CUMMINS ONAN RV GAS GENERATORS - ULTIMATE MAINT. GUIDE - Part 1

Onan RV Gas Generator scheduled annual maintenance. If your having problems with your Onan generator of any kind, like starting, running smoothly, or you're not sure how to service it, this video series is for you. This Onan Generator video series will also show you how to keep your generator running in top notch condition.
We do all our motorhome and Onan generator maintenance every year BEFORE we head out on the road for another year of RVing. RV generator maintenance is important. This annual, scheduled, RV generator preventative maintenance is an easy DIY job. We do most, if not all of our motorhome and Onan RV 5500 gas generator maintenance in the winter & sometimes it runs over into early spring. Everything we cover here are the basic things you should be doing to your generator all the time. You don’t want to wait till your RV Gas Generator breaks down, has gas or fuel problems or doesn’t run right and then decide to deal with it.
This 3 Part Series covers cleaning the outside of the Onan RV Gas Generator, changing the oil, changing the oil filter, changing the air filter, cleaning and checking all the electrical contacts, cleaning out the Onan generator spark arrester, changing the spark plugs, exercising your generator and so on. I encourage you to be proactive and do these annual scheduled maintenance items now, before you get on the road. Doing your scheduled annual RV generator maintenance will insure that it performs for 10’s of thousands of hours and will deliver the power you need when you need it.
There’s a lot to know about taking care of your Onan RV Gas Generator. These annual maintenance generator items you should be doing are not difficult to learn, and there not particularly difficult to do. They are all DIY. In order to cover what you really need to know, I decided to break everything down into a 3 Part Series:
Part - 1 will cover basic maintenance you should do every year:
• CUMMINS ONAN RV GAS GE...
Part - 2 will cover a more detailed look at all the different parts and areas you need to know about, their maintenance schedule, some trouble shooting tips and cleaning the slip rings:
• CUMMINS ONAN RV GAS GE...
Part - 3 will cover Fuel Tips, the importance of PROPER EXERCISING and some safety tips:
• CUMMINS ONAN RV GAS GE...
I highly encourage you to watch the entire 3 Part series. There’s a lot in this RV gas generator Master Class Series for everybody, even if you have a slightly different RV gas generator model than we do.
Check out my PLAYLIST page here:
/ rvstreet
CRITICAL SPARE PARTS I ALWAYS CARRY FOR MY GENERATOR:
• Fuel Filter
• Fuel Pump
• Oil Filter
• 2qts. of 30W, I prefer Synthetic Royal Purple Oil (You can also use Mobile One, Lucas or Amsoil)
• Oil Pressure Switch
• Air Filter
NOTE: All the other items I used in this video like my gloves, penetrating oil, brake cleaner, recycling oil container etc., are also in my Amazon Store above.
NOTE:
ONAN 5500 OIL PRESSURE SWITCH - Call to order
parts.cummins....
Oil pressure switch Part#: A063K666
OR...get the Oil Pressure Switch here:
www.smallengin...
There's usually always some subtleties from model to model. So if you don't have your manual yet, download your specific Onan Cummins RV generator Owners Manual here:
www.cummins.co...
Download Onan Cummins RV generator Service Manual here for models - HGJAA, HGJAB, HGJAC, HGJAD, HGJAE, HGJAF
www.skilledcraf...
💗 OUR AMAZON STORE 💗
FOR THE PRODUCTS WE USE & RECOMMEND IN ALL OUR VIDEOS
www.amazon.com...
💗 BUT THERE’S MORE:
EVEN IF WHAT YOU NEED IS NOT IN OUR AMAZON STORE, YOU CAN STILL CLICK OUR STORE LINK BELOW, THAT WILL TAKE YOU TO OUR STORE, SHOP AND SEARCH ON AMAZON LIKE YOU NORMALLY WOULD, PUT YOUR ITEMS IN THE CART AND CHECK OUT. Using our Amazon Store to buy your RV gear, parts, maintenance items “AND ANYTHING ELSE YOU NEED” is a great way to say "Thank You" Martin for making these videos and helping the RV community.
DISCLAIMER:
We are in no way experts or professional mechanics. But being a journeyman millwright for years & being EX Military, has proven to be very helpful in my lifetime learning how to care for & maintain all sorts of machinery & equipment like: helicopters, airplanes, tanks, motorcycles & many types of other vehicles. That, along with 18 months preparing & upgrading our RV before we went full time, & now traveling for several years has gained us a lot of knowledge. Regardless of what we recommend, consult a professional if you're unsure about working on your RV. Work you perform or products you purchase based on any information we provide is at your own risk.

