Brian - thanks for the video! It definitely made the task much easier especially seeing how you removed the two screws on the lower left to gain access to the wiring inside the generator. I started with the exhaust pipe as you did - getting that out of the makes moving around underneath a lot easier. I also put some penetrating oil on all the bolts before getting started since this is a 2009 model. From there I attacked the fuel supply (propane in this case) which was a bear to get apart. With the gas line capped it was no stopping - killed all the power and got the DC in, AC out and control wire harness all disconnected. I covered up and stowed all those connections. Oh, I'm converting the propane hose to a quick connect for the grill! I'm going to have a local metal shop help drop the generator out and fabricate a battery box as I didn't have the means. Thanks again for the inspiration!
Thank you very much for taking the time to post this video. Just recently I finally managed to get my very first Motorhome. It is a 2000 Winnebago with only 46k on it. It is in GREAT shape but unfortunately the original Onan generator only runs when pressing “START”. As soon as I let go of “START” the generator shuts off. I am currently diagnosing this issue when not working and funds permit. It is nice to know that just getting rid of my original Onan MAY be an option. I was thinking of just purchasing a brand new generator with wheels and putting that outside when I want to run my AC??? Anyway, thank you very much Brian for for this video. 😀
I usually click the thumbs up BEFORE I watch your videos so I won't forget. You never cease to entertain me, enlighten me, and never bore me so basically I know before I watch you've earned a thumbs up from me! Thanks for the tons of useful information and all your hard work.
I'll tell ya this; your one hell of a craftsman! I wanted too know how to remove my 6500-111 boat anchor onan from this 4 mpg @ average 2023 per gal $4-$6.57 a gal Holiday Rambler I paid to much for just to park. Enjoyed your talents though!
I really enjoyed watching you do this conversion. I removed the Onan from our 1990 Class A but I had to construct a ramp and use a come-along because the floor of the compartment was welded into place. I replaced the Onan with a lighter weight dual-fuel generator that weighs not even a quarter of the Onan. I did that because I didn't like the idea of a gasoline engine in a compartment springing a leak and causing a fire. Secondly, the weight was ridiculous. Thirdly, we don't need the amount of juice the Onan put out. I'm going to eventually make the Onan our Hurricane Black-out generator for our home here in Southeastern Louisiana.
Your skills amaze me Brian. You do great work. I don't think I I could ever ditch my generator, but like you said you aren't really using it. Thanks again for your videos.
That's NIIIICE!!! I have my generator out already. I was looking up what to do with the fuel line. The rubber to the fuel line is dry rotted. I just want to plug it up somehow and build storage like you did.
Just cut the fuel line back behind the dry rot and add a shutoff valve. I reused mine for my gasoline heater. Check it out: th-cam.com/video/CGalqQvmYx8/w-d-xo.html
Thanks Brian. New subscriber. I was looking for a video to help me drop my generator for service. This was great. You also taught me how to deal with another issue I have and that was a rusted out compartment. I loved how you handled the construction of your new one. Thanks so much.
Brian I was under my new/used RV just looking under gen and found another ground cable not connected. The gen starts and runs fine can't find anything about two ground cables on the internet how many did you have. My gen is the same as yours. Thank you for your time.
Hey Tito I liked your video. What I was really hoping for was I have a 99 Winnebago adventure and I also removed my generator because it never worked and I'm having it worked on. So that being said what wires do I need to connect to where I can still plug into shoreline and still have power to my motorhome? Because now that the generator is out can I plug in shoreline I get absolutely nothing
Good idea but for myself I would rather have the generator. Do you know you can cut aluminim with a power miterbox with a carbide blade and get exact cuts.
The generator on our Class C hasn't worked since we bought it, and we knew that when we bought it. The folks we bought it from never used it because they always stayed in places with full hookups, so I guess the gas went back in it. We are finding that we usually stay in places with full hookups too so we never bothered getting it fixed. I don't know how much it would cost to get one of those Onan generators repaired or replaced, but I'm wondered if we wouldn't be better off just getting a portable generator, but so far we've never needed our generator. But I do like the idea of just getting rid of the generator and using the freed up space for extra storage since that's one area that our rig is really short on. Great video as always Brian! Hope you guys have a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year!
NICE JOB, I WAS WAITING FOR THE HELI-ARC WELDER TO COME OUT!!!!!!! THAT ONAN 4000 WATT WILL BRING A NICE PENNY, AT 1 TIME I HAD 16 OF THEM RUNNING PORTABLE WELDERS, ALL LINCOLNS, BUT AS TIME CHANGED, WENT WITH THE 23 HP KOHLER'S, SAME DEPENDABILITY, KEEP UP THE MAINTENANCE, AND I CAN SAY THOSE ONANS WILL RUN FOREVER!,,NICE WORKMANSHIP, GLAD TO SEE SOME CRAFTSMAN STILL LEFT! JACK
?????? Love it, i have the same thought as have not used mine for over 2 yrs and keep paying for services plus run it using gas to keep it running. I use solar also. Like the compartment. LIke yours I have almost no outside storage. My only question is what did you do to secure the gas line. That's my biggest concern as don't want it to get snagged while boondocking
I can't remove mine because I'm full time RVing and on several cloudy days I need to run generator to run things and charge my battery bank even with 2,060 watts of solar in 24 volt. Nice job sir and a new basement bin.
Nice job, Brian. Thanks for showing us how easily we can eliminate those old Onans and put inverters and lithium batteries there, vented underneath like you did.
Nice job on that storage cabinet, you really have a way with woodworking. I guess since you live in the pacific northwest, needing the air conditioning between hookups is probably not necessary. Here in the southeast it's a requirement for travel in the summer months.
