Recreational vehicle owners know the importance of having a backup generator. They are often critical to a fun and comfortable outdoor adventure, but they must be reliable and safe. The RVMP Flex Power® 5500i Generator is manufactured with power, performance, and, most importantly, safety in mind. The generator’s compact design removes the traditional bulk of most generators, making it easier to fit within storage spaces or compartments. Not only is it lighter than the competition, it's also more versatile with the capability to run on both gasoline or propane. Dual fuel capacity allows for flexibility - gasoline provides a higher BTU, and propane runs cleaner and quieter.
Travel with peace of mind knowing your generator can change fuel sources with the simple flip of a switch. The RVMP Flex Power® generator also features smart start technology, removing the traditional starter, which may need to be replaced over time. Smart start technology uses a digitally produced three-phase waveform passed to the alternator's stator to rotate the engine and start more efficiently. Without a traditional starter and no spark from a commutator, the risk of igniting combustible fuels is largely removed, improving safety and offering peace of mind. Unlike generators of the past, the 5500 Watt Flex Power® model is equipped with an integrated inverter forclean power production. A completely new exhaust and cooling system has been designed for maximum cooling while staying quiet.
Your RV will be complete with the RVMP Flex Power® Generator. When partnered with solar power, your setup will keep you running even in extended boondocking and dry camping environments. This new and innovative patent-pending design brings many upgrades over traditional generator models.
Important Note: This generator is for RVs that are prepped for a permanent generator install location or have the adequate space and fuel supply (gasoline and propane) located in the area where the generator will be installed.
Important Note: This generator produces hot exhaust gases which must be piped out of the RV. Before using this generator, be sure to install a carbon monoxide detector inside the RV.
- Better efficiency - On-demand power uses less fuel than other popular generator models both while running and at rest
- Dual compatibility - Runs on either gas or propane
- Consistent output - Less distortion (3% compared to 17% in competitive models) allows you to power sensitive devices like laptops, TVs, and gaming counsels, without worrying about overload
- Softer sound - Consistent output allows for a quieter run without loud rev cycles
- Significantly fewer emissions when run with propane - up to 10x less output
- Digital hour reading – Easily measure running time for maintenance
- Safer design -Engineered and built to mitigate fire risk
- Digital valve controller - Auto shutoff monitoring for fire prevention
- Remote start capability – wiring harness for connecting to controls within the RV for remote starting
- Heat sensor - Built-in protection from overheating and over-revving
- Patent-pending technology – See RVMP Patents for more information
- Certified by the USDA, EPA, CSA, and more
- AC/DC Excitation: Brushless PM
- Amps: 45.8
- Design: Multi Pole PM
- Dimensions: 29.5" L x 19.25" W x 13.5" H
- Frequency: 60
- Fuel: Gasoline/LP
- RPM: Variable 2600-3600
- Voltage Regulation: Digital
- Volts: 119-124
- Watts: 5500
- Weight: 161 lb. (73 kg)
Electrical Specifications
Alternator Specification
Regulatory Approvals
Mechanical Specifications
Engine Detail
Average Fuel Consumption
Performance @100F/38C and 500 ft./152.4 m altitude
Sound Level @ 10ft. (3M) in dB(A)
Frequently Asked Questions for buying 5500i Dual Fuel Generator
Do you have an Auto Generator Start System?
We will have this ready by the end of 4th quarter 2022. Our generator will work with any auto start feature that has a dry pin connection for starting the generator. The pin out chart within the installation manual will show you which wire to connect your AutoStart system to. We cannot advise as to specific AutoStart systems, as there are too many, but generally speaking this is the process to connect.
Should I operate operate my generator without an onboard properly functioning carbon monoxide detector?
ABSOLUTELY NOT!!! Failure to adhere to this requirement could result in death.
Should I check all exhaust connections regularly for leaks and tighten them as necessary?
Absolutely exhaust gas is deadly! Do not operate the generator with a faulty exhaust system. Your tailpipe MUST ALWAYS extend beyond the bottom edge of the vehicle sidewall.
