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Topic: FT generators (Read 1044 times) previous topic - next topic

FT generators

Hope followers of this forum do not get tired of my questions from time to time, but I have a lot I would like to learn about Foretravel MH.  I want sufficient research on my next MH so this seems a valuable site.

Question of the day: I am seeing reference to the Kabuto generators, is this the maker of the PowerTech?  Is it the standard in most FTs?  How does it compare to a Onan, as I am much more familiar with Onan?
'06 GS G7 41' 8411, 400 ISL Cummins
BUT want a Foretravel
RV er as SASS/CAS competitor
'07 Colorado 4x4 CrewCab toad

Re: FT generators

Reply #1 –
Our 1997 U295 has a four cylinder Kubota diesel engine that turns a 10K Powertech generator. It was a common installation in that vintage of coach. On our coach, the generator is on a sliding drawer that will extend out the front of the coach for inspection and service. The radiator for the generator is remotely mounted in a bay under the driver's position. The fan for the radiator is operated by 120VAC, and blows the hot air under the coach toward the passenger side. Ours operates at a dull roar that we do not hear while traveling. While parked, the sound is noticeable, but we don't find it annoying inside the coach.

Our generator has about 3600 hours on it. It has worked well for us.

Dave Metzger is the generator wizard on the forum. He is willing to share information -- and opinions. :D
J D Stevens
1997 U295 CAI 36' Build #5085
2002 Subaru Outback
Motorcade 16869
Bellville, TX

Re: FT generators

Reply #2 –
This is a good subject, both the Onan diesel using the Kubota engine and the Power Tech using the Kubota use a very fine diesel, history has proven these diesel engines to be impossible to beat.
As for the Onan vs the Power tech, it is a toss up for me, I prefer the Power tech for the control circuit, but prefer the Onan for the actual generator end.
I have been an Onan mechanic for at least 40 years, love them, but when it comes to the Power Tech in my 2001 36' Foretravel, I have no issue with it and do not see a weak area.  Some power Tech units have had issues with the generator end, requiring replacement at about $1,600.00 plus labor, My Power Tech has had the generator end replaced before I purchased it, it now has the 12 kw end, so time will tell.  Onan does not have this issue. 
The Onan 7.5DKD if properly maintained, will out last you and maybe your kids.

Overall, I lean toward the Power Tech, parts are standard items, unlike Onan who uses special parts in the generator like volt regulator and controller.  Power Tech uses the popular DynaGen ES-52 Controller and a Basler regulator, all other parts are easy to get.
Just my opinion
Dave M

Re: FT generators

Reply #3 –
Thanks, really good information. Dave, what exactly do you mean by control circuit being better? How about noise level compared to 7.5K Onan?  Ease of simple maintance?

bb
'06 GS G7 41' 8411, 400 ISL Cummins
BUT want a Foretravel
RV er as SASS/CAS competitor
'07 Colorado 4x4 CrewCab toad

Re: FT generators

Reply #4 –
OK, the diesel 7.5 Onan and the 10 Power Tech are about the same, not like the older 7.5 JB air cooled units, they were VERY loud.
As for the controls, I have seen the Onan DKD control issues due to the 3 cylinder vibration, and I feel the 4 cylinder has a little less vibration, resulting in less issues, in addition the DynaTech Controller is all solid state and not subject to the problems of components vibrating off.
While nothing is 100% idiot proof, I just feel the Power Tech has been a lucky design and combination of good parts, Power Tech makes nothing, they assemble components.  This is why parts are available from an easy source. Unlike Onan where you will go thru a Cummins Dealer today.
Me, I would be happy with either, however the P-T gives me a little warmer fuzzy.
FWIW
Dave M

Re: FT generators

Reply #5 –
FYI, my 12kw Power Tech uses a 3 cyl Isuzu diesel.
Regards,
Brett

'99 42' Foretravel Xtreme
'14 Brown Motorsports Stacker
'05 Chevy SSR
'02 BMW R1150R

Re: FT generators

Reply #6 –
Hi All,
  My 1997 U 320 has the 10KW gen set powered by a three cylinder Isuzu.
Raymond
Raymond & Babette Jordan
1997 U 320
1998 Ford Explorer XLT

Re: FT generators

Reply #7 –
My 2006 Phenix has a 12kw power tech with a CAT motor
Gerard Caswell
Eunice, LA
2006 Phenix
2011 GMC Sierra P/U 4x4

Re: FT generators

Reply #8 –
Gerard,
Think you will find that Cat engine is a Perkins with a Cat name plate, Cat is the current inporter for Perkins and unless Cat has changed their colors, they make no engine that small.
Dave M

Re: FT generators

Reply #9 –
Yes, Caterpillar Corp bought Perkins many years ago.  Some call them a "Perkapillar".
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: FT generators

Reply #10 –
I always learn something from you guys!
Gerard Caswell
Eunice, LA
2006 Phenix
2011 GMC Sierra P/U 4x4

Re: FT generators

Reply #11 –
Time to fess up, years ago when I wanted to get the diesel genset for the MCI, I did not want a ying-yang name, I wanted an anglo saxon name, so I bought the Perkins 3 cylinder diesel, 1.5 L 1800 rpm, and coupled a pancake generator to it,made the suspension and controls and it did great.  Always worried as I never had a good feeling about the Perkins engines, but it had a good sounding name. When it arrived, I was delighted to see it had been made in Japan under license to Perkins.  Ran it over 6K hours, never an issue of any type.
Now, I have the Kubota and feel good about it also with 1900 hrs on it.  Sure it will go 10 k easy.  That should see me thru all my needs.
Dave M