I understand why , But I was in the boonies and had a battery inverter failure along with that my Alternator on the RV died I know the chances are remote but boom ,, so i ran the diesel onan qd5500 and a 40 amp battery charger and drove back to town ,,,, with out the Genset I would have been stuffed ,,, Great work Brian man you doo very nice work ,,,,
Thanks. Unfortunate that the alternator died too. I do keep a spare 1K pure sine inverter stored in the RV just in case. Many years ago I had an inverter go out while boondocking. You just can't go out and buy a 2K or 1K pure sine inverter at Walmart.
RV with Tito DIY: If I had a another of each of the stuff that could fail on a RV I would need a additional trailer to carry it all. Great idea on the generator. Now I wish I had a on board one just so I could take it out. Good job cheers.
Brian, great idea and excellent work. If I may add my thoughts, Home Depot sells pressure treated plywood that will extend the life of your storage compartment. Thanks
Thanks. Yes I know. I have a little bit of that marine grade stuff around. I had more of the OSB left over though. The sheet metal keeps it all sealed up pretty well.
I just bought a 2017 voltage 4115 toyhauler. It has a 5500 Onan generator, factory unit. This is my first time having a RV. Having a generator that only runs some items is disappointing as running your car but you can't have the radio and wipers on at the same time, the lights but no radio. How is it possible to run everything while boondocking?
OK, so, I have too ask? What are you using to replace that Onan generator? The internet rumor is that you are using a stationary bike with a small drag generator installed at the brake caliper that you ride for 7 straight hours in the beating sun to charge your batteries (in addition to few solar awnings suction cupped to your RV's windows!). Is that how you maintain your rugged AZ tan and youthful countenance? Personally, I think that you installed a 'crapton' (Engineering term-look it up!) of BattleBorn batteries and that's how you avoid the mellifluous tones and vibration created by your 'onboard' Onan.
Hi Brian, what are you going to do if you have to stay in area that's hot and you need AC all night long? Will your BBs handle all night with the AC on?
@@RVwithTito , I figured that. One time, while on our way to Yellowstone in August we had to stop at Walmart in Cedar City. We had to keep our gen. run all night due to the heat. I hope all works out well for you. I am on the verge of buying those Lithium Batteries for $315.00 ea for 12v 100amp with BMS.
You'll have a positive and negative DC cable that goes to your house battery (that'll be a hot one), your AC output that goes to your transfer switch, and a remote start cable that you could probably zip tie and stash underneath. Finally you'll have a fuel line that you'll need to plug.
I did this 5 years ago and built a battery box from the old genset frame to hold two 6 volt deep cycle batteries. Also replaced the house batteries with 2 more 6 volt deep cycles. Could have used the 12 volt cable to the genset to connect them but instead put a 2000 watt low frequency inverter under the dinette seat and connected everything with 2/0 welding cable, marine grade bus bars, fuses, and battery switches. I almost always boondock, and I can get through even a cold night with the furnace cycling on battery and still turn the inverter on for coffee in the morning. If I do need to charge, I've got a 2k inverter genset for that. Mostly on 1 or 2 night trips in summer or if I'm driving between campsites, I don't need to charge. Also installed 250watts of solar on the roof. I just thought it was really annoying to have to start up that Onan genset to make a pot of coffee.
Agreed. With solar and a decent inverter, you can surely get away with a small generator for backup charging. If you get one that will power your A/C then that's even better.
The questions I have relate to what would be the best option for utilizing the lines in and out of the generator once you have removed it? I am in the process of completely converting my class A to solar and hybrid off-grid and I'm doing it a little differently. Like you, I purchased my panels from Santan Solar and will be picking them up in Savanah in another week, but I'm working on essentially setting up 3 powerstation, or power supply sources, let's say, the first being my new Pacron E3000, with 4 x 250w panels charging it full time, then the other two panels charging a 24v bank, while leaving the 12v house system alone and laying the alternator take care of those. I want the 12v to run only the low wattage lights and the pumps, and occasionally run a 2000w PSW inverter, use the 24v to run an aftermarket 24v "trucker" ac mod, and the Pecron, basically in place of two 100amp mppt controllers, and a 2000w PSW inverter (all of which are inside the Pecron), and a 3140wh lithium bank (also built in), to run the high loads, And run my bedroom ac all night. Back to the question: I removed the rooftop ac and the Onan 4000 this week. I installed a low profile plexiglass skylite to fill the hole and allow solar panels to install over it, and I do have a small hybrid generator coming which I plan to use to charge things up in times of sparse sun. What would you suggest I do with the generator compartment considering the components mentioned, that might make use of the wiring in the generator compartment. I suppose I could rig up the start wires to the new generator and maybe even connect the fuel line as a fuel source when needed, so that would be the place for that, but that would still leave a lot of room there, with wires leading out to the breaker box and a transfer switch. I'm wondering about sending power from there, like you said you would hook up your inverter there, which you did. How did you exactly do that? All that typing comes down to that I suppose, because I'm assuming that would be the most logical use of them, but I'm also thinking about how best to use the Pecron in that mix, inserted of just plugging the shore power line into it, which automatically sends 350w to the fridge and charges the house 12v, I want to put it on its own, powering only the 110v outlets or anything I connect directly to it. Can I put a busbar there and connect in a way that powers the outlets and nothing else, or should I just run a new line from the 110 braker box and get rid of the 3 wire house the Onan used to send through? Insights?
