CUMMINS ONAN RV GAS GENERATORS - ULTIMATE MAINT. GUIDE - Part 3

[@donaldstinnett9304]

Thank you Martin. You have the best RV maintenance videos out there! I’ve got several items in my Amazon basket from your store. Happy to support such good work you do!

[@RVstreet]

Thank you so much Donald for supporting us and our channel.

[@jkel6055]

Martin, you're probably the most important person to follow for anyone that owns an RV, excellent videos and information. Thank you. Derek

[@bradsee9781]

I don't watch alot of rv videos but I really like to watch yours they are spoken in simple language And very informative thanks for your hard work

[@RVstreet]

Thank you Brad. 👍

[@jimc.6127]

The best maintenance channel on u-tube. Just took delivery of my 2021 Lance 2375 t.t. and included a P4500I Onan/Cummins Inverter generator. What a beautiful machine!

[@andrewsharman4419]

You are a good man for taking the time to make these very informative videos Martin. Thank you!

[@jmartinez1259]

I am very sorry for your loss. Thank ya'll for making these videos, it's such invaluable information.

[@RVstreet]

Thank you and you are most welcome for the videos. It was Martin passion to help people.

[@joesantucci317]

Martin and Joanie. You are truly a blessing. I can't thank you enough. Joe

[@donhutton920]

Martin, you and your wife are the greatest! This information is so valuable! Thank god there are people like you that take the time to share this with us all.

[@locopilot1]

This is how I fixed. In my case of ( I can't start my generator) it's has been two years since last time was running. I started by checking oil level, gasoline more than 1\4 tank in my RV, sparkplug checked for good spark, also cleaned the carburetor and even installed new one but same situation, check wires and found some has been damaged by rats so I replaced them, by this time it started but stay runing only by keep pushing the switch on all time, so I knew it was electrical problem from the engine itself, so I took the generator out from my RV to work in my garage. I disassemble the unit by removing the cover, then the cooling fan until I was at the engine brushes area and this is what I found: one more wire chewed by rats plus the stinky nest in the middle of the generator motor coil, I fixed the wire and sanded the cooper contacts where the brushes are sitting becouse they were real duty with old urine from the rats. I assembled everything back together and bingo it's runing like a champion, for this project materials involved was about $60.00 including an aftermarket new carburetor and an harmonic balancer/steering wheel puller to pull the aluminum fan out. Just keep in mind that (Eny engine run smooth if gasoline and DC current aren't interrupted) Also if you have a onan microlite 4000 like mine, don't run it for more than a minute without the cover becouse you'll cook the engine real fast, also keep the eye on the aluminium fan and your fingers after cranking it in case you missing one, just kidding!!! If this can help eaven one person it'll make me more happy, thanks for reading!!!

[@RVstreet]

Nice detailed report LP. Thanks for taking the time to write that up 👍

[@tomgaluski4605]

Great video. I just had my generator serviced and it's very expensive through Cummings. Your three part video's on generator maintenance gave me great information for not having to go back to the service shop. Again great information

[@RVstreet]

That's what this channel is all about. Doing 90% of what needs to be done DIY and save lots of money. 👍

[@buildflycrash]

Great series. Thanks

[@fixtradingconsulting2935]

best encylopedia. awesome. thx so much.

[@jamescohn4268]

Wow what a great series!!! Thank you. You just saved people hundreds if not thousands of dollars with these instructional videos. Thank you!!!

[@RVstreet]

You bet James. THANK YOU for watching and share this with your friends.🔧 👍

[@rich2034]

Thought I'd share this ...I just took other cover of my 7500 diesel generator...I had never taken off before...I can get to most everything with the cover off...starter, fuel pump fuel filter, oil filter, water lines. I even think with a little work I could change the belt a d the thermostat. I know some of these thing are usually gotten to through the access door. With the cover off it's way easier. Also saves taking the generator out for full service.

[@rogerkern]

We are purchasing a 5500 in a couple of weeks and all three of these videos have helped making since of it all. Thank you for putting this together it was very well explained

[@HighCountryRambler]

What causes the gum buildup in the carb is ethanol additives in the fuel. To prevent buildup in my small engines like chain saws, mowers, 4 wheeler s and dirt bikes, portable generators and everything else is I buy large amounts of NON-ethanol gas (blue handle) at the gas pumps, it's higher octane but about 8 cents higher than regular octane. Been doing this for 5 years and ending my on-going gas storage and buildup issues. Kind of hard to do on my class-C motor home when it's genny sucks on the main gas tank. So I'll try sea foam and see what happens. On my 30' toy hauler trailer it's genny sucks off a 15 gal tank built into the trailer itself. Before heading out with it I ALWAYS fill that tank with non-ethanol gas and ended my gen buildup issues. Thanks for the tips.

[@georgewheeler3731]

Thanks for doing the 3 part series on generators, it made me think of my Coleman 1850 watt portable generator I had for several years, I have 26RLS Flagstaff TT that I use it on every now or then. I just change the oil, never exercise it regularly. Good tips I can use it on this one. Keep safe in these times.

[@dalewitzenburg3355]

Martin good ideas I use a electric space heater to put a load on my generator.

[@zytrosam]

Martin you are the BEST. Thank You for all your DIY videos that keeps our RV's running in top sharp.

