Carrying a generator on your travel trailer expands your camping horizons, granting access to power for appliances, electronics, and comfort when shore power is unavailable. However, improper transport can lead to damage, safety hazards, and even legal issues. This article outlines the best practices for safely and legally carrying a generator, ensuring you can enjoy the benefits of portable power without the risks.
Understanding Your Options for Generator Transport
The method you choose to carry your generator depends on factors like your trailer’s design, weight limits, generator size, and personal preferences. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but understanding the available options is crucial for making an informed decision. Each method has its pros and cons, so careful evaluation is necessary.
Rear Bumper Mounting: Tread Carefully
One of the most common, yet potentially problematic, approaches is mounting the generator directly to the travel trailer’s rear bumper. Factory-installed bumpers are often not designed to withstand the added weight and vibrations of a generator. This can lead to bumper failure, frame damage, and even separation of the generator during transit.
If you choose this route, reinforce the bumper extensively with a heavy-duty aftermarket bumper support kit. Ensure the kit is professionally installed and rated to handle the combined weight of the generator, mounting hardware, and any accessories. Regularly inspect the welds and connections for signs of stress or fatigue. Remember, a failing bumper isn’t just a generator issue; it’s a significant safety hazard for you and other drivers.
Tongue-Mounted Cargo Carriers: Front-End Advantage
A better option for many is a tongue-mounted cargo carrier. These carriers attach to the A-frame of your travel trailer’s tongue, providing a more stable and secure platform. They distribute the weight more evenly and reduce the stress on the rear of the trailer.
Before installing a tongue-mounted carrier, carefully calculate your tongue weight. Adding a generator to the tongue can significantly increase tongue weight, potentially exceeding the trailer’s and tow vehicle’s capacity. Overloading the tongue can negatively impact handling, stability, and braking performance. Consider using a weight distribution hitch to help manage tongue weight and improve towing characteristics. Also, be mindful of the reduced turning radius and potential for clearance issues when maneuvering in tight spaces.
Inside the Travel Trailer: A Less Desirable Option
While tempting, carrying a generator inside the travel trailer presents several challenges. Gasoline fumes are highly flammable and can pose a serious fire and health risk. Even if the generator is turned off and the fuel tank is supposedly empty, residual fumes can accumulate, creating a dangerous environment.
Furthermore, the generator’s weight can contribute to an uneven weight distribution within the trailer, affecting handling. If you must transport a generator inside, completely drain the fuel tank and store it in a separate, sealed container outside the trailer. Ensure the generator is securely strapped down to prevent movement during transit and that the trailer is well-ventilated. This option is generally discouraged unless absolutely necessary due to its inherent risks.
In the Tow Vehicle: A Viable Alternative
Depending on the size and capacity of your tow vehicle, carrying the generator in the bed of a truck or inside an SUV might be the safest and most practical option. This keeps the weight off the travel trailer frame and reduces the risk of damage during transport.
As with carrying it inside the trailer, ensure the generator’s fuel tank is completely drained and stored separately. Secure the generator firmly to prevent it from shifting during braking or turns. Consider using tie-down straps, ratchet straps, or a cargo net to keep it in place. Pay attention to the vehicle’s weight capacity and ensure you are not exceeding the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Essential Safety Considerations
Regardless of the chosen method, prioritize safety. A seemingly minor oversight can have severe consequences.
- Weight Distribution: Accurate weight distribution is paramount. Overloading any part of the trailer or tow vehicle can compromise handling and safety. Use a scale to verify tongue weight and axle weights.
- Secure Mounting: Ensure the generator is securely mounted to the chosen platform. Use high-quality straps, brackets, and fasteners that are rated for the generator’s weight and the stresses of travel.
- Fuel Storage: As mentioned earlier, never transport a generator with a full fuel tank inside the trailer or tow vehicle. Drain the tank completely and store the fuel in approved containers outside the living space.
- Exhaust Fumes: Even after the generator is turned off, residual exhaust fumes can linger. Store the generator in a well-ventilated area away from living spaces.
