being sucked out of the cabin? From the hot outdoors. Doesn't matter if it's a house or a car or a shed, the same volume of hot air you feel blowing out of that hose is the exact same volume of hot air from the outside that's being sucked into the living space.
In order for the ac to create a negative pressure you have to have the whole truck sealed up vents and all. The air being blown out the back is also being pulled in from the vents in the front so the risk of co2 going into the cab is less likely as most would think. But if I am wrong let me know.....
I drove hotshot for a few months. If you remove the front passenger seat and sleep along the passenger side. You will have move length. I could fit a foam queen mattress in lengths and just fold it in half to fit.
you can make that a lot neater and cleaner by putting the unit on the passenger seat, build a simple removeable frame out of plywood to run the exhaust thru to place in the passenger window. because the exhaust hose is just going a few inches to the window from the back of the ac you don't have to wrap it. Thats the set up I had in my truck when I started running freight for years. FYI you can run the generator in your truck bed just point the exhaust out the back with your tailgate down. Did it for several years never had a problem.
I would recommend using a window AC unit in the truck bed and pipe in the cold air through the back window. This would keep the heat of the compressor outside and might help a bit with noise. EcoFlow just released a probable AC unit that can run on their solar battery packs. Getting the EcoFlow batteries and AC unit would cost $2,500. It's a 4,000 BTU unit and is already designed to use inside or outside of a tent or vehicle. Not needing a gas generator would be a cost saver in the long run. I already have one of their Solar battery packs and it's super useful.
I will have to research that battery pack as I believe it is fairly new. However the issue with having an outside air unit is that I don’t have the spare space in my truck bed as it is full with my fuel tank, tool boxes, and hitches. As this is a working truck I’m not sure I would want to do away with my generator either as I use it for other applications. Also the cost for this battery pack is high!
@@hotshotstuff8080 Ya it is mighty expensive and brand new. Also, 4,000 BTU's is pretty low. If you don't have room in the bed then your setup makes perfect sense.
@corey Babcock lol, I hope you are joking. Yes, it's expensive and it might not be worth it to you. I don't think I would spend that much on a portable AC either.
We have the axact setup in our micro-camper. We have that generator and a WEN 2500. The works just as well. Probably is the negative pressure issue and sucking in warm air.
The only reason i dont like doing hot shot is sleeping in truck its real uncomfortable for me to crowded not enough space went resting i just rather drive my 22 kw680 what a joy is living in a semi rather than a pu truck😁
How odd I drove semi and I liked the sleeper but I don't really miss it when I'm running hot shot in fact I sleep really good in both set ups and prefer hot shot for sleeping . Go figure
Wow very interesting I love it I love it I love it right now I am in Chicago Illinois and I am looking to make one of those for my freightliner cause I don't have APU but that setup you got there it's amazing and you can put it in any type of vehicles thanks for the tip love it love it love it be safe 👍 I will give you 10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I have 97 cummins 12 valve that came factory with 0 comfort options, no a/c no cruise control no power windows or locks, I am thinking about doing something like this to run a/c in the summer as I already have a 2300 watt generator, very helpful
I would consider looking into a few lithium batteries with a DC to DC charger then the truck will charge it because your driving a lot so it will charge fully then at night you can use up all the batteries if your doing this a lot it would save you money in the long run
If do a simple test and find out how much exhaust goes out the back window vent with any one of the doors on the truck open and another reading of the air flow when all of the doors are closed you can find out if you are starving the air conditioning from proper air flow.
That’s pretty great man. Not only is this gonna save me a bunch of fuel in my c15 cat it’ll plug right into my existing 3000watt inverter if my cab ac goes down. I love redundancy
Great video , I’m driving a 2019 Ram 2500 with a gooseneck, I’m trying to build a bed but I’m 6’7” tall , can you help me build my bed by giving me the dimension or can you make a video ?
Wow 6’7 is tall! To be honest I’m not sure my setup will work for you unless you have a mega cab. I have seen some of the taller people take out the front passenger’s and rear seat, and build a bunk from glovebox to rear of cab. I would suggest measuring the distance before you build it to see if you can stretch out in that space. I will be home this weekend for a few days and will try to do another video on my sleeper, hopefully you can at least get some ideas!
That thing must be a hell of alot better than any of them ive found. I found them as noisy wastes of money. Id suggest to anyone wanting to cool..no freeze your arse off to look around for an rv ac system. One without freon is the best. I used one to cool a very large party room in a boat house. Mounted a small shelf in one of the boat slip side of a wall with a hole cut through with a grill covering the inside. In the 100+ degree summer in texas you need a jacket in that room. 12' ceilings and some insulation. Wooden inside and out.
roof top ac 12vdc mine runs 24/7 i run my van to go some where when i go my batteries charge up in 30 min they are charged before i get to where i am going i have went 336hrs no run was down to 63%
@@sleepisoulja i basically took out the back seat for maximum room. Slid the front seats as far forward as possible. Then measured out the area for the total length and width. I put the seats in the operating position and re measured for the main bunk platform. I used 2x2 pine and built a frame for the bunk to make the top of the bunk even with the bottom of the door windows. I added a second bunk piece secure with hinges that folds up when the front seats are in operation position and folds down when they are slid forward. Covered the deck with glued down outdoor carpet. Added some 2x2 cross bracing for strength to the frame underneath. Bought a piece of foam rubber (I would recommend 4” extra firm) and cut it to fifth the platform, splitting it where the two deck pieces joined so the mattress can fold up with the deck when driving. My wife helped me make a sheet that fit both pieces of mattress. Good luck sir!
Depending on the generator but mine would burn a gallon in about 7 hours if it was real hot and humid. The generator will shut off and I just sleep till the alarm goes off. Other option is to turn up the thermostat when it’s really hot to get more run time. My last option is To idle the truck if it’s too hot to sleep when the generator shuts off
I am an HVAC guy who grew up on a farm and went into the Military right out of High school. I used to build all kinds of contraptions to survive in areas where the Military really did not care about our creature comforts. I am going to give you some advice. The reason the AC gets so hot in the one area is two fold. You can't get proper airflow out of or through the discharge of the AC. The duct that goes through the back window is okay but with every part of an AC it is air in and air out. Those portable AC units are betting that you have loose construction in the area that you use them in. Your truck cab is fairly tight. It will not let enough air in from outside to go through the condensing or hot air discharge side of the AC and out the back properly. You are overheating the condensing side of the AC unit and it is not running efficiently. Look into building a kit to install through the back window where it takes air out of the cab through one duct on the bottom and brings air into the cab on the top half or side of the window. Duct both of them back to a small window AC that sits in the pickup box or on the tool box. This will eliminate all of the issues and it can get power from the gen outside. Also any condensation can drain away outside of the cab with no need to dump a condensate container. It could be semi permanent or take it in and out everytime you park. The other type unit would be what they actually put into Semi trucks but they are pricey. Those can be Heat pump versions that both heat and cool the cab. www.webasto-comfort.com/int/ www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200945228_200945228?cm_mmc=Google-pla&Google_PLA&Fans%20%3E%20Air%20Conditioners%20%3E%20Residential%20Air%20Conditioners&Emerson%20Quiet%20Kool&gclid=CjwKCAjw_ISWBhBkEiwAdqxb9qiuamOejUmTyAQOImXh5HXtgwsBZE5PuDljaX4Etr2glYJpEAeSpRoCAZAQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
I hear what you are saying! However I’m not able to do anything like the unit in the bed of the truck as I don’t have the room for it with my hitch, generator, fuel can, and tool boxes. Also I have used this setup for 3 summers now, and I agree it isn’t as efficient as it could be, however it has worked well and keeps the cab very cool for sleeping. And I don’t have to set it up and take it down every day. Thanks for the info thou!