[@TheHunTwo]

Also, ensure your slide out seals are without gaps and sealed while running a generator. Tanks Martin.

[@RVstreet]

Good point. 👍

[@burtbicksler1676]

Great series on Onan. The 4000 series in our 2018 Vista 29VE started having issues a few months after we bought it used. It would run for maybe 10 minutes and then stop. Figured it was the fuel pump. So ordered an Onan OEM (original part number). Didn't feel like the hassle of replacing it myself so had the shop do it while it was in for other service. That was in February. Fast forward to a Thanksgiving trip to Florida. Generator ran fine all night at a stop where the outside temps were in the 30's. On the way back from FL when we stopped at a rest area the generator ran about 10 minutes and stopped and didn't start even after letting it sit. Got home and it started and ran for hours. Temps were in the 30's again. Note it was the unhelpful 3-6 error code. Fast forward to Christmas trip to FL, same pattern. Couldn't be the shiny new Onan OEM fuel pump right? Wrong. I isolated by using insulation piercing probes directly on the fuel pump wires. This was with outside temps in the 50's. Verified that when it fails there is power going to the pump but the new pump was NOT running. When it cooled down again it would start and run for another 10-15 minutes. Fuel pumps were in short supply, but I lucked out and found one at a nearby Cummins/Onan shop. Got that and a new fuel filter. No shops could get it in and back before our next trip so I changed the pump and filter myself. A pain in the tail, but doable. So far it has been working fine with the 2nd new fuel pump. Note that Onan has changed the part number for this pump twice since I got the original PN. Couldn't find out if that was due to issues with the earlier PN's.. Just mentioned it in case someone is having similar issues after replacing their fuel pump.

[@RVstreet]

Thank you for the information. I am brokenhearted to say Martin has passed away but he would have loved reading this post.

[@burtbicksler1676]

@@RVstreet so very sorry to hear of Martin's passing. Really enjoyed all the videos and tips over the years.

[@ronedelenbos272]

Thanks very much I appreciate your time and efforts putting these instructional videos together . Ron from Nova Scotia Canada.

[@RVstreet]

You are very welcome. We love all our Canadian friends we've met. 🇨🇦 🇺🇸

[@787aajimenez]

Gracias

[@dodger845]

Thank you so much for sharing this 3 part series on proper generator maintenance! Appreciate it!

[@RVstreet]

Thank you Kimmy for watching all 3 parts. You just did yourself a BIG favor. You'll probably have the best running, reliable generator out of everybody you know. 🔧 👏 And thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@bobpowell9397]

Thanks for doing these videos. Truly appreciate your content. Great videos and thanks for your wife doing such a great job with the camera.

[@RVstreet]

I'll be sure to tell Joanie. thx Bob.

[@leon545b]

...and great video, BTW. I've seen a few folks on KZbin that don't know what they're talking about, but you obviously do. I don't subscribe to many channels, but after viewing all three parts of this series, I've subscribed to yours!

[@RVstreet]

Thank you my friend 🙏

[@tonyburgett]

Thank you for the Part 1-3 on RV Gas Generator Service, I've never done this but I'm going to do it tomorrow.

[@RVstreet]

🔧 👍

[@Brenoir1]

What a great tip with Sea Foam

[@michaelj1232]

me and my fiance betty and i have a 2014 winni vista35f , i am retired from bmw , i find you excellent , very detailed and you explain as you go , very thorough , the way you explain it gives confidence to those who are seeking advice or direction, and thank you for your service cheers

[@RVstreet]

I know you luv your 35F. It's a rare coach with a bath & 1/2 and beautifully set up for 35'. Thank you so much for your kind words. 🇺🇸 🙏

[@fredurquhart5948]

Thanks for this 3 part series on proper care of the generator. We have the same one and invested in the Gen-turi early on for safety and to be sure we could exercise the gen properly in different locations. You have given great advice/direction in all your videos... oops, gotta cut this short to buff the Rejex off my boat.;-)

[@RVstreet]

Thanks Fred. 🔧

[@curtiscrowston4758]

awsome information

[@TheJourneyInBetween2020]

Awesome videos...I watched all "3". I did not know I was supposed to run it on a load, I have been just running for 5-10 minutes every week. Our motorhome is about 2 years old, we bought it brand new. I'm very OCD and do lots of preventive maint on mine. I'll be doing a better job on the generator from now on...thanks to your vids. Awesome job and well detailed...I'll be keeping extra parts on hand👍!

[@RVstreet]

Smart things to do. OCD is good when it comes to maintenance stuff. 🔧 👍

[@VETUSAF1]

Good job my brother learned a lot from the 3 videos of course I always learn from you

[@leon545b]

We have a 50A coach with a built-in surge supressor that has a display, and I find that each air conditioner / heat pump draws about 12A on each of the two generator phases, so two ac's represent about 50% load, in our case. A 1500W space heater would also draw about 12A. It's not a good idea to run your ac if the outside temperature is below 50°F. If you have a heat pump, it will work down to 32°F. If the temperature is below freezing, it's probably best to just run a space heater or two to exercise the generator. I've found that the 'fridge only draws a few amps, so, it's not a significant load. The microwave draws around 10A, but running that for an hour is kind of impractical. Having the surge suppressor readout of volts and amps on each phase is really handy! Ours is built in, and I wired it ahead of the transfer switch, so it protects against genset malfunctions as well as bad shore power. This also lets me keep an eye on the generator output and load.

