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Btruck
Explorer
Dec 23, 2013

Honda Gas Generator to run in tool box: Good or bad idea



I was wondering if anybody had experience with putting gas generators into small boxes. I have a box truck conversion RV that has a tool box attached underneath the side. This box seems to work perfectly to house the generator and protect it from the elements while still keeping it out of the living area. It just barely fits inside.

Currently I take it out of the box to run it, but I was thinking that it would be more convenient to leave it in. Then I would wire it to the battery bank and it would always be ready to go.

One time I ran it inside the tool box for 10 minutes with the door open and I didn't have any problems. However, I've read that in the long run this may choke the intake opening with Carbon Monoxide and so I haven't done this since. The manual says to have at least 3 ft above the generator and to only run in a well ventilated area.

I was wondering if I drilled a few holes, installed a fan, and isolated the exhaust if I could then run it without problem inside the tool box all the time. I would probably put some one inch foam board around it to help with sound, but I realize that I would also need to have the proper fan and ventilation holes.

The generator I'm using is the Honda Companian EU2000i. Please refer to the picture link above. If anyone has experience and could tell me if this is A: doable or B: a bad idea; I would appreciate it. Thanks
  • I would say is fine if you put a side drawer to service it. I would get some 4" round soffit vents and a hole saw to cut the openings and call it good.
  • Just my thoughts,,,,,, I would try to build a sliding tray so you could pull the generator out of the box. You could still leave it connected and not have to worry about any fumes or carbon monoxide getting into your unit. I personally, would not run the genny in the box.
  • air IN for cooling the gas engine.. lots needed. even a fan to blow on gen.

    AND

    exhaust.. an added longer exhaust pipes... to prevent wind blowing exhaust into camper.
  • You definitely need to create air flow around the generator. Mountain Master builds truck bodies/utility beds. They have a box for a generator that is sound proofed and provides air using wire mesh vents. You may be able to see it on their website.
  • There are a number of folks on the T&TTT forum that have done this using a wire mesh inlet and outlet and a fan to assure air movement. The biggest problem I would think would be over heating.

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