I bottomed out on a driveway, what should I do?
Make sure you inspect the unit for damage, paying particular attention to the exhaust pipe that is extending beyond the bottom edge of the vehicle sidewall. If this is damaged be sure to seek service immediately, as this damage could result in inhalation of exhaust gas which is deadly.
Can I store gas, oil, or other flammable materials in the generator compartment?
NO! Do not store anything inside the generator enclosure. This area must always be kept free from debris.
Can I service the generator while it is running?
NO! You must perform on maintenance and service while the generator is off, and the negative battery cable is disconnected. Moving parts can cause injury and or death, and live wires could cause fatal electrocution.
Can I use my RV generator as back-up power in my home or business?
No! Backfeed to utility systems can cause serious risks to life or property. Never connect the generator to an external electrical system except through an approved transfer switch.
Can I use an exhaust extension kit on my generator?
RVMP advises against and does not like to endorse any kits for the following reasons and will impact the FLEX POWER™ Limited Warranty:
Can I buy spare parts for my generator?
Yes, all of the following name brand parts are available for Flex Power generators:
Should I turn off the air conditioners and large electrical loads in my vehicle before starting the generator?
Yes, this is good practice and will keep your generator running optimally.
Should I really follow the break-in procedures?
Yes, following these guidelines in the RVMP Owners’s Manual, will decrease oil consumption and improve long-term power characteristics. The braking process usually involves running the generator at about 50% load for two hours, then 75% load for two hours, then letting it cool down and starting over again. This process is good practice and will pay dividends for the reliability of your generator.
Do I really have to “exercise” my generator?
Yes, it is recommended to run your generator a minimum of 50% capacity for two hours once every month. This prevents the fuel from coming up with varnish, fuel varnishing results in hard starting and surging. Monthly exercising of your unit will keep your generator running well, will keep your seals lubricated, and will prevent if you're from varnishing and the fuel system running optimally.
What it is an AMP?
An amp is the amount of current flowing in a wire or a conductor. Typically RVs have two different categories of amperage: 30 amp or 50 amp. Make sure you know the difference.
What is a volt?
A volt is the amount of electrical potential present, specifically for an RV this is 120 VAC when running on “shore power” (your generator is plugged into the power grid) or when running on generator power. When operating solely on batteries the voltage is 12 VDC.
What is a watt?
Wattage is the representation of power. You calculate wattage by multiplying voltage x amps: 120 VAC x 30 AMPS = 3,600 WATTS. If you look at each item running in your vehicle you can calculate the wattage required versus your wattage available to compare demand on system and capacities.
30 AMP versus 50 AMP
Today all RVs are wired for either 30 or 50 AMP shore power. A 30 AMP electrical cable cored is rated at 120 VAC, and the 50 AMP is rated at 240 VAC. A quick analysis shows a 50 AMP shore cord has close to three times the power potential than a 30 AMP system.
What are the biggest loads in my RV on the generator?
The largest single demand on any generator will be powering the cooling systems. This could be one, two, or even three roof mounted air conditioners. Also, the battery charger demands significant power output from your generator. Understanding and managing these loads is very important to optimizing generator performance.
What are some common loads on the generator in an RV:
Common loads on the generator in an RV:
What is an air conditioner "short-cycling"?
When an air conditioner is running normally pressure is created in the refrigerant. When shut off the system requires at least five minutes for the pressure to equalize. If the air conditioner is started before the pressure equalizes this is called “short-cycling.” This can cause the AC to trip the circuit breaker, overload the generator, and make the AC shut off due to thermal overload. The only way to address is to allow sufficient time for the AC to equalize pressure and temperature. To prevent this make sure the AC is not blowing directly on the thermostat.
What is worse high altitude or high temperature on generator performace?
Both can cause the generator to lose power and performance. Altitude results in power decrease of approximately 3% for every 1,000 feet above 500 feet. Temperature result in 1% loss of opera for each 10 degree F above 80 degrees F. In some cases it may be required to manually adjust the carburetor to overcome some of these performance issues. Please see Owners’s Manual.