[@georgemorris8697]

I have a 4000 w Onan - Drain your float bowl when storing. Especially with ethanol fuel . You will need to make a drain extension. 6" of 1/2" copper tubing with a 90 bend on the end. put the 90 under the drain hole . Where the tubing crosses the generator enclosure file a small divot to fit the tubing so that it drains downward and out . Open the drain and catch the fuel.

[@stevest.martin3940]

I’ve been exercising my generator but I haven’t been exercising my coach so I’m going to take it out once a month

[@RVstreet]

Your coach will luv you for that. Good job. 👍👍👍👍👍

[@daveschaadt9965]

Martin, great job, thank you for providing this information.

[@billpowell7331]

I know that you mention Seafoam for the fuel. I am also a mechanic like you I’ve been around generators all my life in the marine industry as well it’s in the RV with the things I like to do when I know if my generators going to be sitting for a little while considering that we use alcohol in our fuel so I usually drain the bowl in the carburetor so this fuels not sitting in there condensation from the fuel get water in your bowl. Most all generators have this screw for letting the fuel out of the bowl just use a rag or something to collect the fuel just wanted to share William Powell

[@JamesSmith-hx3lp]

Great job, great video! Been camping a long time, had t/t, 5th wheels, first time in a class A, new learning experience! Thanks for the help!

[@markreynolds3850]

Thanks for sharing this video.

[@ournewseason]

I am a newbie, in fact we are waiting for delivery of our Class A. I have been studying KZbin for 1.5yrs getting ready. Your information is right to the point and full-on advice. Keep up the great videos! Hope to run across you guys on the road.

[@RVstreet]

Thanks Gary. 🔧 What kind of Class A did you buy?

[@ournewseason]

@@RVstreet Fleetwood Fortis 33hb

[@RVstreet]

​@@ournewseason Very nice. Just watched a 30 min. overview video. Lots of things to luv about this coach. Nicely priced too. You'll appreciate that 35' length too. Same size as ours and same chassis and length as ours. Not to short and not to long. Now this coach has a washer/dryer AND a residential fridge. So those two things will cut into your CCC for sure. The video I watched didn't cover what the CCC is. You're really going to luv having that bath & 1/2. When you take delivery and do your walk thru, one of you video tape the whole thing so you can refer to it later. To much information to remember. Make sure you get ALL YOUR MANUALS FOR EVERYTHING before you drive off and at least 2 complete sets of keys. If there is anything they owe you have them put it in writing before you drive off. Are you going to be full timing in this coach? Nice choice Gary. Edit: BTW....Your warranty work and there after will be covered and done by the REV Group. They're a great outfit with several locations.

[@ournewseason]

@@RVstreet Thanks. We ordered it at the Tampa RV show. We went over our budget a little but I wanted the 22.5" wheels and 22k lb chassis which my wife didn't completely but she liked the look of the bigger tires! Hahaha So, I gave up an outdoor kitchen. Also the bed folds when the slide is in which isn't logical with a half-bath. No matter...I will make up for those changes with a Blackstone grill and if we can't put the slide out then my wife says that I "will" sleep outside! Oh well... No...not full time. 2nd half of 2021 will be weekends and a few 1 & 2 weeks trips getting acquainted with it. 2022 will be cross-country "and" multiple trips back and forth between Miami and Detroit area. PS...I have a 2017 Jeep JK. Even though I was not comfortable with an RF system, I "almost" ordered the Blue Ox system. I even had it in "etrailer's cart" waiting for me to buy it but I decided to look around. So...I started to do more research and found your channel and watched your video on the Ready Brute system (tow bar, emergency brake, Rock Jock"). I knew that was exactly what I was looking for. I feel "much more" secure with something that I can see operate and maintain myself plus "without worrying" about RF interference. I ordered everything on Amazon and received it last week. I plan to install it myself later this month. I will let you know how it goes!

[@RVstreet]

@@ournewseason The tow bar install should go pretty smoothly. It's the base plate on the vehicle that usually is the hard part and a lot of work. But not sure about your Jeep. But ya, let me know how it goes. I like hearing feed back. Anyway, thanks for coming back with your comments. I know you two will enjoy your new Coach and you must be excited. Just a little nudge...anything you need from this point forward to get your new life ready, going to our Amazon Store and purchasing thru there is a great way to say thank you. Ya and who knows, we just might meet up on the road. We have with several folks that watch our channel. The entire RV community is an awesome bunch of people. Meeting and getting to know them is an adventure unto itself. 🔧🙏

[@davidcook1166]

GREAT vid!.....safety should have been in part #1! These things can kill!.....david

[@marknye51.thefixitguy]

I watched all the videos and was hoping to see more about troubleshooting. I do small engine repair and am working on a Onan 7HGJAE 7000w generator in a F460 converted box truck that's now a mobile dog grooming van. The customer complained of Error Code 36. I did a complete service with new oil, filter, plugs and check the output of the fuel pump and filter and everything is good. The generator was good for two days then code 36 again. I checked voltage output to the fuel pump and its intermittent . Is it the control board.? I'll be working on it again Thursday.