[@davidcook1166]

OK, I've watched some of this Texans other videos and was impressed. (cleaning videos) So today I watched this vid and let me tell you that as a retired mechanic this guy definitely has a backround. I've worked numerous Onan issues and after watching part1 I'm excited to watch #2 and #3! I like the drilling of the oil filter....neat trick. Here goes video #2.....ps. how you "hook up" with a wife that will help doing oil changes? She's "special"!....walt...tulsa,ok

[@RVstreet]

Oh she's special alright. You have no idea. She's one in a million. 😜😜😜😜

[@patrioticbeats2089]

All your videos have helped a ton of people! Thats a team player right there

[@BetoMatz]

I don't even have an Onan generator, but your videos are so well done that I watched the whole thing. Great videos.

[@DD-kh5fi]

I dont even have an rv! I plan on watching part 2 and 3!!

[@RVstreet]

Now that deserves 10 of these 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@RVstreet]

Now that deserves 15 of these 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@crawford757]

Another Great Public Service by Martin... Really appreciate you helping us out..

[@RVstreet]

Ya, leave it to me to post a bi-weekly PSA.

[@williamlucas6978]

Great detailed step by step process instruction.

[@RVMadness]

WOW! This series is excellent. Very cool of you to generate these videos for the RV community! Extremely thorough and well edited. Thank you for simplifying the generator maintenance process for all of us!

[@RVstreet]

You are most welcome 👍

[@dexterburt1006]

Straight from a certified RV tech, GREAT VIDEO!!!

[@billesposito6027]

The King of DIY’s! Thorough, knowledgeable and a great communicator. Thank you

[@bobelder18]

It is a blessing to me to know I can watch these videos now anytime. Thank you for sharing your time and experience so I can do my own maintenance. Your videos are so detailed and you make those of us envious to make our rigs as clean and nice as yours. Martin, you are the best and I enjoy watching these videos. 👍

[@RVstreet]

Thank you Bob so much. My pleasure. I really like sharing & equipping other people with the knowledge and confidence to tackle the things they are afraid to do themselves. It's my small way to contribute back to others the good things life has given me.

[@georgewheeler3731]

Love the PM videos you do, keep them coming, Love them. Safe Travels.

[@RVstreet]

Thank you George so much. I try to do my videos like I do my PM stuff. Do it right, do it often and be done with it.

[@dodger845]

I’m re watching step1-3 before doing maintenance on my Onan generator. Your step by step tutorial is so much appreciated!

[@cristianstriblea792]

Thank you for such an amazing video training . Got my national rv Surfside 32c 2007 With only 37,000 miles and I am ready to hit the road and enjoy quality time with my family. Your videos help me a lot ( in the last 2 months) in doing maintenance to prepare the RV to be ready to hit the road Thank you !

[@Chasing70]

You have a talent at teaching! Thanks so much!

[@spacecadet4876]

Excellent advice to check the oil filters seat for loose paper, etc. I'd add verifying the previous filters O-Ring isn't stuck to the filter seat. Knew someone who had an oil change performed by a local shop where that occurred. The shop unknowingly installed a new filter on top of the stuck O-Ring. Tightening the new filter caused the stuck O-ring to rotate and spit out partially. Well, the engine was wrecked after the customer drove away blowing oil out of the unseated new filter. There's probably more to that story, but the end result was a damaged motor. Martin and Joannie; I really appreciate the videos you two have produced. Watching your must-haves to decide what air compressor we need and this one to finally give our Onan its first servicing. Thanks again (Jay & Gail from FL). Re-watched this; Martin made it a point to verify the seal was still attached to the removed filter!

[@pneuamtics1]

We got the delivery on time and we love having a generator.. it was our first one… really easy set up

[@johnbaker5199]

fluid film is great for putting over contacts and connections as well you do it yearly it’s permanent corrosion protection

[@martharitaville3074]

Thanks for another great maintenance video. As you said, having all your manuals (and reading them) before you need them may save you a lot of down time and money. Can’t wait for parts 2 & 3.

[@RVstreet]

(and reading them)....... Yep.

[@markdevlin9403]

Martin & Joanie are WORKING! Thank you for all the great content. I have learned a ton here. While I have an older diesel pusher so much of what you publish is helpful. Who cares about diesel vs gas, so much is the same. Martin is great and so is the editor of these videos!! You guys are so awesome for teaching all of these maintenance videos and helping those of us learn how to do it ourselves. Thank you for your service Mr. Martin!

