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Old 10-11-2017, 07:52 AM   #1
KEG
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Onan 5500 LP Gen Install Cost

Hello All,

I am considering having a Onan 5500 LP generator installed in my 2017 3820FK. The Monty does have the Generator Prep Package which looks like it consists of an enclosed metal box and pre wired for the Jensen In Command System.
I asked my dealer Walnut Ridge for a price installed and about passed out!! The dealer wanted $9000 for the generator and installation which I think is a little high. Was wondering if anyone has had one of these installed for less and the business name and location. Also has anyone installed this unit themselves and what all is involved.

Thanks for your replies.

KEG
 
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Old 10-11-2017, 11:27 AM   #2
Dusters
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I had my dealer install an onan 5500 LP generator in my 2016 3820FK. The base cost was $5700 and install/prep was another $1000. I'm a regular campground user and have had little or no use of this generator over the past 18 months. The weight on the front of the unit is another concern, along with the loss of one compartment, in an already limited configuration. I would probably go with a portable generator next time for my use of this equipment.
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Old 10-11-2017, 01:34 PM   #3
mlh
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Your dealer is really proud of his work. You can buy a 5500 watt Onan for under $4000.
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Old 10-13-2017, 10:20 AM   #4
jlb27537
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Have a good 2" receiver hitch built, stick a couple Honda's 2000i's on it and call it done. (Honda's are on sale now thru Dec 3.)

PLUS they are 10db louder at 1/2 load than a Honda 2000i at full load. Plus they use a lot of propane. Plus they take up a LOT of storage space. Plus they weigh 320 lbs. A Honda 2000i is about 50 lbs.

OR $4439 from Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Cummins-Onan-...ords=onan+5500
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Old 10-13-2017, 01:03 PM   #5
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Norwall has the same Onan generator for a few bucks over $3900.
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Old 10-19-2017, 07:29 PM   #6
Jimmy2546
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I had the dealer throw mine in at purchase time. They did it for 5000. The salesman told me after the fact they usually charge several thousand more for that. You can buy the generator online for about 4100. There s an install kit that also needs to be purchased. You have to run an exhaust pipe too. The labor was about 12 hours so thats how they are coming up with that large number
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Old 10-19-2017, 07:40 PM   #7
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Purchased one from Norwall shipped to door for right at $4000. Had about $150 in misc parts, "cables, copper propane line and fittings" etc. Took me about 12-15 hours. Figuring it out as I went. Had exhaust made at local shop. Dealer wanted $6200 + tax to do the job. Just returned from week trip used it about 65 hours no problems. Ran both ac units with no problem.
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Old 02-24-2018, 06:09 PM   #8
BUBBA-NONNIE
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Dusters View Post
I had my dealer install an onan 5500 LP generator in my 2016 3820FK. The base cost was $5700 and install/prep was another $1000. I'm a regular campground user and have had little or no use of this generator over the past 18 months. The weight on the front of the unit is another concern, along with the loss of one compartment, in an already limited configuration. I would probably go with a portable generator next time for my use of this equipment.
I considered for some time purchasing an Onan and having it installed. I just could not justify the cost vs the amount of time I would use it. But I am considering a portable generator so I can put it in the bed of the truck and us it to power my refrig and one air conditioner when I am traveling. I would like to run the AC prior to getting to the RV park so the trailer is cooled down. I am not sure how to get power from generator to trailer. Any one have any ideas???
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Old 02-24-2018, 06:21 PM   #9
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I put a plug-in on the front of my camper and made a short cable. I use a Honda IS 3000 generator.
Lynwood
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Old 02-24-2018, 06:45 PM   #10
BUBBA-NONNIE
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MLH,
Thank you. I have a 2017 3000RE that is prepped for a generator. I think I am going to bite the bullet and get me a Honda 3000 or two 2000's. The cheaper models are inviting but I don't to get stuck with a generator no one can repair. If you could send me a picture of you installation I would appreciate it.

Thank you!!
John
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Old 02-26-2018, 04:40 PM   #11
lostshakerofsalt
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I had Onan in Elkhart, IN install a 6500 Watt (true 50 amp) generator wired as 30/30 in my SOB about a year and half ago and they did a very professional job. When I got the bill it was < $5000 for parts and labor. They even gave me a 10% discount as a veteran.