[@RVstreet]

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

[@danielperra5976]

For inspecting the slip rings could you use an endoscope? I know you have one 🙂 As for running the generator there are all sorts of guidance that you should NEVER run the generator while everyone is asleep in the coach. Maybe you could park so that the wind is blowing the fumes away from the coach but, the wind could shift overnight. Also, it may not be possible to safely position the coach in some cases. My 2018 Thor ACE is one example the generator is located street side about halfway between the front and rear wheels, directly under the living area slide. Placing the curb side facing the wind might work however, with the slide out that could create an eddy that might allow CO into the coach.

[@RVstreet]

Ya you could use one to inspect.

[@jeffjones578]

Great Job Martin, Keep up the good Work! C U next Time!

[@RVstreet]

Thanks 👍

[@benryan9466]

Great video as always, my generator is a diesel unit but the jist of the message is clear . Do your maintenance understand your rig and components. 👍🇺🇸

[@RVstreet]

🇺🇸👍

[@pkk6428]

I use Marvels Mystery Oil. Seafoam is good also

[@abbiebeast]

I have a snorkel stored in the cargo bay that I place over the exhaust port of the generator that way when parked I deploy it and no worries about fumes

[@abbiebeast]

Sorry - posted comment before the end of the video - you cover this - peace out!

[@danphillips4900]

Great job on this series 👍🏻

[@lawrenceloud4737]

Another great video, Martin.

[@richardpg2704]

How do you keep your maintenance records?

[@marshaadams5501]

Another great one! I’m happy to say that I’ve already been doing the things you mention in this one so FOR ONCE watching hasn’t costed me time and money to get caught up 😀 Thanks Martin! Hi Joanie 🥰 PS call me and I’ll update you on my electrical issue.

[@crawford757]

OMG This was great.. I Don't have a generator but have begun a search so i can find one just like yours. Thanks Martin... Only kidding I am not gonna buy a generator..

[@RVstreet]

OK that was funny 😝 thx Crawford

[@JoeHall-c9f]

Your maintenance video are great. Can you help me troubleshoot a02 Onan microlite 2800? I have a spark issue. It has no spark while cranking but when I let the start switch go it sparks once Tried it again with same result. Please help

[@RVstreet]

I am sad to say that Martin has lost his battle with cancer and I don't have the answer to your question. Sorry

[@waynerichards3025]

Hi. We have purchased a Jayco Precept motorhome with an Onan 5500 w Gen. It has started oscillating when running. Your video indicates what to do to PREVENT that...but what do we do to CORRECT that when it happens. We want to maintain our rv properly but it came to us in a questionable condition.

[@RVstreet]

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

[@michaelj1232]

martin as always , your the best, thank you sirrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

[@RVstreet]

Thank you Michael. 🙏

[@richardeakins3639]

Good info I don’t have a generator. For my RV But I do have a Honda generator to get me by.

[@winginitwithjohn8451]

I run mine on the 1st and 15th of every month for 30 minutes - Summertime I run 2 ac units, winter the electric fireplace and an electric heater. It's the easiest preventative maintenance I have. Uses very little gas, much less than I thought it would.

[@RVstreet]

That's a good schedule and easy to remember. 🔧

[@winginitwithjohn8451]

@@RVstreet Like the military payday, way back when... easy to remember indeed.

[@americanrascal53]

I'm fairly up to date on the genny maintenance you cover, but have a few issues I need to back up on and catch in the second video. I'm generally a bit behind on all my maintenance on the rig due to travel and a wet cold Georgia winter. I have much work to do yet on sealants- behind on due to weather, a bit of generator maintenance, slide issues etc. Having problems with a loose and flapping front drivers side front wheel fender panel that I just can't get re-attached properly. Trim tape won't hold and no luck with epoxy. Driving me nuts. Wonderful set of videos on the generator!

[@RVstreet]

For the fender, how about making a long narrow metal "U" bracket where you could drill and mount one end to the chassis, then come out to the fender with other end which would have a maybe 3" long or so tab and screw into fender, as well as using a different more stronger polyurethane adhesive, then fiberglassing over all of that. There are some good Polys out there that are really strong, but will also flex and give if need be. Or perhaps a metal plate, polyurethane adhesive and glassing over. Whatever fix you come up with it doesn't really matter appearance wise cause it will be inside the body and it will not show cosmetically. Just brainstorming.

[@americanrascal53]

@@RVstreet Good thinking-. I need to see what I have for an anchor point underneath. Its quite a ways from the panel to the frame. At the moment I hit a dry warm spell for a day and re- applied the body tape. I'm not sure the tape is going to work though. Need some warm dry weather to dig in in this. Its nasty here and will be for longer than the next week.

[@mrzif0013]

question: iran my generator and order of burnt rubber present, advice?

[@johnhilton6863]

Have you ever heard of the false dip stick problem?

