Keeping a generator on a small boat can be a challenge. It takes up deck space, it’s noisy, and if you’re not careful, water can splash up and get into places it shouldn’t. On my boat Good Times 2.0, I decided it was finally time to fix all that — so I built a custom generator holder for the back of the boat.
This project turned out way better than I expected, and it solves several big problems all at once.
Here’s how I built it and why you might want to consider doing something similar on your own boat.
⭐ Why I Needed a Better Generator Setup
For a long time, my generator just sat on the back deck. It worked, but there were a few issues:
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Water would splash up around it when I was underway
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The noise inside the boat was loud
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It took up valuable deck space
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It wasn’t secured the way I wanted
By moving the generator up and behind the back wall of the boat, I’m able to:
✔ Keep the deck clear
✔ Reduce noise inside the cabin
✔ Protect the generator from water
✔ Make room for an extended run tank
✔ Lock the setup so it’s secure when I’m away
For a simple DIY project, it solves a lot of problems.
🔩 Building the Frame
The frame is made from stainless pipe and fittings. I used a Ruby battery cut-off tool because it cuts stainless really well. The key part of the build was getting the height right and then matching the angle of the transom.
The back of the boat has a different angle than the deck, so I had to bend the support pipe. To do that, I clamped the pipe down, marked my bend points, and carefully worked the pipe until it matched the boat’s angle.
That was the trickiest part of the whole build — but once it was right, the rest came together fast.
🛠 Mounting the Platform
Instead of using expensive starboard, I ordered a large heavy-duty cutting board for the top surface. It’s:
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Weather-resistant
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Easy to clean
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Cheaper than starboard
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Sturdy enough to sit on
It also doubles as a fishing workstation, which is a pretty nice bonus.
Everything is strapped down securely, including the extended run tank. I’ll also add a small bike lock so the generator can’t walk off when I’m away from the boat.
🔇 A Quieter, Cleaner Setup
By moving the generator behind the back wall, most of the noise stays outside. Inside the cabin, it’s a huge difference. The exhaust points straight out the back, and with a small clear plastic splash guard added, the generator stays dry and protected.
This setup is safer, cleaner, and a whole lot more convenient.
🎣 A Useful Upgrade for Any Boater
Whether you’re on the Great Loop, weekend fishing, or just cruising, a generator is one of the most important tools on board. Having a secure, quiet, out-of-the-way place to keep it makes boating so much easier.
This project isn’t complicated — it just takes a little measuring, cutting, and fitting — but the improvement is massive.
If you’re thinking about mounting your generator in a better spot on your boat, this DIY build might be exactly what you need.
🚤 Follow Along on Good Times Adventures
I’m always building something, fixing something, or heading somewhere new on Good Times 2.0. If you enjoy boating, DIY upgrades, or just life on the water, check out the YouTube channel and join the adventure.