I'm so frustrated with my onan 2800 microlite generator and have considered removing it. I honestly would not attempt this by myself. I do have a question about the gas line that you tapped off. It looks like you put something on it so you could access that fuel line if needed. Why did you tap it off in that way? What could that fuel line be used for and do you have access to it now?
I'm in the process of installing a high efficiency gas heater that needs fuel from the gas tank. I'll be using that generator fuel line for it. You could also use it to feed a portable generator if you had one.
Another "overengineered" addition. LOVE IT. Too many hacks on TH-cam just doing enough to get by. Questions .. Why did you drain the oil? Wouldn't you want to preserve the unit for sale? Should have fogged the unit before removing. I hope you capped the gas line and not just added the shut-off, accidents happen. Unit should bring some good money to pay for the electric conversion. NIce job and great video. Thanks.
Frank, this was no hack. It is more along the lines of re-engineering. Somewhere on this puppy is a case vent and raining the oil is to keep from making a mess when tipping. Fogging is a quaint idea yet is really not needed in most cases, especially if you might be selling it in the next year or two. Also, when you are racing darkness to get something done, you cap a gas line with whatever you have lying around. A barbed shut off valve is perfect.
I thought of adding a fuel hose to the other end of the valve then cap it. Instead I taped up the fuel line valve just in case. I don't know how long I'll store the generator, so I drained the oil to keep it from settling in there.
Hey Tito, when you removed the generator did it trigger any alarms: horn honking and lights flashing? I removed my onan off a 2006 gulf stream and it my horn is honking. Just curious if you had the any issues? TIA
I'm with you. Been contemplating the same with my 05 1150 fox for years... nothing but problems at 7k+ elevation cold weather and 7 gallon bottles. Oh yea it rattles your entire being of existence when it's running too. That' alone is enough to remove this mad max weighted industrial revolution era monstrosity.
I'm surprised you didn't mention it (but can see that you used it... so), what kind of penetrating oil did you use and how long did you have to let it set? But thanks for the great informative video! I've been trying to become an RV'r for decades, and am hopeful of becoming one soon. It's just has been hard for me to do so alone (...especially since that part was never part of the dreams). Should you choose to do so, I'd also love to see your view and/or results concerning connecting your transfer switch to your inverter. Again, great video! Far better than the time-wasting crap 98% of these youngsters post. Btw... I do like your wise choice not to clutter/slow-the-flow of your video with such info. So maybe supplemental text notes (I did look :) for such stuff would be a nice addition! Or not. Just a thought.
@RVwithTito I'm gonna pull mine out and use it for home power backup. I hope it comes out as easy as yours. I looked at it once and it looked built in before the coach was dropped on the chassis.
@@RVwithTito As well as moving the generator to the garage for power outages at home I am also going to remove 3 AGM betteries from the coach and replace them with Lifepo4 batteries. With this, the RV should lose 500lbs. I wish it was that easy for me. lol
What about using that storage bay to mount the external condenser unit for a mini-split A/C? There's a made-for RVs 24V DC mini-split coming out later this year from Hotspot Energy.
@@RVwithTito Thanks for the response; it's great you don't need A/C. Do you still have just 750W (550W roof)? That's enough to get rid of your generator? For me, A/C is a must, so I need more panels than you do, but I would love to get rid of the generator.
This got me thinking... I’ll have to take out our generator too now that we have solar panels and inverter. Reducing the weight of the RV is a big plus. Could you post a link to that fuel line valve you found? Thanks for all the great videos!
I just watched your install of a gas heater and had to watch this to find out about the removal of your generator. Mine is pretty new but I was wondering if you are in the shade I guess you might use solar with cord instead of your roof? And does the solar keep your house batteries fully charged? The dry air heater sounds good though with no propane.
We have a fair amount of solar which keeps us in good shape when traveling and boondocking. We haven't once needed the generator. Currently the RV is parked near our house. I can plug it in to shore power when needed. I've been running the heater 24/7 and just recharge my batteries every few weeks since sun is limited this time of year.
Your work is outstanding. I would have sealed the OSB. I noticed you did seal the seams, as I was ready to jump on that. Overall, a great job. Love the sticker.
As expensive as a class c is, I would have NEVER put OSB in it! Cough up some money and buy a sheet of marine grade plywood! That OSB will eventually rot under there, no matter how much thin flashing and caulk you use.
After going all-electric with solar & upgrading to a big battery bank, did the same thing to our propane - it’s long gone and good riddance. Heat comes from a diesel fired boiler-radiator system so winter & the shoulder seasons are easy. Would love to also ditch the 12KW geny but that’d mean no summertime off-grid for roughly 1/3 of the US. Yes can run one AC off solar but not all night. So then would be restricted to FHU’s 1/2 the year in FL, TX and AZ. No thanks! Glad it works for you though.
wow.. I don't think I would ever give up my generator to get a couple of cubic ft in space. pretty brave. Generators are pretty durable and dependable, batteries maybe early on, but as they go bad and they often do, that generator could be a lifesaver.. lol Nice video though.. keep up the good work.
Love my onan 6000 on the slide out tray.. Run it going down the road instead of my engine AC.. better cooling and better gas mileage... plus constant AC .. BUT I don't have a rooftop covered in solar..
Hey Brian. Nice work as always. I want to ditch the Onan too but I want to replace it with a Champion 3500 with remote start. I was thinking of mounting it on my bumper but it would be cool if I could put it in the Onan bay. Any thoughts on that?
That's what I'm doing with that generator but be aware that the Manufacturer insists upon several feet of space on all sides of the generator which technically means it can't be operated within the confines of a small compartment. I'm working around that by installing 2 fans...one bringing air into the compartment and one removing air because I assume the Mfgr. requirement regarding space relates to heat and/or combustion air. I plan to only use propane although I'm leaving the original gasoline line installed for a backup but not hooking it up unless needed.
