What's your favorite generator and set-up

[CatCaretaker]

What is your favorite/quietest/most fuel efficient gas generator, and what is your go-to method for attaching it to your rig? Hitch tray, bumper mount, ? What is the best box to secure it in? I was looking at some metal ones online, a bit expensive but worth it if it can keep it secure. What has worked for you?

I don't see a way around one to power a/c or heat

 

[wagoneer]

They get heavy quick, what I do is not project into the future needs, realize your base needs, just the basics.1000 is a great starting point older Honda's Yamaha, heard some good things about Predator (harbor freight). less is more lighter is better. Others will chime in

 

[wagoneer]

When I arrive at my destination the first thing I unload is the stairs and the genny.

 

[jonsun]

I like plain old open frame $200 generators with a box around them, or wood panels recessed into the frame to quiet it down.

1. much bigger fuel tanks so you can run all night
2. not the end of the world if they're stolen, and not as much eye candy to potential thieves
3. if under load most or all of the time not any less efficient
4. have RPM adjustment for voltage drop

I have mine on a wood plank bolted to a hitch carrier. The generator is attached to 3/4" plywood with clamps then I have to threaded rods out to the side locked with a nut that is welded. So it's removable but hard and loud to do.

 

[Almost There]

I have a pair of Honda 1000s. I already owned one when I figured out I needed more power for the 55 amp battery charger that handles my larger battery bank. While I can lift a Honda 2000 off the ground, getting it up high enough to put in the back of the van isn't gonna happen so the 2 units with a parallel cord allow me to handle each one fairly easily.

When needed they sit on the ground with the parallel cord joining them and a heavy duty security cable padlocked to my trailer hitch if necessary. They do not get left laying out when I'm not there.

I had a Marinco Inlet Charger installed in the indent in the bumper which is wired to the circuit breaker box and then to the battery charger and a couple of 120V outlets in the living area of the van. I can use the inlet for either the generator or shore power.