5500 Generac
You have two ways to get power from the GP5500 to your home.
Under the fuel tank sits a Generac OHV (Overhead Valve) engine (typically 389cc or 420cc depending on the year). OHV engines run cooler, quieter, and more efficiently than older side-valve designs. They also last longer under heavy use. Expect a cast iron sleeve in most models, which protects the piston ring from heat wear.
It can handle essential appliances simultaneously, such as:
The search term "5500 Generac" persists for a reason. This isn't a flash-in-the-pan product. The GP5500 and its predecessors have been running job sites, keeping freezers cold during hurricanes, and powering off-grid cabins for nearly two decades.
It is not the quietest, the lightest, or the cheapest. But it is arguably the most practical. It offers the best balance of power (5500 running watts), portability (wheels and handle), and serviceability (ubiquitous parts).
If you are ready to take control of your power needs, buy a Generac 5500, a good extension cord set, a bottle of fuel stabilizer, and a spare spark plug. When the lights go out in your neighborhood, you won't be the guy fumbling with a dead battery—you will be the one pouring a cup of hot coffee from your microwave while the rest of the street sits in the dark. 5500 generac
Specs Snapshot (Typical GP5500):
Always consult your owner's manual and local electrical codes before connecting a generator to your home's wiring.
You're looking for information about the "5500 Generac"! Here's what I found:
The Generac 5500 is a portable generator model produced by Generac Power Systems, a well-known manufacturer of generators and power equipment. Here are some key features and specs about the Generac 5500:
Overview: The Generac 5500 is a portable generator designed to provide reliable power for outdoor activities, camping, RVing, and small homes during power outages. It's a mid-size generator that offers a good balance between power output and portability. You have two ways to get power from the GP5500 to your home
Key Features:
Technical Specifications:
Reviews and Price: The Generac 5500 has generally positive reviews from customers and critics, praising its reliability, power output, and ease of use. Prices for the Generac 5500 vary depending on the retailer, location, and any bundles or promotions. Here are some approximate price ranges:
Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on your location and the specific retailer.
Unlike the common 3600 RPM air-cooled home standby units, the 5500 RPM generators are high-speed liquid-cooled machines. They are powerful but require specific maintenance to avoid catastrophic failure. The search term "5500 Generac" persists for a reason
To avoid the "carburetor death" mentioned above, follow this strict schedule:
The "Dual Fuel" Mod: There is a thriving aftermarket for converting the 5500 Generac to propane. A $100 conversion kit allows you to run on propane tanks, which never go bad (gasoline turns to varnish). This solves the carburetor issue permanently but reduces running watts to roughly 4,950.
This guide focuses on the Generac GP5500 (Model #5939), one of the most popular portable generators for home backup and job sites. It is designed to take you from unboxing to safe operation and basic maintenance.
| Interval | Action | |----------|--------| | Every 100 hours | Change oil (full synthetic 5W-30), replace filter (Generac 070185E). Inspect belt. | | Every 200 hours | Replace spark plugs (gapped to 0.030"). Check ignition timing (if adjustable). | | Every 500 hours | Adjust valve lash. Replace air filter (oil foam + paper). Change coolant. | | Every 1000 hours | Replace water pump belt, thermostat, and inspect the stepper motor linkage. |
This requires professional installation by an electrician.