Cat RP6500 E (Discontinued)

The Cat RP6500 E is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 6,500 W and a starting wattage of 8,125 W. (Read full specs)

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Cat RP6500 ECat RP6500 ECat RP6500 E

This product was discontinued. For your convenience, we decided to leave this page up.
If you were looking to purchase it, you may want to have a look at the Generac GP6500, which has similar specs.

Description

A GREAT SOLUTION FOR LIGHT COMMERCIAL OR RESIDENTIAL NEEDS. This electric start generator, is a good option for keeping your business or home up and running. Cat portable generators are equipped with electric starters and lithium ion batteries that automatically recharge whenever the generator is running. Our power will be ready when you are. A single-side, LED-lit panel contains all of the power outlets and controls in one intuitively-designed location, including the start/stop switch, choke, and fuel shutoff switch.

Zoom on the Cat RP6500 E

In a nutshell, the Cat RP6500 E is a portable generator mostly geared towards:

  • Food truck owners who want to ensure that their business is fully self-contained and does not rely on potentially unreliable external power
  • Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
  • Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working

In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.

Power & Run Time

The Cat RP6500 E in use

The Cat RP6500 E

With a 420 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, the Cat RP6500 E operates on gasoline, providing 120/240V, with a running wattage of 6,500W and a starting wattage of 8,125W.

Its starting mechanisms include a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism and a convenient and efficient electric starter (battery included).

The RP6500 E's fuel tank, with a capacity of 7.9 gallons, supports uninterrupted operation for around 12 hours at 50% load when fully fueled (fuel consumption at an estimated 0.66 gallons per hour).

Outlets

The control panel features the upcoming 6 AC outlets:

Two Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle
120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle

Despite not meeting the 'RV Ready' criteria, this Cat generator grants the advantage of simple RV compatibility via its L5-30R receptacle, enabling you to conveniently power your RV by using an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, as the RP6500 E holds a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: you'll easily be able to connect it to your breaker box to power your home during a power outage.

Portability

At L32.9 x W27.4 x H24.7 in, the traditional open frame structure of the Cat RP6500 E ensures stability while facilitating convenient maintenance access to components and promoting air cooling. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.

Even at 202 lbs, the generator is categorized as 'portable,' suggesting its movability, although its weight impede its portability. Despite the restricted maneuverability, its wheel kit and its folding handle provides a solution, allowing for convenient shifting once the generator is positioned on the ground.

Features

Panel of the Cat RP6500 E

The RP6500 E's control panel

The control panel of the RP6500 E is equipped with a convenient meter, offering voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours readings, aiding in monitoring its status and activity. To offer you even more control and easy operation during nighttime, the panel is LED-lit.

With its built-in fuel gauge, the generator provides quick and convenient gas level checks.

Security-wise, this product benefits from an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.

With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Cat RP6500 E also comes with several accessories, including: oil, funnel and tool kit. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.

Product Video

The Cat RP6500 E versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Cat RP6500 E compare to generators of similar power (between 6000 and 7000 W).

  • With a dry weight of 202 pounds, the Cat RP6500 E finds itself in the expected weight range for generators able to produce between 6000 and 7000 rated watts. Weight-conscious users may find the Pulsar PGDA70BiSCO appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 118 pounds.
  • With around 12 hours of runtime at 50% load, the RP6500 E provides a higher run time when compared to similarly powerful products. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Westinghouse WGen6000, with around 13 hours.
  • Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. With an estimated fuel consumption of 0.66 GPH at a 50% load, this generator aligns with the average gasoline usage range of comparable products. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Pulsar PGDA70BiSCO, with a fuel consumption of 0.42 GPH could be in your good books.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • Illuminated control panel
  • Several accessories included
  • GFCI Outlets
  • Electric start
  • High run time
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (202 lbs)
  • Decent fuel efficiency
WEAKNESSES:
  • No 50-amp output
  • No remote start

Do you own the Cat RP6500 E and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterNo
Parallel capableNo
RV readyNo
FuelGasoline
Engine420 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil, Electric
Warranty2 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120/240V 60 Hz
Running watts6,500 W
Starting watts8,125 W
Running amps (@120/240V)54.2/27.1 amps
Peak amps (@120/240V)67.7/33.9 amps
Run time @50% load12 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsYes
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
  • 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
DC outletsNo
Data centerVFT
IndicatorsNo
Fuel tankMetal, 7.9 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight202 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)32.9 x 27.4 x 24.7 in
Noise (lower limit)Unknown
THDUnknown
ComplianceCARB, EPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedOil, funnel, tool kit, battery, and wheel kit
Other model numbers502-3688
UPC815683020067

Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.

Spec Improvement×

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About Cat

Caterpillar Inc., often abbreviated as simply CAT, is an American engineering corporation, whose product range includes machinery, engines, financial products, mobile phones and of course, power generators. The company, founded in 1925, is one of the backbones of the US Dow Jones index and is placed among the Fortune 500 list. While CAT mainly focuses on industrial scale generators, it also provides a wide range of portable and household-scaled devices. CAT portable generators were engineered and designed in Mossville, Illinois, and Belfast, Northern Ireland. However, their production was outsourced to China.

Warranty Information

The Cat RP6500 E is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Cat generators, please consult Cat's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-844-PWR-ME-UP (844-797-6387).