That said, my only complaint is that it uses ~1/2 gal of propane/hour with minimal load and can use a little over a gallon/hour at full load. When dry camping, I usually run it in the AM to top off the batteries, then during the day as needed for A/C, cooking etc. I can get up to 2 days with a 40lb (9.2 gal) bottle. A full 40lb bottle of propane weighs about 75 lbs. If I was to do it over again, I would likely keep my two Honda 2000's and live with the limitations on what I can run at the same time. It is nice to be able to operate both A/Cs at the same time along with the microwave and water heater but we rarely have a need to do that.
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Old 02-26-2018, 08:32 PM   #12
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Steve,
Thank you for you input. After receiving your note and some input from others, I think I am going to get me two Hondas or one Honda 3000. The next thing I have to do is determine how to install the wiring, so I can hook up the generators in the back of my truck. Thank you. Hope you have a great week!!
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Old 02-26-2018, 09:10 PM   #13
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I bought one of these and am real happy. Works really good and it's quiet. It is on sale now for $659.
https://www.harborfreight.com/3500-W...cyIn0%3D%0D%0A
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Old 02-26-2018, 09:27 PM   #14
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Originally Posted by h2ojocky View Post
I bought one of these and am real happy. Works really good and it's quiet. It is on sale now for $659.
https://www.harborfreight.com/3500-W...cyIn0%3D%0D%0A
I am glad to hear from you. I looked at those also. Do you think most small engine repair shops can repair or service if necessary? I was somewhat skeptical about how many shops could work on it. I am glad you are happy with it. It is a great price!!
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Old 02-26-2018, 09:45 PM   #15
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I would think that a small engine shop should be able to work on it. Many of the Honda owners say they have never needed any repair. I read a few reviews on the Predator and they were all good. The Honda 3000 sells for around $2000 and max watts of 3000 not 3500 watts like the Predator. I don't have a need to use it that much so I didn't want to put out the $2000.
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Old 02-26-2018, 09:57 PM   #16
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Keg I have an Onan 6500 light commercial genset installed in our 3440RL. I did all the prep and wiring and I had a small shop install the base, shroud and physically install the genset in the compartment. I think that the price you got is a bit on the high side. It was not a job I could not have done completely but it was much easier to leave the pieces I mentioned to someone else. The Honda's are another option but that is an entirely different conversation and not the point of my response. For me I didn't want to pull out portables, I didn't want to worry about where to carry nor the setup and tear down. For me I wanted what I wanted. The added bonus I don't have to worry about my generator walking off. The units do go through a good amount of propane and my solution has been to upgrade to two 40lb tanks. So for all the pros and cons it was worth it to me to pull into my destination in the middle of sweltering weather with a cooled rig. If there is no sun and I need to charge my batteries it's done in relatively short order.
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Old 02-27-2018, 07:02 AM   #17
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The Honda 3000 makes less noise than 1 2000 then you put 2 together and they are noisy. I too think I would look at the Predator. If it goes bad throw it away and get something else. To me it’s worth the gamble.
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Old 02-27-2018, 07:43 AM   #18
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Have had a eu2000i back in 2001, used it till 2006 when I bought a pusher. Now, I bought a pairof eu2000i's. Yes, the pair was $1900 and I could have bought a HF something for 1/3 the price. But, the Honda was flawless for 6 years, and really 1 would do what we need, or plan on needing, but when I go to sell them, I think a pair of eu2000's will be more sellable than a 5 year old HF gen set. Plus a eu2000i will idle for 10-12 hours running the TV for a gallon of gas.

You might find some on sale since Honda now has a eu2200i to replace the eu2000i.
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Old 02-27-2018, 09:36 AM   #19
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Lynwood wrote:
"Your dealer is really proud of his work. You can buy a 5500 watt Onan for under $4000."

The only work he's proud of would be the sales job he did on those that paid 9,000 for it.
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Old 02-27-2018, 12:22 PM   #20
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Lynwood wrote:
"Your dealer is really proud of his work. You can buy a 5500 watt Onan for under $4000."

The only work he's proud of would be the sales job he did on those that paid 9,000 for it.
You got that right!!!
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