Damn wish I thought of this when I was living out of my truck it was an 07 dodge 2500 and was back before they started making these full cab trucks for dodges at least not a whole lot of room to stretch tried taking the bolts out for the back seats but they were rusted so I had to foot the seat down and sleep like that
I've been looking for years for a small window AC that would fit the sliding back glass. Window AC's are much for efficient that portable ones. A 200 btu would be plenty for a crewcab pickup.
Good job! I run a Honda generator with heater but not an ac (yet). I have one of those ac but don’t have a back window. Guess I could run it out the side window?
Check out the GENMAX GM3500iAED it’s dual fuel running watts 3,200, I t’s about the size of your champion but it’s a Chinese brand I’ll get one this weekend we’ll see how it handles.
Where does the air come from to replace the hot air you're exhausting out? I'm sure you get some leaking through the trucks vents, but unlike a house that has numerous cracks for outside air to replace the exhausted air, I imagine the air conditioner is not getting enough air going through the hot side. A way you could greatly increase efficiency is to turn that single hose portable into a double hose by building a duct around the hot side intake and connecting it to a second hose going outside. With a double hose setup, instead of pulling air-conditioned air from inside the truck to cool the hot side, it will use outside air to cool the hot side. I've done it using foam board and it was pretty easy but that was in a house. Your available space would definitely make it far more of a challenge but you seem pretty crafty. I bet you could do it.
You are right and over 90% of people don't even understand that. But they do make two hoes versions that come with a fresh air intake hose, you just have to search for them
@@danielpolson9340 It's better to cool the condenser with outside air than with inside air, even though the outside air is warmer. Don't forget, the only reason your inside air is cooler is because you invested the energy into cooling it. If you're going to use it to cool the condenser to then pump it outside, that air has to be replaced and it gets replaced with outside air that you now have to cool again.
@@danielpolson9340 Yes the single hose setup is a horrible design they tend do with portable ACs, but despite the inefficiency, it still works well enough that people would apparently rather only deal with one hose, efficiency be damned.
I researched that thing and it’s too expensive! Especially for what it is, it doesn’t even have a thermostat on it to keep the temperature constant and it won’t cool a cab down.
Just an idea but why not use the AC you already have for the truck? Connect a motor to the compressor so you don't have to run it of course and use the generator to power it or just upgrade to a bigger alternator.
How you gonna connect and what motor to the A/C compressor of truck when it's still connected to the truck motor? How you gonna control that system when truck is off? How you gonna control the a/c controls of the truck and the fan to blow it through the vents?
Great install, but... how much does it cost to run for 6 hours overnight? doesn't the gen keep you (and the neighborhood) awake all night? Eco Flow has portable A/C can run off lithium powerstation.
Less than a gallon of gasoline to run 8 hours and these generators are extremely quiet! Also the eco flow unit that you speak of costs 4 times as much as my setup, and it doesn’t work.
Could this system work on the fly? My truck is getting old and the ac is not working that good. Plus I live in the dessert. I already have a decent inverter generator and would just need the ac unit. I also have a 1930 Hupmobile 4 door with a rear luggage rack. If this would work on the fly I was considering putting the generator out on the rear luggage rack and putting the portable ac unit in the back seat. Any thoughts. Thanks.
I don't understand hot shots. And I'm not trying to be ignorant I really don't understand it.. I drive a tractor trailer I get out of my seat walk in the back to my air conditioned sleeper with my refrigerator my microwave I've done it for years.. Why would you want to live in a pickup truck when you could live so much better? Do you make more money doing hot shot is it easier? I'm honestly curious
Chris, believe me I ask myself that same question sometimes lol! I can’t speak for others and can only tell you why I do it. First is the initial cost of a pickup vs a tractor which is a big difference. Second is the flexibility and lifestyle it allows me to have. I am an owner operator and leased on with a transport company, I only do rv transport and I can shut down whenever I want and enjoy life! And third is rv transport is pretty easy! No booming or tarping. At my age I chose an easier way. Thanks for asking!
@@hotshotstuff8080 Thanks for your reply I definitely understand RV transport I used to work for wave many many years ago. The flexibility was nice that’s for sure. As far as the initial cost of a pick up goes these days it’s getting pretty close to the price of a used Freightliner the way everything keeps going up but you definitely have a lot more operating expenses with a rig. I don’t own my own truck right now and the price of fuel would absolutely terrify me if I was a owner operator pick up truck or semi. And I guess you would have a lot easier time finding parking now that I think of it. Either way stay safe out there and keep the rubber down. Thanks for giving me a good idea for when I get tired of turning all 18
I've been looking for a used semi and cheap ones are not to be found. I bought my latest F350 for $6500 and it's just temporary. I will be moving up to a semi with a large sleeper around the end of the year. I'm getting ready to do longer hauls so I will purchase a larger generator and portable AC that can be used in both trucks. As for easier, it's easier to get fuel with a hotshot because I can squeeze my way into and out of regular gas stations. But semi is the way to go as the load board will testify. Like 6000+ loads compared to 17.
I can't find a straightforward answer to the question of is it legal to sleep in the hotshot truck when it doesn't meet DOT standards... are you marking off duty or sleeping berth?
Do you leave sunroof or windows cracked open? Since exhaust heat air is being pumped out of cab, in such a small area, wouldn’t you need to allow air inside to keep from running low on oxygen?
@@hotshotstuff8080 thanks for the info.. I was unaware that the cab self vents in the back and front.. I installed same AC as you pretty much the way yours is, took it out past couple weeks on the road. It does well if outside temp is 79 or lower at night. but if its much warmer, doesn't keep me cool.. I was in Texas, outside temp 85-98 at night, it didn't really keep me cool, blows cold, against window, but by the time it circulates in the cab, the air is warm.. Do you have this issue? any suggestions? I'm planning to add some ducting to the cold side, up and across the top of back window adding couple vents so it blows directly on me.
@@texascountry6674 wow that’s hot for nighttime but I get it if you are in Texas! I know with my setup it takes a little time for the unit to cool the cab when it’s hotter outside. I have never had a night that it wouldn’t keep me cool though. I usually keep my thermostat between 72-75 depending on how hot it is. Can I ask if you are using the reflective insulated window covers?
@@hotshotstuff8080 Yes, I have reflective on all windows. I purchased the reflective insulation at home depot, couple issues with it, it doesn't seem to be as good quality as the RV reflective window insulation, and its not stiff enough, so it doesn't stay tight against the windows. So I plan to upgrade it. thinkin of using something thicker more permanent on the rear window and around the vent to ensure it keeps that exhaust heat out. I'm also adding a Generator Fuel Extender so I can run it more than 6-7hrs. I have the Polaris P2000I Gen. I tried running my AC at 68, but the compressor shuts off after 30 mins, prob getting to hot. 72 is prob a good temp for it.