[@RVstreet]

Thanks Mark so much for those kind words. For me it's labor of love. 🔧 "so is the editor of these videos!"...... If you'd like to see what the responsibilities each of us has watch this vid. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppaoe4mkr5t3obc Also, not sure if you've checked out any of these vid's, but if your interested you might also find some of these helpful too: kzbin.infoplaylists

[@jbmann52]

Update to my previous comment: I have always been a DIY oil and oil filter , air filter guy. But after watching this video I pulled the cover off generator and said to myself “Martin would not be happy with the way this thing looks”. But after watching this video I did just as Martin instructed. And what a difference it made. Especially it would not start on first attempt. Always took two tries with a pause between tries. Today in low 30 degree temps I primed it and pushed to start. It fired up after about three seconds of cranking and ran about 7 hours as we motored to Florida. I believe Martin’s instructions to clean all the electric connectors was a major reason for better starting. Regular service and preventive maintenance. “Don’t leave home without it”. Thanks Martin.

[@RVstreet]

Martin would not be happy with the way this thing looks...you got that right Barry. And what a difference it made....Yep! Way to go and thx for coming back and commenting. Doing PM is the only way to keep everything running it's best. You're a living testimony. thx Barry 🔧 Now for the rest of you out there....get your rig Martinized.

[@adamlevine2320]

Thanks Martin. Another great video. You timed it perfectly for me. I'm getting to the point of having to change the oil in my generator for the first time. By the time this series is complete, it'll be my turn. Thanks for taking the time to explain each step.

[@Jlharrell1981]

Excellent video and so comprehensive. As someone who is relatively mechanically inclined but does not have a lot of experience with generators and small engines, I appreciate the little details in tips and tricks. Keep it up!

[@RVstreet]

Did you happen to watch Part 2 and Part 3 also? kzbin.info/aero/PLkQXtMp9xodRcd1MYY9cn1LTAzgImKgH0

[@Jlharrell1981]

@@RVstreet I did, just today. I did a little RVstreet binge! I'm having a couple small problems with my RV so I was doing some research.

[@RVstreet]

@@Jlharrell1981 👍

[@lawrenceloud4737]

Another great video Martin. You do an outstanding job in explaining, in detail, the steps necessary to complete required maintenance. I’m waiting for Part-2.

[@RVstreet]

Part - 2 is coming up this Sunday @ 8:00pm. Stick around.....😜

[@LeeHorner-zt8zf]

Just returned from a FMCA convention and Onan factory folks were there; on the venturi they suggest hooking up something that will allow the exhaust pipe to continue to vibrate; the example you showed appears to not allow for vibration. We also have a 2001 Marquis Gold 5500 just like yours so your videos have been spot on for us. The factory also said no need to replace the spark plugs as they last forever. Final point: we use marvel mystery oil in the fuel which is an upper cylinder lubricant and increases our mpg 2-3 mpg; and we use sta-bil stabilizer if we're going to be out of service more than 30 days.

[@karengann9615]

You are so detailed! That is a compliment.

[@golfnut2599]

i do this every year too, just a little different, i drive the mh to wayne my mechanic, who in his business maintains all of the county vehicles, and say wayne change the oil in the engine and the generator, and then the next year he does the same but also does the trans, easy peasy, but i must say you do great videos for the do it your selfers, great job martin and joanie

[@RVstreet]

👍 😝

[@TheHunTwo]

Thank you, Martin. After 15 years (of VA healthcare ha, ha, ha) I am now getting better and bought a motorhome. I am relearning through you, my friend and brother in arms.

[@RVstreet]

Thanks Don. 🇺🇸 🙏 I've been under VA care now since 1995 and they have taken excellent care of me. What kind of MH did you buy?

[@clydew2357]

Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge. This is so helpful to a not so mechanically inclined RVer. Your addition of the handles to the Generator Cover is a great idea. I'll be making that addition to my generator soon. TKS. Thank you for your service from one Vet to another.

[@RVstreet]

🇺🇸 🙏

[@williamlambert2865]

Good maintance video Martin, just as a little reminder, I take a paint pen and Mark the date I change my filter. (For all you old Army guys, I made a 2404 chart as well, this insures I cover everything)

[@RVstreet]

thx William 👍 Ya, I keep track of my stuff a little different. I keep maintenance logs on everything I do. One log for our toad and one for the coach. My coach maintenance logs are now 35pgs. long and I keep them in a con't document on my laptop. However, I do label our 3 water filters and our water softener like you do.

[@dexterburt1006]

William I do the same thing! LOL! I also mark my filter so that I do no more than 1/2 to 3/4 of a turn from the time the seal touches the base to the point of snugness! It's alway worked well for me!

[@sparks2999]

Great video Martin. Thanks for all your content, I've been watching most of your videos daily. One comment on the Onan Generators, I have a Marquis 7000 looks almost exactly like yours. When I first got it, I thought you had to hold the stop switch down until the generator completely stopped. Little did I know when I did that, the prime came on and it appeared to flood out the engine. Made it really hard to restart Hot. You just need to push and release the stop side of the button and the controller will stop the generator for you. Also, I was made aware of cooling issues in hot climates (CA Desert), we can reach upwards of 120+ degrees during the summer months. I was told to make a deflector out of sheet metal and install it behind the muffler opening in the bottom of the generator. This will keep the hot exhaust gases from being drawn into the cold intake side of the cooling which is right next to the muffler opening. Made big difference for my generator! Thanks again for you great videos!

