Many manufacturers sell portable generators up to $10,000. Featured here is a low cost solution for your semi truck. Inspiration from similar setups found elsewhere.
You need a portable a/c with 2 hoses to make that setup effective. The single hose units suck air from inside and blow it out side, creating a vacuum in the cab, thus every crack and crevice in the truck is now sucking hot air from outside. The single hose a/c units are only useful in rooms where the rest of the building is cooled.
I built a box around the one I installed in my hotshot truck to make it pull air from outside the truck from the driver's side cab vent, and the discharge hose blows out the passenger side cab vent. I'll be modifying the same unit to install it under my bunk in my semi.
I put together a system using a 3000 watt Yamaha and a Mitsubishi mini-split a/c. Had to get creative, but once it was all set up, man did it work well. The a/c would freeze you out in any temp, including 110+ Arizona summer days sitting directly in the sun. It was also blessedly quiet, both the generator and the a/c unit... If I set another one up, I will look in to getting a quiet diesel generator, because fueling the gas one was inconvenient. I would also spend more time doing everything with a little more planning and fabricating. Kind of threw it together in a hurry...
Powertech Southeast Leesburg, FL. (Wildwood) They make generators for entertainer coaches and only do mobile applications. That split system sounds like a good idea? I couldn't handle that sceaming fan they mount on back of cab right about where your head is. Good thing it didn't work very often.
Its $140/hr to diagnose a tripac. Our 2015 tripac evolution was a lemon. It had 2300 hrs after 5 years, where the previous tripac is still going to this date w 10+ hrs. The hmi on the on the tripac evolution is junk. U have 2 guess the temp w 2 knobs, where the previous one u could set the temp as u do w a thermostat at home.
The other fuel tank has a plug in top once removed, inserted a draw line purchased at the dealership that screwed into the tank. Wasn’t shown in video as an oversight.
Its $140/hr to diagnose a tripac. Our 2015 tripac evolution was a lemon. It had 2300 hrs after 5 years, where the previous tripac is still going to this date w 10+ hrs. The hmi on the on the tripac evolution is junk. U have 2 guess the temp w 2 knobs, where the previous one u could set the temp as u do w a thermostat at home.
I personally would have probably used the copper alloy brake line as it's more flexible and won't rust. But it's a pretty decent idea. I agree on the Diesel fuel although Gas is cheaper these days and usually only a walk from where your truck is. Not like that's a bad thing for most drivers haha. I like those brackets though. There's cheap little 2 wheel dolleys that fold up to haul a gas can across a parking lot.
Seen an older Freightliner Classic that has a window mounted A/C put right thru the back of the bunk wall, higher up where the top bunk would’ve been. Made my head tilt a little bit seeing it in all honesty, got me thinking about how the operator did it, sealing it up, etc. Have seen a few trucks with mini-splits installed, the tell-tell box mounted outside the truck. Also curious how that’s accomplished. An excellent solution for a reasonable price!!!
I like how you mounted the generator. I do not like those ac units personally. Don't want to have to put the exhaust hose in the window or deal with draining the water out of that ac. I am putting a rv ac on the roof. I also bought a split unit ac. Not sure which one il use lol. Thanks for the idea!
You did everything good but putting the exhaust vent in that screen. reason why is because all the hot exhaust at the air conditioners blowing out the window coming right back through the screen. Nice job on that generator mount.
Actually I should have pointed out that plexiglass covers the other part of the screen so that the AC exhaust and outside air isn’t entering back into the truck.
Hello one man band. Very nice video and nice talking. The generator setup is good for diesel use. Must be pretty heavy and noisy. Of course I am going to get myself a different set up for the unit inside. The question is can this generator can jump/charge the main battery ?
I have a Set up like yours but only I have a gas generator Have a portable AC that is 7000btu I found having event out the window like that the vent heats up and the air conditioner can't keep up with the extra heat So I cut a hole my floor and I put it to their and it works a lot better Make an event shorter
I have a similar setup 10k watt AI power gas generator, 10 gallon fuel cell mounted on the back of sleeper that gravity feeds to main tank 17 gallons total lasts one week, I cut a hole on side of truck for the black and decker heater/ac unit, vent, I should have cut a hole on the floor easy to patch and sell truck, I also use a radiator heater in winter, basically the black and decker blows air through the radiator heater for good warmth circulation.
Truck came with Wabasto heater, keeping me warm, but the generator can be used to connect to my block heater and jump start the truck should I need it.
