Trying to save some MPG's in my truck...power invertors?

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bdaly84

New member
Well now that I we are all paying $4.00/gal for gas, I am looking to lighten my load in my truck to try to save some MPG's. I currently carry most of supplies/ equipment except for the extractor (only take when needed). However, I am still carrying around 200-250lbs of supplies/equipment.



I want to sell my big generator and get rid of my bigger delta tool box. I use ONR most of the time, so carrying water is usually under 5-6 gallons. The generator weighs the most...100lbs. The tool box (without chemicals) is around 45lbs. So thats going and I am considating my chemicals into smaller amounts.



Has anyone tried to use a higher power inverter? I have seen some ratings of 3000 surge 1300 running, with a 25amp circuit and higher. My generator now is 4400 surge, 3000 running, with a 20 amp circuit. I run my polishers, vacuum, etc. now with no problems. Most power inverters weigh around 5-10lbs. Big difference, plus i not carrying gas (which is added weight)



Some advice would be great. Some experiences with power inverters too.



Thanks:waxing:
 
If most of your details are at customer's homes, I've yet to find anyone who objects to me pugging in to their outlets. 99 times out of 100, when I go to a new client's house, without me even saying anything, they show me where the water and electrical outlets are. Quieter for them anyway if you don't run a generator. Most offices have electrical access as well, but you'd might have to clear it with the owner of the building, or have your client do it.



You shouldn't have a problem running your buffers off an inverter but your vacuum and extractor might cause problems. Even if you find an inverter that can handle it, you will probably have to run your engine to keep the battery from discharging and that will likely offset any mileage gains you'd get from not carrying your generator.
 
Scottwax said:
If most of your details are at customer's homes, I've yet to find anyone who objects to me pugging in to their outlets. 99 times out of 100, when I go to a new client's house, without me even saying anything, they show me where the water and electrical outlets are. Quieter for them anyway if you don't run a generator. Most offices have electrical access as well, but you'd might have to clear it with the owner of the building, or have your client do it.



You shouldn't have a problem running your buffers off an inverter but your vacuum and extractor might cause problems. Even if you find an inverter that can handle it, you will probably have to run your engine to keep the battery from discharging and that will likely offset any mileage gains you'd get from not carrying your generator.
Click to expand...



100% agree with scott...no one really has a problem with giving me power



some business places I had to search around for an outlet, and in another I just run an extension cord from his office to the parking lot through two door...100ft extension cord is key for the vacuum and polisher!!! ONR is another plus that gets some ahead of the competition...1 gallon of waste waster on the floor or 10+ (per car)....the property owner would be more likely to allow ONR over conventional washing...
 
I recall reading a few articles about the higher watt inverters and how they reduce the life of a vehicle's charging system. Additionally, the proper way to utilize this method requires the installation of remote marine grade/deep cycle batteries. Not only are they expensive, but also weigh as much or more than a generator.



Even if you ignore the damage it would cause to your alternator and don't opt for an external battery setup, you will still be running the truck while working- negating any gain in MPG. I suggest you read a few articles from the professionals as all my amateur advice is strictly from memory.
 
Its off topic, but if you are looking to cut fuel costs as much as possible, I've read that adding a very small amount of acetone to your fuel tank can save a small percentage. Some people swear by it, and if your looking to split hairs, why not split a few?
 
Thanks for the responses. I do use land electric as much as possible. I use it more than not. However, I do have the "regulars" that do not have land electric available. Mostly business complexes and condos. The generator makes a ton of noise (B&S motor) also. I figure with reduction of the generator weight and the gas container, hopefully I'll save a little. I think I am going try a power inverter.



Anyone that have power inverter's, which brand, rating, models do you have?



Acetone huh? I would think that would not sit well with the injectors. Might be worth a try though.



Thanks again everyone for the help.
 
Does your truck get better mileage than your generator?



The energy has to come from somewhere. The generator gets it from the gas in its tank. An inverter gets it from the gas in the truck’s tank. It’s stored in the battery, but it ultimately come from the gas.



Using the inverter means running your truck’s engine to keep the charge up (running high power tools without the engine will drain a battery quickly). Or, if you do manage to use it without draining your battery to where it won’t start the car, you force your alternator to recharge the battery when you do start up again. That puts a heavier load on the engine until it’s charged.



So again, the real question is; does your truck get better mileage than your generator?





PC.
 
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