[@RVstreet]

Hummmm...good tip for the 7000. Mine you have to push stop and hold to shut down the generator but that never has affected restarting when hot. The sheet metal deflector is also a good idea in hot temps. Never heard of that before. Whenever I park in ANY place like the desert where I have the liberty of parking anywhere, or at any angle, I *TRY* to accomplish two things: 1) Face the motorhome so it points north so the sun doesn't come into the windshield 2) Face the motorhome so it points into any present wind or breeze, so the generator exhaust is carried away from the rear. Either that or mount a Gen-Turi like I showed in Part 3. thx Bill 👍

[@tomgaluski4605]

Martin you did it again 👏 with a great step by step video for maintaining our rigs. Thanks

[@RVstreet]

thx Tom. 🙏

[@davewehberg9606]

Still thinking of Martin! His videos are great and good reference for every RVer!

[@RVstreet]

I'm happy you are still watching the vides 👍

[@beckeda1]

Great video. These are a must for any motorhomer!

[@ronlapierre5977]

Hey Martin, thanks again for the super video. This video and others that you have made definitely “encourage and motivate “ me to keep my motorhome in top shop. That’s what I need. I’m new to the RV ownership gig and though I know a fair amount about a lot of the systems, you definitely gel it all together for me so that I can take it seriously. Thanks to Joanie too for the great video work.

[@RVstreet]

Thanks Ron. I'm all about the details. That makes the difference. BTW...Joanie says thanks too. 💋

[@garyroberts7592]

Great video. Another helpful tip for the spark arrestor plug confined hot area is use a long 1/2" drive extension to grip the plug and use a wrench on the male end of the extension. Saves fighting in the confined area no burn issues.

[@RVstreet]

Thanks for sharing

[@rachaelb9164]

Your videos are very helpful and easy to follow. We rarely use our generator.. like maybe a few minutes at a time to run the microwave. It has been surging which makes the power very inconsistent. I imagine like any other gas engine it doesn’t do well to just sit.

[@americanrascal53]

An excellent and valuable video series for RV owners! I have virtually the same genny in our rig and practice most of the techniques you share, but its very worthwhile to watch every second of this. On another note, I had a very surprising failure on my 450 hour genny about 4 months ago- something I'd never expected in a million years. While traveling on a warm day through south Georgia, I attempted to fire the genny to get power to my roof top A/C units to cool the rig down. I hit the starter switch at the drivers seat and nothing happened, not lights, no cranking -- nothing at all. I pulled into a fuel stop and while there went back and pulled the cowl off the genny as I wanted to see if anything was visible and to attempt to start it from the starter button on the genny. To my surprise I observed immediately that the starter cable connector from the battery , to the starter power post under the red boot, had completely failed and severed, thus I had not power from the battery to start and operate the genny. I'd never seen or heard of a failure in a batter cable connector. I stopped at a nearby parts store and found the connector was stocked and easy to purchase for about $5. As it was crimped on I had to cut the cable behind the cable connector and re- attach it to the genny's positive post under the red boot. Other than getting enough horsepower in my hands to adequately crimp a new connector on, it was an easy and quick fix in the parts store parking lot. I hope no one else had that failure but wanted to share just in case. Joe M

[@RVstreet]

Excellent post Joe. You see folks, once you know the basics of how these generators work, most of these common break downs or mishaps can be fixed DIY on the cheap. And he did this fix in the parking lot. Oh, and had the tools on board to do it too. Good job Joe. 👍

[@gainingmomentum5392]

My fuel pump failed in Silverton Colorado and I had to spare. Got two from Amazon. I have a spare now but highly recommend carrying them with to avoid the downtime. Great video.

[@RVstreet]

Yep, that's definitely a critical spare part to carry. Good job. 👍

[@jimmymcclosky3786]

I say the exact same things as yourself to my kids. Keep it clean and attention to detail and you will most of the time identify a problem when it pops up. Great video as always.

[@RVstreet]

Yep.

[@thomasheaney2087]

Excellent thanks

[@RVstreet]

Glad you liked it

[@jerrywhitlock4028]

I watch all of your videos

[@RVstreet]

Thank you 👍

[@tomwilliam5118]

Man what a great video want to buy a 2000 350 with a trident engine Chateau Class C with a onan micro quiet generator 4000-watt snow are near as spotless as yours. A trick that I found about removing the engine filter Tiki use bread filter tie a knot in it at the bottom the bread bag then after you loose your filter just a little bit did Slide the opening of the red bag over the filter and unscrew it and all the oil will go down it into the bag I drill a small hole in the future like you do

[@RVstreet]

Thank you for sharing your information with all of us.

