So would you go with a built in propane generator today?

My 05 Lance 981 came with a propane generator. I like it. The switch is right there when i need it. No need to pull out chain/lock up and plug in a portable. But it is all ive ever had as far as generators go.
If i did no have one already and REALLY needed one, a Honda or equivalent of a proper size for my needs would be on me wish list. I would not bother looking for a "camper" one to install on propane because it would most likely sell with the camper and not bring as much money as i paid for it.

Bedlam wrote:
My LPG generator is heavier and louder than a Honda or Yamaha, but the conveniences are more than worth the negatives. I do not have to carry additional gasoline, secure the generator somewhere, worry about ethanol based fuel breaking down, or going outside to start or stop the generator.

X2

Also very convenient when traveling in hot weather to pull over, start the generator and air conditioner, and head out to your campsite knowing you wI'll have a cool camper when you arrive.

It's a lot easier to find gas then a place that can fill your propane tank if you run out.

I would not get a propane generator.

Do the math. Propane generators run through propane tanks quickly. A few gallons of gas lasts a long time for a Honda. My Honda 2000 handles my A/C unit.

I've had three campers

03 Arctic Fox 990
02 Lance 835
09 Lance 1191

I've had one with an Onan 2500 and the 02 Lance I had a Honda.

I specifically bought my newer Lance WITH the factory Onan 2500. Regardless of what people tell you, two things comes to mind. Resale and convenience factors.

Here are two scenarios that easily come to mind.

I was traveling and boat trailer tire blew out in 91 degree weather! Pulled over, called AAA, I sat in my camper flicked on the Genset made popcorn in the micro and then flicked on the A/C. ---- and watched tv. Best 1.5hour wait I've ever had, in unfortunate circumstances.

Raining like hell and a hot muggy afternoon. I flicked on the Genset , fired up the Micro made some quick popcorn. --- ( yes I like popcorn)

I'm not retired and enjoy doing things without planning them to death. Spontaneous Honda setup is really not what the family was into. Screw the little extra money, enjoy your camper and get the factory Genset.

Just my opinion. :)

I've had a couple of the Onan 2.5 microlites over the years and would NOT get one! Loud, sucks propane like a monster, unreliable to the point of just refusing to work at all. Service on them is expensive and I've had problems getting simple things like air filters (which they seem to eat!) and other little parts. I could go on and on but you get my point

p.s. the used camper I just bought has one in it, anyone want a deal??

My LPG generator is heavier and louder than a Honda or Yamaha, but the conveniences are more than worth the negatives. I do not have to carry additional gasoline, secure the generator somewhere, worry about ethanol based fuel breaking down, or going outside to start or stop the generator.

No, I wouldn't want a built in gen because I'd get sick and tired of listening to it and feeling the vibrations.

Mine can, and I have a 13.5kBTU. A lot of newer ACs have 'soft start'. Extra capacitors on the compressor motor that help the start up surge for that very reason. I would recommend you borrow a friend's 2000 and try it before you write it off.
That being said, I have had several RVs over the years, and all of them have had one thing in common - an Onan generator that was a royal PITA. Every single one of them was unreliable in some way, form, or fashion.
My latest RV has no built in gen, a 3kw inverter, a bunch of batteries charging off solar, backed up by either a honda 1000 or 2000, whichever one (or both) I decide to pack along.