Just wanted to give you a update.. I added 6" ducting to the Cold air output of AC so the air comes out directly on me instead of blowing towards the window.. It will now freeze me out.. It may or may not keep the entire truck cold if outside air is 85-90 at night, but with it blowing cold directly on me, its way more comfortable.. I was in San Antonio last week, it was 87 degrees at 11pm, but with the ducting blowing directly on me I was very comfortable..
Wow, amazed by your DIY abilities, portable air conditioners look tall and big, you can try window air conditioners. Why no business can make an air conditioner in the shape of a mini portable generator, the air outlet is a circular interface, I know the Zero Wind Mark 2 AC, but unfortunately only 2300BTU, the power is too low, it can only be used at night, I need to use it during the day,
I agree completely on the zero breeze! That thing costs way too much for what it is, it doesn’t even have a thermostat on it lol. Mine will keep the truck cool for daytime sleeping too, however I would like to add a larger fuel tank for my generator. Runs about 6.5 -7 hours when the air is working hard!
@@hotshotstuff8080 you need to get a marine boat fuel tank there’s a 3 gal. and 6 gal. chrysler force fuel connectors 2 males and 2 females, male is usually npt 1/4 threads. If the barb on the female is 3/8 get a fuel line with a primer bulb that’s also 3/8, also you’ll need to get an extended run fuel cap for your generator if your generator doesn’t have a vacuum fuel pump like the Honda 2200 you’ll need to have the fuel tank above the generator. I used the Johnson/Evinrude fuel connectors and one time something was pressing against the nipple and gas started to leak the Yamaha fuel connectors are the same so I change them to the Chrysler force fuel connectors I hope this helps and gives you ideas on how to make your set up. Here’s a link for the fuel connectors www.ebay.com/itm/154674022295?epid=1257154402&hash=item24034a4797:g:6vMAAOSw2XFUjccg
@@ReviewingTech101 thanks! Not sure I can run this setup as my truck is commercially operated and I am subject to DOT regulations. I’ll check it out thou!
@@hotshotstuff8080 I’m a truck driver 😂 that’s what I have but I have my tank on a side compartment on my semi, for that portable A/C you can easily get more than 10 hours on a 3 gal tank
@@ReviewingTech101 ahh I see lol! I had actually thought about the extra fuel tank but unfortunately my pickup bed is pretty full! I actually get a good 8 hours on a tank of fuel in my generator.
Dude I could have made this 10X easier for you. Hopefully you changed everything by now. Have an AC set up for the summer and a diesel heater for the winter. Takes me 5 min or less to set up. I use a 2k generator for the AC and the heater is powered off a 12v batter.
It does vibrate and when the compressor kicks in and n the air conditioner the generator revs up. what I do is I keep a long cable around the generator handle and keep if padlocked to my truck, also the fumes from the exhaust concerns me if I keep it in the bed.
Best set up I ever seen. But that generator will grow legs and walk off w that bike lock. I use my load chains and a heavy lock for generator security. Last winter in Utah it snowed all night upon waking and exiting my truck I noticed footprints in the snow leading right up to and away from my truck bed. It definitely was a failed attempt at stealing my generator. Also " South Georgia hot shot" posted that his brand new generator got stolen w a bicycle chain just like yours on it. Just saying, and thank you for posting this video it's good information.
how well does this setup work for your 34 hour reset? I just picked up a Hisense 6000 btu AC and Champion 2000 watt genny.. but theAC only cools for a 5-7 minutes then the compressor shuts off! Cab temp is 90. I'd appreciate any help!
My compressor kicks in and out as the temp cools and then re warms as it should. Does your compressor not kick back in? Also how many watts does the unit pull?
I have used the heater down to 0 degrees and it worked well! The key is to use the foil window coverings with it and the air for insulation on the glass. -15 is cold, I would be more concerned with the generator operating at those temperatures, but again no issues down to 0.
@@ltruong571061 honestly I have never used this setup in 100 degree weather! However I believe it all depends on how cold you need it to be to sleep. I generally run the thermostat at 74 or 75 degrees. This keeps me comfortable and I can sleep. Remember the lower you run the thermostat the more the compressor stays on, and therefore the higher the load on the generator. This causes the generator to burn more gasoline, and you can potentially run out of fuel before you awaken. I have had this happen two times in two years on hotter days. One solution would be to have a higher watt generator, say 2500 instead of 2000. Then the larger generator should last longer with the same load, in this case 800 watts from the air conditioner with compressor running. I hope that gives you some idea, thanks for asking!
U have a window at the back so just get a window air conditioner, 4000-5000btu should be more than enough, & have two 100ah Lifepo4 battery and 1000w pure sine inverter should be enough, it would be cheaper than running on gas generator as these carb engines are not the most efficient even with inverter ones they consume a lot of unnecessary fuel when running under 50% load. Also get an extra alternator in the truck with a temparature controlled voltage regulator cus Lifepo4 have lower internal resistance than leadacid and will cook the alternator at idle by pulling too much current, 2x100ah Lifepo4 should get u going easily for 4-8hrs on a 5000btu ac. And the batteries will charge when u drive around or charge it at where u rest..u can get those inverters that have builtin chargers i recommend meanwell , i have similar setup and meanwell inverter for more than 10yrs the only maintenance i do is cleaning them every month as they are exposed to outside air and run 24x7 almost so they accumulate a lot of dust and too much dust can cause issues with overheating or they can absorb moisture and become conductive.
Yes, extra diesel. I get EFS discounts at stations in certain areas and I pick up extra fuel when there and use it when I’m in parts of the country where my discounts aren’t as good. Sometimes the difference will be $1 per gallon or more, but usually runs .60 to .80 cent’s!
I dont think somepeople realize that your never supposed to cover the vents on a single hose AC and a single hose AC creates a vacuum inside the room or a car its not a good option.
@@hotshotstuff8080 It creates a Vacuum inside any closed space it is placed in. Because it uses the air inside to cool off its condenser and most importantly it contains equipment that gets hot and can get dangerous if it overheats.
Это большая ошибка, поставь оконный кондиционер на 5000btu. На заднее стекло. Я уже использую его 10 лет на Volvo truck. Перед установкой разбери и жестко прикрути компрессор иначе трубка лопнет от вибрации. Я тоже начинал как твой проект и он не работает
The zero breeze has several issues, first is it’s cost and second it wouldn’t keep my truck cool at all with daytime sleeping! Which we have to do often when driving commercially. The zb doesn’t even have a thermostat so when it is cooler at night it gets the area too cold and you have to wake up and shut it off.
This setup is way too overly complicated. I use a 4k BTU window unit that's a third the size of that portable ac unit and also probably about a third the price. Open the back sliding window and sit it outside the window like you would do at a regular house. It's small and can be stored under the seat or in the Tupperware container.