[@YumaLivingLarge]

Hi Martin & Joanie! Great job on the generator. I should have treated my 1989 class ‘c’ genset like that! Ah, if we only knew then what we know now. Take much better care of our 7500 Onan diesel. Keep up the fantastic videos!

[@daveschaadt9965]

Martin, thank you for this video, looking forward to Part 2 and 3. This one helped with the spark arrestor and what to watch for in the basic maintenance.

[@edchambers8506]

Great job Martin. Have had it done in the past. Will go for it next time. You and Joanie take care.

[@gypsybelle4757]

Thank You so much! Outstanding video. Precise instructions. So very appreciated!

[@RVstreet]

Thx Gypsy 😍 Did you happen to watch Part 2 and Part 3 also: kzbin.info/aero/PLkQXtMp9xodRcd1MYY9cn1LTAzgImKgH0

[@gypsybelle4757]

@@RVstreet They are on my next up to watch list for tomorrow! Looking forward to taking notes and focussing my full attention once again accompanied with a fresh brewed cup of my favorite coffee. 😃☕

[@ghostflight73]

You make me laugh with your head bands and way of delivering the info. Love your vids. Appreciate it. Cheers from up in Canada.

[@robsanderson3434]

Great idea on handles for cover. My knuckles are scarred from popping off cover

[@markeckman3662]

Thanks Martin. My choice to gauge the quality of videos is to follow two measures. First, the ratio of thumbs down of the total views, and the ratio of thumbs down to thumbs up. Dude - you are stellar!!! Not only do you have low ratios, you have several videos with -0- thumbs down. Your fans understand and appreciate your stuff.

[@RVstreet]

Thank you Mark for those kind words and giving me some insight on how you gauge vid's.

[@fredwolf1754]

Thank you for all of your tips and instruction. I really appreciate the links to the products and manuals for the Onan generator. great suggestion about the spare parts being available at hand if needed.

[@RVstreet]

You're welcome Fred. Over the past few months, we've seen so many examples of supply chains "across the board"-in all industries including RV parts-being exhausted and parts not available. So yeah you're right. Having critical spare parts for many things on your RV is a very important thing. thx for watching 🔧 👍

[@johnbaker5199]

you could always use a pex ball valve and a crimp for that rubber drain hose to make it easier

[@fattnersgeekfile5478]

great step by step video , even a dumb old retired fireman can do !! thx brother!! i was thrown off alittle by the looks of my replacement oil filter ( even though the box said onnan correct model oil filter ) but inside was a filter Fleetguard filter white in color , but upon researching it I found out it the replacement filter for that onnan blk filter, it was i tad shorter but nonetheless worked perfectly and the correct amount of oil fit exactly in the generator!! thankyou for your helpful videos my friend

[@Clamchuck]

Outstanding Video, dry good video and explanation of maintenance.

[@jerrywhitlock4028]

The motorhome gas a 464 cubic inch engine. It starts & runs great

[@BIGFLIPCOINS]

Thanks!

[@RVstreet]

Thank you so much for your support.

[@daviscrt]

Awesome step by step instructions. You and Joanne make a great couple. Don

[@RVstreet]

Thanks Don. We're two peas in a pod. 💗

[@rickcampbell4920]

Another awesome video you two!! I look forward to part 2!! Safe travels!!

[@rogerstillwater6800]

More great tips and tricks from RVstreet.

[@dodger845]

Thank you so much for sharing you're very informative videos! Love your channel! 😊

[@abbiebeast]

Outstanding once again my man - big fan here thank you!

[@RVstreet]

Much appreciated! Did you happen to watch Part 2 and Part3 also? Packed with real good stuff. kzbin.info/aero/PLkQXtMp9xodRcd1MYY9cn1LTAzgImKgH0 🔧👍

[@abbiebeast]

@@RVstreet Sure did- thank you for the insights

[@jerrywhitlock4028]

Good video. Martin

[@RVstreet]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@26computers]

Thanks New to rv life

[@RVstreet]

thx Judy. Be sure to watch Part 2 & 3. kzbin.info/aero/PLkQXtMp9xodRcd1MYY9cn1LTAzgImKgH0

[@jimc.6127]

Added a 4500wt. Onan/Cummins Inverter generator to my 400wt. solar panels for back-up. The $1095.00 investment in combination of 2 Battleborn Lithium ion batteries gives me piece of mind of always having unlimited power to my 2021 Lance 2375 t.t..

[@RVstreet]

Nice upgrade. Now you have plenty of amp hours too.🙏

[@elimorfin1694]

Love watching your video. I learn alot.