Questions & Answers

What can it power?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our generator sizing calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeElectric fry pan15001500
AC (10,000 BTU)15002200
Microwave (1000 watts)15001500
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Blender400850
Radio100100
Total5192 W6192 W
For campingRV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
RV refrigerator180600
Hair dryer18001900
Electric grill16501650
Blender400850
Radio100100
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Total5195 W5785 W
For workTable saw18004500
Air compressor (1 hp)16006100
Bug zapper8080
Total3480 W7980 W
Can this generator run your home a/c and other small appliances at the same time? (Asked June 09, 2020)

Considering that it is recommended to not exceed an 80% load, this unit can run for 5200W (6500*0.8) worth of appliances at the same time. While this should normally be plenty for what you mentioned, you'd need to know the actual wattage needs of your own a/c and appliances. Feel free to use our wattage calculator to help you assess your power needs, as it allows you to add custom appliances.

is it rain proof (Asked August 28, 2021)

The unit should be properly sheltered. We recommend reading our article on generator operation in bad weather.

Cat RP6500 E
6.8 Total Score
11 reviews
Add your review
Price
6.8
Value
6.5
Quality
6.6
Performance
7.4

User Reviews

Most Recent Most Helpful Highest Rating Lowest Rating Add your review
  1. 2.9
    Price
    60
    Value
    20
    Quality
    50
    Performance
    100

    Mine worked great for 312 hrs then the counter balance shaft broke in half and killed the engine and because it took 2 1/2 years to use the 312 hrs I am stuck with it because cat quit selling these 2 yrs ago

    + PROS:
    • Started great worked great but did not last
    - CONS:
    • The counter balance shaft broke in two pieces @312 hrs and cat no longer offers services parts or labor for this unit
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  2. 4.65
    Price
    90
    Value
    90
    Quality
    90
    Performance
    100

    Reliable portable generator. Used for 2 Hurricanes w/o problems powering refrigerators and lighting. Runs at 1/2 power for at least 12 hours, but a little noisy. 2 items to take of to make life easier. First is change out the fuel valve. 5 dollar cost and a very simple job to do to fix the cheap valve that comes with the generator. Second, ALWAYS have the choke full out when starting, even with a warm engine. The Engine WILL NOT start if the choke is not out and it is not emphasized in the owners manual.

    + PROS:
    • Reliable and easy to start if you follow the guide.
    - CONS:
    • Cheap fuel control valve, but easy fix to replace for about 5 dollars.
    • A little loud.
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  3. 5
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    I used my cat 6500 in 2 hurricanes, both times our power was out for 10 days. It worked great. Especially at night we would run a 2 ton Ac at 20 amps for 10 hours. No problem. I’m very happy with my CAT.

    + PROS:
    • Always started first pull.it ran for 10 days straight except fuel and maintenance 2 different times with no problems.
    - CONS:
    • None to report. It preformed better than I expected.
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  4. 2.4
    Price
    50
    Value
    50
    Quality
    30
    Performance
    60

    Switches are cheap and don’t last for the starter and fuel shut off

    + PROS:
    • When could start it it performed well and fuel efficient
    - CONS:
    • Cheap switch controls didn’t last after third operation
    Helpful(1) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  5. Avatar
    Frederick M Allsen October 13, 2022 at 10:02 am
    5
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    Great generator, ran almost everything in house with no problem.
    Bought it at Lowes for 424.00 out the door. Discount the Cat generators. Only problem is I can not read the hour meter. I love it

    + PROS:
    • Everything about this generator is great
    - CONS:
    • Can not able to read hour meter
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  6. 5
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    A lot of power source

    + PROS:
    • At 25% Run up to 15 hours before empty tank, a lot of power I connect all essentials refrigerator one chest fridge tv and other electric lights
    - CONS:
    • If you stay near the noise is to loud, may be need best silencer.
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  7. 2
    Price
    60
    Value
    50
    Quality
    30
    Performance
    20

    Mine ran fine for 90 hours intermittenly and then it would not start. Would not recommend after I tookk to repair facility for warranty repair, it needs another engine. Cheap Chinese made junk.

    + PROS:
    • None
    - CONS:
    • Engine died after 90 hours of use
    • Warranty Service leaves a little to be desired
    Helpful(1) Unhelpful(1)You have already voted this
  8. 4.4
    Price
    70
    Value
    80
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    Bought it on sale, using it for my home for power loss after storms.

    + PROS:
    • Came with multi port (4 outlets) 120v plugs for the 240v twist lock
    • Easy pull start (my wife was able to start it with a little instructions)
    • Performed great for all my needs
    - CONS:
    • A little louder than i expected.
    Helpful(2) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  9. 4.25
    Price
    80
    Value
    80
    Quality
    90
    Performance
    90

    Use to run Hobart 210 MVP welder. Powered house for 5 days after storm. No problems. 3 years in use.

    + PROS:
    • Long running, starts first pull every time, Hour meter, volt meter, fuel gauge.
    - CONS:
    • Its heavy but thats what i expected.
    Helpful(3) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  10. 0.5
    Price
    10
    Value
    10
    Quality
    10
    Performance
    10

    Used one time. Now won’t start. Carb keeps flooding. Piece of crap

    + PROS:
    • None
    - CONS:
    • Won’t start
    Helpful(2) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  11. Avatar
    Spencer Castleberry October 20, 2020 at 6:42 pm
    1.5
    Price
    30
    Value
    30
    Quality
    30
    Performance
    30

    The pull start assembly broke after the 5th pull. Now I have to wrap the rope around the thingamajig to pull start it and it’s not really electric start.
    Very disappointed for $1100 investment.

    + PROS:
    • Runs good
    - CONS:
    • The windings in the pull start broke after the 5th time I cranked. Now I have to physically wrap the pull rope around the think to pull start it
    Helpful(7) Unhelpful(7)You have already voted this

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