I’m glad you found something that works for you. As far as being complicated I don’t see it! My setup stays in place and what you are talking about has to be setup every night and taken down and put away every morning. Now to me that sounds complicated! As for the cost of the unit itself, I paid somewhere in the 300 dollar range for the air conditioner.
@@hotshotstuff8080 I keep mines in the bed of my truck so it's out of site and out of mind. It's not in my way when I'm sleeping... and doesn't require all of the duct work. Once I start up my generator I simply sit it in the window( I attached a handle to it for easy lifting, it sits perfectly right on top of my auxiliary tank), and takes less than a minute to setup. It's on the smaller side so it takes up hardly any space but packs a punch. Plus it came with a remote so that's how I control it from inside.
Lol well I’m not sure where your seeing 2 hours? You understand the air conditioner stays in the truck? I sleep in it every night and setup is less than 5 minutes! But to each his own.
So the air conditioner stays in the pickup after it is installed, only need to start generator and plug it in daily. Takes 3 minutes to setup the entire sleeper daily.
Time you spend all the money to set all this up, might as well just let your truck idle. Diesel isn’t that expensive. This just isn’t practice money nor time wise. Smh
I guess it just depends on one’s bank account. You will burn 5 gal diesel a night idling verses 1 gallon gas in a generator. That’s around $15 per night saving on fuel cost. Now take that 28 days a month $15x28=$420 per month. Now take $420x12=$5040 per year savings on fuel cost alone, not to mention saving on diesel engine maintenance(which if your idling should be done on engine hours and not mileage). I spent around $700 for everything to setup the air and heat with generator, which has lasting over 2 years now. So for discussion let’s say you buy a new generator and air unit every year and see how much is left; $5040-$700=$4340. Now let’s say you run your truck 5 years before replacing it. $4340x5=$21,700.00 over the life of the truck, not counting extra engine maintenance and wear and tear. I’m not sure about others but I’ll take that all day every day!
Look the man been doing this for a year so it works leave him alone
I work out in oil fields . I ripped out back seat put put $ 375.00 Hess Portable 5000 BTU behind the driver side . Cut a hole threw the back the cab for the exhaust on left side .drilled a small hole on back cab for drainage . Drilled another hole on right side for the power cord . Bought a Quite 3200 predator generator for $650.00 . I very been using it all the month June. Generator takes about 2.2 gallons for 10 hours . That's $ 10 night in this Texas Desert heat . I freeze at night at 67 degrees . So in month it's paid for itself ! It's works toward that self contained operating at lowest denominator mentality . Your not having to run to hotel 30 miles away and driving back costing what? 6 gallons at 4.50 gallon .
That’s awesome to hear! Your saving a lot of money and wear and tear on your truck engine.
I’d like to see a picture of your setup!
Dude thank you for commenting. Was just thinking of getting this kind of setup before next summer.
ok for all you guys that are concerned about ingress air flow for the a/c unit... remember that the on board a/c /hvac unit goes to outside air when the truck is shout off. So... fresh air is being drawn in through the trucks on board hvac system and it is adequate for the air flow for the condenser... i have been using one for 6 months and this is how it works with no problems... i dont use a genny though but i have a CO detector when i do..... adequate low dollar design ther folks..... good on you sir!
Don, thanks for your information! I do run with a detector as well.
Thank you for showing us your setup and God Bless.
Your welcome!
I’d be a dream, if Ram/Ford would create something like this. For 2 people in the cab.
just brilliant. I'd love to see the bed platform setup as well
love the vent out the slider window, looks great
Thanks for the education. Gave me some ideas for my truck!
That is first class way to go. I really like your bed set up. Would very much be interested in a video of how you did that. I myself I’m not a big fan of idling at night. Thanks for the video be safe everyone.
Thanks! I hope to put a video together on the sleeper setup soon.
I'm curious also
Please do video on bed soon!
A dual hose portable AC will work much better, and like other people have said here, if you can convert that one into a dual hose by adding a fresh air hose intake to the condenser side, it will greatly improve both the capacity and efficiency of the unit.
That ac unit is designed to cool a medium sized bedroom with the inefficiency that you point out. There wouldn't be much issue with just using it as designed. I'd prefer to have the active air exchange in that small space.
Dual hose units are considerably larger... Space is at a premium in this situation.
You could be sucking in carbon monoxide from the generator though. A dual hose unit would be much more safe.
I just want to point this out. Having the genny running outside and you also have the condenser air that is pulling air from within the cab and putting it outside and is putting the cab in negative pressure with CO floating around outside.
Correct, I would spend a few dollars and just buy a CO detector to be on the safe side. When I run my portable generator I put a fan blowing on it in one of the outlets, helps keep it cool and blows the exhaust away.
I was gonna say the same thing. I use these in my rentals as emergency backups and they will definitely allow you to discover where you have leaks in the house cuz it will suck in all the hot air so one part of the house was nice....the other would be hot.
In his application I would worry about it sucking in the exhaust. Be careful
Yes if you understand how air conditioners work those units are really poorly designed and should not have been made. It should have a dedicated and isolated fresh air intake from the outside to cool the condenser and then blow the hot air from it back out. They do make units like that and they have two hoses. When you have only one hose, and it's constantly blowing the hot air out from the condenser, where do you think that air is coming from? It's also sucking all the cold air that it just made back out of the cabin and blowing it outside. And where does the air come from to replace the air that's being sucked out of the cabin? From the hot outdoors. Doesn't matter if it's a house or a car or a shed, the same volume of hot air you feel blowing out of that hose is the exact same volume of hot air from the outside that's being sucked into the living space.
Thé dude is right. This set UP is not idéal. My father almost died in his car due to Co and CO2.
Stay sage guyz!!!
In order for the ac to create a negative pressure you have to have the whole truck sealed up vents and all. The air being blown out the back is also being pulled in from the vents in the front so the risk of co2 going into the cab is less likely as most would think. But if I am wrong let me know.....
Thank you, im about to do this temporarily. 2500 miles and the ac i have doesnt push hard. So i am going to do this process. Ty ty
Good to hear and good luck with the install. Let me know how it works out for you.
I drove hotshot for a few months. If you remove the front passenger seat and sleep along the passenger side. You will have move length. I could fit a foam queen mattress in lengths and just fold it in half to fit.
Excellent and neat ac setup . Like that back window exhaust vent that matches the black window . Cool 🤙🌨
Thanks!
Really creative setup. Nice job.
I have one in my semi along with a 2200watt Honda generator hooked to a 3 gallon outboard gas tank jumped to generator… had for bout 8 years now
I would like to setup a larger fuel tank myself! Also I am considering getting one that runs on LP and going that rate as well!
A single hose ac unit will pull in outside hot air into your truck through all the cracks because of negative pressure. Convert it to a dual hose ac.
you can make that a lot neater and cleaner by putting the unit on the passenger seat, build
a simple removeable frame out of plywood to run the exhaust thru to place in the passenger window. because the exhaust hose is just going a few inches to the window from the back of the ac you don't have to wrap it. Thats the set up I had in my truck when I started running freight for years. FYI you can run the generator in your truck bed just point the exhaust out the back with your tailgate down. Did it for several years never had a problem.
