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Bus Discussion => Bus Topics ( click here for quick start! ) => Topic started by: maria-n-skip on July 16, 2007, 01:22:07 PM

Title: Spark arrestors??
Post by: maria-n-skip on July 16, 2007, 01:22:07 PM
It seems that once again certain parts of the country are bone dry with camping restrictions being quickly elevated.

   I know that on my rig I don't have anything.

Has anyone here installed a spark arrestor and or deflection shield around the generators exhaust/muffler/pipe?

   If you have built your own some pictures would be nice.


   Thanks
Skip
Title: Re: Spark arrestors??
Post by: gus on July 16, 2007, 02:21:48 PM
My HONDA EV6010 came with a spark arrestor as part of the muffler kit. I'm away from home so can't send you a photo.

I'm not certain that a diesel engine requires one.
Title: Re: Spark arrestors??
Post by: Ncbob on July 16, 2007, 04:43:20 PM
One thing you can do is what most of the folks do at rallies...extend your generator exhaust in a vertical plane and pray that the additional cooling will take care of the problem.

Another item which might be handy is a pad, like you'd use under a wood stove, which wouldn't take up much room but would sure keep the grass under the generator or muffler from catching on fire.

Let's all have a wonderful and safe summer.

NCbob
Title: Re: Spark arrestors??
Post by: maria-n-skip on July 16, 2007, 05:11:27 PM
 Bob,

   The vertical exhaust extension I am aware of but the wood stove pad is one solution I hadn't thought of.
   The nice thing is it would work for any set up!

   I've been in the umbrella in front of a forest fire gathering a ranchers cows on horse back.
  1/4 mile away we could feel the heat and hear the fire. Almost as scary as the Seattle earthquake in the 60's
   
   Neither one I never wish to repeat.

   Thanks

    Skip
Title: Re: Spark arrestors??
Post by: tekebird on July 18, 2007, 10:42:46 AM
Home made devices don't cut it legally.
Title: Re: Spark arrestors??
Post by: maria-n-skip on July 18, 2007, 11:12:47 AM
tekebird,

    If you could elaberate a bit it would help. Neither generators in my bus or Class C have spark arrestors, Both have the exhaust
under the frame. I have seen plans for building exhaust extensions.

   Legally (from my meager knowledge)  it doesn't matter what I have done (home made or purchased) or from equip as delivered.
  if I am responsible for a fire starting I am liable for any and all damages, cost to put out the fire and possibley the rehab costs.

   I await your input because I don't want to do anything that is a waste of time.

   Skip
Title: Re: Spark arrestors??
Post by: tekebird on July 18, 2007, 11:49:05 AM
Having worked for the Forest Service as an OHV (off highway Vehicle) Specialist and a Firefighter (reaching the rank of Captain) as well as a Level 2 LEO in Southern Ca and Montana

Only Spark arrestors that have been submitted and tested by the Forest Service San Dimas Labs Facility are Legal Spark arrestors.

although an exhaust extension will reduce the chances of a carbon/spark ignition source slightly, it also allows any such carbon particle to become airborn and end up somewhere that the "ignition will not be noticed"

there are some spark arrestors that can be purchased to ad on the end of your exaust that will be legal.

as far as Legal resposibility:  If you are operationg an Combustion engine with the appropriate and maintained spark arrestor, you will still be at fault but not liable providing there is not a restriction on said use.



Title: Re: Spark arrestors??
Post by: maria-n-skip on July 18, 2007, 12:00:47 PM

Thank you.......... now I have something more tangable to work with.

    So the next logical question is where, what, maybe even how do I find the appropriate spark arrestor.

  We are already at level 1 restrictions in this county and I believe the rocky mtn div is doing the same for certain forrests.
  It hasn't even hit the height of the fire danger season.

  Again thanks
Skip
Title: Re: Spark arrestors??
Post by: tekebird on July 18, 2007, 01:32:02 PM
I would suggest trying one of the aftermarket OHV bolt on types.