If that's the route...I'd just do a tool box with a little 2000w Honda/Predator Inverter generator in there with some vent holes cut. Yes it's gas but cheaper easier and more versatile as well as mobile. Pretty easy to rig up a larger tank too.
I tried that with the Champion 2500W inverter generator. 30" tool box with air holes and the exhaust ran out the back. It overheated in a few minutes... needs a lot of ventilation!
The gen pictured here has been discontinued or is out of stock. Is it still working ok? Did this diesel gen have the remote start option w the key fob? Why did u modify the brackets? Man, wish u could've filmed the fuel line connection. Why did u use the driver side fuel tank as opposed to the passenger? Great video n yes. Diesel is the way to go n using the trucks fuel as the fuel source.
Thanks very good video thanks for the depth of information have a tripack system 120amp not much muscle really but must need a inverter but i also have very sensitive electronics on the truck that dont like the square wave. Pure sine wave inverters cost a hell alot more then a generator.
Well done. I went cheap. $300 gas 4k Watt inverter bolted on cat walk, must clear trailer turns and $200 Hisense 5k BTU. Heavy duty 25 ft cord. $650 total. Generator last 15 hours on 2 gallons
Why can't a thermoking apu and an inverter power an a/c or more importantly a ceramic or infrared heater without power interruption from the inverter or the batteries in the truck being drained too low?
A used APU with all parts and hoses is the same price as your generator. Takes up less space on the frame and in the interior wouldn’t have a big ass ac unit in the way of everything. Looks nice mounted on there though 🤷🏻♂️
Did you plumb the diesel generator into the fuel tanks? Im thinking of going this route since all I need is a T and a electric transfer pump but seems like a better option being plumbed into 300 gallons of fuel then having the 5 or 10 the generator holds.
I have been entertaining this idea. Im concerned with the road grime, snow, ice, and salt destroying the unit in a short time. I seen a guy the other day with a nice tool compartment on his trailer and thats where he mounted his generator.
Live in Michigan don’t go south for the winter, stay regional, was sure that salt would have rusted it a little but it hasn’t. Generator was installed in June of 2018 and still holding up. Just procrastinated with editing and sharing with UA-cam.
How has the generator held up so far?? I put a harbor freight predator 3500 in a stainless tool box and mounted that to my frame of my truck and it works ok but it’s gas, so it’s kind of a pain. Didn’t know you could buy those at Home Depot , had I known I might have gone that direction.
How has that generator been working for you I've been looking at that 1 to go off gri go off grid. I'm sitting here laying in my new 2022 LT with a thermoking running. I have a Westinghouse with remote start but when I get set up out where I want to get some land I want to get a diesel generator and I've been looking at that model model. How is it holding up to the abuse on the road
It’s similar to a partially muffled lawnmower or some of the older refrigeration trailers. Not as bad as being parked next to a semi with straight pipes idling all night!
cheapest diesel generator you'll find now is over 4 grand. a used apu is cheaper then that. wish that generator company wouldn't of went out of business.
Thermo king APUs are absolutely garbage. A quick search on YT shows many bids on the issues with tri Pac. I recently removed mine, the 3rd I've owned, repeated issues with fault codes, arctic package not functioning, numerous electrical issues such as discharged batteries, not charging batteries, alternator issues. A 400lb boat anchor. Absolutely trash, TK should be ashamed for $10,250.
Tripac is overpriced junk. This is the way to go. Roof mount a/c and heat. No screaming condenser fan mounted by your head. Rooftop goes bad any RV dealer has the replacement takes about an hour to change.
Went with a portable AC unit and Generator because I can get another one at any Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s or Menards. Sales and service on any of the dealership installed equipment is not available after 6pm or on weekends, unless you want to pay Highway Robbery rates from roadside assistance.
Smart way to go. Another bad thing about Tri Pac is having to regen before taking a break otherwise it would shutdown. Good thing about roof air is it breaks and you just replace the unit. 800.00 versus 8000 for tripac repair. (I'm not kidding).
@@catliftresearch what size gen you need to run a small roof ac/ heat unit? Can you set it up to run while the truck is rolling down the road, and then off of the generator at night?
Good idea just. .....talk ..........just a lil.............................. faster.......... I almost ............fell .........................asleep
You need a portable a/c with 2 hoses to make that setup effective. The single hose units suck air from inside and blow it out side, creating a vacuum in the cab, thus every crack and crevice in the truck is now sucking hot air from outside. The single hose a/c units are only useful in rooms where the rest of the building is cooled.