I would recommend using a window AC unit in the truck bed and pipe in the cold air through the back window. This would keep the heat of the compressor outside and might help a bit with noise. EcoFlow just released a probable AC unit that can run on their solar battery packs. Getting the EcoFlow batteries and AC unit would cost $2,500. It's a 4,000 BTU unit and is already designed to use inside or outside of a tent or vehicle. Not needing a gas generator would be a cost saver in the long run. I already have one of their Solar battery packs and it's super useful.
I will have to research that battery pack as I believe it is fairly new. However the issue with having an outside air unit is that I don’t have the spare space in my truck bed as it is full with my fuel tank, tool boxes, and hitches. As this is a working truck I’m not sure I would want to do away with my generator either as I use it for other applications. Also the cost for this battery pack is high!
@@hotshotstuff8080 Ya it is mighty expensive and brand new. Also, 4,000 BTU's is pretty low. If you don't have room in the bed then your setup makes perfect sense.
@corey Babcock lol, I hope you are joking. Yes, it's expensive and it might not be worth it to you. I don't think I would spend that much on a portable AC either.
@corey Babcock My setup was nowhere near that cost! I have less than a grand in the whole setup!
@corey Babcock or you could work harder to give yourself a better life instead of begging others.
We have the axact setup in our micro-camper. We have that generator and a WEN 2500. The works just as well. Probably is the negative pressure issue and sucking in warm air.
The only reason i dont like doing hot shot is sleeping in truck its real uncomfortable for me to crowded not enough space went resting i just rather drive my 22 kw680 what a joy is living in a semi rather than a pu truck😁
Well,good for you!
How odd I drove semi and I liked the sleeper but I don't really miss it when I'm running hot shot in fact I sleep really good in both set ups and prefer hot shot for sleeping . Go figure
I bet you're one of those guys who stands in the middle of Love's rambling on about how good a driver you are. 😆 🤣 😂 😹
@@SeeSaw99 Well .... let me tell you how good I am 🤣🤣🤣
what is "hot shot"?
Wow very interesting I love it I love it I love it right now I am in Chicago Illinois and I am looking to make one of those for my freightliner cause I don't have APU but that setup you got there it's amazing and you can put it in any type of vehicles thanks for the tip love it love it love it be safe 👍 I will give you 10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hey thanks! Good luck with your setup!!!
I have 97 cummins 12 valve that came factory with 0 comfort options, no a/c no cruise control no power windows or locks, I am thinking about doing something like this to run a/c in the summer as I already have a 2300 watt generator, very helpful
Glad it was helpful, good luck with the setup!
I would consider looking into a few lithium batteries with a DC to DC charger then the truck will charge it because your driving a lot so it will charge fully then at night you can use up all the batteries if your doing this a lot it would save you money in the long run
Awesome got more tips, thanks again 👍🏾 😀
If do a simple test and find out how much exhaust goes out the back window vent with any one of the doors on the truck open and another reading of the air flow when all of the doors are closed you can find out if you are starving the air conditioning from proper air flow.
That’s pretty great man. Not only is this gonna save me a bunch of fuel in my c15 cat it’ll plug right into my existing 3000watt inverter if my cab ac goes down. I love redundancy
Glad to hear that! Thanks and good luck!
Great video , I’m driving a 2019 Ram 2500 with a gooseneck, I’m trying to build a bed but I’m 6’7” tall , can you help me build my bed by giving me the dimension or can you make a video ?
Wow 6’7 is tall! To be honest I’m not sure my setup will work for you unless you have a mega cab. I have seen some of the taller people take out the front passenger’s and rear seat, and build a bunk from glovebox to rear of cab. I would suggest measuring the distance before you build it to see if you can stretch out in that space. I will be home this weekend for a few days and will try to do another video on my sleeper, hopefully you can at least get some ideas!
It’s a diesel truck, doesn’t hurt it to run. Mine does very well in high idle
That well may be however for me it’s more about the cost. 5-7 gallons of diesel vs 1 gallon of gasoline!
I've have gotten ice on the inside of the windows of a freightliner sleeper truck while the bunk is nice in warm.
That thing must be a hell of alot better than any of them ive found. I found them as noisy wastes of money. Id suggest to anyone wanting to cool..no freeze your arse off to look around for an rv ac system. One without freon is the best. I used one to cool a very large party room in a boat house. Mounted a small shelf in one of the boat slip side of a wall with a hole cut through with a grill covering the inside. In the 100+ degree summer in texas you need a jacket in that room. 12' ceilings and some insulation. Wooden inside and out.
roof top ac 12vdc mine runs 24/7 i run my van to go some where when i go my batteries charge up in 30 min they are charged before i get to where i am going i have went 336hrs no run was down to 63%
Sounds interesting! I thought about doing a rooftop in the truck! Do you have a video of your setup and install?
Nice little set up.
30 k views 144 subs more content dude you rock
Lol thanks man!
I want to see how you made your bed brother
@@sleepisoulja i basically took out the back seat for maximum room. Slid the front seats as far forward as possible. Then measured out the area for the total length and width.
I put the seats in the operating position and re measured for the main bunk platform.
I used 2x2 pine and built a frame for the bunk to make the top of the bunk even with the bottom of the door windows.
I added a second bunk piece secure with hinges that folds up when the front seats are in operation position and folds down when they are slid forward. Covered the deck with glued down outdoor carpet.
Added some 2x2 cross bracing for strength to the frame underneath.
Bought a piece of foam rubber (I would recommend 4” extra firm) and cut it to fifth the platform, splitting it where the two deck pieces joined so the mattress can fold up with the deck when driving.
My wife helped me make a sheet that fit both pieces of mattress.
Good luck sir!
great setup! on a very hot night how many gallons of fuel would you use?
Depending on the generator but mine would burn a gallon in about 7 hours if it was real hot and humid. The generator will shut off and I just sleep till the alarm goes off.
Other option is to turn up the thermostat when it’s really hot to get more run time.
My last option is
To idle the truck if it’s too hot to sleep when the generator shuts off
Have you looked at a Chinese espar for the winter?
I am an HVAC guy who grew up on a farm and went into the Military right out of High school. I used to build all kinds of contraptions to survive in areas where the Military really did not care about our creature comforts. I am going to give you some advice. The reason the AC gets so hot in the one area is two fold. You can't get proper airflow out of or through the discharge of the AC. The duct that goes through the back window is okay but with every part of an AC it is air in and air out. Those portable AC units are betting that you have loose construction in the area that you use them in.
Your truck cab is fairly tight. It will not let enough air in from outside to go through the condensing or hot air discharge side of the AC and out the back properly.
You are overheating the condensing side of the AC unit and it is not running efficiently.
Look into building a kit to install through the back window where it takes air out of the cab through one duct on the bottom and brings air into the cab on the top half or side of the window. Duct both of them back to a small window AC that sits in the pickup box or on the tool box. This will eliminate all of the issues and it can get power from the gen outside. Also any condensation can drain away outside of the cab with no need to dump a condensate container. It could be semi permanent or take it in and out everytime you park.
