Vented security box?

Vivid-Dawn · May 2, 2016

I'm going to have my propane tank(s) and generator on one of those trailer hitch cargo baskets. However, I don't want them left out in the open for people to steal. But I've heard that propane tanks aren't supposed to be kept enclosed, and a generator definitely has to be vented while running.
Is there any sort of metal box that I can put them in (or a cover over them) that is solid/opaque to hide them, yet still has a grill or holes or something to have ventilation?

highdesertranger · May 2, 2016

I would not run the generator in a box in the summer, unless there is a lot of ventilation. like expanded metal. I would want an expanded metal floor, the wall that the exhaust faces, and the wall opposite that. I would also make the lid/top at least 1 foot above the generator. then on a hot day I would check the temp around the genny. I would also like to have a solid wall between the genny and the propane bottle. this is what I would do at the very least, after the temp readings it might have to be modified. like a taller lid. highdesertranger

Gary68 · May 2, 2016

a box made from that aluminium diamond grate dillywad stuff

like this

and a couple good locks

johnny b · May 2, 2016

I wouldn't run a generator in a box either, nor would I want it running next to a propane tank in said box.
How big is the generator?
You can get an enclosed cargo box hitch carrier for security, and then just pull out the gen or tank for use.

Mattkcc · May 3, 2016

RV's run large generators in vented enclosed areas, don't know why a expanded metal box wouldn't work. You could also rig a 12v fan to assist in cooling. I would be wary of carrying propane on a trailer hitch basket due to the possibility of getting rear ended. I remember the old truck campers would mount propane on the back but high enough to avoid damage from being rear ended.

Gary68 · May 3, 2016

yes,expanded metal box,glad someone has a working brain around here

highdesertranger · May 3, 2016

RV generators are designed to work in a box with the ventilation all designed into the genny. a stand alone genny was never designed to run into a box. that box above^ is perfect just add a lid. highdesertranger.