[@marktherrian1838]

We have a 2022 Entegar vision 29s and when the coach engine runs and heats up the generator will not run. It's been a huge problem with Jayco and cumminins and they haven't found a cure for it yet. They have tried extra fuel pump wraping the fuel line with insulation they have a air scoop under the generator to bring in cooler air. What it boils down to is it is to close to the coach engine. If you have any suggestions it would be great. Mark Therrian Apache Junction Arizona

[@RVstreet]

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

[@revelationeyes2630]

Martin do you know If there is a silencer made that will slip over the stationary exhaust system to keep the exhaust system quiter

[@RVstreet]

Other than a Gen-Turi....no. www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet/list/99CALORSWFK8

[@johnpradelski277]

Martin, great info for this newbe. My question is do you run your Genset while you’re traveling? I’ve heard some that say they do and some say they don’t. Thanks in advance

[@RVstreet]

Absolutely I do.

[@johnpradelski277]

@@RVstreet one other question. I live in the great north east and I will be covering my RV for at least 5 months. Any ideas on how to “exercise” the genset. The roof will more than likely covered with snow and ice and it won’t be safe for either myself or the roof of the RV. Thanks again in advance.

[@RVstreet]

In your case what I'd do before you cover it up for the winter is to fill the gas tank up, add Sea Foam to the gas tank. Add 1 bottle/20gal. of fuel. Make sure Sea Foam is totally mixed thru the fuel tank. Start the engine and the genset and let both of them run for about 15 minutes. Then shut off. That will insure that the entire fuel system of both is treated properly before you button up the RV for winter. Once weather is good and the cover is removed, exercise the genset under load. I have Sea Foam in my Amazon Store if you'd like: www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet

[@joeblow3939]

Martin, can you tell people the proper placement for co detectors. Up high by the ceiling or low to the floor. Smoke rises, co is heavier then smoke.

[@RVstreet]

Using a combo alarm on the ceiling or high on a wall is just fine. Just like you would in a house. We replaced our factory alarm in on the bedroom ceiling with the combo unit I have in my Amazon store. Now we have both covered. Smoke & CO. This new unit has a really cool side tray that pops out to replace the batteries which should be replaced once a year. Good question Joe.

[@joeblow3939]

@@RVstreet the reason I bring this up is because I once saw a detective movie once where these college kids were having some adult fun. They ended up on the floor. I can't remember if it was intentional or not but the room next to them cut a small hole close to floor level. Dry ice melting had something to do with it. But, my question is this, does smoke rise and does or can CO lay low?

[@RVstreet]

@@joeblow3939 Well I'm no scientist but the manufacturers of these devices and local Fire Depts. who make buildings be compliant for such matters say the ceiling is fine. And in multiple story buildings they have to be on every floor. Yes smoke rises, that's why in a fire they always tell you to crawl low to an exit. CO in a small area (like an RV) will also rise because the differences between the two are so small. If you're in doubt just mount two units. One high on the ceiling and one low, maybe on the side of the bed out of the way. But I don't think that is necessary. Check out this story: www.answers.com/Q/Will_carbon_monoxide_rise_or_fall_indoors

[@joeblow3939]

@@RVstreet thank you Martin. This is something that has been in the back of my mind for some time. If you want, feel free to discuss this with your viewers. I'm sure some people will be very impressed by your research. Thank you again.

[@sharonpowell6559]

Hi Martin. My husband & I love your videos. Thank you for all the excellent info! We do have a question regarding the Onan fuel pump for qg5500 generator in your store. Since it’s no longer available, do you have any recommendations on another one? Thanks and safe travels

[@RVstreet]

I'm sorry to say Martin has passed away and I don't have any answers for you

[@sharonpowell6559]

I’m so sorry for your loss.

[@golfnut2599]

great video, i have a slightly different understanding of exercising the generator after 30 years of rving. the generator is composed of two distinct components, the engine and the generator. running the generator exercises the engine portion for all it needs to be exercised, running a load is what exercises the generator portion

[@RVstreet]

Yep. You and I are saying the same thing just worded differently. Running your generator once a month "under load" exercises both areas and is good/necessary for both to stay healthy. 🔧 👍

[@michaelj1232]

i would love to see a video from you , and i bet many others would as well , on the winnibago lippert lifts, the constant error warnings on start up, i know martin i got you on this one my friend

[@RVstreet]

Well Michael, I don't have Lippert jacks so I can't do a video on it.. Mine are Power Gear. But I hear ya. I hear a lot of complaints on those systems.

[@bryanhartlen9548]

As usual, a great video. What's the purpose of turning off all the appliances before & after exercising the genny? Couldn't you just start the generator and turn off shore power?

[@RVstreet]

I do that bc I want the appliances to be off first and let the genny come up to speed and level out to a good running speed, then turn on the appliances which puts a load on the genny. After exercsing is complete, then I turn them all off and allow the genny to properly cool down before shutting it down. This procedure is also better for the appliances circuitry. It's a natural on/off procedure instead of jolting the system on/off.

[@drewmueller3913]

Martin, My 5500 Marq Gold gen shuts down while I drive. I've disc the oil pres. switch and it worked fine for awhile. My dipstick shows about 2/3 full. should I drain it until it shows just at the add mark-as many you-tubers suggest? All other maint is current and I do all my own work. Thanks!

[@RVstreet]

When the dip stick is screwed in fully the oil level should read full, not to where it says add. If it's reading 2/3 full your good but keep your eye on it b/c the generator does and is supposed to burn oil over time.

[@drewmueller3913]

@@RVstreet Mine has never used oil. I change it + the filter about once a year with less than 50hrs. on it. Thanks anyway, I appreciate your channel.

