CAT

Cat RP12000 E Portable Generator (Discontinued)

April 22, 2023 by James Parker

Cat-RP12000-E

Key Features

Wattage (Gas): 15,000 W / 12,000 W
THD: < 5%
Noise Level: Unspecified
Fuel Type: Gasoline
RV Ready: No
Run Time@ 25% load: Unspecified
Run Time@ 50% load: 11.7 h
Weight: 350 lbs

Table Of Contents

1. Description – General Summary
2. Outlets – Types of receptacles
3. Other Features
4. Mobility – Size and Portability
5. Product Videos
6. Specifications
7. About the Manufacturer
8. Warranty Information

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Description

The Cat RP12000 E’s core is the 670 cc Rato OHV V-Twin engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120/240V, it provides a running wattage of 12,000W and a peak wattage of 15,000W. Its starting mechanism is based on a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included) (battery included). With a full tank, the RP12000 E can operate for around 11.7 hours at 0.5 load (fuel consumption is approximately 1.13 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 13.2 gallons. The RP12000 E generates a clean sine wave : providing <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), delicate electronics can be plugged in its AC outlets safely.

Outlets

Two 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI duplexes, two 120V 30A (L5-30R) outlets, a 120/240V 30A (L14-30R) outlet, and a 120/240V 50A (14-50R) outlet are all on the control panel. It also has 1 DC outlet: a 12V 8A receptacle that looks like a cigarette lighter so you can easily charge your batteries. Even though this Cat generator isn’t quite RV Ready, an L5-30P to TT-30R adapter makes it easy to connect it to an RV. The RP12000 E is also ready for a transfer switch because it has a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle. You can connect it to a breaker box to power your home when the power goes out.

Features

The RP12000 E’s control panel has a handy meter that shows voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours. This helps you keep track of its status and activity. The LED lights on the panel give you even more control and make it easy to use at night. The generator has a built-in fuel gauge that makes it easy to see at a glance how much gas is in the tank. In terms of safety, the generator can be used without worry because it has an automatic shut-off for low oil and an overload protection (circuit breaker). Along with the basic paperwork and an owner’s manual, which can be used right away to start the generator, the Cat RP12000 E comes with a tool kit, funnel, battery charger, and oil.

Mobility

The Cat RP12000 E has a standard, open frame that measures L35.7 x W32.7 x H35.8 in, This frame gives it support and lets it be lifted off the ground. The generator is built to work well outside and in rough places. Even though this device is technically portable (meaning it can be moved), it weighs 350 pounds and can be hard to move and use without special tools. But its wheels and folding handle make it easier to move once it’s on the floor. A lift hook on the top of the generator’s frame adds another layer of safety when moving, loading, or unloading the device.

Product Videos

The following charts show how some of the most important features of the Cat-RP12000-E compare to other generators with the same power output.

**Fuel efficiency is give in relative percentage, 0 being the lowest and 1 being the highest value. Please see below specification table for actual value.

Specifications

Generic

Inverter	No
Fuel efficiency	0.188 gal/kWh
Parallel capable	No
RV ready	No
Fuel	Gasoline
Engine	670 cc Rato OHV V-Twin
Starting system	Electric
Voltage	AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V

Power

	Gasoline	Propane
Running watts	12,000 W	n/a
Starting watts	15,000 W	n/a
Running amps (@120/240V)	100/50 amps	n/a
Peak amps (@120/240V)	125/62.5 amps	n/a
Run time @50% load	11.7 h	n/a
Run time @25% load	Unspecified	n/a

Control Panel

GFCI outlets	Yes
Covered outlets	Yes
Automatic Voltage Regulator	Yes
AC outlets	2x 120V 30A (L5-30R); 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R); 1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R)
DC outlets	1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style)
Data center	VFT
Indicators	No
Fuel tank	Metal, 13.2 gal
Fuel gauge	Yes

