Legacy Elite II with 3000w Inverter - Generator Setup

[EurekaJ]

This being my first season of use, I am still in the process of learning the proper procedures for many tasks.  My trips so far, both on and off grid, were successful with minimal issues.  As I approach the summer season, I purchased the Honda eu2200i companion generator to ensure I will meet the power needs when air conditioning may be used extensively.   I’d like advice regarding my understanding of the proper process for connecting generator power to the trailer.   Here is the current process I have put together, please tell me where I’m missing anything:

1. Turn of AC devices in the trailer and secure the trailer main AC power breaker
2. Set up the generator to run per the instructions
3. Connect neutral ground plug into the 120v 20 amp generator connection
4. Connect the 30 amp cord supply side to the 120v 30 amp generator connection with a locking adapter (noting that it will only be sending 20 amps)
5. Connect the 30 amp cord to the trailer connection
6. Start the generator to run at normal setting (not eco)
7. Re-engage the trailer main AC breaker

Given these steps, the generator will be providing shore power at ~20 amps which should run necessary AC functions (with the exception of the air conditioner) and will also charge the lithium batteries alongside the solar charging.  

Do I need to alter any settings in the xantrex controller app to ensure safe operation under this shore power configuration?  

My hull (#1056) has the Truma air conditioner retrofitted into it.  As I understand it, my eardrums should be grateful to the previous owners.  In order to use the air conditioner while using the 2200i, I will either need a soft start installed inside the Truma (all signs point to this not currently being the case) or I can use the inline soft start product in between the generator and the trailer.   

I appreciate your guidance.

Edited May 13 by EurekaJ

[Rolind]

I think your process is great. I usually don’t turn off the main ac breaker prior to starting the generator, but maybe it is best to do so. Eco mode is also fine if you are not running the air conditioning. Lastly, if you should lose or misplace your neutral grounding plug, you can still use the generator to power the trailer if you switch the ems to bypass mode. I usually use the grounding plug but have misplaced mine on occasion. 
I also change the xantrex breaker rating to 15 amps. I remember that the xantrex will trip the overload on the generator if the batteries are significantly discharged and the breaker rating is set higher. We have the larger lithium bank, not sure if the smaller bank would also trip the overload. 

[EurekaJ]

Thanks for the feedback.  I do have the larger lithium package.  I will set the xantrex to 15 amps as you suggest.  It will be interesting to monitor the battery charging and amperage.  I debated whether to go with a DC to DC charger off the Tundra and decided against it. 

[Ronbrink]

15 hours ago, EurekaJ said:

 I debated whether to go with a DC to DC charger off the Tundra and decided against it. 

Many praise the addition of a DC to DC charger, more is better!

[topgun2]

Just now, Ronbrink said:

Many praise the addition of a DC to DC charger, more is better!

THIS week's KYD post addresses their opinion on this subject.

Bill

 

[EurekaJ]

I think the DC-DC charging may be there at some point in the future when I can find a local shop that can do a proper install.   I have an understanding of the system but I am not an expert and would prefer anything with the truck be done professionally.   I do agree that having redundant methods for charging (in addition to the stock solar) would be a nice situation in the long term.  I do  expect to be traveling for much longer periods after retirement.  

[ScubaRx]

22 hours ago, Rolind said:

I think your process is great. I usually don’t turn off the main ac breaker prior to starting the generator, but maybe it is best to do so. Eco mode is also fine if you are not running the air conditioning. Lastly, if you should lose or misplace your neutral grounding plug, you can still use the generator to power the trailer if you switch the ems to bypass mode. I usually use the grounding plug but have misplaced mine on occasion. 
I also change the xantrex breaker rating to 15 amps. I remember that the xantrex will trip the overload on the generator if the batteries are significantly discharged and the breaker rating is set higher. We have the larger lithium bank, not sure if the smaller bank would also trip the overload. 

I agree with you. I never turn off the main 30 amp breaker prior to starting the generator. I can’t see any reason to do that as we don’t turn it off prior to plugging it into a power post. As far as misplacing or losing your bonding ground plug, I leave mine permanently in the generator. There’s no reason to remove it. If I were to remove mine, I wouldn’t be able to find it five minutes later much less on the next camping trip.

Edited May 14 by ScubaRx