I built a box around the one I installed in my hotshot truck to make it pull air from outside the truck from the driver's side cab vent, and the discharge hose blows out the passenger side cab vent. I'll be modifying the same unit to install it under my bunk in my semi.
I put together a system using a 3000 watt Yamaha and a Mitsubishi mini-split a/c. Had to get creative, but once it was all set up, man did it work well. The a/c would freeze you out in any temp, including 110+ Arizona summer days sitting directly in the sun. It was also blessedly quiet, both the generator and the a/c unit... If I set another one up, I will look in to getting a quiet diesel generator, because fueling the gas one was inconvenient. I would also spend more time doing everything with a little more planning and fabricating. Kind of threw it together in a hurry...
Powertech Southeast Leesburg, FL. (Wildwood) They make generators for entertainer coaches and only do mobile applications. That split system sounds like a good idea? I couldn't handle that sceaming fan they mount on back of cab right about where your head is. Good thing it didn't work very often.
any pics of mini spit you installed? How do they hold up to vibration/wear tear over the road??
What mini split did you get?
Such a beautiful generator installation and such a getto installation of AC
Nice set up ...you did a pretty decent job installing it.
I've been happy and lucky with my tripac.
Its $140/hr to diagnose a tripac. Our 2015 tripac evolution was a lemon. It had 2300 hrs after 5 years, where the previous tripac is still going to this date w 10+ hrs. The hmi on the on the tripac evolution is junk. U have 2 guess the temp w 2 knobs, where the previous one u could set the temp as u do w a thermostat at home.
You sir are a genius! Id like the bracket idea much better for the same reason. Idk how to run the fuel line like you did.
The other fuel tank has a plug in top once removed, inserted a draw line purchased at the dealership that screwed into the tank. Wasn’t shown in video as an oversight.
This is absolutely amazing and awesome. Well done.
👌 Awesome build !🙂👏👏👌👌
I will do the same setup for my truck
I use this exact same AC in my truck and I agree, not quite good enouigh during the day time.. I also use the window screen technique
thank you for the good information
Great video , well explained, awesome voice👍👍👍👏👏👏👏🤴
Very informative bro, digging the content
Excellent job Sir
Great setup,hope I can find one of those pulsar generators
That’s a great alternative to tri-pak. I wish I would have done that myself.
Awesome set up, I gotta start on mines lol! 👍
Its $140/hr to diagnose a tripac. Our 2015 tripac evolution was a lemon. It had 2300 hrs after 5 years, where the previous tripac is still going to this date w 10+ hrs. The hmi on the on the tripac evolution is junk. U have 2 guess the temp w 2 knobs, where the previous one u could set the temp as u do w a thermostat at home.
I have a similar setup, they make an portable air conditioner with two vent hoses, this gives better results!!
I personally would have probably used the copper alloy brake line as it's more flexible and won't rust. But it's a pretty decent idea. I agree on the Diesel fuel although Gas is cheaper these days and usually only a walk from where your truck is. Not like that's a bad thing for most drivers haha. I like those brackets though. There's cheap little 2 wheel dolleys that fold up to haul a gas can across a parking lot.
Honestly that’s a good point😂 I was thinking like “oh diesel that makes sense” but lord knows I need to walk some more🤦🏻♂️
This is really good idea 👍 I love it
Awesome set up Sr and the fuel line it's genius, any updates after one year? Does it still works good? Thanks for sharing
Seen an older Freightliner Classic that has a window mounted A/C put right thru the back of the bunk wall, higher up where the top bunk would’ve been. Made my head tilt a little bit seeing it in all honesty, got me thinking about how the operator did it, sealing it up, etc. Have seen a few trucks with mini-splits installed, the tell-tell box mounted outside the truck. Also curious how that’s accomplished.
An excellent solution for a reasonable price!!!
A mini split ac hp inverter unit would be a better ac option. An AC designed for traders would also work as well.
Great job
I have a mini split but the gas generator has to be refueled too often. I think it's better to install a diesel generator
I like how you mounted the generator. I do not like those ac units personally. Don't want to have to put the exhaust hose in the window or deal with draining the water out of that ac. I am putting a rv ac on the roof. I also bought a split unit ac. Not sure which one il use lol. Thanks for the idea!
The RV units tend to use WAY more power though
You did everything good but putting the exhaust vent in that screen. reason why is because all the hot exhaust at the air conditioners blowing out the window coming right back through the screen. Nice job on that generator mount.