- Regular Inspections: Before each trip, thoroughly inspect the mounting hardware, straps, and fuel lines. Address any signs of wear or damage immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions regarding carrying a generator on a travel trailer, addressing the most pressing concerns and providing practical guidance.
FAQ 1: What’s the legal aspect of carrying a generator?
Regulations vary by state and even by locality. Check with your state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) and any specific jurisdictions you’ll be traveling through regarding weight limits, securing cargo, and transporting hazardous materials (like gasoline). Some areas may have specific regulations regarding the transport of generators on recreational vehicles. Ignoring these regulations can result in fines and delays.
FAQ 2: What’s the ideal generator size for a travel trailer?
The ideal size depends on your power needs. Calculate the wattage requirements of all the appliances you plan to run simultaneously. A good rule of thumb is to choose a generator that can handle the starting wattage of your air conditioner, which is typically the highest draw appliance. Inverter generators are generally preferred for their quiet operation and clean power output, which is safer for sensitive electronics.
FAQ 3: How do I secure a generator to a bumper-mounted carrier?
Use heavy-duty ratchet straps designed for cargo tie-down, not bungee cords. The straps should be rated for well above the generator’s weight. Secure the generator at multiple points, using metal D-rings or anchor points on the carrier. Consider adding a locking cover or cable lock to deter theft.
FAQ 4: What are the risks of exceeding my travel trailer’s tongue weight?
Exceeding tongue weight can lead to swaying, reduced braking performance, and potential damage to the trailer frame and hitch. It makes the tow vehicle harder to control, especially in windy conditions or during emergency maneuvers.
FAQ 5: Can I use a weight distribution hitch to compensate for a heavy generator?
Yes, a weight distribution hitch can help distribute the weight more evenly across the axles of the tow vehicle and trailer, improving stability and handling. However, it doesn’t eliminate the need to stay within the specified weight limits.
FAQ 6: What are the best practices for storing gasoline safely during transport?
Use approved fuel containers made specifically for gasoline. Ensure the containers are tightly sealed and stored in a well-ventilated area away from the trailer and tow vehicle’s occupants. Never store fuel containers inside the living space of the trailer or vehicle.
FAQ 7: How can I reduce generator noise while camping?
Invest in a quiet inverter generator to start. You can also place the generator inside a commercially available sound dampening enclosure (ensure adequate ventilation to prevent overheating). Position the generator as far away from your campsite and neighboring sites as possible, directing the exhaust fumes away from people.
FAQ 8: Are there alternatives to carrying a gasoline-powered generator?
Yes. Solar power systems with battery storage are becoming increasingly popular. They offer a clean and quiet power source, though they require a significant initial investment. Propane-powered generators are another option, offering longer run times and easier fuel storage (propane tanks are often already part of a travel trailer setup).
FAQ 9: How often should I inspect my generator’s mounting and tie-down hardware?
Inspect the mounting hardware and tie-down straps before each trip and after any particularly bumpy roads. Look for signs of wear, fraying, corrosion, or loosening. Replace any damaged components immediately.
FAQ 10: What type of maintenance does a travel generator need?
Regular maintenance is crucial for reliable operation. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil changes, air filter cleaning, spark plug replacement, and fuel system maintenance. Store the generator properly when not in use, following the manufacturer’s guidelines to prevent fuel degradation and corrosion.
FAQ 11: Should I cover my generator during transport?
A cover can protect the generator from the elements, but ensure the cover is breathable to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid using covers that restrict airflow, as this can lead to overheating if the generator is accidentally started during transport.
FAQ 12: What if I damage my travel trailer carrying a generator?
Document the damage thoroughly with photos and videos. Contact your travel trailer insurance company and provide them with all the details of the incident. Depending on the circumstances, your insurance policy may cover the cost of repairs. If the damage was caused by improper installation or negligence, you may be held liable for the damages.
By carefully considering these factors and following these best practices, you can confidently and safely transport a generator on your travel trailer, expanding your camping possibilities and ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience.