Onan 5500 in 3921FB

[lfalkenh]

Looking to buy my first generator for my 2020 3921FB. I have the legacy package and it seems like the Onan 5500 is sized for these rigs. I can't find anywhere what the gas usage is when running the dual a/c units per day. If the rig already has the gen prep package, is there anything else I need to do than lift the generator into the front compartment? Why would I pay a dealer to do that?

[jetskier]

I'd get the 6500W Onan. It's the same size enclosure. It just runs a little higher RPMs and has a larger stator/rotor

It will drain a 30# tank in about 7-8 hours. One, two, three ACs, it doesn't seem to affect the run time drastically. It'd be nice if it had an eco mode where it sipped fuel.


You will need to run a gas line from the factory installed tee on the frame, run the exhaust tubing, and connect the wiring from the gen to the junction box in the front pass-through ceiling. You might consider relocating the start-stop switch to the kitchen cabinets. They put them in the front closet for reasons I will never know.

[jetskier]

Read this thread...
https://www.montanaowners.com/forums...ad.php?t=82461

[lfalkenh]

I was going for Gas. Can you only do propane on the rig itself?

[jetskier]

Originally Posted by lfalkenh

I was going for Gas. Can you only do propane on the rig itself?

Anything's possible, but it's setup for propane mainly because they don't provide a place for a fuel tank and the additional hazard associated with it.

[Dusters]

The propane fed 5500 Onan in my legacy was dealer installed at time of purchase. We are seasonal users and spend most of it in parks with full hookups. The cost and use of the generator over 5 years does not support the expense of having this heavy unit in my front compartment. It increases the pin weight over my rear axle along with depriving me some much needed outside storage, that is very limited on this model. Next time, I would go with a very compact portable generator for a quarter of the cost on an Onan. Even investing in solar would be a better option. Also I would need carry additional fuel to run it.

[mlh]

I agree with Dusters. I have an Onan 4000 in my Motor Home. You can get more generator for a fraction of the cost. Put it in the bed of your truck fill it up when needed with gas that is much easier to find. Another benefit propane doesn’t put out as much power as gasoline so your generator doesn’t either. Your 5500 watt generator doesn’t have 5500 watts. The Onans are convent, push a button and you have power.
Lynwood