Is There A Complete Kit For Installing An Onan Generator In A Camper Van?

Updated 03/19/2026 | Published 03/18/2026

Question:

Hello, I am looking to add a Cummins Onan generator under a van. I am building a camper van and would like to Run Ac and internal components on generator. I think I need the 2500 model because of size constraints, but I was curious what your thoughts were. I would like to mount in spare tire area. Is there a kit for this as well? Can I tap into van fuel system for fuel? Do you sell kit for this? I plan to install myself. Just looking for advice since this is the first one I have done. Thanks, Zac Nash

asked by: Zachary N

Expert Reply:

Hey Zach, you’re thinking about it the right way, but there are a few big things to be aware of before you commit.

First, we do have the QG 2800i Onan Generator # CM52ZR which runs on gas so that's what I recommend. That’s usually the go-to for van builds because of size. It can fit in an underbody/spare tire area, and Cummins actually makes underfloor mounting kits specifically for the 2500/2800 series with brackets and hardware for that kind of install. We do not carry the mounting kits here unfortunately. We really only stock the generators themselves.

That said, it’s not a simple bolt-up, you still have to deal with clearance, airflow, exhaust routing, and shielding from road debris, which are all critical for safety and performance.

Fuel is where a lot of people get tripped up. You cannot just tap into your van’s main fuel line. Onan specifically says not to tie into the engine fuel system because of pressure differences and risk of starving or damaging the generator. What you can do is use a dedicated pickup tube in the tank or run a separate fuel tank entirely. There isn’t really a universal “kit” for that part, it’s more custom depending on your van.

There isn’t really a full all-in-one kit for this though. You’re piecing it together with a mounting kit, separate exhaust, custom fuel setup, and your electrical tie-in, so it ends up being more of a full system build than a single package.

What van do you have specifically? Where are you headed first once you get everything set up?

Let me know if there are any other questions I can answer.