It seems my Onan 2500 LP generator will be costly to repair, with much of the cost just to remove and reinstall it back into my AF 1150 camper. So, my concern is, if this is the case with just 14 hour on the generator, what can I expect as time goes on. So, I'm wondering if I might be better off with a portable gas generator, such as the Honda EU2000i. I've read a lot of positive reviews on the Honda and it will easily fit into the existing generator cavity. I realize I will now have to carry a supply of gas and I won't have the convenience of just hitting a button to start the generator but as it is right now, pushing a button doesn't work either.So, my question is this, for those who camp with a generator, which do you prefer, or would prefer, a built in LP generator or portable generator? Thank you

Both would be better, but it depends on your usage. I only use mine a bit of the time. In that case, my built in is better.

do you need the 2500 for AC which the 2000 won't run?bumpy

Portable appears to be better suited for your camping requirements, Onans don't do well with very little use. We love our Onan gas genny and currently have nearly 800 hours over seven years with never any issues powering our entire rig as if plugged into shorepower. We prefer boondocking and often camp in extreme temps requiring extended AC or dual portable heater usage, our Onan always starts up and purrs right along even when camping at 9K' elevation.

Bumpyroad wrote:do you need the 2500 for AC which the 2000 won't run?bumpyWe have never used AC while dry camping. I have always hated how loud our generator was so we would only use it very sparingly.

If you've only put 14 hours on it in 2 years, that may be why you're having issues with the Onan. I'm pretty sure they want a 2 hour at 1/2 load monthly exercise run on unused Onans, even LP ones. I strongly favor my built-in 2800, but for your use a portable may well be the right option. Jim, "Chicken Little only has to be right once."

Built in 2500 LP or Portable Gas Generator? | Good Sam Community

35 Replies

Handbasket
Explorer
Aug 12, 2014
If you've only put 14 hours on it in 2 years, that may be why you're having issues with the Onan. I'm pretty sure they want a 2 hour at 1/2 load monthly exercise run on unused Onans, even LP ones. I strongly favor my built-in 2800, but for your use a portable may well be the right option.

Jim, "Chicken Little only has to be right once."
Roadlover
Explorer
Aug 12, 2014
Bumpyroad wrote:
do you need the 2500 for AC which the 2000 won't run?
bumpy

We have never used AC while dry camping. I have always hated how loud our generator was so we would only use it very sparingly.
Sandia_Man
Explorer II
Aug 12, 2014
Portable appears to be better suited for your camping requirements, Onans don't do well with very little use. We love our Onan gas genny and currently have nearly 800 hours over seven years with never any issues powering our entire rig as if plugged into shorepower. We prefer boondocking and often camp in extreme temps requiring extended AC or dual portable heater usage, our Onan always starts up and purrs right along even when camping at 9K' elevation.
Bumpyroad
Explorer
Aug 12, 2014
do you need the 2500 for AC which the 2000 won't run?
bumpy
jimh406
Explorer III
Aug 12, 2014
Both would be better, but it depends on your usage. I only use mine a bit of the time. In that case, my built in is better.

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Built in 2500 LP or Portable Gas Generator?

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