RV CONCEPTS
RV GeneratorAid™
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the RV GeneratorAid™ on my gas generator?
A: No, the RV GeneratorAid™ is only for use on diesel generators.
Q: On what size exhaust pipe does the RV GeneratorAid™ work?
A: The RV GeneratorAid™ fits a 1 1/2 inch exhaust pipe (outside diameter).
Q: Are there any other considerations for using the RV GeneratorAid™?
A: In order to use the RV GeneratorAid™ you should ensure that your generator and exhaust system are in good working order.
Another consideration is that you should be able to install the RV GeneratorAid™ on your RV in a reasonable manner - this means that windows, doors, slideouts, etc. must be considered.
Q: Will I have any trouble assembling and installing this system?
A: The initial assembly and installation of the RV GeneratorAid™ requires a little bit of skill. Once installed you will be able to put up or take down the unit in two to three minutes.
If you do not feel confident about installing the system, you should hire a certified RV technician to install it for you. RV Concepts is not liable for any damage to the RV GeneratorAid™ unit, your exhuast system, or your RV in the installing of this product.
If you have any questions or concerns after reading the Installation Instructions that come with the RV GeneratorAid™, feel free to call RV Concepts at (407) 463-9034 to discuss your issues, or send us your questions in an email using the Contact Us link below.
Q: Are there any additional materials I will need in order to assemble and install the RV GeneratorAid™?
A: All of the materials for the RV GeneratorAid™ unit are included in your purchase, including heat shields and rain cap. You will need the following supplies to help with your installation:
- Water-resistant sealant (like tub and tile caulk). To be used on screws and into the screw holes. (Don't use silicone - it won't clean up with water and won't come off the paint.)
- A 9/64th drill bit - a good sharp one - and some tape to put on the bit so you don't drill too deep (only about one inch deep) when you install the two hangers on your RV.
- A sturdy ladder and a friend to hold it while drilling, measuring, and installing the hangers.
- An electric drill to drill the four holes for the hangers.
- A hand screw driver or a socket.
- A whiteboard dry erase marker by Marks-A-Lot®. Use this to mark on the wall where the hangers and screw holes will go. It wipes off clean (won't hurt paint). Use whatever color suits you.
Q: Will I have to make any adjustments to my generator exhaust pipe?
A: The end of the exhaust tube ideally should be flush with the outside wall. The clamps, which fit onto the hangers, are adjustable for two inches out from the wall. If it's too far out, you will need to cut your generator exhaust end so that it meets the requirements, which is from flush to two inches out from the wall. If it's too short, you will need to have an extension added to get it flush. Most exhaust ends point straight out, while some point towards the back of the RV - this is ok.
Q: Can you give me some pointers on drilling the holes?
A: Here are some things to keep in mind when drilling the holes for your hangers:
- When drilling, be careful not to drill too deep - no more than one inch. If you are drilling into only fiberglass, it will be easy. If you are drilling into a metal wall support, it will be more difficult. Go slow and be careful.
- Before putting in the screws, coat the screws with tube and tile caulk to keep the rain out, and put the screws in by hand (or you will strip out the holes) and tighten only snug.
- Put the tape on the drill bit an inch from the end to help you not drill too deep.
Q: Is it ok to extend my generator slide while the RV GeneratorAid™ is attached?
A: NO! Anytime you are attaching the RV GeneratorAid™ to your RV, you must ensure that you DO NOT extend your generator slide (if you have one) while the RV GeneratorAid™ is attached. If your RV is equipped with a generator slide, locate the generator slide fuse and remove the fuse. Store the fuse for safe-keeping. This will prevent the slide from being inadvertently extended while the exhaust extension system is attached. Again, the generator slide CANNOT be extended while the RV GeneratorAid™ is attached. To do so would cause damage to both your RV GeneratorAid™ and your generator exhaust system.
Q: Does the RV GeneratorAid™ get very hot?
A: Yes, the tubes will get really hot. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- It has heat shields, and you should ALWAYS use them, and still be careful.
- The generator must be OFF before setting up the RV GeneratorAid™. Otherwise, it will get too hot too fast to deal with.
- Wait about 10 to 15 minutes after shutdown before taking the RV GeneratorAid™ down.
- Do not allow children to play around or with the RV GeneratorAid™ unit.
Q: How should I store my RV GeneratorAid™?
A: Diesel exhaust can get messy, so store the unit in its box, or in a bay where it won't get hurt or in trouble.
Q: Will I need a ladder to put up or take down my RV GeneratorAid™?
A: The heat shields pull off easily, and the tubes should come apart easily as well. Done right, you won't need a ladder to set up and remove your RV GeneratorAid™. Before beginning, be sure the unit has cooled down. Remove the heat shields first. Then grab the middle tube and push that tube and the top one up and off of the top hanger. Then pull the lowest tube off of the first hanger. A little twisting and pulling up will get it off the elbow. Lastly, gently rotate and pull the elbow from the generator exhaust end.
Q: Is it ok to drive my RV with the RV GeneratorAid™ attached?
A: No, do not drive your RV with the RV GeneratorAid™ attached.
Q: What safety tips can you give me concerning the re-routed exhaust?
A: Do not use the RV GeneratorAid™ if you think the exhaust will go into your air conditioner unit or open roof vents. It's your duty and responsibility to know where the re-routed exhaust is going. When in doubt, ask questions - call RV Concepts at (407) 463-9034 to discuss if needed.
Q: Why does the RV GeneratorAid™ have a raincap?
A: Keeping rain water out of the entire exhaust system is important to your generator warranty. Also, this will keep the black soot from being splashed onto your and your neighbor's paint jobs.
