Replacement Generator

[Gary Miller]

Hi Jeff,

I'm one who has, as you said, "made the move".

It's been a couple years since replacing my 7.5Kw Kohler gasoline
generator with a PowerTech 7.0Kw diesel, and I'm very satisfied with
the unit. While I haven't had to speak with the folks at PowerTech
much since the install, they were very helpful with my decision
process and any questions I came up with while doing the install.

It runs the Kubota 3-cyl D905. Some use the D1105. Both are very
resilient tractor engines nicely matched up for generator usage.

One of the best things about the newer generation of generators
available for RV's is the use of technology like 4 pole generators vs.
2 pole, allowing the rpm to drop to 1800 from 3600, DC modes which
allow the engine to run even quieter during times of low electrical
demand, and so on. Once these units are enclosed in a nice hush box,
the loudest portions are the cooling fans and exhaust. Some are using
airbags to mount them on which reduces vibrations, and even more
advancemants.

There's a lot to shop for out there, and it can get very pricey. I
used to consider about a grand a Kw installed. You can save money by
finding a demo or lightly used unit and installing it yourself.

Regarding power usage, I'm very happy with the 7.0Kw and will be
keeping a close eye on Mike H. and Jeff as they complete the
electrical changes and additions to Mike's coach. The only difference
between my 33' and your 35' is the middle A/C. I think the 12.5
Kohler is more than adequate for the Wanderlodge, and certainly leaves
room for a smaller capacity unit if the Perkins/Kohler needs to be
replaced. The SP's and newer FC's are running the 8.0 Onan without
any problems that I've heard of. Again, only one less A/C.

I remember standing over my old generator wondering if it was worth it
to pour money into it only to have a 20 year old unit with new parts,
so I know what you're going through. I came up with aobut 1500
dollars in parts I needed, and then would I be having fun on vacation
or fiddling with it? The main deciding factor was that I earn my
vacations and want to spend them worry free with my family. So I did
it. No regrets.

Good luck with your decision.

Gary Miller
83 FC 33
Wauwatosa, WI

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Jeff August"
wrote:
> Today while removing the Perkins motor to replace the seals on it we
> got to thinking, does it pay to even do the job on a generator with
> more than 5500 hours on it? We wonder if all we will be doing is
fixing
> this thing, and would the money be better spent in the purchase of a
> new Onan 8000 quiet deisel? Is this a good route to go and is a 8000
> big enough, its 240 pounds lighter than a 10,000 or a 12,500 watt
Onan.
> Will it fit in the tray and can it be wired into the coach as it
is?
> Looking for comments & suggestions by those who have made this move.
>
> Jeff & Michelle August
> 1980 FC35RB
> Plymouth, WI