Nice work! Really makes me consider if a generator is necessary! I have been proud that the original 1972 Dometic 3Kw beast is working well in “Flatnose Frank”, my totally renovated RevCon 250, but I’m now considering is just a noisy, heavy, space-robbing boat anchor!
What a beast of a generator. Great job as always removing the generator and building the storage compartment. Nice job. Happy Holidays to you and family!!!
Excellent video! How long did it take you to remove? I came out this morning and discovered that someone tampered with my generator;The generator‘s door was removed. It still works but I am concerned that someone is interested in stealing it. Do you have any recommendations?
Thank you for the video. I did not buy a motorhome yet, but think to remove generator too if I do. For 7 yearsI have a small trailer with full roof solar panels, lithium batteries, very rare stay with shore power and never use AC. I have replaced AC by Maxxfan, because I cannot run AC from batteries long enough. How to live on without AC? Simple, If forecast is hot - go to north or/and mountains. It is easy in Alberta
Thank you for great video, I need to do the same for a friend, engine is shot. We will put lifepo4 batteries and 2000 watt inverter in place of Gen set. 2000 watts solar and new 12v compressor refrigerator.
@@RVwithTito your video was helpful preparing me to help a friend. We dropped the genset then boxed the compartment for a 2000 watt renogy inverter charger, added 2 chin 100 ah lifepo4 barrweys. One more where the original house battery went. Added 200 watts of solar with a renogy charge controller. Then replace the propane fridge with a new 12 dc compressor fridge.
We thought of removing and using an inverter generator which was smaller for when we boondock but not sure if that's gonna work. any thoughts on that as we don't have any solar yet
![일상 속 기분 좋음 [Proto disco meme]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/DwmEIaZ7XGQ/mqdefault.jpg)
wow. that was exactly what I was looking for. You gave the courage to pull my onan 4000 out and put a battery bank there.
Brian - thanks for the video! It definitely made the task much easier especially seeing how you removed the two screws on the lower left to gain access to the wiring inside the generator. I started with the exhaust pipe as you did - getting that out of the makes moving around underneath a lot easier. I also put some penetrating oil on all the bolts before getting started since this is a 2009 model. From there I attacked the fuel supply (propane in this case) which was a bear to get apart. With the gas line capped it was no stopping - killed all the power and got the DC in, AC out and control wire harness all disconnected. I covered up and stowed all those connections. Oh, I'm converting the propane hose to a quick connect for the grill! I'm going to have a local metal shop help drop the generator out and fabricate a battery box as I didn't have the means. Thanks again for the inspiration!
Nice work. Glad to heat that the video was helpful for you. 👍
Nice job bt what about the main source for the AC Unit ?
Love that sticker, so fitting.
Thank you very much for taking the time to post this video. Just recently I finally managed to get my very first Motorhome. It is a 2000 Winnebago with only 46k on it. It is in GREAT shape but unfortunately the original Onan generator only runs when pressing “START”. As soon as I let go of “START” the generator shuts off. I am currently diagnosing this issue when not working and funds permit. It is nice to know that just getting rid of my original Onan MAY be an option. I was thinking of just purchasing a brand new generator with wheels and putting that outside when I want to run my AC??? Anyway, thank you very much Brian for for this video. 😀
You could probably store the new generator in the space you removed the old one...if you went that route. Good luck!
I usually click the thumbs up BEFORE I watch your videos so I won't forget. You never cease to entertain me, enlighten me, and never bore me so basically I know before I watch you've earned a thumbs up from me! Thanks for the tons of useful information and all your hard work.
Thanks Paul. That means a lot. I'll keep it rolling 👍😊
great job and the decal was the icing on the cake , really a great job done RIGHT
Glad you enjoyed that :)
I'll tell ya this; your one hell of a craftsman!
I wanted too know how to remove my 6500-111 boat anchor onan from this 4 mpg @ average 2023 per gal $4-$6.57 a gal Holiday Rambler I paid to much for just to park.
Enjoyed your talents though!
I really enjoyed watching you do this conversion. I removed the Onan from our 1990 Class A but I had to construct a ramp and use a come-along because the floor of the compartment was welded into place. I replaced the Onan with a lighter weight dual-fuel generator that weighs not even a quarter of the Onan. I did that because I didn't like the idea of a gasoline engine in a compartment springing a leak and causing a fire. Secondly, the weight was ridiculous. Thirdly, we don't need the amount of juice the Onan put out. I'm going to eventually make the Onan our Hurricane Black-out generator for our home here in Southeastern Louisiana.
Glad you enjoyed the video. I'm still not sure what I'll do with the genset. I already have a 75KW dual fuel for the house.
@@RVwithTito I hope you meant 7.5 kW because a 75 kW generator could run our whole neighborhood.
@@nathanwilson6670 Yeah that would be something :) 7,500 Watt for sure.
@fladave99 Mills it would be a one-time use anchor!
Good idea moving the inverter there and utilizing the wiring. Nice job as always.
Thanks. It worked out great.
You always amaze me with what you fabricate.
You answer all of my questions before I even know I have them. 🤘
Your skills amaze me Brian. You do great work. I don't think I I could ever ditch my generator, but like you said you aren't really using it. Thanks again for your videos.
Just sharing my situation and ideas. I'm certainly not encouraging folks to toss the generator. Thanks.
@@RVwithTito Hey Brian I didn't mean to imply that at all. I really enjoy your videos.
Nice project and very professional workmanship.
