honda 2000 generator with solar panel assist..

2oldman, you're right, my bad.

He wants 120V assist from solar. Probably roof AC. Single 235W panel? Assisting 3,000W genny (correction - 1,800W AC) with 180W post-controller post-inverter solar power?

It seems as if we're all interpreting this differently. Isn't this about a 120v assist directly from panels to the generator? No batteries or inverters.

I think it is old.

People just don't turn solar off, and use genny when they need to run roof AC or major loads. So solar is always assisting the genny, during its run and after.
During the run this assist is minimal. More important is that they can shut the genny off sooner - because the solar will finish the charging. Plus, battery has a chance to get to real 100% - not likely to happen with generator only.

Maybe you can do some further research and be the 'go to guy' on this one.

However, I need some convincing this sort of setup would be practical. Are you completely eliminating your batteries and inverter? You apparently won't be doing any solar battery charging. And, this setup will only work on sunny days, and only mid-day, and certainly not at night. And, I'm not clear on how this is going to sync with the generator.

There are already 'assist' type inverters on the market, with solar charging the batteries.

Hmm. Im surprised Im the only one that has raised this topic.
I thought it would be old hat by now.

LOL... I am also RoyB

Yes, 235W solar may not need a generator at all, if energy needs are modest (or if battery bank is big enough). The point where you won't need a genny for anything but AC, is ~500W solar and 4*6V bank.

Mr Wizard,

I do "see" 17 amps at solar noon when I'm forcing "voltage support", so that works out to around 217 watts, or a about 2 amps @ 107 volts.

Why 107? Because that is the bare minimum voltage that I'll run the roof air at.

Most grid tied inverters are 240 volts. That may not be easy to deal with in an RV.

I get it but you can't assist the generator. You could assist, with generator supplying power, the 120V system in your RV. Pianotuna's Magnum inverter is the best tool for that.

A cheaper/quieter alternative may be to add solar panels and use a standalone inverter to provide 120V power. FWIW, I have a single 235w panel and rely on it and the batteries to provide 120V power for a small fridge and entertainment gear.