[@JonW6614]

We love your videos Martin! Pilar and I rarely use our generator but we still enjoyed watching this one. 👍

[@RVstreet]

Hey You two, "Pilar and I rarely use our generator"...... That's not good. No seriously that's not good. There's an old saying and it's true....don't use it you lose it". Running your generator often-like once a month under load-will keep it healthy so it will work when you need it. I will be covering these things among other stuff in Part 1 & 2. How are guys doing in your new spot in RGV?

[@JonW6614]

@@RVstreet Sorry to clarify we do exercise it once a month for at least an hour. We’re having a great time here in Harlingen, TX!

[@RVstreet]

@@JonW6614 Ok good. 👍

[@twbelieves]

Most of the time I am on one of your videos and don’t have any idea on how to get to your main page. I am new to this (not computers) and am about to go full time. I am at a local campground getting the bugs out. I am by myself as my bride passed last May. I so appreciate your videos. Suggestion why not host a rally. You would do so much for the RV community.

[@RVstreet]

Thanks Tom Whenever you're watching any of my videos, just click my logo right under the video. That will take you to my main home page. Once there, click the PLAYLIST tab, and every video I've ever done is on the page in different categories

[@darlenearmstrong316]

Great detailed instructional. Thanks!

[@chakaula8642]

Thanks Martin... EXCELLENT INFO! ALOHA

[@shirleystegall153]

Really appreciate your amazing detailed videos. You're inspiring. You make me feel like I can manage this stuff.

[@RVstreet]

You can do it Shirley. That's why I take the time to detail them the way I do. A lot of folks know some of this stuff already but many don't. I approach all my vid's as if I'm showing somebody that's never done any of this stuff before. My goal is to empower fellow RVer's to be confident that they can do these DIY jobs and save a ton of money.

[@RVBFE]

Great maintenance video !! 👍👍👍 Thanks 👍👍👍👍

[@dartht.3736]

As below, this is the most complete video - Thanks. I have the Onan 5500 GAS (HGJAB) SPEC M. The manual link shows J-L but that's the one I downloaded. Mine does something annoying. It will run for varying times from 5 hours down to as low as 5 minutes and then shut off with a 3-6 code. I once found the door not properly hooked in at the bottom and believe that was the cause when it would cut off every 20 minutes. It's new coach with 65 hours on the Generator (about 15 months old). I've checked the oil level and it's aways been good). It "lopes" a little and sometimes will die during the lower RPM of the lope. I've taken it in, and called Onan all with no help. One tech told me the gas line might be getting hot and vaporizing the gas before it gets to the Carb. Can't figure that one out. Any ideas? Ir'a scheduled for another visit to the shop but will probably get CND'd again.

[@RVstreet]

Well assuming you've done all your annual maintenance items we can rule out any of those items. It could be fuel related. Unfortunately it's a common practice that most RVer's-maybe not you-don't exercise their generator often enough and that can cause gumming up issues in the fuel filter, fuel pump and/or the Carburetor. Here's where I'd start. Always start with the easy common things first. Put some Sea Foam in your gas tank. 1 can/20gal. of gas. Fill the tank up. Drive the rig so the Sea Foam is mixed thoroughly in the tank. Now run the generator for a couple of days off and on for several hours each time with at least a 1/2 load on it and see if that won't clear this problem up. You can get Sea Foam from my Amazon Store: www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet/list/1FUC3YMUOK6RD Also make sure there is NOTHING under the generator that can obstruct air flow coming from the generator. If there's stuff under that area, the generator will over heat and shut down.

[@dartht.3736]

@@RVstreet thanks for responding!! My RV has 5000 miles and spent 7 months of its 14 months I’ve owned it (first owner) - in the shops. Ford F53 chassis class A for a rear axel recall, and in the RV shop for the generator issue I mentioned. They couldn’t duplicate the issue. It typically ran ok parked. We’ve been on 2 trips of about 800 miles. One in August from Texas to Destin Florida. Very hot. Rv was 5 mos old. Shut off every 20 - 30 mins random. Unit is mounted in back left bay behind left tires about 5 feet away. (Installed per install guide). No blockages for air intake. I removed the panel that lets air in. Was clean and debris free. I’m thinking it’s an intermittent oil sensor. I ordered all the parts off your Amazon store.

[@RVstreet]

@@dartht.3736 Ok cool. DO NOT run the generator with the door off. That door needs to be in place when you run it or it won't cool properly. If you think it's the oil sensor, remove the wire off the top and if the generator runs good, you know the sensor is bad.

[@SweaterVestNetwork]

Fantastic video! Thanks for taking us through the process. Would you happen to know the valve lash spec for the Onan 2800i generators?

