Generac Power Systems 004700-00 User Manual

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The most desirable location for the generator set is 
between the vehicle's main frame members. However, 
this is seldom possible. Most units must be installed 
on the side of the vehicle and are difficult to rein-
force.

Many recreational vehicles have been factory equipped 
with an area for the generator set. Some vehicles may 
even have a generator compartment provided by the 
vehicle manufacturer.

Plan the generator location based on the following:

• The generator set must be installed on a frame-

work that is part of the recreational vehicle, as 
outlined in Section 2.1.2.

• The location must provide an access opening 

that is large enough to permit generator removal 
(unless the generator is to be removed from under-
neath the supporting framework).

•  The location must provide easy access to frequent-

ly serviced components, such as filters, oil drains, 
spark plugs and other common maintenance 
parts.

•  The location must provide sufficient room to allow 

minimum clearances as outlined in Section 2.2. If 
sound insulation is to be used on the compartment 
walls and ceiling, the minimum recommended 
applies to the space between the generator and 
such insulation.

• The location must provide adequate cooling and 

ventilating airflow for the generator without a great 
deal of work and expense.

•  If mounting the generator in an enclosed compart-

ment, the base of the generator must rest flat on 
the floor without any gaps.

•  When using a suspended mounting system, ensure 

the base of the generator is flush with the sur-
rounding bodywork. If the unit is mounted higher 
in the structure, heated air may recirculate into the 
generator causing it to overheat.

The generator must be securely attached to a metal 
framework that has been made part of the vehicle 
frame structure by bolting or welding. The metal 
framework on which the generator will rest and 
which will restrain the generator set should consist 
of at least two horizontal beams. These beams should 
consist of (a) 1-1/2-inch square, 11-gauge steel tub-
ing OR (b) 1-1/2-inch, 11-gauge angle iron. A typical 
supporting frame with horizontal support tubing, is 
shown in Figure 2.1.

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The generator can be installed so that it sits on top 
of the horizontal support tubing if the vehicle design 
permits. Another method is to suspend the genera-
tor below the horizontal support tubing by means of 
suitable, structurally sound metal framework. The 
following general rules apply:

•  Vehicle construction MUST be capable of support-

ing the weight of the generator.

•  Whether the generator is mounted above the hori-

zontal support tubing or suspended below the tub-
ing, the supporting frame used must be structur-
ally sound.

• If the generator cannot be bolted directly to the 

supporting frame or support tubing, consider 
using additional tubing, angle brackets or other 
supports to give the supporting frame sufficient 
strength.

If the generator will be suspended below the hori-
zontal support tubing, the suspension method used 
with the vehicle frame members must (a) be able to 
support the weight of the generator AND (b) provide 
sufficient restraint for the generator. One typical sus-
pended mounting system is shown in Figure 2.2. The 
location of a suspended mounting system must be 
carefully planned, keeping the following general rules 
in mind:

• Protect the generator against road splash and 

debris. Baffles or splash guards may be required to 
protect certain areas of the generator. To make sure 
the generator is adequately protected, road test the 
installation through mud, water and slush.

GENERATOR 
SUPPORT FRAME
(MODEL 004718-0)

GENERATOR MOUNTING
HOLES FOR 5/16" - 18
BOLTS (6 PLACES)

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