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Diesel RV Generators
Diesel RV Generators for Reliable, Long-Distance Power
A diesel RV generator makes the most sense for rigs already running on diesel, letting the generator share fuel with the main engine rather than requiring separate gasoline or propane storage on board. This collection includes Cummins Onan's QD RV-specific series, Yanmar's portable diesel units, and Kubota's Lowboy II line, giving diesel RV owners options across a wide range of output and portability.
Cummins Onan QD: Built Specifically for RVs
The QD 3200 through QD 12,500W cover a broad range, from 3.2kW for lighter diesel needs up to 12,500 watts for Class A motorhomes running multiple air conditioners or a residential refrigerator simultaneously. These units are engineered for onboard RV mounting, distinct from the Commercial QD and SD series also in this collection, which are built more for job site or fixed commercial use rather than RV-specific installation, worth noting if you're specifically shopping for onboard RV power.
Yanmar and Kubota: Portable Diesel Alternatives
For RV owners who want a generator they can set up outside the rig rather than a fixed onboard unit, the Yanmar YDG3700W and YDG5500W offer portable diesel options at 3,700 and 5,500 watts. Kubota's Lowboy II series, the GL7000 through GL14000, extends further into heavier-duty territory, delivering substantially more output for larger rigs or buyers who also want the generator's capacity available for other uses when not traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a Cummins Onan QD RV unit or a portable Yanmar or Kubota diesel generator?
The Cummins Onan QD RV series is purpose-built for onboard mounting and integration with your rig's existing systems, offering a permanent, dedicated solution. A portable Yanmar or Kubota unit gives you the flexibility to set the generator up outside the RV and also use it at home or a job site between trips, which matters if you want that dual-purpose flexibility rather than a fixed installation.
What size diesel RV generator do I need for running air conditioning?
A single RV air conditioner typically needs 3,000 to 4,000 watts to start reliably, while running two units simultaneously often requires 6,000 watts or more. Larger motorhomes with a residential refrigerator and multiple AC units running together generally need to look toward the higher end of the QD range, 10,000 to 12,500 watts, to cover everything without careful load management.
Is it worth paying more for a diesel RV generator over a gasoline or propane option?
If your RV already runs on diesel, sharing fuel with the main engine simplifies fuel logistics considerably and avoids needing to carry a separate fuel type. Diesel also generally offers better fuel efficiency and longer engine life under sustained use, which matters for RV owners who run their generator frequently or for extended periods, though the higher upfront cost is a real tradeoff against a comparable gasoline or propane unit.