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exhaust from propane generator

still checking out new to me 93u240.....seems like exhaust from onan 6.5 propane smells like propane ..is this normal or do i have issues...runs very well.
Dale Gass
1993 U240 36                                                             

cat 3116 allison 3060

Re: exhaust from propane generator

Reply #1
Dale,

Yes, there will be some mercaptan smell from the exhaust.  More important, is the exhaust smooth and does the engine pick up heavy loads within 1-2 seconds?
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: exhaust from propane generator

Reply #2
thanks Mr.Wolfe. If you listen close it might have a very slight misfire...seems to me like it runs great though... getting ready for 1st weekend trip...running both airs and every light in coach on does not drag it at all...going tomorrow to buy c.m.detecters....i am just a little concerned about odor of exhaust since i will be dry camping, at least i think thats what you call it. other campers will be close by(tents) ...Renaissance Festival...FUN
Dale Gass
1993 U240 36                                                             

cat 3116 allison 3060

Re: exhaust from propane generator

Reply #3
Dale,

It should smell something like the propane forklifts in warehouses. Like Brett said, pretty normal to smell a bit. You could also get someone to smell the exhaust that has a propane generator in their coach and compare. Dave sells and services generators so you could drop him a note if you still have a question. Naturally, something could be out of adjustment causing it to run rich with more odor than normal but if it runs and generates OK, then it probably is OK. Are you sure it's missing a little?

Pierce
Pierce and Gaylie Stewart
'93 U300/36 WTBI
Detroit 6V-92TA Jake
1140 watts on the roof
SBFD (ret)

Re: exhaust from propane generator

Reply #4
no,not sure that its missing.seems like a slight variation in exhaust tone,not much....it does'nt drag down with 1 or 2 airs going.....the odor does seem like that of forklifts... i just wonder if other campers ever complain...
Dale Gass
1993 U240 36                                                             

cat 3116 allison 3060

Re: exhaust from propane generator

Reply #5
Had the same problem, old Propane exhaust can stink, will take several refills of tank to freshen up. 

Re: exhaust from propane generator

Reply #6

Check the end of the regulator vent hose going out the bay floor to make sure it's clear. My genset ran poorly when I got it, missing, sputtering and surging; turned out the vent hose was plugged with dirt. Cleared that and it was fine.

I am contemplating adding a generator exhaust extension of sorts, to try to minimize disturbing nearby campers. Something I could easily deploy and put away when parked, along the lines of this product --> Amazon.com: Camco 44461 RV Gen-Turi Generator Exhaust Venting System: Automotive

Steve

As an Amazon Associate Foretravel Owners' Forum earns from qualifying purchases.
1991 U225 Grand Villa

Re: exhaust from propane generator

Reply #7
i am fairly certain propane in tank is at least 1 year old...maybe older...i did burn about 1/4 or so  and topped it off yesterday in anticipation of weekend trip...If i had known of issue with odor of older gas i would have burned more....I appreciate everyones info.....This forum is very heipful.
Dale Gass
1993 U240 36                                                             

cat 3116 allison 3060

 

Re: exhaust from propane generator

Reply #8
Dale, you should check t see if the lever on the air intake box is set for the appropriate season. It regulates the amount of air that gets to the engine. Also, Camping World has an exhaust extender called a Gen Turi, Camco Mfg Inc - Gen-turi Generator Exhaust System - Generator Accessories - that sends the exhaust fumes over the top of the coaches. I think it costs around $130 and is portable so you only use it when you need it. Others on the Forum have built their own but if you need it this weekend you probably don't have time.

If you have others camping nearby, they will really appreciate your consideration getting the exhaust fumes high overhead.
The selected media item is not currently available.Kent Speers
Locust Grove, OK
1993 U300 SSE 40' (Restored at FOT 2009) Build 4323
720 watts Solar
6V92TA DDEC Silver Engine
2014 Subaru Outback