Glad you liked it 👍
Another great job, very clean and functional. You do GOOD work.
Yes. Very functional. Thanks!!
I appreciate you getting back with me. I was curious; by any chance did You decide to reconnect the grounding wire?
That's NIIIICE!!! I have my generator out already. I was looking up what to do with the fuel line. The rubber to the fuel line is dry rotted. I just want to plug it up somehow and build storage like you did.
Just cut the fuel line back behind the dry rot and add a shutoff valve. I reused mine for my gasoline heater. Check it out: th-cam.com/video/CGalqQvmYx8/w-d-xo.html
Thanks Brian. New subscriber. I was looking for a video to help me drop my generator for service. This was great. You also taught me how to deal with another issue I have and that was a rusted out compartment. I loved how you handled the construction of your new one. Thanks so much.
You're very welcome. Glad it helped
great job thanks for the making the effort to show how it was done
No problem 👍
I am very thankful for this video as I am actually planning on removing my generator and using that area for my solar system in my RV.
Glad it was helpful. Good luck with your project!
Brilliant! What a great idea and done very cleverly -- as usual!
Thanks!
Brian I was under my new/used RV just looking under gen and found another ground cable not connected. The gen starts and runs fine can't find anything about two ground cables on the internet how many did you have. My gen is the same as yours. Thank you for your time.
Dec 2020: Thinking of doing this, but I might go with treated plywood instead of OSB. Great video. Thanks.
Hey Tito I liked your video. What I was really hoping for was I have a 99 Winnebago adventure and I also removed my generator because it never worked and I'm having it worked on. So that being said what wires do I need to connect to where I can still plug into shoreline and still have power to my motorhome? Because now that the generator is out can I plug in shoreline I get absolutely nothing
Good idea but for myself I would rather have the generator. Do you know you can cut aluminim with a power miterbox with a carbide blade and get exact cuts.
Yes. I do this most of the time for cross cuts. For small end cuts though it can be messy and dangerous. Those small pieces go flying.
Great work. I'm in the middle changing my geni on a A class. intresting to just change the use of the areas under the rig.
It's an option, if you don't use the gen and need more space.
I’m wanting to do this soon but was wondering if I could replace it with a portable generator? Hook up Fuel line & everything to that new generator
The generator on our Class C hasn't worked since we bought it, and we knew that when we bought it. The folks we bought it from never used it because they always stayed in places with full hookups, so I guess the gas went back in it. We are finding that we usually stay in places with full hookups too so we never bothered getting it fixed. I don't know how much it would cost to get one of those Onan generators repaired or replaced, but I'm wondered if we wouldn't be better off just getting a portable generator, but so far we've never needed our generator. But I do like the idea of just getting rid of the generator and using the freed up space for extra storage since that's one area that our rig is really short on. Great video as always Brian! Hope you guys have a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year!
Got ya thinking. Eh? 🤔
Did you sell the Onan? If so, what is it worth? I'm about to do the same hack on my '78 GMC Royale, which REALLY could use the extra storage space.
NICE JOB, I WAS WAITING FOR THE HELI-ARC WELDER TO COME OUT!!!!!!! THAT ONAN 4000 WATT WILL BRING A NICE PENNY, AT 1 TIME I HAD 16 OF THEM RUNNING PORTABLE WELDERS, ALL LINCOLNS, BUT AS TIME CHANGED, WENT WITH THE 23 HP KOHLER'S, SAME DEPENDABILITY, KEEP UP THE MAINTENANCE, AND I CAN SAY THOSE ONANS WILL RUN FOREVER!,,NICE WORKMANSHIP, GLAD TO SEE SOME CRAFTSMAN STILL LEFT! JACK
??????
Love it, i have the same thought as have not used mine for over 2 yrs and keep paying for services plus run it using gas to keep it running. I use solar also. Like the compartment. LIke yours I have almost no outside storage. My only question is what did you do to secure the gas line. That's my biggest concern as don't want it to get snagged while boondocking
I put a valve on the end and zip tied it to the frame. In the future it could be used to fuel a portable generator or something.
Awesome work! You are very handy! Thanks for all the play by play steps.
You're welcome.
I can't remove mine because I'm full time RVing and on several cloudy days I need to run generator to run things and charge my battery bank even with 2,060 watts of solar in 24 volt. Nice job sir and a new basement bin.
Thanks. I'm looking forward to cruising down the road a bit lighter.
Nice job, Brian. Thanks for showing us how easily we can eliminate those old Onans and put inverters and lithium batteries there, vented underneath like you did.
Nice job on that storage cabinet, you really have a way with woodworking. I guess since you live in the pacific northwest, needing the air conditioning between hookups is probably not necessary. Here in the southeast it's a requirement for travel in the summer months.
What you say is true. We like the southwest, but not during summer ☉
I understand why , But I was in the boonies and had a battery inverter failure along with that my Alternator on the RV died I know the chances are remote but boom ,, so i ran the diesel onan qd5500 and a 40 amp battery charger and drove back to town ,,,, with out the Genset I would have been stuffed ,,, Great work Brian man you doo very nice work ,,,,
Thanks. Unfortunate that the alternator died too. I do keep a spare 1K pure sine inverter stored in the RV just in case. Many years ago I had an inverter go out while boondocking. You just can't go out and buy a 2K or 1K pure sine inverter at Walmart.
RV with Tito DIY: If I had a another of each of the stuff that could fail on a RV I would need a additional trailer to carry it all. Great idea on the generator. Now I wish I had a on board one just so I could take it out. Good job cheers.