Mixed

Weight	350 lbs
Approx. dimen. (L x W x H)	35.7 x 32.7 x 35.8 in
Noise (lower limit)	Unspecified
THD	< 5%
Compliance	CARB, EPA
Security	Low oil and overload protection
Spark arrestor	Yes
Accessories included	Oil, funnel, tool kit, battery charger, battery, and wheel kit
Warranty	2 years

We compared more than 500 portable generators at 50% load. We found that there is “skewed right” distribution for the difference between 50% load and 25% load and the median comes at 1.43. With this number we converter all the 25% load runtime to 50% load. Same with the propane efficiency, where median is 1.38.
For some generators where propane runtime was not given, we used NIST 1994 GGE (Gasoline Gallon Equivalent) formula: 5.66 lbs. of propane = 1 gal of gasoline. All propane runtime is for 20 lbs. propane tank (4.7 gallons).
Unlike many other sites, we actually tried to find out information about each of the above requirements. However, we are human and are therefore capable of the odd oversight or mistake. Please let us know if you spot any missing or erroneous values so that we can fix them.

About the Manufacturer

Caterpillar Inc., which is often just called “CAT,” is an American engineering company. It makes machines, engines, financial products, cell phones, and, of course, power generators. The company was started in 1925 and is on the Fortune 500 list. It is one of the main parts of the US Dow Jones index. CAT mainly makes large generators for businesses, but it also has a wide range of portable and small generators for homes. The engineering and design for CAT portable generators are done in Mossville, Illinois, and Belfast, Northern Ireland. Their production, however, is done in China.

Warranty Information

The warranty for the Cat RP12000 E lasts for up to 2 years. This warranty may not cover all parts of the generator or may only cover certain parts. Check out Cat’s warranty policies if you want to know more about the warranty on Cat generators. You can also call their customer service line at 1-844-PWR-ME-UP (844-797-6387). Check CAT Website for more information.

Cat RP7500 E 7,500 Watt Portable Generator

April 22, 2023 by James Parker

Cat-RP7500-E

Key Features

Wattage (Gas): 9,375 W / 7,500 W
THD: Unspecified
Noise Level: Unspecified
Fuel Type: Gasoline
RV Ready: No
Run Time@ 25% load: Unspecified
Run Time@ 50% load: 11 h
Weight: 207 lbs

Table Of Contents

1. Description – General Summary
2. Outlets – Types of receptacles
3. Other Features
4. Mobility – Size and Portability
5. Product Videos
6. Specifications
7. About the Manufacturer
8. Warranty Information

Description

The engine of the Cat RP7500 E is a 420 cc OHV 4-stroke that runs on gasoline and can put out 120/240V. It has a running power of 7,500W and a maximum power of 9,375W. This generator can be started with a simple pull-start mechanism, but it can also be started with a simple and elegant electric starter (battery included). With a full tank, the RP7500 E can run for about 11 hours at 0.5 load (fuel consumption is about 0.72 GPH). This is because it can hold 7.9 gallons of fuel.

Outlets

There are 6 AC outlets on the control panel: two 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI duplexes, a 120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle, and a 120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle. Even though this Cat generator is not RV Ready, an L5-30P to TT-30R adapter can be used to connect it to a simple RV. Also, the RP7500 E is ready for a transfer switch because it has a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle. It is easy to connect to a breaker box and can power your home if the power goes out.

Features

The RP7500 E’s control panel has a handy meter that shows voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours. This makes it easy to keep track of its status and activity. The LED lights on the panel give you even more control and make it easy to use at night. The generator has a built-in fuel gauge that makes it quick, easy, and convenient to check how much gas is in the machine. When it comes to safety, this product has an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), so you can use it without worry. The Cat RP7500 E comes with the standard paperwork and an owner’s manual, which will help you get the machine going quickly. Also included are a tool kit, a funnel, and oil. You can also buy a storage cover that is made by the company.

