APU + inverter ?

layoutshooter

Veteran Expediter
Retired Expediter
I have been looking at APU's. Some offer inverters as an option. Is there any difference between an APU with an inverter or running the output from an APU into the inverter that I already have?
 

14Wheeler

Seasoned Expediter
From what i've been schooled in. Inverters "should" be separate from the actual APU

Allows the engine do its thing and keeping the inverter seperate would
probably keep cost down and allow a more easily serviced unit. Also thats
it's typically stored inside cab.


comfortproapu_10127942.png



Ive had the 5000 by Xantrex for 4 years now. I just couldn't imagine them stuffing
this thing into a 100% waterproof enclosure. Just the proximity to the vibrations of
the carriers diesel motor would probably tear the thing up

xpower_5000_lg.jpg





Thanks Cherri....that was nice of you
 
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cheri1122

Veteran Expediter
Driver
From what i've been schooled in. Inverters "should" be separate from the actual APU

How come? :confused:

PS Whatever size that photo is, it's too big: it cuts everything off the right hand side of the page.

{Thanks for quoting the entire picture, which cuts even more off the side of the page. LOL - Turtle}
 
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greg334

Veteran Expediter
Layout,

This system is modeled after another system and it is a bit different than what people think. The layout is used in emergency systems where the need for high voltage is not critical. It is simpler than the generator type apu because of a number of things - parts are cheaper and it is easier to maintain.

The inverter from what I saw was not inside the APU but mounted in the sleeper and a shore power hookup was provided. I don't remember which one it was, don't have my notes on it here but I do remember that it was a sturdy one.

The APU provides 12 volts to the inverter by using a 200 amp alternator (I think that one uses a Delco si type like your truck) and it does work well without the maintenance issue as you have with the generator - alternators seem to last a lot longer. The A/C uses some off the shelf components (Sanden compressor was the one I saw) and is serviceable by any competent A/C mechanic - if I remember right, it is a orifice tube type a/c unit. I don't know where they get 33k BTU, I am thinking it is about 21-25k BTU from the size of the compressor.

I don't know what engine you have in yours (and my offer is still standing for a few hundred for it even if it is leaking like a sieve) but the Yamar engine can be a PIA to repair and is a bit different than say a Kubota or Cat, on both parts and servicing.

The controls are digital by the way, they claim analog but that's not completely true. The battery level triggers are digital and I think the safety shut down system is too.

Would I buy it?

I most likely would IF I would get a component manual and diagrams for the electrical system with it as part of the deal so I can or my mechanic can repair it.
 
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