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Old 08-03-2018, 02:08 PM   #1
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Generator Rack

I built a generator rack for the back of our Escape 19. Our Honda EU200i and a couple of 2 gallon gas cans should fit nicely there.

This is based on the 300 pound capacity ATV rack from Harbor Freight. The white platform is 3/4 inch X 7.5 inch X 12 feet. I had Lowe's cut it into 20 inch pieces. The screws that hold the platform to the rack are #8 X 2 inch self tapping hex head.

Note:. To move the weight forward as much as possible, when we assembled the rack, we moved the sides forward 1 hole. 3 out of 4 holes lined up. We bolted it together then drilled holes in the spine for the 4th bolt. This left a few inches of the spine sticking out the back. This was removed with an angle grinder.

The reflective tape was bought at a local truck stop, measured and cut to fit

The gap in the middle of the platform is to allow tie down straps to attach directly to the luggage rack.
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Old 08-03-2018, 02:10 PM   #2
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I thought the capacity of the rear hitch was 150 pounds?
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Old 08-03-2018, 02:15 PM   #3
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I thought the capacity of the rear hitch was 150 pounds?

It is. The rack, as it is, weighs about 30 or 35 pounds. The generator weighs 47 pounds. That leaves plenty of capacity for a couple gallons of gas.
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Old 08-03-2018, 02:17 PM   #4
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Just curious as to how you plan to secure it as small generators are a high-value target amongst theives?
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Old 08-03-2018, 02:19 PM   #5
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Originally Posted by Kingbiscuit View Post
It is. The rack, as it is, weighs about 30 or 35 pounds. The generator weighs 47 pounds. That leaves plenty of capacity for a couple gallons of gas.
Okay, you mentioned the 300# number in your first post as the capacity of the rack, but you know it is limited to a lot less by the hitch. What about aux lights, will the cargo block the tail lights or plate?
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Old 08-03-2018, 02:27 PM   #6
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Originally Posted by cpaharley2008 View Post
Okay, you mentioned the 300# number in your first post as the capacity of the rack, but you know it is limited to a lot less by the hitch. What about aux lights, will the cargo block the tail lights or plate?

That would be my question as well: The lower tail/brake lights are somewhat blocked. Unless you also have the high tail/brake light option, I'd recommend adding lights to the back of your rack.
Also, some states' requirements include lights at or near the back of whatever sticks out.
Edit: some like this:
https://www.harborfreight.com/automo...kit-63100.html
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Old 08-03-2018, 02:29 PM   #7
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My own experience with a similar rack is that I had to be able to remove my box from the rack or I couldn't remove the spare tire.
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Old 08-03-2018, 02:29 PM   #8
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Originally Posted by dfandrews View Post
That would be my question as well: The lower tail/brake lights are somewhat blocked. Unless you also have the high tail/brake light option, I'd recommend adding lights to the back of your rack.
Also, some states' requirements include lights at or near the back of whatever sticks out.
I think the conspicuity tape along the back rail takes care of the visibility problem for the rack itself, but I would still be careful not to block the trailer lights.
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Old 08-03-2018, 02:38 PM   #9
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The generator and gas cans will be held down with ratchet straps. They'll be secured by a steel cable and lock.



At this time, I don't plan on adding lights as all the tail lights, upper and lower will be visible. The reflective tape is DOT approved marking. Normally, as long as the attachment doesn't extend further than 3 feet, you are good with no marking at all.



I will make up a 6 or 7 foot power cable so that it will be easy to set the generator on the ground, leave it locked to the trailer, attach the short cable and fire it up.


I've ordered and will have a friend of mine install a Micro Air Easy Start on the air conditioner. This should allow the EU200i to run the AC.
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Old 08-03-2018, 02:42 PM   #10
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I've ordered and will have a friend of mine install a Micro Air Easy Start on the air conditioner. This should allow the EU2000i to run the AC.
I think you'll be happy with the MicroAir EasyStart, Dan. Everyone who's installed one that I've talked to is happy with it.
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Old 08-03-2018, 02:48 PM   #11
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I think you'll be happy with the MicroAir EasyStart, Dan. Everyone who's installed one that I've talked to is happy with it.

I think so. My buddy just installed one on his trailer with a 13,500 BTU unit. Prior to the easy starr, his 3000 watt generator would run it, but was on the verge of dying every time the compressor came on. Now, he leaves the generator on economy and you just hear the engine rev up.
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Old 08-03-2018, 08:10 PM   #12
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I just happen to have a brand new Honda 2000i and
LowPro lock down kit attached to a bumper hitch cargo carrier I’m needing to dispose of ....
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Old 08-03-2018, 08:43 PM   #13
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Thieves walk around with folding bolt cutters in a backpack and can cut a steel cable in seconds ........... I'd be careful. I've heard of people loosing stuff like this while sitting in a rest stop WHILE they were in the trailer.
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Old 08-04-2018, 08:17 AM   #14
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The white platform, is that melamine board ? if so you may have a issues with it being outdoors. Hope it works. Carl
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Old 08-04-2018, 09:20 AM   #15
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Probably starboard or marine board
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Old 08-04-2018, 09:31 AM   #16
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It's PVC board. I would have bought Starboard but Lowes/Home Depot only had 4x8 sheets.
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Old 08-04-2018, 11:42 AM   #17
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Nice craftsmanship.

Loading the generator in the middle could help with rear light viability, especially if you could house the gas cans in another location. That could increase safety too.
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Old 08-04-2018, 12:01 PM   #18
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The generator will be in the middle to insure things are as balanced as possible. Notice that there's a gap in the planks in the middle. This allows me to attach the ratchet straps directly to the carrier. I think this will be fairly stable.



The gas cans are another issue. If I carry them in the van, we smell gas all the time. If the van is rear ended, then I have gas cans inside the van with us. I'll figure it out one way or another. We're talking about a 2 gallon can.
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Old 08-04-2018, 12:52 PM   #19
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I think I saw a gas can that fit inside the spare wheel well over on the Jeep forums.....
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Old 08-04-2018, 06:19 PM   #20
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Zardoz View Post
I just happen to have a brand new Honda 2000i and
LowPro lock down kit attached to a bumper hitch cargo carrier I’m needing to dispose of ....
Hi would you be interested in separating the gen and low pro which goes in the hitch and locks the gen ? And if so you could pm with price ? Pat
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