Mobility

The Cat RP7500 E is 32.9 inches long, 27.4 inches wide, and 24.7 inches high. It has a typical open frame design that makes it stable and lets the generator be lifted off the ground. This type of design is great for tough environments and heavy outdoor use. Even though this device is technically portable (meaning it can be moved), it weighs 207 pounds and can be hard to move and use without special tools. Once it is on the ground, it can still be moved easily with the help of its wheels and folding handle.

Product Videos

The following charts show how some of the most important features of the Cat-RP7500-E compare to other generators with the same power output.

**Fuel efficiency is give in relative percentage, 0 being the lowest and 1 being the highest value. Please see below specification table for actual value.

Specifications

Generic

Inverter	No
Fuel efficiency	0.192 gal/kWh
Parallel capable	No
RV ready	No
Fuel	Gasoline
Engine	420 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting system	Recoil, Electric
Voltage	AC: 120/240V 60 Hz

Power

	Gasoline	Propane
Running watts	7,500 W	n/a
Starting watts	9,375 W	n/a
Running amps (@120/240V)	62.5/31.3 amps	n/a
Peak amps (@120/240V)	78.1/39.1 amps	n/a
Run time @50% load	11 h	n/a
Run time @25% load	Unspecified	n/a

Control Panel

GFCI outlets	Yes
Covered outlets	Yes
Automatic Voltage Regulator	Yes
AC outlets	1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R); 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
DC outlets	No
Data center	VFT
Indicators	No
Fuel tank	Metal, 7.9 gal
Fuel gauge	Yes

Mixed

Weight	207 lbs
Approx. dimen. (L x W x H)	32.9 x 27.4 x 24.7 in
Noise (lower limit)	Unspecified
THD	Unspecified
Compliance	CARB, EPA
Security	Low oil and overload protection
Spark arrestor	Yes
Accessories included	Oil, funnel, tool kit, battery, and wheel kit
Warranty	2 years

We compared more than 500 portable generators at 50% load. We found that there is “skewed right” distribution for the difference between 50% load and 25% load and the median comes at 1.43. With this number we converter all the 25% load runtime to 50% load. Same with the propane efficiency, where median is 1.38.
For some generators where propane runtime was not given, we used NIST 1994 GGE (Gasoline Gallon Equivalent) formula: 5.66 lbs. of propane = 1 gal of gasoline. All propane runtime is for 20 lbs. propane tank (4.7 gallons).
Unlike many other sites, we actually tried to find out information about each of the above requirements. However, we are human and are therefore capable of the odd oversight or mistake. Please let us know if you spot any missing or erroneous values so that we can fix them.

About the Manufacturer

Caterpillar Inc., frequently referred to as just CAT, is an American engineering company with a line of goods that includes power generators, financial products, mobile phones, and machines. The 1925-founded business is listed among the Fortune 500 and serves as a pillar of the US Dow Jones index. CAT offers a variety of portable and household-scaled devices in addition to its primary concentration on industrial scale generators. Northern Ireland’s Belfast and Illinois’s Mossville collaborate to develop CAT portable generators. However, China is where they outsource its manufacture.

Warranty Information

The warranty for the Cat RP7500 E lasts for up to 2 years. This warranty may not cover all parts of the generator or may only cover certain parts. Check out Cat’s warranty policies if you want to know more about the warranty on Cat generators. You can also call their customer service line at 1-844-PWR-ME-UP (844-797-6387). Check CAT Website for more information.

Cat RP6500 E Portable Generator (Discontinued)

April 22, 2023 by James Parker

Cat-RP6500-E

Key Features

Wattage (Gas): 8,125 W / 6,500 W
THD: Unspecified
Noise Level: Unspecified
Fuel Type: Gasoline
RV Ready: No
Run Time@ 25% load: Unspecified
Run Time@ 50% load: 12 h
Weight: 202 lbs

Table Of Contents

1. Description – General Summary
2. Outlets – Types of receptacles
3. Other Features
4. Mobility – Size and Portability
5. Product Videos
6. Specifications
7. About the Manufacturer
8. Warranty Information

Description

The Cat RP6500 E has a 420 cc OHV 4-stroke engine that provides 120/240V, runs on gasoline, and puts out 6,500W while running and 8,125W at its peak. This generator has both a simple pull-start mechanism and an electric starter that is easy to use and convenient (battery included). The RP6500 E can run for about 12 hours at 0.5 load on a full tank and 7.9 gallons of fuel (fuel consumption is approximately 0.66 GPH).