The other type unit would be what they actually put into Semi trucks but they are pricey. Those can be Heat pump versions that both heat and cool the cab.
www.webasto-comfort.com/int/
www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200945228_200945228?cm_mmc=Google-pla&Google_PLA&Fans%20%3E%20Air%20Conditioners%20%3E%20Residential%20Air%20Conditioners&Emerson%20Quiet%20Kool&gclid=CjwKCAjw_ISWBhBkEiwAdqxb9qiuamOejUmTyAQOImXh5HXtgwsBZE5PuDljaX4Etr2glYJpEAeSpRoCAZAQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
I hear what you are saying! However I’m not able to do anything like the unit in the bed of the truck as I don’t have the room for it with my hitch, generator, fuel can, and tool boxes.
Also I have used this setup for 3 summers now, and I agree it isn’t as efficient as it could be, however it has worked well and keeps the cab very cool for sleeping. And I don’t have to set it up and take it down every day. Thanks for the info thou!
They don’t make anything more factory for this?
Nice set up. Have often thought about something similar in my Ford.
it only works in GMC
Damn wish I thought of this when I was living out of my truck it was an 07 dodge 2500 and was back before they started making these full cab trucks for dodges at least not a whole lot of room to stretch tried taking the bolts out for the back seats but they were rusted so I had to foot the seat down and sleep like that
I've been looking for years for a small window AC that would fit the sliding back glass. Window AC's are much for efficient that portable ones. A 200 btu would be plenty for a crewcab pickup.
*2000 btu
Have you found one?
@@Md-be3bt nope :(
I can't find anything under 5000 btu. Frustrating because that's more than I need in my van and larger than I want hanging out back window.
Good job! I run a Honda generator with heater but not an ac (yet). I have one of those ac but don’t have a back window. Guess I could run it out the side window?
You can probably find a sliding back glass at salvage!
The truck has vents out the back of the cab I seen a few guys exhaust out of them I believe that’s what I am going to try to do really like your setup
@@Hawgwild66 thanks! Those vents might be worth a try!
Take fuel vent out of gas cap put a fitting in for gas line going to a boat tank then it will run a lot longer
If you upgrade your A/C unit to a Zero Breeze battery power system you can eliminate the generator and a LOT of the duckting in your sleeping area.
Check out the GENMAX GM3500iAED it’s dual fuel running watts 3,200, I t’s about the size of your champion but it’s a Chinese brand I’ll get one this weekend we’ll see how it handles.
I will! Let me know how it does!
Where does the air come from to replace the hot air you're exhausting out?
I'm sure you get some leaking through the trucks vents, but unlike a house that has numerous cracks for outside air to replace the exhausted air, I imagine the air conditioner is not getting enough air going through the hot side. A way you could greatly increase efficiency is to turn that single hose portable into a double hose by building a duct around the hot side intake and connecting it to a second hose going outside.
With a double hose setup, instead of pulling air-conditioned air from inside the truck to cool the hot side, it will use outside air to cool the hot side. I've done it using foam board and it was pretty easy but that was in a house. Your available space would definitely make it far more of a challenge but you seem pretty crafty. I bet you could do it.
You are right and over 90% of people don't even understand that. But they do make two hoes versions that come with a fresh air intake hose, you just have to search for them
So it's better to cool hot air compared to cool air that dosen't make sense
@@danielpolson9340
It's better to cool the condenser with outside air than with inside air, even though the outside air is warmer. Don't forget, the only reason your inside air is cooler is because you invested the energy into cooling it. If you're going to use it to cool the condenser to then pump it outside, that air has to be replaced and it gets replaced with outside air that you now have to cool again.
@@Andy-df5fj the only ac i have worked on is auto now that makes sense and that's a horrible design lol
@@danielpolson9340
Yes the single hose setup is a horrible design they tend do with portable ACs, but despite the inefficiency, it still works well enough that people would apparently rather only deal with one hose, efficiency be damned.
Check out zero breeze much smaller unit
I researched that thing and it’s too expensive! Especially for what it is, it doesn’t even have a thermostat on it to keep the temperature constant and it won’t cool a cab down.
Just an idea but why not use the AC you already have for the truck? Connect a motor to the compressor so you don't have to run it of course and use the generator to power it or just upgrade to a bigger alternator.
Might be a good idea but I wouldn’t even begin to know how to do that.
How you gonna connect and what motor to the A/C compressor of truck when it's still connected to the truck motor? How you gonna control that system when truck is off? How you gonna control the a/c controls of the truck and the fan to blow it through the vents?
Great install, but... how much does it cost to run for 6 hours overnight? doesn't the gen keep you (and the neighborhood) awake all night? Eco Flow has portable A/C can run off lithium powerstation.
Less than a gallon of gasoline to run 8 hours and these generators are extremely quiet! Also the eco flow unit that you speak of costs 4 times as much as my setup, and it doesn’t work.
That’s a great idea thanks for the good tips hope to see more videos
Hey thanks!
I like the setup also what tires are you running
Bridgestone Duravis M700HD All Terrain Commercial, have about 75k miles on the set now. I’m going to do a review video on them in the near future!
Don't those AC sweet water,? just wondering because I have a similar one in My room and I had to connect a tube to a empty water jug
My unit does have a small reservoir with a drain however it has never needed drained.
Could this system work on the fly? My truck is getting old and the ac is not working that good. Plus I live in the dessert. I already have a decent inverter generator and would just need the ac unit. I also have a 1930 Hupmobile 4 door with a rear luggage rack. If this would work on the fly I was considering putting the generator out on the rear luggage rack and putting the portable ac unit in the back seat. Any thoughts. Thanks.
I have never done it before myself but you can give it a try.
Thank you for the video. Blessings to you.
Your welcome!
Nice job!😀
I don't understand hot shots. And I'm not trying to be ignorant I really don't understand it.. I drive a tractor trailer I get out of my seat walk in the back to my air conditioned sleeper with my refrigerator my microwave I've done it for years.. Why would you want to live in a pickup truck when you could live so much better? Do you make more money doing hot shot is it easier? I'm honestly curious
Chris, believe me I ask myself that same question sometimes lol!
I can’t speak for others and can only tell you why I do it.
First is the initial cost of a pickup vs a tractor which is a big difference.
Second is the flexibility and lifestyle it allows me to have. I am an owner operator and leased on with a transport company, I only do rv transport and I can shut down whenever I want and enjoy life!
And third is rv transport is pretty easy! No booming or tarping. At my age I chose an easier way.
Thanks for asking!
@@hotshotstuff8080 Thanks for your reply I definitely understand RV transport I used to work for wave many many years ago. The flexibility was nice that’s for sure. As far as the initial cost of a pick up goes these days it’s getting pretty close to the price of a used Freightliner the way everything keeps going up but you definitely have a lot more operating expenses with a rig. I don’t own my own truck right now and the price of fuel would absolutely terrify me if I was a owner operator pick up truck or semi. And I guess you would have a lot easier time finding parking now that I think of it. Either way stay safe out there and keep the rubber down. Thanks for giving me a good idea for when I get tired of turning all 18
I've been looking for a used semi and cheap ones are not to be found. I bought my latest F350 for $6500 and it's just temporary. I will be moving up to a semi with a large sleeper around the end of the year. I'm getting ready to do longer hauls so I will purchase a larger generator and portable AC that can be used in both trucks. As for easier, it's easier to get fuel with a hotshot because I can squeeze my way into and out of regular gas stations. But semi is the way to go as the load board will testify. Like 6000+ loads compared to 17.