[@markdelaware5586]

Hi ! I watched all 3 RV Street generator tune-up videos twice. After the 1st watching, I bought an Onan Marquis 5500 tune-up kit for our model. And, I subscribed to your channel. I then watched your videos a 2nd time today and ordered a few more items for performing maintenance. I did not see anything about replacing the fuel filter portion of the kit. I only noticed you briefly show it is located underneath. Any tips/tricks/issues/concerns I would benefit from before I replace that item? Is a periodic can of Seafoam more, or as, important as replacing the Onan fuel filter? How often and how much Seafoam should I add to our 70+ gallon RV gas tank? How often should I change Onan fuel filter? THANK YOU!

[@RVstreet]

thx Mark for the kind words and subbing 👍 Just to be clear for others that may read your comment . These are not "tune-up videos". These are *annual PM maintenance items* folks should be doing to keep their generator running top notch, keeping it reliable and prevent generator problems from happening in the first place. *I did not see anything about replacing the fuel filter portion of the kit. I only noticed you briefly show it is located underneath* You don't need to replace it unless it should begin to fail. Sputtering, not idling or running correctly. That's why you should always carry a spare fuel filter and fuel pump. Exercising the generator often as I showed will keep the entire fuel system healthy and prolong the life of all parts. Not exercising often and doing annual PM will have the opposite effect. *Any tips/tricks/issues/concerns I would benefit from before I replace that item?* See above *Is a periodic can of Seafoam more, or as, important as replacing the Onan fuel filter?* You don't add a periodic can of Seafoam. Apply Sea Foam to the entire 70+ gas tank once a year then exercise the generator often. *How often and how much Seafoam should I add to our 70+ gallon RV gas tank?* I've covered this in other videos, but 1 bottle/20 gal. of gas. Also, if you store your RV in the winter, do this PM item BEFORE you store the RV. Once Sea Foam is added, drive the RV and run the generator for about 30 minutes to insure Sea Foam has run thru entire fuel system. This keeps your fuel from becoming stale, cleans all fuel systems and the generator carb from gumming up and the gas from lacquering with sitting for several months. *How often should I change Onan fuel filter?* You don't, unless it begins to fail. See symptoms above. In short, if these items were to be changed or replaced often on on a schedule I would of covered that.

[@larryv4249]

Thanks for what you do!! In the fall (before I go into storage) I fill the MH up with ethanol free gas, add Briggs fuel stabilizer. Do you have any recommendations on exercising the gas engine (8.1 Workhhorse)? I am thinking the engine should idle at higher rpm for period of time.....maybe 2500rpm to force moisture out similar to the generator. MH is kept in storage all winter, and run every 2 weeks.

[@RVstreet]

In a nut shell, Properly store the rig with a very recent oil change and a full tank of fuel with a fuel stabilizer/conditioner like your doing. Park it and let it set OR exercise the whole coach. This is what you really should do. (see below) You do far more damage with the periodic starts and not getting everything fully to operating conditions. The generator does need to be run at 1/2 load for a minimum of 30 - 45 minutes every month under load to keep the moisture out of the windings and keep the slip rings in good shape just to mention 2 things. If you have followed my channel for any length of time, properly exercising the full coach is important. It's not just starting the engine, but getting the tranny, wheel bearings, all the drive line, brakes, tires EVERYTHING up to temp to keep everything healthy. That's what keeps everything in good working order. If you just start the engine your inviting more moisture in between those hot and cold periods of starting and nothing else gets exercised. Plus you get moisture in the exhaust system and the catalytic Converter and that moisture just sits there and starts to rust stuff out. Running the rig down the road exercises everything and drives moisture out of everything while getting everything else up to proper temp. This is the procedure for whether it's 10º or 100º. Also, by driving it every 4 - 6 weeks you just might get rid of any critters that decided to take refuge in your rig to stay warmer. Even if you're in cold climates, wait till a few good days come around, the roads are dry and all or most of the salt is gone. Then go to the storage area, start it up and run it-on the road-for about 30 minutes or more then come back and store it. We're in RGV right now for the winter. Our stay is usually about 4 months or so in one spot. It's mostly in the 70's - 85º all the time. But in essence...it's in storage. But even though we're not traveling right now, I still take the coach out and run it on the road about every 4 - 5 weeks to accomplish what I outlined above. If you choose to just let it sit and not run it, fill your tires to the maximum tire pressure stated on the outside of the tire side wall. This will prevent your tire creating flat spots while in storage. Then in the spring when you're getting ready to start traveling again, air them up properly according to your weight. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5Cxpnild66rm5o Hope this helps. 🔧 Edit: You might want to watch this video I did cncerning exercising: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIOpXmOtl8qrmq8

[@ronlapierre5977]

Excellent info once again Martin. When we stored our RV under cover in the fall, I used Seafoam also and ran the rig down the road as you said to mix up the fuel. We run our engine and generator every 3-4 weeks. We did attach a battery maintainer to keep the starting battery in ready state during the cold winter. I did not know that we needed to run a full 50% load though. We usually just run an 1800 watt electric space heater on the outside plug for the whole time . We don’t want to introduce any condensation into the rig. I’ll have to maybe run another heater on another circuit next time or the microwave. It’s a bit of a pain to do with the cover on but worth it. We planned to do it this past weekend but got 6” of snow on Sunday, another 5” coming today and again Friday. Geez, it never stops! To make matters worse, I got the extension cord for the maintainer eaten by my snowblower! Misjudged the cord location when it was running under the snow...ya think I would know.