Outlets

The control panel has 6 AC outlets: two 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI duplexes, a 120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle, and a 120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle. This Cat generator isn’t quite RV Ready, but it has an L5-30R receptacle that makes it easy to hook it up to an RV with an L5-30P to TT-30R adapter. Also, the RP6500 E is ready for a transfer switch because it has a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle. It is easy to connect to a breaker box and can power your home if the power goes out.

Features

The status and activity of the RP6500 E can be easily checked on the control panel, which has a meter that shows voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours. The LED lights on the panel give you even more control and make it easy to use at night. The generator has a built-in fuel gauge that makes it quick, easy, and convenient to check how much gas is in the machine. In terms of safety, the generator can be used without worry because it has a circuit breaker for overheating and an automatic shut-off when the oil level gets too low. The Cat RP6500 E comes with oil, a tool kit, and a funnel, as well as the usual paperwork and an owner’s manual to get you up and running right away. You can also buy a storage cover that is made by the company.

Mobility

The Cat RP6500 E has a traditional, open frame that measures L32.9 x W27.4 x H24.7 in, This frame gives it support and lets it be lifted off the ground. This type of design is great for tough environments and heavy outdoor use. Even though this generator is technically “portable” in the sense that it can be moved, its weight of 202 pounds makes it very hard to move by hand. Still, once it’s on the ground, its wheels and folding handle make it easy to move.

Product Videos

The following charts show how some of the most important features of the Cat-RP6500-E compare to other generators with the same power output.

**Fuel efficiency is give in relative percentage, 0 being the lowest and 1 being the highest value. Please see below specification table for actual value.

Specifications

Generic

Inverter	No
Fuel efficiency	0.203 gal/kWh
Parallel capable	No
RV ready	No
Fuel	Gasoline
Engine	420 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting system	Recoil, Electric
Voltage	AC: 120/240V 60 Hz

Power

	Gasoline	Propane
Running watts	6,500 W	n/a
Starting watts	8,125 W	n/a
Running amps (@120/240V)	54.2/27.1 amps	n/a
Peak amps (@120/240V)	67.7/33.9 amps	n/a
Run time @50% load	12 h	n/a
Run time @25% load	Unspecified	n/a

Control Panel

GFCI outlets	Yes
Covered outlets	Yes
Automatic Voltage Regulator	Yes
AC outlets	1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R); 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
DC outlets	No
Data center	VFT
Indicators	No
Fuel tank	Metal, 7.9 gal
Fuel gauge	Yes

Mixed

Weight	202 lbs
Approx. dimen. (L x W x H)	32.9 x 27.4 x 24.7 in
Noise (lower limit)	Unspecified
THD	Unspecified
Compliance	CARB, EPA
Security	Low oil and overload protection
Spark arrestor	Yes
Accessories included	Oil, funnel, tool kit, battery, and wheel kit
Warranty	2 years

We compared more than 500 portable generators at 50% load. We found that there is “skewed right” distribution for the difference between 50% load and 25% load and the median comes at 1.43. With this number we converter all the 25% load runtime to 50% load. Same with the propane efficiency, where median is 1.38.
For some generators where propane runtime was not given, we used NIST 1994 GGE (Gasoline Gallon Equivalent) formula: 5.66 lbs. of propane = 1 gal of gasoline. All propane runtime is for 20 lbs. propane tank (4.7 gallons).
Unlike many other sites, we actually tried to find out information about each of the above requirements. However, we are human and are therefore capable of the odd oversight or mistake. Please let us know if you spot any missing or erroneous values so that we can fix them.

About the Manufacturer

Warranty Information

The warranty for the Cat RP6500 E lasts for up to 2 years. This warranty may not cover all parts of the generator or may only cover certain parts. Check out Cat’s warranty policies if you want to know more about the warranty on Cat generators. You can also call their customer service line at 1-844-PWR-ME-UP (844-797-6387). Check CAT Website for more information.

Cat RP5500 Portable Generator (Discontinued)

April 22, 2023 by James Parker

Cat-RP5500

Key Features

Wattage (Gas): 6,875 W / 5,500 W
THD: Unspecified
Noise Level: Unspecified
Fuel Type: Gasoline
RV Ready: No
Run Time@ 25% load: Unspecified
Run Time@ 50% load: 15 h
Weight: 178 lbs

Table Of Contents

1. Description – General Summary
2. Outlets – Types of receptacles
3. Other Features
4. Mobility – Size and Portability
5. Product Videos
6. Specifications
7. About the Manufacturer
8. Warranty Information

Description

The Cat RP5500 has a 300 cc OHV 4-stroke engine that runs on gasoline and can put out 120/240V. It has a running power of 5,500W and a maximum power of 6,875W. This generator starts up with a simple pull-start mechanism that has been around for a long time. Due to its 7.9-gallon fuel tank, the RP5500 can run for about 15 hours at 0.5 load (using about 0.53 GPH of fuel per hour) on a full tank.

Outlets

Two 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI duplexes and a 120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle are among the 5 AC outlets on the control panel. The RP5500 is ready for a transfer switch because it has a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle. You can easily connect it to your breaker box to power your home when the power goes out.

Features

The RP5500’s control panel has a handy meter that shows voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours. This makes it easy to keep track of its status and activity. The LED lights on the panel give you even more control and make it easy to use at night. The generator has a built-in fuel gauge that makes it quick, easy, and convenient to check how much gas is in the machine. In terms of safety, the generator can be used without worry because it has a circuit breaker for overheating and an automatic shut-off when the oil level gets too low. The Cat RP5500 comes with the standard paperwork and an owner’s manual, which will help you get the machine going quickly. Also included are a funnel, a tool kit, and oil. You can also buy a storage cover that is made by the company.

Mobility

With dimensions of L32.9 x W27.4 x H24.7 in, the Cat RP5500 is a traditional, open-frame generator that is stable and can be raised above ground level. The design shown is great for the outdoors and other rough places. The generator weighs 178 pounds, so it may be hard to move or transport it by hand, even though it is technically a “portable” generator (movable). But its wheels and folding handle make it easier to move once it’s on the floor.

Product Videos

The following charts show how some of the most important features of the Cat-RP5500 compare to other generators with the same power output.

**Fuel efficiency is give in relative percentage, 0 being the lowest and 1 being the highest value. Please see below specification table for actual value.

Specifications

Generic

Inverter	No
Fuel efficiency	0.192 gal/kWh
Parallel capable	No
RV ready	No
Fuel	Gasoline
Engine	300 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting system	Recoil
Voltage	AC: 120/240V 60 Hz

Power

	Gasoline	Propane
Running watts	5,500 W	n/a
Starting watts	6,875 W	n/a
Running amps (@120/240V)	45.8/22.9 amps	n/a
Peak amps (@120/240V)	57.3/28.6 amps	n/a
Run time @50% load	15 h	n/a
Run time @25% load	Unspecified	n/a

Control Panel

GFCI outlets	Yes
Covered outlets	Yes
Automatic Voltage Regulator	Yes
AC outlets	1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R)
DC outlets	No
Data center	VFT
Indicators	No
Fuel tank	Metal, 7.9 gal
Fuel gauge	Yes

