2 questions on Generators and 5th wheel stabilizers

[BigCountryfan]

What size generator will I need for the winter months? I have a 35 foot 5th wheel. Will a portable one work that is 1000 Watts or do I need one of those huge, cumbersome ones on wheels? I saw some portable ones that were stackable. I don't know what is best, but I do know this RV park losses power every winter. What about Propane verses Gas powered ones? I was told that I need a front stabilizer on my 5th wheel. Are they worth buying and does it really work to keep the RV from shaking when I walk? If so is one brand better then another? Thank you for any insight you may have on these topics.

 

[dbbls59]

Regarding the generator, it all depends on what you want to run with a generator. If you only want to keep the batteries charged up, and watch TV, a 1000 watt generator will work. If you want to run some small appliances like a coffee pot, microwave, or a hair dryer, a 2000 watt will be needed but to only run them one at a time. If you want to run one air conditioner you would need at least 3600 watts. Two air conditioners will require at least 5500 watts. If you are doing this in a campground, do they allow generators? If so, it had better be a Honda or Yamaha or you will have some very irritated neighbors because of the noise. They may be irritated anyway because even these generators are noisy if they are powering someone else's unit and are setting close to your window. Regarding front stabilizers', is your unit shaking now when someone walks across the floor? If so, they help but do not completely stop the wiggle. The best way to stop the shaking is to take the some weight off the springs. You can do this with jacks on the frame. Also chocks between the wheels to stop the rocking back and forth.

 

[happykraut]

I agree with dbbls59's comments on the generators. Another option would be to piggyback two Honda 2000 generators.
On the stabilizers, I have used this http://www.steadyfast.com/howitworks.html system and it worked real well for me. I would definitely recommend it to any one. Very well built and you can install it yourself.

 

[2TrakR]

I concur with the above about both subjects. Installed the SteadyFast system on our Cyclone and it made a HUGE difference. One kids in the bunk turning over used to wiggle us in the front bed, now it takes the 9 YO skipping the ladder on the way down to notice any movement.

If you are going to wan to run an electric heater, note that even the 1000 watt unit will not be enough, a 2K unit is minimum. If you are going to run two heaters, then a 3K (or set of 2K units with special cables).

Least hassle would be a 3K or bigger on wheels that you can just chain up outside and let run rather than lugging out a smaller unit.

 

[wdk450]

I really liked this generator (before it got stolen): http://www.boliyguy.com/boliy_specifications.html . It is half the weight of the equivalent Honda, with similar low noise specifications. The Boily Guy is a full time RVer, who boondocks a lot. He is at the Quartzsite show every year.

 

[dewwood]

Here is a link to a review of another option with the stackable generators by Champion.
http://www.loveyourrv.com/champion-2000-watt-generator/

 

[d_fergie]

On the gas vs. propane side, propane is much cleaner, easier to store and no need to use additives as propane doesn't sour...