Generac XD5000E Portable Diesel Generator Review (Model 6864)

The Generac XD5000E portable diesel generator stands out among most other portable generators. While it is a fairly heavy device compared to many other units, it is also built for heavy-duty power generation and provides a nice balance between capacity and fuel consumption. It’s certainly not for everyone, but it will be exactly what certain users need.

Capacity and Output

The most obvious, and ultimately most important feature of the Generac XD5000E Diesel is in the overall power output. At 5000 watts, this portable generator is one of the most powerful, and most highly rated, portable generators around.

Rated AC output: 5000 Watts
Maximum AC output (Motor Starting/Peak): 5500 Watts
Maximum rated AC current: 41.7 / 20.8
Rated Frequency: 60Hz
DC output? – No
Starting: Electronic Starting, with Pull-cord backup
Diesel Fuel Capacity: 12 Gallons (45.4 L)

It’s important to note that the 5000 watt rating for the Generac XD5000E is not for peak usage; this is the amount of continuous running watts available from this device. Often, generators will be advertised or named based on the overall peak wattage that they can produce, while the continuous running watts remain hidden in the details. Thankfully, the Generac XD5000E completely fulfills this promise. In case a little extra is needed (such as for starting an electric motor), the maximum output starting watts on this device is a clean 5500 watts.

With such a large output, this portable generator is able to power a good number of low-to-mid wattage devices, or 1-2 high-wattage devices for a fair amount of time. The generator has a fairly substantial 12 gallon fuel tank, runs solely on diesel, and can get 32.4 hours running at 50% capacity. This means that you can draw 2500 watts from this generator continuously and have it last for nearly 1 ½ straight days without needing to refill it. If you do need to run it at maximum capacity, it will still provide power for around 16 hours.

Control Panel

The Generac XD5000E (Model# 6864) has a relatively extensive control panel. The control panel contains a useful one-button Start/Run/Off switch, as well as a small hour meter for measuring the amount of time the generator has been up and running. There are more outlet options on this portable generator than you’ll find on most generators as well. There are four 120 volt, 20 amp outlets for standard devices, one 120 volt Twist Lock outlet (NEMA L5-30R), and one 120/240volt Twist Lock outlet (NEMA L14-30R) with an accompanying voltage selector switch. All outlets have accompanying circuit breakers in the case of overloads or short circuits.

Portability (Weight/Dimensions)

Dimensions (Length x Width x Height): 33.1” x 22.5” x 25.6” (840.74mm x 570mm x 650mm)
Weight (dry): 247 lbs. (112 kg)
Weight (with fuel): 337 lbs. (152.9 kg)

Unfortunately, this portable generator is far from lightweight, only marginally achieving the term “portable”. The device is just over 2 feet tall (25.6in), just under 2 feet wide (22.5in) and nearly 3 feet long (33.1in), with a dry weight of 247 lbs. Adding in a full load of diesel fuel (about 7.5 lbs. per gallon), will place another 90 lbs. to the overall weight, putting the weight for this generator at around 337 lbs. This is far more than most generators, especially gas generators, and significantly limits the portability.

The Generac XD5000E comes with an integrated lifting eye for easier transport. There is also a portability kit – which includes handles, wheels, and front foot – but this is sold separately. The device also lacks a wattage output measure, making tripping the circuit breaker more likely for the unaware.

Generac XD5000E: Conclusion

The Generac XD5000E is a powerful, yet heavy device. Perfect for contractors, it can also work well for those who want a bit more power security in their home. Although its portability is significantly limited due to the heavy weight, its excellent fuel consumption and high capacity make it a great device if not carried around too frequently. At current diesel prices, this generator can be operated at 1/2 capacity for about $20 a day.