Mixed

Weight	178 lbs
Approx. dimen. (L x W x H)	32.9 x 27.4 x 24.7 in
Noise (lower limit)	Unspecified
THD	Unspecified
Compliance	CARB, EPA
Security	Low oil and overload protection
Spark arrestor	Yes
Accessories included	Oil, funnel, tool kit, and wheel kit
Warranty	2 years

We compared more than 500 portable generators at 50% load. We found that there is “skewed right” distribution for the difference between 50% load and 25% load and the median comes at 1.43. With this number we converter all the 25% load runtime to 50% load. Same with the propane efficiency, where median is 1.38.
For some generators where propane runtime was not given, we used NIST 1994 GGE (Gasoline Gallon Equivalent) formula: 5.66 lbs. of propane = 1 gal of gasoline. All propane runtime is for 20 lbs. propane tank (4.7 gallons).
Unlike many other sites, we actually tried to find out information about each of the above requirements. However, we are human and are therefore capable of the odd oversight or mistake. Please let us know if you spot any missing or erroneous values so that we can fix them.

About the Manufacturer

Warranty Information

The warranty for the Cat RP5500 lasts for up to 2 years. This warranty may not cover all parts of the generator or may only cover certain parts. Check out Cat’s warranty policies if you want to know more about the warranty on Cat generators. You can also call their customer service line at 1-844-PWR-ME-UP (844-797-6387). Check CAT Website for more information.

Cat RP3600 Portable Generator (Discontinued)

April 22, 2023 by James Parker

Cat-RP3600

Key Features

Wattage (Gas): 4,500 W / 3,600 W
THD: Unspecified
Noise Level: Unspecified
Fuel Type: Gasoline
RV Ready: Yes
Run Time@ 25% load: Unspecified
Run Time@ 50% load: 13.5 h
Weight: 125 lbs

Table Of Contents

1. Description – General Summary
2. Outlets – Types of receptacles
3. Other Features
4. Mobility – Size and Portability
5. Product Videos
6. Specifications
7. About the Manufacturer
8. Warranty Information

Description

The Cat RP3600 has a 212cc OHV 4-stroke engine that runs on gasoline and puts out 120V and 3,600W while running and 4,500W at its most powerful. The generator has a pull-start mechanism that is common. With a full tank, the RP3600 can run for about 13.5 hours at 0.5 load (using about 0.33 GPH of fuel). This is because it has a 4.5-gallon fuel tank.

Outlets

The control panel has 5 AC outlets: two 120V 20A (5-20R) duplexes and a 120V 30A (TT-30R) plug-in. The TT-30R plug on this Cat generator is ready for an RV. TT stands for “Travel Trailer”.

Features

The status and activity of the RP3600 can be easily checked on the control panel, which has a meter that shows voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours. The LED lights on the panel give you even more control and make it easy to use at night. The generator has a built-in fuel gauge that makes it quick, easy, and convenient to check how much gas is in it. From a safety point of view, the product has an automatic shut-off for low oil and an overload protection (circuit breaker), so you can use it without worrying. The Cat RP3600 comes with the basic paperwork and an owner’s manual, which makes it easy to start the generator. It also comes with a tool kit, a funnel, and oil. You can also buy a storage cover that is made by the company.

Mobility

With dimensions of L28.4 x W25.2 x H23 in, the Cat RP3600 is a traditional, open-frame generator that is stable and can be raised above ground level. The design shown is great for the outdoors and other rough places. The generator weighs 125 pounds, so it may be hard to move or transport it by hand, even though it is technically a “portable” generator (movable). Still, once it’s on the ground, its wheels and folding handle make it easy to move.

Product Videos

The following charts show how some of the most important features of the Cat-RP3600 compare to other generators with the same power output.

**Fuel efficiency is give in relative percentage, 0 being the lowest and 1 being the highest value. Please see below specification table for actual value.