Actually I should have pointed out that plexiglass covers the other part of the screen so that the AC exhaust and outside air isn’t entering back into the truck.
Thank you so much.
Wish you would have finished the install
Hello one man band. Very nice video and nice talking. The generator setup is good for diesel use. Must be pretty heavy and noisy. Of course I am going to get myself a different set up for the unit inside. The question is can this generator can jump/charge the main battery ?
Thanks you for the video
I have a Set up like yours but only I have a gas generator Have a portable AC that is 7000btu I found having event out the window like that the vent heats up and the air conditioner can't keep up with the extra heat So I cut a hole my floor and I put it to their and it works a lot better Make an event shorter
Better buy680kw w apu 2023 new one
Nice! I'm doing something similar just much less power lol.
excellent setup.... how is the generator holding up? does it cause any problem with sleep and its noise?
Thick rubber between the mounting frame and generator
I have a similar setup 10k watt AI power gas generator, 10 gallon fuel cell mounted on the back of sleeper that gravity feeds to main tank 17 gallons total lasts one week, I cut a hole on side of truck for the black and decker heater/ac unit, vent, I should have cut a hole on the floor easy to patch and sell truck, I also use a radiator heater in winter, basically the black and decker blows air through the radiator heater for good warmth circulation.
Truck came with Wabasto heater, keeping me warm, but the generator can be used to connect to my block heater and jump start the truck should I need it.
Did you add fuel pump for generator to to keep getting fuel from truck fuel tanks??
If that's the route...I'd just do a tool box with a little 2000w Honda/Predator Inverter generator in there with some vent holes cut. Yes it's gas but cheaper easier and more versatile as well as mobile. Pretty easy to rig up a larger tank too.
I tried that with the Champion 2500W inverter generator. 30" tool box with air holes and the exhaust ran out the back. It overheated in a few minutes... needs a lot of ventilation!
@@2020HotShotTruckingLLC Yes needs at least the Gen fan sized hole in/out
Nice job.I just think how this generator will last in salty winter spray, road salt?
Did you drilled a new hole in the fuel tank for that setup?
I wander how well the generator held up against the roads we drive on. That's my only concern... Nice job
Thank u for this info
The gen pictured here has been discontinued or is out of stock. Is it still working ok?
Did this diesel gen have the remote start option w the key fob?
Why did u modify the brackets?
Man, wish u could've filmed the fuel line connection. Why did u use the driver side fuel tank as opposed to the passenger?
Great video n yes. Diesel is the way to go n using the trucks fuel as the fuel source.
How many hours it can run straight thank you bro
How does the generator get fuel is electric pumped in or is it gravity fed???
Thanks very good video thanks for the depth of information have a tripack system 120amp not much muscle really but must need a inverter but i also have very sensitive electronics on the truck that dont like the square wave. Pure sine wave inverters cost a hell alot more then a generator.
I'm curious what a Victron Phoenix would cost. They do have a few different sizes.
How did it do in inclement weather.
Why not use the vents on the sides of the sleeper instead of using the windows
Wher did you get the window adapter please for the a/c hose
I been looking for this generator for a year now
Which you able to install my truck if I pay your service thanks for your help
Well done. I went cheap. $300 gas 4k Watt inverter bolted on cat walk, must clear trailer turns and $200 Hisense 5k BTU. Heavy duty 25 ft cord. $650 total. Generator last 15 hours on 2 gallons
After the 15 hour do you just add the fuel or shut it down for few hours and Idea please let me know when you want to do your 34 hour rest
Why can't a thermoking apu and an inverter power an a/c or more importantly a ceramic or infrared heater without power interruption from the inverter or the batteries in the truck being drained too low?
How is the setup doing today ?
A used APU with all parts and hoses is the same price as your generator. Takes up less space on the frame and in the interior wouldn’t have a big ass ac unit in the way of everything. Looks nice mounted on there though 🤷🏻♂️
There a smaller diesel generator? Anything recommende?
How many hrs does your generator have on it now?
Did you plumb the diesel generator into the fuel tanks? Im thinking of going this route since all I need is a T and a electric transfer pump but seems like a better option being plumbed into 300 gallons of fuel then having the 5 or 10 the generator holds.
Bro did you watch the vid??? He said it
Is this system fuel injected
I went with 3 300AMP hour life p04 batteries charged by my alternator. When I shut down they will run my ac for 13 hours or so.
Hows the generator running?