[@RVstreet]

We run our engine and generator every 3-4 weeks.......good for you. I just exercised mine yesterday on a full load. Easy for us to do in the winter where we are. You...not so much. Snow...Yuk. 😝 Yep, run 50% load as a minimum. This will insure everything including the stator, regulator and slip rings get a good work out. thx Ron for your comments. 🔧

[@bryanmiller5584]

Thanks for the info. Very thorough. One thing, there is no "g" in the word Cummins.

[@jamesmckeon3190]

Only getting one leg with power. What’s the cause

[@andresalcaraz5443]

Hi Mister Martin I got a cuestion about my generator Is an onan 5500 QV my you can help me to resolve After 3 hours my batterie die and.the Generator.shut.off Is this normal or is misconected ? I have it on On a food truck. Tnan you. Today will order air filter Oil filter What else you recommend to do service this will my fist.time doing this.

[@RVstreet]

Something is not connected right. Not sure how you have this setup on your food truck, but normally one battery is only used to start the generator. If you have additional batteries, then the generator would be wired to a converter/charger to charge those batteries. You need to study up on this subject so you understand how this works and then look at your system closely. Have you watch all three of my generator videos?: kzbin.info/aero/PLkQXtMp9xodRcd1MYY9cn1LTAzgImKgH0 All parts are in my Amazon Store in the "RV Gas Generator Stuff" category: www.amazon.com/shop/rvstreet

[@andresalcaraz5443]

Thank you Martin Will check.

[@silaspauling5695]

I have the same generator you have generator will come on no power in the RV what to do

[@RVstreet]

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

[@cynthiaincolorado3373]

Awesome viedos!!!!!

[@RVstreet]

Thanks!!

[@BoujeeBoondocker]

Does anyone know what video, Martin explained how he used the generators ‘prime’ button to fill a gas can or Honda generator? I watched it a few days ago and can’t find it again for the life of me.

[@RVstreet]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/iKPEqZ2MpbGbi8U 36:26 in the time line

[@BoujeeBoondocker]

@@RVstreet thank you so much. You are the best!

[@mrphillip7707]

How can I use a generator to charge up my chassis batteries to keep them charge up ?

[@RVstreet]

Well one way is to start up the genny and now you have 120v coming into the RV. Then take a regular 3amp - 15amp portable battery charger, plug it into an outlet in the RV and then hook up the cables to the chassis battery.

[@rodsautter6135]

My Onan RVQG 2.8KV does not have the word prime. It only says start and stop. Do I still have to hold it down in the stop mode to prime it? Or maybe it does not have a prime feature.

[@RVstreet]

Not sure if your VQG 2.8KV needs priming or not, but yes, holding the stop button down for about 5 seconds primes most Onan generators. When you hold down the Stop button you can hear the fuel pump come on.

[@rodsautter6135]

@@RVstreet The small geneset in my Roadtrek Class B won't start. It starts momentarily with starting fluid. I am trying to figure out a way to get pure seafoam into the carb without disconnecting it. I took the fuel line off the carb but the fuel pump seems to be below the fuel filter. I tried spraying carb cleaner into carb inlet hole. I took out the air filter and sprayed carb cleanter into choke hole. I am letting it set for not. Hope it works. The genset has 140 hours on it. 2013 Roadtrek bought second hand. I tried getting the spark arrestor out to clean but I got the one screw out that I could see but loosening it did not loosen up the arrestor so I gave up. Any ideas that I can do while the carb is still on? My genset is the small KV version RVQG 2800. I have to get under the RV to work on it. The carb is accessible but I am hesitant to remove it because I can forsee problems getting it off and back on.

[@RVstreet]

@@rodsautter6135 Can you visually see or smell if you are getting gas into the carb? Is the gas good gas? A 2013 genny with only 140hrs. tells me it hasn't been run or exercised much. Not good. My 2013 genny has 1,140hrs. on it. Sooooo, it's very likely that your fuel pump is either clogged up or no working and the fuel filter is probably fowl too. When a genny sits for a long period of time that gas can get fowl and laquer builds up in the carb too. That's why gas should be treated if it's going to sit. So like anything anything else, try the simple, common things first. Replace the fuel filter & pump. To get Sea Foam into the carb, treat your whole gas tank. One bottle/20gal. of gas. Once the genny starts and runs, that treated fuel will clean out the entire fuel system for the genny & the RV. If the replacing the fuel filter & pump doesn't fix the problem, then yes, you're going to have to pull the carb. It's probably laquered up and especially at the bottom where the jet is.Take pictures before you pull it so you'll have reference when reinstalling.

[@robertcaldwell4351]

Love all the videos you guys make! Is it possible you can do a video on your toad? We just bought a Jeep. And I started to do some research and man so expensive for the parts. Can you point me in the right direction? Thanks again.