Specifications

Generic

Inverter	No
Fuel efficiency	0.185 gal/kWh
Parallel capable	No
RV ready	Yes
Fuel	Gasoline
Engine	212 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting system	Recoil
Voltage	AC: 120V 60 Hz

Power

	Gasoline	Propane
Running watts	3,600 W	n/a
Starting watts	4,500 W	n/a
Running amps (@120/240V)	30 amps	n/a
Peak amps (@120/240V)	37.5 amps	n/a
Run time @50% load	13.5 h	n/a
Run time @25% load	Unspecified	n/a

Control Panel

GFCI outlets	No
Covered outlets	Yes
Automatic Voltage Regulator	Yes
AC outlets	2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R); 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R)
DC outlets	No
Data center	VFT
Indicators	No
Fuel tank	Metal, 4.5 gal
Fuel gauge	Yes

Mixed

Weight	125 lbs
Approx. dimen. (L x W x H)	28.4 x 25.2 x 23 in
Noise (lower limit)	Unspecified
THD	Unspecified
Compliance	CARB, EPA
Security	Low oil and overload protection
Spark arrestor	Yes
Accessories included	Oil, funnel, tool kit, and wheel kit
Warranty	2 years

We compared more than 500 portable generators at 50% load. We found that there is “skewed right” distribution for the difference between 50% load and 25% load and the median comes at 1.43. With this number we converter all the 25% load runtime to 50% load. Same with the propane efficiency, where median is 1.38.
For some generators where propane runtime was not given, we used NIST 1994 GGE (Gasoline Gallon Equivalent) formula: 5.66 lbs. of propane = 1 gal of gasoline. All propane runtime is for 20 lbs. propane tank (4.7 gallons).
Unlike many other sites, we actually tried to find out information about each of the above requirements. However, we are human and are therefore capable of the odd oversight or mistake. Please let us know if you spot any missing or erroneous values so that we can fix them.

About the Manufacturer

Warranty Information

The warranty for the Cat RP3600 lasts for up to 2 years. This warranty may not cover all parts of the generator or may only cover certain parts. Check out Cat’s warranty policies if you want to know more about the warranty on Cat generators. You can also call their customer service line at 1-844-PWR-ME-UP (844-797-6387). Check CAT Website for more information.

Cat INV4000E Portable Generator (Discontinued)

April 22, 2023 by James Parker

Cat-INV4000E

Key Features

Wattage (Gas): 4,000 W / 3,200 W
THD: < 3%
Noise Level: 51 dBA
Fuel Type: Gasoline
RV Ready: No
Run Time@ 25% load: Unspecified
Run Time@ 50% load: 8 h
Weight: 103.6 lbs

Table Of Contents

1. Description – General Summary
2. Outlets – Types of receptacles
3. Other Features
4. Mobility – Size and Portability
5. Product Videos
6. Specifications
7. About the Manufacturer
8. Warranty Information

Description

The 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine of the Cat INV4000E runs on gasoline and can put out 120V. It has a running power of 3,200W and a maximum power of 4,000W. Also, since it can work in parallel (but doesn’t come with a parallel kit), this power can be increased by connecting it to another unit that works with it. The noise level of the inverter generator is said to be 51 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a refrigerator). It has a simple pull-start mechanism and a simple and elegant electric starter to get it going (battery included). With a full tank, the INV4000E can run for about 8 hours at 0.5 load (using about 0.26 GPH of fuel). Its fuel capacity is 2.1 gallons. The INV4000E makes a clean sine wave with a Total Harmonic Distortion of 3%, so it is safe to plug sensitive electronics into AC outlets (THD).

Outlets

There are 3 AC outlets on the control panel: a duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI outlet and a 120V 30A (L5-30R) outlet. Also, it has 3 DC outlets: a 12V 8A receptacle that makes it easy to charge batteries, and two 5V USB ports that make it easy to charge devices like cell phones and tablets. Even though this Cat generator isn’t quite RV Ready, an L5-30P to TT-30R adapter makes it easy to connect it to an RV.

