Important answers to newbie questions

--- In toyota-campers@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx, "jrmtj" <jrmtj@...> wrote:

I am about to purchase an 83 and am interested. I have a few 
questions that I hope you can answer.
> 1) What size generator to add and what is the quietest one?

Onan 2800W is the best built-in and also the most expensive ($2500 at least 
plus install).
However the only thing you need a built-in generator for is to run your roof 
a-c while 
driving.  Other power needs can be met with a hefty inverter and dual coach 
batteries, and 
perhaps solar panels ($400-$1000 for adding a complete solar system).  The 
least 
expensive solution is an upgraded power system with a 1500W inverter 
($100-$200) and 
dual golf-cart batteries ($150-250) which will even run a microwave, coffee 
maker, or hair 
dryer for a few minutes.

Honda portable generators are the quietest.  You'll need a minimum of a 2000W 
portable 
to run a roof air conditioner when parked ($800 - $1000).  You may need a 3000W 
if your 
roof a-c is an older model with a high amp startup surge.  

> 2) Aftermarket dash air?  Which one and the cost of such?

I have aftermarket dash air and it has never been satisfactory.  Be sure to get 
a system that 
has a big enough condensor.  Cost will likely be $2000 or so to install one.  I 
would guess 
that about 85% of used Toyota RVs already have dash air -- something you might 
want to 
think about.

> 3) Where to get an awning that isn't too expensive?

Used awnings are extremely rare.  Awnings that store in a vinyl bag are the 
cheapest.  
See the one called Campout ($250 - $350) from 
http://www.CampingWorld.com   
For longer life get their Horizon model with an aluminum box ($700 - $800 
installed) 
depending on length.  

Campout awnings have an optional matching screen room ($300 - $350).  Any other 
brand of screen room that is not from the same manufacturer (nor the same 
length) as the 
awning has a very low probability of matching up without any gaps for bugs to 
get in. 

* * * * *
My bottom line recommendation is that if cab air conditioning and a generator 
are 
important to you, don't spend the money to put them into a rig that is as old 
as a 
'83.  Keep looking for something that is a bit newer, and quite likely it will 
already have 
cab a-c, and maybe even an awning and a generator if you are lucky.  Put that 
same $4000 
- $6000 you would need to spend for these things into a motorhome that is about 
4 - 6 
years newer.

Hope this helps.

Welcome to the group.

Tika in Southern California
'86 E-Z Ryder
'78 Musketeer FOR SALE Cheap & Cute!