Brian, great idea and excellent work. If I may add my thoughts, Home Depot sells pressure treated plywood that will extend the life of your storage compartment. Thanks
Thanks. Yes I know. I have a little bit of that marine grade stuff around. I had more of the OSB left over though. The sheet metal keeps it all sealed up pretty well.
I just bought a 2017 voltage 4115 toyhauler. It has a 5500 Onan generator, factory unit. This is my first time having a RV. Having a generator that only runs some items is disappointing as running your car but you can't have the radio and wipers on at the same time, the lights but no radio. How is it possible to run everything while boondocking?
OK, so, I have too ask? What are you using to replace that Onan generator? The internet rumor is that you are using a stationary bike with a small drag generator installed at the brake caliper that you ride for 7 straight hours in the beating sun to charge your batteries (in addition to few solar awnings suction cupped to your RV's windows!). Is that how you maintain your rugged AZ tan and youthful countenance? Personally, I think that you installed a 'crapton' (Engineering term-look it up!) of BattleBorn batteries and that's how you avoid the mellifluous tones and vibration created by your 'onboard' Onan.
Hi Brian, what are you going to do if you have to stay in area that's hot and you need AC all night long? Will your BBs handle all night with the AC on?
In the video Brian mentions they do not need the generator. Rather than be wary of the future, why not rely on the past...
No we won't run our A/C on batteries. If it's that hot, we won't be dry camping there. We'd be on hookups.
@@RVwithTito , I figured that. One time, while on our way to Yellowstone in August we had to stop at Walmart in Cedar City. We had to keep our gen. run all night due to the heat. I hope all works out well for you. I am on the verge of buying those Lithium Batteries for $315.00 ea for 12v 100amp with BMS.
What wires must I hook back up after removing generator. I will be using a portable generator from now on. Great video.
You'll have a positive and negative DC cable that goes to your house battery (that'll be a hot one), your AC output that goes to your transfer switch, and a remote start cable that you could probably zip tie and stash underneath. Finally you'll have a fuel line that you'll need to plug.
@@RVwithTito Thanks for the quick reply.
I have been contemplating removing mine also. I am thinking about putting a rollout drawer for a lifepo4 battery bank!
Fabulous n informative as usual. Thanks again. Have a blessed holiday season
Happy holidays!
I did this 5 years ago and built a battery box from the old genset frame to hold two 6 volt deep cycle batteries. Also replaced the house batteries with 2 more 6 volt deep cycles. Could have used the 12 volt cable to the genset to connect them but instead put a 2000 watt low frequency inverter under the dinette seat and connected everything with 2/0 welding cable, marine grade bus bars, fuses, and battery switches. I almost always boondock, and I can get through even a cold night with the furnace cycling on battery and still turn the inverter on for coffee in the morning. If I do need to charge, I've got a 2k inverter genset for that. Mostly on 1 or 2 night trips in summer or if I'm driving between campsites, I don't need to charge. Also installed 250watts of solar on the roof. I just thought it was really annoying to have to start up that Onan genset to make a pot of coffee.
Agreed. With solar and a decent inverter, you can surely get away with a small generator for backup charging. If you get one that will power your A/C then that's even better.
Big job, but I appreciate the detail of your video. And being able to consolidate some of your electrical is great. A thumbs up.
Thanks! I'm excited actually to finally get this project done.
The questions I have relate to what would be the best option for utilizing the lines in and out of the generator once you have removed it? I am in the process of completely converting my class A to solar and hybrid off-grid and I'm doing it a little differently. Like you, I purchased my panels from Santan Solar and will be picking them up in Savanah in another week, but I'm working on essentially setting up 3 powerstation, or power supply sources, let's say, the first being my new Pacron E3000, with 4 x 250w panels charging it full time, then the other two panels charging a 24v bank, while leaving the 12v house system alone and laying the alternator take care of those. I want the 12v to run only the low wattage lights and the pumps, and occasionally run a 2000w PSW inverter, use the 24v to run an aftermarket 24v "trucker" ac mod, and the Pecron, basically in place of two 100amp mppt controllers, and a 2000w PSW inverter (all of which are inside the Pecron), and a 3140wh lithium bank (also built in), to run the high loads, And run my bedroom ac all night. Back to the question: I removed the rooftop ac and the Onan 4000 this week. I installed a low profile plexiglass skylite to fill the hole and allow solar panels to install over it, and I do have a small hybrid generator coming which I plan to use to charge things up in times of sparse sun. What would you suggest I do with the generator compartment considering the components mentioned, that might make use of the wiring in the generator compartment. I suppose I could rig up the start wires to the new generator and maybe even connect the fuel line as a fuel source when needed, so that would be the place for that, but that would still leave a lot of room there, with wires leading out to the breaker box and a transfer switch. I'm wondering about sending power from there, like you said you would hook up your inverter there, which you did. How did you exactly do that? All that typing comes down to that I suppose, because I'm assuming that would be the most logical use of them, but I'm also thinking about how best to use the Pecron in that mix, inserted of just plugging the shore power line into it, which automatically sends 350w to the fridge and charges the house 12v, I want to put it on its own, powering only the 110v outlets or anything I connect directly to it. Can I put a busbar there and connect in a way that powers the outlets and nothing else, or should I just run a new line from the 110 braker box and get rid of the 3 wire house the Onan used to send through? Insights?
9:00 what was the purpose of the grinding ? to remove rust? and was that some type of anti rust your sprayed there also?
Yup. Just removing some rust and spraying it with Rustoleum.
I'm so frustrated with my onan 2800 microlite generator and have considered removing it. I honestly would not attempt this by myself. I do have a question about the gas line that you tapped off. It looks like you put something on it so you could access that fuel line if needed. Why did you tap it off in that way? What could that fuel line be used for and do you have access to it now?