Features

A handy compartment on the top of the unit makes it easy and convenient to keep maintenance tools on board. One of the many features of the INV4000E is its control panel, which has a data center. The data center gives you information about the lifetime run hours, power output, voltage, remaining run time, and fuel level. The LED lights on the panel give you even more control and make it easy to use at night. In addition to this information, some lights let you know right away if the generator is overloaded, if it is ready to go, or if the oil level is too low. The inverter generator has a built-in fuel gauge that makes it quick, easy, and convenient to check how much gas it has. For safety, the generator has an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), so you can use it without worrying. The INV4000E also has CAT’s CO DEFENSETM carbon monoxide shutdown, which is a good thing. While the generator is running, this system checks how much CO gas is building up and turns off the engine if it gets too high. It’s a nice extra safety measure, but don’t forget to take your generator outside at all times. The Cat INV4000E comes with standard paperwork and an owner’s manual that will help you get the machine up and running quickly. It also comes with a funnel, battery charger, tool kit, battery charging cables, and oil.

Mobility

Since the Cat INV4000E is an inverter generator, its enclosed design (L25.4 x W18.5 x H20.4 in) looks better than a traditional open frame product. The design fits with what’s popular now and is perfect for generating power for fun. The generator is technically “portable” in the sense that you can move it, but at 103.6 lbs., it may be hard to move it by hand. Still, the generator is easy to move once it’s on the ground. This is because it has two wheels and a folding handle, which makes up for the fact that it’s not very easy to move.

Product Videos

The following charts show how some of the most important features of the Cat-INV4000E compare to other generators with the same power output.

**Fuel efficiency is give in relative percentage, 0 being the lowest and 1 being the highest value. Please see below specification table for actual value.

Specifications

Generic

Inverter	Yes
Fuel efficiency	0.164 gal/kWh
Parallel capable	Yes, cable not included
RV ready	No
Fuel	Gasoline
Engine	212 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting system	Recoil, Electric
Voltage	AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V

Power

	Gasoline	Propane
Running watts	3,200 W	n/a
Starting watts	4,000 W	n/a
Running amps (@120/240V)	26.7 amps	n/a
Peak amps (@120/240V)	33.3 amps	n/a
Run time @50% load	8 h	n/a
Run time @25% load	Unspecified	n/a

Control Panel

GFCI outlets	Yes
Covered outlets	Yes
Automatic Voltage Regulator	Inverter
AC outlets	1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
DC outlets	1x 12V 8A receptacle; 2x 5V USB port
Data center	Power output, fuel level, lifetime run hours, remaining run time and voltage
Indicators	Low oil, overload and output ready
Fuel tank	Plastic, 2.1 gal
Fuel gauge	Yes

Mixed

Weight	103.6 lbs
Approx. dimen. (L x W x H)	25.4 x 18.5 x 20.4 in
Noise (lower limit)	51 dBA
THD	< 3%
Compliance	CARB, EPA
Security	Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestor	Yes
Accessories included	Oil, funnel, tool kit, battery charger, battery charging cables, and battery
Warranty	3 years

We compared more than 500 portable generators at 50% load. We found that there is “skewed right” distribution for the difference between 50% load and 25% load and the median comes at 1.43. With this number we converter all the 25% load runtime to 50% load. Same with the propane efficiency, where median is 1.38.
For some generators where propane runtime was not given, we used NIST 1994 GGE (Gasoline Gallon Equivalent) formula: 5.66 lbs. of propane = 1 gal of gasoline. All propane runtime is for 20 lbs. propane tank (4.7 gallons).
Unlike many other sites, we actually tried to find out information about each of the above requirements. However, we are human and are therefore capable of the odd oversight or mistake. Please let us know if you spot any missing or erroneous values so that we can fix them.

About the Manufacturer

Warranty Information

A warranty covers the Cat INV4000E for up to 3 years. This warranty may not cover all parts of the generator or may only cover certain parts. Check out Cat’s warranty policies if you want to know more about the warranty on Cat generators. You can also call their customer service line at 1-844-PWR-ME-UP (844-797-6387). Check CAT Website for more information.