Where did you buy it?
I have been entertaining this idea. Im concerned with the road grime, snow, ice, and salt destroying the unit in a short time. I seen a guy the other day with a nice tool compartment on his trailer and thats where he mounted his generator.
Live in Michigan don’t go south for the winter, stay regional, was sure that salt would have rusted it a little but it hasn’t. Generator was installed in June of 2018 and still holding up. Just procrastinated with editing and sharing with UA-cam.
@@truckinitup7940 I was thinking it was just done last fall so ty for that extra info!
Awesome 👍🏼😎
Where did you get this generator for $1500?
Anyone have any recommendations on a comparable quiet diesel generator? This one has been discontinued and I am not finding ANYTHING under 4k
Find an RV or old bus
How has the generator held up so far?? I put a harbor freight predator 3500 in a stainless tool box and mounted that to my frame of my truck and it works ok but it’s gas, so it’s kind of a pain. Didn’t know you could buy those at Home Depot , had I known I might have gone that direction.
I was sure that the salt on the road in the winter would have rusted it out but it’s holding up fine.
Nice!
I’m pretty sure that fan was to blow the fumes away from the truck
How has that generator been working for you I've been looking at that 1 to go off gri go off grid. I'm sitting here laying in my new 2022 LT with a thermoking running. I have a Westinghouse with remote start but when I get set up out where I want to get some land I want to get a diesel generator and I've been looking at that model model. How is it holding up to the abuse on the road
Look for a gov auction site, can get them for a few hundred
Where can I buy the iron frame for fixing the generator, because I also want to make one
BRO did you watch the vid??? He tells you multiple times sheesh
Besides the weight I'm just willing to bet it's far to loud!
I hope you didn't drill holes in a heat treated frame
where can I buy the support and generator
Did you watch the end of the video?
Bink sent me 👍🏽
How much cost gene where u bought is it diesel please
$1800 at Home Depot, yes it’s Diesel
You could buy a bigger inverter ,and just plug in your ac unit
But requires the truck running...that's a lot of fuel
How heavy is that generator?
I guess 175KG OR 280 LBS
Where did you buy generator ?? And how much
Watch the video please 😁
Don't laugh I seen a car with a generator in an open trunk and a house ac in the back window lol
Is the generator Loud?
It’s similar to a partially muffled lawnmower or some of the older refrigeration trailers. Not as bad as being parked next to a semi with straight pipes idling all night!
Generator gets wet with water..
Put a mini split wtf.. Generator don't look like it has a cross plate unless you put one in
i like the made in china sticker
Whats the purpose of having a generator?
Those dont last you very long, u will have to replace it within a year i bet.
Just imagine starting it up in a truck stop at night lol
It said silent series. Not so silent?
Just don't park next to me! Please!😭
Trucks idle all night what's louder???
cheapest diesel generator you'll find now is over 4 grand. a used apu is cheaper then that. wish that generator company wouldn't of went out of business.
🤦♂ Don't use single hose portable air conditioner, use two hose version, intake and exhaust vent.
Thermo king APUs are absolutely garbage. A quick search on YT shows many bids on the issues with tri Pac. I recently removed mine, the 3rd I've owned, repeated issues with fault codes, arctic package not functioning, numerous electrical issues such as discharged batteries, not charging batteries, alternator issues. A 400lb boat anchor. Absolutely trash, TK should be ashamed for $10,250.
Tripac is overpriced junk. This is the way to go. Roof mount a/c and heat. No screaming condenser fan mounted by your head. Rooftop goes bad any RV dealer has the replacement takes about an hour to change.
Went with a portable AC unit and Generator because I can get another one at any Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s or Menards. Sales and service on any of the dealership installed equipment is not available after 6pm or on weekends, unless you want to pay Highway Robbery rates from roadside assistance.
Smart way to go. Another bad thing about Tri Pac is having to regen before taking a break otherwise it would shutdown. Good thing about roof air is it breaks and you just replace the unit. 800.00 versus 8000 for tripac repair. (I'm not kidding).
@@catliftresearch what size gen you need to run a small roof ac/ heat unit? Can you set it up to run while the truck is rolling down the road, and then off of the generator at night?
@@michealodom9111 3000w minimum
It's illigal to drill holes in the frame
Only if you get caught...who is inspecting and citing for it???
Freaking loud 🤣🤣🤣
Good idea just. .....talk ..........just a lil.............................. faster.......... I almost ............fell .........................asleep
I need to find that diesel generator