I'm in the process of installing a high efficiency gas heater that needs fuel from the gas tank. I'll be using that generator fuel line for it. You could also use it to feed a portable generator if you had one.
Good idea. I was thinking maybe I could do the same and add more batteries. Great video. I like the sticker
Haven't missed it at all.
Hey how long did it take. Thanks. What about the timer that’s in the front of the cab on the dashboard
You're so thorough, great workmanship.
Thank you you answered my question which was.....do you need a generator with solar, inverter and lithium batteries. Love your vid's
Merry Christmas Brian, God bless your family this Holiday season. 🎄
Thank you Brian, great job on that project.
Thanks. I'm glad it's done....moving on to the next one :)
You definitely got skills Bro !
Through trial and error :)
Buying 2004 airstream van soon. Thinking about taking out the Gen. And installing a battery bank instead. Hmmm...
Hmmm 😉
Great video. I'm thinking about remodleing my RV with removing the couch kile you did. Also the table. What are you going to do with the generator?
Just storing the generator for now.
Another "overengineered" addition. LOVE IT. Too many hacks on TH-cam just doing enough to get by. Questions .. Why did you drain the oil? Wouldn't you want to preserve the unit for sale? Should have fogged the unit before removing. I hope you capped the gas line and not just added the shut-off, accidents happen. Unit should bring some good money to pay for the electric conversion. NIce job and great video. Thanks.
Frank, this was no hack. It is more along the lines of re-engineering. Somewhere on this puppy is a case vent and raining the oil is to keep from making a mess when tipping. Fogging is a quaint idea yet is really not needed in most cases, especially if you might be selling it in the next year or two. Also, when you are racing darkness to get something done, you cap a gas line with whatever you have lying around. A barbed shut off valve is perfect.
I thought of adding a fuel hose to the other end of the valve then cap it. Instead I taped up the fuel line valve just in case. I don't know how long I'll store the generator, so I drained the oil to keep it from settling in there.
I love your idea best. I really want to do this now
I certainly didn't need that big generator anymore, but having a smaller one as a backup will come in handy.
@@RVwithTito absolutely. It makes perfect sense. It sounds and looks to me like you're doing no big need for them
Nice craftsmanship 👍
Beautiful work, Brian; thanks for sharing! Y'all Be Safe!
Will do. Thanks!
Hey Tito, when you removed the generator did it trigger any alarms: horn honking and lights flashing? I removed my onan off a 2006 gulf stream and it my horn is honking. Just curious if you had the any issues? TIA
Definitely no honking when I removed mine. Do you have an alarm or something?
@@RVwithTito yes it does. i had to disconnect from the control panel. It has been working now. Thanks for your reply.
Do u have a link to the stuff u used to replace your generator to have constant power
Great work and video as always even if it was done many years ago.😅
What did you do with the ac and dc plugs after disconnecting them from the generator?
I'm with you. Been contemplating the same with my 05 1150 fox for years... nothing but problems at 7k+ elevation cold weather and 7 gallon bottles. Oh yea it rattles your entire being of existence when it's running too. That' alone is enough to remove this mad max weighted industrial revolution era monstrosity.
That RV could have easily gotten by with a small generator.
I'm surprised you didn't mention it (but can see that you used it... so), what kind of penetrating oil did you use and how long did you have to let it set? But thanks for the great informative video! I've been trying to become an RV'r for decades, and am hopeful of becoming one soon. It's just has been hard for me to do so alone (...especially since that part was never part of the dreams). Should you choose to do so, I'd also love to see your view and/or results concerning connecting your transfer switch to your inverter. Again, great video! Far better than the time-wasting crap 98% of these youngsters post.
Btw... I do like your wise choice not to clutter/slow-the-flow of your video with such info. So maybe supplemental text notes (I did look :) for such stuff would be a nice addition! Or not. Just a thought.
Thanks for the feedback. Btw I used wd40 rust penetrating spray the day before and let sink in.
Very nice job. One question, how about ventalation for the electronics?
Thanks. Yes. There are vents on either side plus a programmable temperature controlled fan on the right side vent to pull air through.
@RVwithTito Is the box vented to the outside? I didn't notice. If the air just blows around inside the compartment, it will be had on the inverter
@RVwithTito I'm gonna pull mine out and use it for home power backup. I hope it comes out as easy as yours. I looked at it once and it looked built in before the coach was dropped on the chassis.
@@RVwithTito As well as moving the generator to the garage for power outages at home I am also going to remove 3 AGM betteries from the coach and replace them with Lifepo4 batteries. With this, the RV should lose 500lbs. I wish it was that easy for me. lol
What about using that storage bay to mount the external condenser unit for a mini-split A/C? There's a made-for RVs 24V DC mini-split coming out later this year from Hotspot Energy.
Yeah that would work if I was installing a mini split. I don't use A/C much though.
@@RVwithTito Thanks for the response; it's great you don't need A/C. Do you still have just 750W (550W roof)? That's enough to get rid of your generator? For me, A/C is a must, so I need more panels than you do, but I would love to get rid of the generator.
This got me thinking... I’ll have to take out our generator too now that we have solar panels and inverter. Reducing the weight of the RV is a big plus. Could you post a link to that fuel line valve you found? Thanks for all the great videos!
Omg finally someone with common sense!
I just watched your install of a gas heater and had to watch this to find out about the removal of your generator. Mine is pretty new but I was wondering if you are in the shade I guess you might use solar with cord instead of your roof? And does the solar keep your house batteries fully charged? The dry air heater sounds good though with no propane.
