In my 98 320 I have the PT10 generator up front that is open without a "surround case." The newer models ( 99 and newer) ones have the casing around it ,I presume to defeat some of the noise. Has any built a quiet box for the open PT 10 or supplemented it with extra insulation that actually works for sound .l am not to worried about the heat, just noise. Also has anyone replaced the little peanut muffler with another (automotive?) to again make it quieter?
Suggestions would be appreciated. The gen works amazing, I would like it a little quiet to appease the neighbours though...
Peter
Our PT is also open, just behind the compartment door. Most of the noise seems to be "diesel rattle" with the muffler not contributing that much to the noise. The muffler could be replaced with a larger muffler but the exhaust pipe is small and possibly designed to send the exhaust at a higher speed as far as possible from the coach.
The stock sound deadener is very combustible and none is on the door where the glass may act to amplify the noise. I checked with my iPhone and a dedicated DB meter and the generator is about 20 db over the National Park limit of 60 db on the A scale at 50 feet. All the the later RVs are very quiet so we would stand out.
Quote: Under this section the following is prohibited: Operating motorized equipment or machinery that exceeds a noise level of 60 decibels measured on the A-weighted scale at 50 feet, or, if below that level, nevertheless makes noise that is unreasonable.
In an effort to cut the smoke and smell of the generator at high altitudes, I changed to synthetic oil. This seems to have reduced both a little. Only a turbo is going to have a real effect on it and that is not economically feasible.
I don't know about a coach with a generator in the nose but lining the inside of the compartment door with a non-combustible material on the side generator models may have an effect. Stronger struts would probably be needed.
The best solution is solar. We have not started our generator at Sierra campsites since we installed the system about 13 years ago.
Pierce
I put new sound deadener mat'l in the side compartment around our Onan Emerald III air cooled generator. Didn't reduce the sound level outside one bit.
After trying the suggested alternatives (rug on the ground, exhaust pipe extension,a sound box mounted under the gen to direct the sound under the coach) I realized all the objectionable noise is coming from the fan intake louver area on the coach.
I had a "brain fart" this fall during my idle days and am going to pursue it come spring. Right now, just design ideas.
Here it goes: My Simplicity lawn tractor has two tubes mounted under the rear end of the tractor to mount the leaf bagger attachment to. The leaf bagger attachment has two tubes that slide into the two tubes on the tractor. (see where I am going with this?)
Now, If I make a baffled silencer box mounted on two tubes, then slide the assembly into the two tubes mounted on the bottom of the generator compartment---maybe this will reduce noise to a tolerable level but not cooling air flow.
If I recall, for every change in direction there is a reduction in noise level--50% each time?? Who knows, but worth a try.
Peter I think Pierce has the correct ideas including ultimately solar. Ours does have the box, however all the insulation has been removed by me. Its on the to do list but other things before it. Surprisingly we seem to be happy with the out and inside noise levels, granted less is always preferred. I will eventually install sound deadening and so can you including your door. Muffler on newer couches have better sound absorption and may be worth looking at if replacement is planned.
Scott
I think there is a difference in sound levels from side mounted gen sets and the front mounted one in my coach. I suspect I will have to research new material for the sides and top and investigate how to add insulation to the the front door. Not worried about it being to heavy really cause it is the lift up type with hinges.
When i removed the carpet in the front of the coach they had sound absorbsion material under it for the pad. Under the floor would also be a starting point for me but difficult to keep it retained up in position. DYNA mat is your friend.