[@RVstreet]

I am sad to say that Martin has passed away and I don't have the answer to your question. Sorry

[@SweaterVestNetwork]

I'm so sorry to hear of Martins passing. I've always enjoyed his videos. @@RVstreet

[@jimfloyd7606]

I know a guy who used to be an Onan tech who independent now and mobile and I had him replace a voltage reg. in my Micro 4000 Onan. He told rarely is an issue the fuel pump, or brush related. Told me in the close to 30 years he worked on them he saw perhaps 2 generators with bad brushes. And fuel pumps were usually related to cramped quarters i the RV compartment, fuel filter, old fuel line rotted on inside. Also if you have a Flight System G-Man 360 diagnosing a generator is mere minutes. Many shops either don't have one or know what it is if you mention it by name. They'd rather throw parts at it ($$$.$$)....or off the bat "Yeah we'll have to pull the generator out..." $$$$.$$ Run! According to the tech I know most of the time (75 percent) it's the voltage regulator. Next the control board.

[@robertcolon4508]

Thank you Martin! I learned alot!

[@BIGFLIPCOINS]

Thank you for your time.

[@Dennis1659]

Great video Martian.

[@jcmobileautowashdetail8202]

Very good video Martin…thank You for it 👍🏻

[@RVstreet]

Did you watch Part 2 and 3 also? kzbin.info/aero/PLkQXtMp9xodRcd1MYY9cn1LTAzgImKgH0

[@jamesscott1932]

Thanks Martin! One year ago I upgraded from a Generac 3.0 to your exact Onan 5.5 Superior in every aspect. I ordered a shop manual directly from my nearby Cummins/Onan store. Not the most detailed of shop manuals! I hope you cover valve adjustment. There are no videos on the subject yet that are RV STREET quality.

[@RVstreet]

No I won't be covering valve adjustment. There's to many folks that will watch this series and have a wide variety of different generators that require different specs for things like that. Most of our audience wants or needs to know-the basics and a little beyond-of how to take care of stuff. Tearing into an generator or engine and doing stuff in there, most would not interested. However I am mentioning the schedule for this in the description text. But that's why I recommended to everyone to get their own service manual and follow that. Edit: However, after further thought, I MAY consider doing a vid on adjusting the valves the next time I have to do mine. We'll see.

[@handyhenry8654]

Thanks for the video.

[@stevest.martin3940]

I had problems with my 2015 Bounder the 5500 Cummins would not stay running, took it to Cummins. The timing was off so they had to adjust it. Sold that Bounder because of other issues and I'm the proud owner of a brand new Tiffin with a 7k Cummins better RV and better Genset

[@RVstreet]

Nice.

[@fluti314]

Have you ever thought of making a maintenance calendar for sale? I would pay for something like that. I know that one size doesn't fit all, but having a guide to use as a baseline would be really helpful for me.

[@RVstreet]

No I haven't....😜 Ya know Shannon that's a good question. I've had others ask me how I keep track of my maintenance stuff. But I'm not the kind of guy that could put together something like that. Look at my reply to William above. But...since others have asked me before about this, I'm considering-MAYBE-doing a video sometime in the future on how I keep track of stuff and then they can just adapt to what works for them.

[@gosselinsergegs]

Thanks so much for the info

[@RVstreet]

You are very welcome. 👍

[@TheCommish737]

Nice Job... Will revisit when we get ready for the spring

[@88mphmusic27]

WOW! Just found you...Great Videos!!! I just bought a 2011 Georgetown with an Onan QG 5500 generator with 6 hours on it!! Any special considerations? My check list from you so far: Run with a load, slip rings, sea foam, changing the oil/air/fuel filters. Anything else?? Thank You!!!

[@RVstreet]

I'm sad to say that Martin has passed away and I have no advice for you other than what's on the video. Congrats on your new motorhome and safe travels to you.

[@thedavidrichman]

I think you spend more time on preventative maintenance than breathing. Good for you!

[@RVstreet]

😝😝😝😝😝😝

[@smkymtnguy33]

I’ve seen some that poke a wire or something into the spark arrester to get carbon buildup out.

[@robertcampbell3900]

Martin ur the greatest

[@JonSnow-bc6ro]

A couple of various size medical/hobby forceps is handy in the tool box. The forceps are lockable and grip clamp nicely. Could help ya replace the screw driver for getting into tight places with your wiping or ?? Also ever use a gas stabilization additive? Like Sea Breeze. I use it year long, great in case of moisture in fuel and long periods of sitting. I also try to start all my recreational/ seasonal stuff once a month for 5 or so mins

[@RVstreet]

Hi Ron, Ya I use Sea Foam pretty regularly as a fuel injector cleaner and a gas stabilizer too. But when you exercise your generator or ANY OTHER gasoline equipment you have, you have to put a load on it to exercise it properly. Now you maybe already know that, but if you don't, I covered that in Part 3 of this generator maintenance series. If your interested you can see that vid here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f3LdgXZ_q7Ooj5o BTW...I used to carry forceps in my tool bag years ago. I forgot about those, but you're right those things are awesome. Thanks for the reminder. I'm going to keep my eyes open for a pair of those. 🔧👍

[@fladave99]

Best solution to an Onan genny is something else

[@vinnyrusso5104]

Very detailed great job

[@rickcianflone371]

Great video, can’t find the list of essential parts you need to carry. It was supposed to be in the comments but can’t find it. Does anyone have the list?