We have a fair amount of solar which keeps us in good shape when traveling and boondocking. We haven't once needed the generator. Currently the RV is parked near our house. I can plug it in to shore power when needed. I've been running the heater 24/7 and just recharge my batteries every few weeks since sun is limited this time of year.
Good video. I had to drop my 5500 this summer to replace the exhaust. Getting back in was a real bear. Hopefully never again.
Another great job. We use our Generator as we have no solar power.
So if your out in the hot sun in Florida and it's 95 out how are you going to run the AC long term?
Your work is outstanding. I would have sealed the OSB. I noticed you did seal the seams, as I was ready to jump on that. Overall, a great job. Love the sticker.
As expensive as a class c is, I would have NEVER put OSB in it! Cough up some money and buy a sheet of marine grade plywood! That OSB will eventually rot under there, no matter how much thin flashing and caulk you use.
Great Brian, now what do you do with the generator?
Nicely done sir
Thanks! 👍
After going all-electric with solar & upgrading to a big battery bank, did the same thing to our propane - it’s long gone and good riddance. Heat comes from a diesel fired boiler-radiator system so winter & the shoulder seasons are easy. Would love to also ditch the 12KW geny but that’d mean no summertime off-grid for roughly 1/3 of the US. Yes can run one AC off solar but not all night. So then would be restricted to FHU’s 1/2 the year in FL, TX and AZ. No thanks! Glad it works for you though.
That's extreme and bold!
What are the 2 open/close valves on the outside door? Thank you for your time
Those are latches that secure the door.
wow.. I don't think I would ever give up my generator to get a couple of cubic ft in space. pretty brave. Generators are pretty durable and dependable, batteries maybe early on, but as they go bad and they often do, that generator could be a lifesaver.. lol Nice video though.. keep up the good work.
If I had to, there are smaller, quieter and more efficient ones out now anyway.
Well done. Certainly was a lot of work. Did you sell the generator? I just wonder if this would impact your potential RV resale??
I still have it and I'm not concerned about resale.
Love my onan 6000 on the slide out tray.. Run it going down the road instead of my engine AC.. better cooling and better gas mileage... plus constant AC .. BUT I don't have a rooftop covered in solar..
On your back, looking up to remove rusted components. You might consider wearing eye protection. Thanks for the videos!
Hey Brian. Nice work as always. I want to ditch the Onan too but I want to replace it with a Champion 3500 with remote start. I was thinking of mounting it on my bumper but it would be cool if I could put it in the Onan bay. Any thoughts on that?
That's what I'm doing with that generator but be aware that the Manufacturer insists upon several feet of space on all sides of the generator which technically means it can't be operated within the confines of a small compartment. I'm working around that by installing 2 fans...one bringing air into the compartment and one removing air because I assume the Mfgr. requirement regarding space relates to heat and/or combustion air. I plan to only use propane although I'm leaving the original gasoline line installed for a backup but not hooking it up unless needed.
Nice work! Really makes me consider if a generator is necessary! I have been proud that the original 1972 Dometic 3Kw beast is working well in “Flatnose Frank”, my totally renovated RevCon 250, but I’m now considering is just a noisy, heavy, space-robbing boat anchor!
I've been asking myself that for the last several years :) Thanks!
Do you have anything on replacing the 12V lights with other 12V fixtures ?
Love this video, like all your others...but that sticker! Man, that is so cool!
Glad you like it.
What a beast of a generator. Great job as always removing the generator and building the storage compartment. Nice job. Happy Holidays to you and family!!!
Happy Holiday to you as well!
Excellent video! How long did it take you to remove? I came out this morning and discovered that someone tampered with my generator;The generator‘s door was removed. It still works but I am concerned that someone is interested in stealing it. Do you have any recommendations?
There are several things to disconnect before removing the primary mounting bolts. Not an easy grab and run job.
: You do excellent work. Thank you for the video.
You're welcome!!
Thank you for the video. I did not buy a motorhome yet, but think to remove generator too if I do. For 7 yearsI have a small trailer with full roof solar panels, lithium batteries, very rare stay with shore power and never use AC. I have replaced AC by Maxxfan, because I cannot run AC from batteries long enough. How to live on without AC? Simple, If forecast is hot - go to north or/and mountains. It is easy in Alberta
That's the nice part of RVing. If you don't like where you are...move on.
That's a nice job!
Thanks!
Thank you for great video, I need to do the same for a friend, engine is shot. We will put lifepo4 batteries and 2000 watt inverter in place of Gen set. 2000 watts solar and new 12v compressor refrigerator.
There you go! Good luck with the project. I still need to get rid of the generator. On my to-do list.
@@RVwithTito your video was helpful preparing me to help a friend. We dropped the genset then boxed the compartment for a 2000 watt renogy inverter charger, added 2 chin 100 ah lifepo4 barrweys. One more where the original house battery went. Added 200 watts of solar with a renogy charge controller. Then replace the propane fridge with a new 12 dc compressor fridge.
Solar panels and efficient little inverter generators have changed the way we boondock. It's all good and much quieter
I'm sensing a shift. 👍🌞
What size shut off valve di you use for gas line? Did you.pick it up at auto zone or car shop?
Can't remember the size. I think it was from an auto parts store.
We thought of removing and using an inverter generator which was smaller for when we boondock but not sure if that's gonna work. any thoughts on that as we don't have any solar yet
The only downside I see is keeping cans of gas handy for your small generator.
Nice work Brian!!!
Hey. Thanks!
Hey Brian, Are you satisfied now that removed your the Generator at this point?