I can't find a straightforward answer to the question of is it legal to sleep in the hotshot truck when it doesn't meet DOT standards... are you marking off duty or sleeping berth?
Off duty.
Do you leave sunroof or windows cracked open? Since exhaust heat air is being pumped out of cab, in such a small area, wouldn’t you need to allow air inside to keep from running low on oxygen?
Thanks for asking that’s a good question!
th-cam.com/video/Q691-iacrR0/w-d-xo.html
@@hotshotstuff8080 thanks for the info.. I was unaware that the cab self vents in the back and front.. I installed same AC as you pretty much the way yours is, took it out past couple weeks on the road. It does well if outside temp is 79 or lower at night. but if its much warmer, doesn't keep me cool.. I was in Texas, outside temp 85-98 at night, it didn't really keep me cool, blows cold, against window, but by the time it circulates in the cab, the air is warm.. Do you have this issue? any suggestions? I'm planning to add some ducting to the cold side, up and across the top of back window adding couple vents so it blows directly on me.
@@texascountry6674 wow that’s hot for nighttime but I get it if you are in Texas! I know with my setup it takes a little time for the unit to cool the cab when it’s hotter outside. I have never had a night that it wouldn’t keep me cool though. I usually keep my thermostat between 72-75 depending on how hot it is.
Can I ask if you are using the reflective insulated window covers?
@@hotshotstuff8080 Yes, I have reflective on all windows. I purchased the reflective insulation at home depot, couple issues with it, it doesn't seem to be as good quality as the RV reflective window insulation, and its not stiff enough, so it doesn't stay tight against the windows. So I plan to upgrade it. thinkin of using something thicker more permanent on the rear window and around the vent to ensure it keeps that exhaust heat out. I'm also adding a Generator Fuel Extender so I can run it more than 6-7hrs. I have the Polaris P2000I Gen. I tried running my AC at 68, but the compressor shuts off after 30 mins, prob getting to hot. 72 is prob a good temp for it.
Just wanted to give you a update.. I added 6" ducting to the Cold air output of AC so the air comes out directly on me instead of blowing towards the window.. It will now freeze me out.. It may or may not keep the entire truck cold if outside air is 85-90 at night, but with it blowing cold directly on me, its way more comfortable.. I was in San Antonio last week, it was 87 degrees at 11pm, but with the ducting blowing directly on me I was very comfortable..
Wow, amazed by your DIY abilities, portable air conditioners look tall and big, you can try window air conditioners. Why no business can make an air conditioner in the shape of a mini portable generator, the air outlet is a circular interface, I know the Zero Wind Mark 2 AC, but unfortunately only 2300BTU, the power is too low, it can only be used at night, I need to use it during the day,
I agree completely on the zero breeze! That thing costs way too much for what it is, it doesn’t even have a thermostat on it lol. Mine will keep the truck cool for daytime sleeping too, however I would like to add a larger fuel tank for my generator. Runs about 6.5 -7 hours when the air is working hard!
@@hotshotstuff8080 you need to get a marine boat fuel tank there’s a 3 gal. and 6 gal. chrysler force fuel connectors 2 males and 2 females, male is usually npt 1/4 threads. If the barb on the female is 3/8 get a fuel line with a primer bulb that’s also 3/8, also you’ll need to get an extended run fuel cap for your generator if your generator doesn’t have a vacuum fuel pump like the Honda 2200 you’ll need to have the fuel tank above the generator. I used the Johnson/Evinrude fuel connectors and one time something was pressing against the nipple and gas started to leak the Yamaha fuel connectors are the same so I change them to the Chrysler force fuel connectors I hope this helps and gives you ideas on how to make your set up. Here’s a link for the fuel connectors
www.ebay.com/itm/154674022295?epid=1257154402&hash=item24034a4797:g:6vMAAOSw2XFUjccg
@@ReviewingTech101 thanks! Not sure I can run this setup as my truck is commercially operated and I am subject to DOT regulations. I’ll check it out thou!
@@hotshotstuff8080 I’m a truck driver 😂 that’s what I have but I have my tank on a side compartment on my semi, for that portable A/C you can easily get more than 10 hours on a 3 gal tank
@@ReviewingTech101 ahh I see lol! I had actually thought about the extra fuel tank but unfortunately my pickup bed is pretty full! I actually get a good 8 hours on a tank of fuel in my generator.
Dude I could have made this 10X easier for you. Hopefully you changed everything by now. Have an AC set up for the summer and a diesel heater for the winter. Takes me 5 min or less to set up. I use a 2k generator for the AC and the heater is powered off a 12v batter.
I just let my truck idle. Am I really wasting that much? Silverado 2500 6.0. I let it idle for days sometimes weeks
If your truck has a 6.0 that’s a gasoline engine I believe? Just be sure your doing your oil changes off your hour meter and not miles.
That might work okay inside but I don't think I'd use it outside too much dirt out here
Can you run the generator in the bed of your truck when stopped and sleeping? Or does it vibrate and shake disrupting sleep?
It does vibrate and when the compressor kicks in and n the air conditioner the generator revs up. what I do is I keep a long cable around the generator handle and keep if padlocked to my truck, also the fumes from the exhaust concerns me if I keep it in the bed.
@@hotshotstuff8080 that's why you have to have a CO detector in the truck. I did in the semi.
Thanks so much
Best set up I ever seen. But that generator will grow legs and walk off w that bike lock. I use my load chains and a heavy lock for generator security.
Last winter in Utah it snowed all night upon waking and exiting my truck I noticed footprints in the snow leading right up to and away from my truck bed. It definitely was a failed attempt at stealing my generator. Also " South Georgia hot shot" posted that his brand new generator got stolen w a bicycle chain just like yours on it. Just saying, and thank you for posting this video it's good information.
Thanks for the compliment! Luckily I haven’t lost anything yet but will definitely consider a heavier chain and lock!
This is great!
Thanks! I hope it helps!!!
@@hotshotstuff8080 where is the Video of the bed you made, would love to see it, my husband and I are soon heading out on hotshots, Thank you🇺🇸
I haven’t posted a video of my sleeper yet, hopefully soon
how well does this setup work for your 34 hour reset? I just picked up a Hisense 6000 btu AC and Champion 2000 watt genny.. but theAC only cools for a 5-7 minutes then the compressor shuts off! Cab temp is 90. I'd appreciate any help!
My compressor kicks in and out as the temp cools and then re warms as it should. Does your compressor not kick back in? Also how many watts does the unit pull?
The heater does it work well in north dakota? It's gets down to -15
I have used the heater down to 0 degrees and it worked well! The key is to use the foil window coverings with it and the air for insulation on the glass.
-15 is cold, I would be more concerned with the generator operating at those temperatures, but again no issues down to 0.
What about ac working in AZ? It's get to above 100 degree?
@@ltruong571061 honestly I have never used this setup in 100 degree weather! However I believe it all depends on how cold you need it to be to sleep. I generally run the thermostat at 74 or 75 degrees.