[@Bibs123]

Sir, this was tremendously helpful and it is greatly appreciated. I am going to go to the store today and get cleaner to make mine as clean as yours. I finally know how to maintain it as well. My generator won't crank and I'm getting a code 36. It seems like it engages, the generator even torques a tiny bit to one side, but it doesn't turn over. Where should I start trouble shooting? If you are too busy to respond I totally understand. I will certainly use the amazon store to buy all of the things I need for maintenance in the future. Again, this is a tremendous service to all of us new RV'ers. Thank you so much.

[@RVstreet]

Hey Robert, Where should I start trouble shooting?....the manual. Read what it says about the cause of the blinking lights your getting. I know it's code 36 but do they also have suggestions of where to look and what could be the problem. Also in the description text did you go download link for the service manual I put there? It very well could be your batteries not having enough juice to start it. I don't know how many hours you have on your generator or how it's been cared for, but it could many things. But what you should do to start with is perform and full 150hr. maintenance schedule on it like I showed. If it has around 500hrs. on it since its last schedule, change the plugs too. And then check everything I covered in this video. Be methodical and take your time. Thank you so much for supporting our channel. Joanie & I so much appreciate your support. 🔧 🙏

[@Bibs123]

@@RVstreet I will do that maintenance you suggested as soon as the ice melts! I do appreciate you taking your time to make those videos. I wasn't doing the best job with maintenance, but now I have been educated!

[@danielsmith2447]

Hmmm.... gives a new definition to clean freak.

[@MrVrod30]

Love your videos very helpful. Question my gen is onan 4000 air cooled, it is surging and cuts off any ideas on what to change or fix.

[@RVstreet]

It could be any number of things. Without knowing the maintenance & exercising history and doing a methodical diagnosis by being there to troubleshoot, it’s impossible to say. Always start with the annual maintenance stuff first, then to the easy and most common fixes first. • Old, bad or wrong fuel like E-15. Put in appropriate amount of Sea Foam in the MH gas tank, run the motorhome to mix it good in the gas tank and the run the generator for several hours on at least a 1/2 load. You want to run this fuel thru the entire generator fuel system and maybe this will help clean everything.. If that doesn’t help… • May have a weak or failing fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter (Replace both. Go to my Amazon Store, search Amazon for those two parts, put them in the cart and check out: www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet) • The spring holding the governor arm may be weak and not holding a steady RPM • The carburetor may need to be cleaned This is not a complete list but this is where I’d start in this order.

[@src4409]

I would just use dielectric grease on your electric connections.

[@buskerjimmyblue]

Thank you for this video.

[@brucefay5126]

There are oil filter sockets. This looks like the perfect application for one.

[@RVstreet]

Yep there are sockets out there, but that's another tool to buy. These Tekton pliers work for both the generator and the coach filter if it needs to be broken loose before unscrewing. So you have one tool that serves two purposes. thx Bruce for that. 👍

[@mikebrant192]

Tell the truth - you love the fumes, right? LOL Well done, especially the safety items. BTW, Nomadic Fanatic was plagued with genset problems, and just solved it. VERY simple fix.

[@RVstreet]

Thanks Mike.

[@frankxx2364]

Hi there. Great videos. What is the spark plug Gap for the Onan 5500 HGJAB-1038K?

[@RVstreet]

Spark Plug gap is 0.025 inch, and torque to 10 lbs-ft (13 N-m) if new, or to 18 lbs-ft (24 N-m) if being reused. You really should go back to my video and in the description text you can download your own PDF service manual. It answers all these technical questions and much more.

[@JayHutchG]

Very thorough job as usual budroe. However concerning the dipstick, you may be aware that many older ONAN gen sets specifically note in the manual to check the oil WITHOUT screwing in the dipstick all the way. If you check the oil that way on the older micro quiet & microlite 2800 & 4000 series you will overfill with oil. Not good. So from one dipstick to another careful on the dipstick advice. My Onan microlite 2800 only takes a little over 1 quart of oil. That dipstick measurement is important.

[@RVstreet]

That's why I always encourage everybody to have ALL their owners manuals and read them. I even gave them a link in the description text so they can find their specific model manual. There's usually always some subtleties from model to model. And of course I covered a lot more things in Part 2 and Part 3. thx Jay 👍

[@beelust4312]

Martin thanks for this generator video !!!