Generator Recommendation for 2020 T@b 400 BDL

Jbreunig

Looking for recommendations on generators to support my T@b 400 BDL.  Understand I need at least 2000-2500 Watts to start and run the AC.  Looking for something to occasionally run AC and recharge batteries when solar panel charging is limited.  Key factors are weight, cost, noise, & reliability.  Curious if anyone has experience with the Champion Power Equipment 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator.

Sharon_is_SAM

Search Champion:  

https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/13102/will-champion-dual-fuel-2500-power-the-cool-cat

https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/comment/160551#Comment_160551

https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/comment/145311#Comment_145311

https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/comment/144831#Comment_144831

https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/comment/155494#Comment_155494

Denny16

The Honda 2200i seems to be the best fit for a TaB, it is relatively small and easy to Cary, can be converted to propane, and will run the CoolCat AC.  If I find I need a generator, this is the model I am going to get.  

The new Goal Zero Yeti X power units in the 2000 or 3000 range look like n interesting alternative for short period Fool Cat AC operation, but they take a bit to recharge, and can be connected to solar panels for recharging.  A generator runs longer, only limited by its fuse supply.
  

One offers quiet, clean power, the other longer operation times, during really hot weather where longer air conditioning times are needed.
cheers

Dalehelman

If you are planning on converting a gas generator to propane. Or buying a duel fuel model. When using propane there is a slight reduction in power. So if your gas generator is just able to meet your needs. When operating on propane it may not meet your requirements. If you want to use propane I would test before you commit and buy. 

N7SHG_Ham

I personally think Honda wins every time, but if you are looking at just purchase price, probably lots of me too's to choose from.

One thing a Honda 2200i has vs most if not all other clones in the 2000w class of generators is more displacement, around 120cc for the Honda vs around 80cc for others. That is 50% bigger engine and yet they all rate about same on power output. When the going is near the ragged edge, the Honda will grunt and keep going, the others will overload.

I decided as long as I was not looking at cheapest but best camper when I purchased a Tab, might as well continue the theme on a generator

I bought mine new with a propane conversion installed, it no longer has a gasoline tank, propane only. From experience the propane will start and run the CoolCat on a Tab 400 at 3000 feet elevation, it does struggle to start the AC, but no issues once running. I will add a MicroAir soft start when I have time, that should make it easier on both the AC and the generator.

runaway30

N7SHG_Ham I agree completely.
Can I ask roughly how much the propane conversion set you back?

N7SHG_Ham

@runaway30 about $1600 complete to include new generator. I purchased a Genconnex conversion. I got the companion model from the start, figured if I wanted to parellel it later much easier to find a standard model. https://genconnexdirect.net/honda_propane_modified_generators.htm#xl_EU2000i

NorthIsUp

I think the choice of a Champion dual-fuel is a good idea, but it's a bit noisier than my Honda eu2200i.  It also has less continuous power at 1800w, but I think that's fine for your 2020. I added a Micro-Aire Easy Start to my CoolCat, but your a/c is smaller so you won't need to worry about that. Long-Long-Honeymoon just did a video on the generator that you're interested in. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6b_9kQ_l_g  Watch it and read the comments on YouTube and I think most of your questions will be answered. 

Dutch061

We use a Predator 3500 from Harbor Freight, they give us a new one every year you just have to buy the warranty each year. They can be converted to propane if desired. Yes, it is close to 100 lbs. but I have no payload concerns with the TV we use. You can run everything all at the same time if desired, no concerns about starting AC etc. Plus, it has electric start which is another bonus if my wife ever needed to start it by herself.

Brad

TwoRoamers

We have a 2021 400 on order and already have about a 4 yr old Honda eu2000i.  Will it suffice for the Coolcat, being aware of the aforementioned startup issues and potential need for soft start unit to supplement?

NorthIsUp

@TwoRoamers I don't think that the Honda eu2000i would handle every situation with your new 400. I previously lived at 6000' and now live at 5000'. The Honda eu2200i worked fine at 6000' except on the extremely hot days where it would bounce a bit on a/c startup or cycle. Seriously! One time last year before my Easy Start installation, the 2200i actually failed to start the a/c and stopped, so I knew it was time for the Easy Start. 
Good luck with your new rig. Try your generator out where you camp. At worst, you buy a new generator if you need it. 

TwoRoamers

Thanks.  Sounds like the soft start is definitely in our future for either s 2000i trial ruin or carryover to a larger unit.

Denny16

The Soft Start mod is grand, even when using shore power it makes starting the CoolCat less noisy and smoother running.
cheers