This keeps me comfortable and I can sleep. Remember the lower you run the thermostat the more the compressor stays on, and therefore the higher the load on the generator. This causes the generator to burn more gasoline, and you can potentially run out of fuel before you awaken. I have had this happen two times in two years on hotter days. One solution would be to have a higher watt generator, say 2500 instead of 2000. Then the larger generator should last longer with the same load, in this case 800 watts from the air conditioner with compressor running.
I hope that gives you some idea, thanks for asking!
Nice video, Thank you.
8000 btu to cool your pickup cab? Do you sleep in a sleeping bag? Nice setup.
Yes I do use a sleeping bag, usually run air conditioner thermostat around 75 degrees.
New sub ! Liked 🌟🤗😀✌️
Can u drive with the air conditioning running?
I never have however if my trucks air conditioner quit working I would fire it up in a minute and run it while driving!!!
U have a window at the back so just get a window air conditioner, 4000-5000btu should be more than enough, & have two 100ah Lifepo4 battery and 1000w pure sine inverter should be enough, it would be cheaper than running on gas generator as these carb engines are not the most efficient even with inverter ones they consume a lot of unnecessary fuel when running under 50% load. Also get an extra alternator in the truck with a temparature controlled voltage regulator cus Lifepo4 have lower internal resistance than leadacid and will cook the alternator at idle by pulling too much current,
2x100ah Lifepo4 should get u going easily for 4-8hrs on a 5000btu ac. And the batteries will charge when u drive around or charge it at where u rest..u can get those inverters that have builtin chargers i recommend meanwell , i have similar setup and meanwell inverter for more than 10yrs the only maintenance i do is cleaning them every month as they are exposed to outside air and run 24x7 almost so they accumulate a lot of dust and too much dust can cause issues with overheating or they can absorb moisture and become conductive.
Nice....sweet dreams...
how about just get a camper for the ruck bed.
Can’t do, hauled 5th wheel trailers.
Thank you
Wait until another TH-cam creator “Stealth Camps” in your rig for a weekend.
Get a dual hose AC so you’re not putting your cab under negative pressure.
Brlliant 👍
What are ,all the yellow. 5 gallon cans , diesel storage ?
Yes, extra diesel. I get EFS discounts at stations in certain areas and I pick up extra fuel when there and use it when I’m in parts of the country where my discounts aren’t as good. Sometimes the difference will be $1 per gallon or more, but usually runs .60 to .80 cent’s!
@@hotshotstuff8080 what type of hauling are you doing ? Rev, flatbed or car ? I have EFS card discountv
RV transport
I also would like to see how your platform is put together.
Rout the exhaust to your oil pan. No need for a plug in heater.
That might work lol!
I dont think somepeople realize that your never supposed to cover the vents on a single hose AC and a single hose AC creates a vacuum inside the room or a car its not a good option.
I have been using it for years, what are the issues?
@@hotshotstuff8080 It creates a Vacuum inside any closed space it is placed in. Because it uses the air inside to cool off its condenser and most importantly it contains equipment that gets hot and can get dangerous if it overheats.
What about while your driving and you have all them windows blocked off from your view...do you have a hard time seeing around your truck....
Anyone use a window unit?
I have actually seen guys use them in either side or rear glass. You would have to set it up each night though
@@hotshotstuff8080 I wouldn't mind. I'm toasting out here in Texas. Truck be smelling like smoked brisket.
@@jroyfishing that’s too bad! Can you idle the truck and use the air until you can get something setup
Just get a ecoflow ac then no more extra duel no more cords no more generator
Do you want to buy a big tractor ?
Nope!
Это большая ошибка, поставь оконный кондиционер на 5000btu. На заднее стекло. Я уже использую его 10 лет на Volvo truck. Перед установкой разбери и жестко прикрути компрессор иначе трубка лопнет от вибрации. Я тоже начинал как твой проект и он не работает
Nice insulation but way too complicated for me lol. I own a ZERO BREEZE Mark 2 portable AC, works great.
Exactly what I want to say.🤣🤣
The zero breeze has several issues, first is it’s cost and second it wouldn’t keep my truck cool at all with daytime sleeping! Which we have to do often when driving commercially. The zb doesn’t even have a thermostat so when it is cooler at night it gets the area too cold and you have to wake up and shut it off.
I'd rather idle my truck It's got to be quieter than that. Generator roaring all night.
This setup is way too overly complicated. I use a 4k BTU window unit that's a third the size of that portable ac unit and also probably about a third the price. Open the back sliding window and sit it outside the window like you would do at a regular house. It's small and can be stored under the seat or in the Tupperware container.
I’m glad you found something that works for you. As far as being complicated I don’t see it! My setup stays in place and what you are talking about has to be setup every night and taken down and put away every morning. Now to me that sounds complicated! As for the cost of the unit itself, I paid somewhere in the 300 dollar range for the air conditioner.
@@hotshotstuff8080 I keep mines in the bed of my truck so it's out of site and out of mind. It's not in my way when I'm sleeping... and doesn't require all of the duct work. Once I start up my generator I simply sit it in the window( I attached a handle to it for easy lifting, it sits perfectly right on top of my auxiliary tank), and takes less than a minute to setup. It's on the smaller side so it takes up hardly any space but packs a punch. Plus it came with a remote so that's how I control it from inside.
@@David-td5po what brand/ model of ac do you have?
@@Md-be3bt
Brand-
FRIGIDAIRE
Model Name - FFRE053WAE
Bought it off Amazon.
@@Md-be3bt The only modification i made was putting tape on the outer vents so that all the air comes through the middle (main) one.
go buy a semi truck with a sleeper. will be much better.
2hrs setup just to much I'm just gonna run the truck
Lol well I’m not sure where your seeing 2 hours? You understand the air conditioner stays in the truck? I sleep in it every night and setup is less than 5 minutes! But to each his own.
Looks like it takes too long to set up and take down no thanks
So the air conditioner stays in the pickup after it is installed, only need to start generator and plug it in daily. Takes 3 minutes to setup the entire sleeper daily.
What a pain in the butt, just get your CDL and drive a real truck
Got em! Have had em since they began with the CDL license as I was already driving a tanker! My first work truck was a 1950 model!!!
Time you spend all the money to set all this up, might as well just let your truck idle. Diesel isn’t that expensive. This just isn’t practice money nor time wise. Smh
I guess it just depends on one’s bank account. You will burn 5 gal diesel a night idling verses 1 gallon gas in a generator. That’s around $15 per night saving on fuel cost.
Now take that 28 days a month $15x28=$420 per month.
Now take $420x12=$5040 per year savings on fuel cost alone, not to mention saving on diesel engine maintenance(which if your idling should be done on engine hours and not mileage). I spent around $700 for everything to setup the air and heat with generator, which has lasting over 2 years now.
So for discussion let’s say you buy a new generator and air unit every year and see how much is left;
$5040-$700=$4340.
Now let’s say you run your truck 5 years before replacing it.
$4340x5=$21,700.00 over the life of the truck, not counting extra engine maintenance and wear and tear.
I’m not sure about others but I’ll take that all day every day!
@@hotshotstuff8080 These company drivers have NO idea how to use their brain