Generator Clacking
My Onan 4kw generator has been making a clack, clack, clack noise since I purchased my motorhome in Jan, 2011. I didn't realize what a problem this was until the generator started cutting off after a...
Forum Discussion
Putting a vent on the outside will not allow air to flow into the compartment. Air pressure flowing along the side of the MH will suck the air back out. (Tried that)
I added a side scoop to my door with an inside piece that acts as a ram to force cool air into the generator. The outside piece is only 4” wide by 1.75” high. The inside piece was made with sheet metal and curved to add strength. I cut “teeth” that pass thru the vent holes on the intake cover. This holds it in place. By doing this, it allows air to enter the compartment at speeds under 25 MPH as designed. But once I get over 25 MPH which is when hot air was sucked into my generator, the ram forces air into the intake. But in addition it creates high pressure that makes an air dam against hot air entering from the engine bay. The bottom of the ram has a slight bend to it, this forces rain water to be shed before the intake.
My generator has not shut off since. Made trips from Alabama to Hilton Head and to Orlando without issue since.
I added a side scoop to my door with an inside piece that acts as a ram to force cool air into the generator. The outside piece is only 4” wide by 1.75” high. The inside piece was made with sheet metal and curved to add strength. I cut “teeth” that pass thru the vent holes on the intake cover. This holds it in place. By doing this, it allows air to enter the compartment at speeds under 25 MPH as designed. But once I get over 25 MPH which is when hot air was sucked into my generator, the ram forces air into the intake. But in addition it creates high pressure that makes an air dam against hot air entering from the engine bay. The bottom of the ram has a slight bend to it, this forces rain water to be shed before the intake.
My generator has not shut off since. Made trips from Alabama to Hilton Head and to Orlando without issue since.