[@RVstreet]

Yep is a piece of change to get it all set up depending on which way you go. It'll end up being about twice the cost of going with a tow dolly but way, way easier. I covered our tow bar system here along with a lot of other things. The tow bar starts at 15:49 kzbin.info/www/bejne/jmHbZZeghpp-hK8

[@joshpower610]

Thanks for the wonderful videos! As a former teacher, all of these concepts were very well explained! Thank you! I watched all 3 in this series looking for some possible tips on why my generator will not start, and while I found tons what I things to do in the future, didn't find what I needed now and was hoping you may have some advice. I have a Cummins Onan RV QG 5500 EVAP in my 5th wheel and am guilty of not running it much the past 2 years - and am now trying to get it going again. It will prime and crank, but never turn over unless trying with starting fluid. Then, it turns over, but immediately dies. I checked all of the hoses and replaced the fuel pump and filter. Gas is coming through all of the hoses and up to the carburator intake, but nothing will ever drain from the bowl itself. Any thoughts on this before I look to replace the carburator itself? I know the gas is probably stale (currently more than half a tank (10+ gallons), but would this cause it not to start? I considered Seafoam, but need it to start for that to work! Any thoughts would be appreciated! Cheers!

[@RVstreet]

Gas is coming through all of the hoses and up to the carburator intake *but nothing will ever drain from the bowl itself* *I know the gas is probably stale (currently more than half a tank (10+ gallons), but would this cause it not to start* YES it would Definitely sounds like a fuel problem and you're not getting any flashing codes. If your gas is stale it's probably lacquered in the bowl and intake jet. I wish you would of changed out the fuel pump and filter AFTER getting rid of your old gas first. Sounds like you changed these out these two items while the old gas is still in the tank. I hope those to new items are not contaminated with old gas. Probably not but here's what I'd do first: 1) Get rid of all that old gas out the tank and lines. Replace with new gas-just 5gal for now while you're trouble shooting this problem-and add some Sea Foam.....1 bottle/20 gal. 2) Remove the carburator and clean it real good with something like brake cleaner-from an auto parts store- and a tooth brush. You'll probably need at least 2 cans. You can also put the carburator in a plastic bowl with paint thinner and let it soak for awhile to help break up all that lacquer first. 3) Check your plugs. They may be fouled also from the bad gas. Try cleaning them or if really bad replace them. 4) Since you don't use your genny very often, from now on when you add ANY gas, add either some Stabil or Sea Foam to keep it fresh 5) Exercise it once a month with at least 1/2 load on it

[@joshpower610]

​@@RVstreet - Thanks for the tips. I did go ahead and siphon all of the gas out, and took the carburetor apart and cleaned it. That was definitely the problem, as everything was pretty gunked up! In the end, that worked perfectly and with some Seafoam and new gas, it is running wonderfully again (thank you! - very much appreciated!) I did have one issue when putting everything back together, though. I had issues getting the throttle linkage rod to fit back into both the carburetor and the bottom arm (apologies if I am using the incorrect terms). I thought the arm that it attached to on the bottom could come off to give me more room to twist the angled ends into the holes, but when I went to loosen the nut on the on that bar (under the carburetor and to the left a bit), the bolt snapped (the bar never came off). I can not get the nut back on, but that arm is still moving properly and pretty snuggly attached. I have looked for info on that piece and how to potentially replace it, but have not found much of anything on that specifically. Do you happen to have any thoughts on that?

[@RVstreet]

@@joshpower610Glad you got it fixed. I believe you're talking about the governor arm. Now that it's Monday I'd call Onan. It's also very possible that a small engine repair shop might be able to help you as an alternative. Do you have a service manual? If not go to Onan and download it so you can refer to the right part when talking to Onan.

[@RVstreet]

@@joshpower610 Josh, If you do Facebook, hit me up on messenger and I'll send you a diagram of the carb, all it's parts and proper names. I think what you did is turned that nut the wrong way to remove it. You actually were tightening it and then it broke.

[@joshpower610]

@@RVstreet - Sorry about the delay! I've been too busy to get back to this until now! I do have the manual, but it does not show those diagrams. The governor arm seems like it would be the right name, but if you have a diagram of the carb, that would be excellent! I will find you on FB. As for turning the nut, I definitely turned it the right way (left!) unless it is backwards somehow. I actually barely turned it, so assumed it had some sort of Loctite or something on it.

[@davidcook1166]

Your comment "this mechanic"....what type of work were you into in the "real world"?....david

[@darthbubba866]

Great series, Martin. Have you considered making these three vids into a separate DVD for sale in your store? Just a thought.

[@RVstreet]

Thanks Darth so much. 👍 Well....I'm sitting here thinking about your suggestion and I'm going....why would someone buy the DVD's when they can come here and watch for free? 😜 But in any case I don't have the ambition to go get stuff made and sell stuff online like some other RV channels do. Fine for them. I get it. But not for me. I'm retired. Still work hard-sometimes to hard-but still retired. I don't need more stuff to do. I just love sharing what I know and empowering other RVer's to do their own DIY stuff, save money and keep their rig running top notch. And, if they shop for all their goods thru our Amazon Store, that's a great big Thank You in itself and that's good enough for me.

[@golfnut2599]

I have a diesel pusher, how many gallons does a can of seafoam treat

[@RVstreet]

20gal. to stabilize fuel up to 2yrs. If you want to do a deep injector cleaning you use more. Directions are on the can for that.

[@golfnut2599]

@@RVstreet so for my 100 gallon fuel tank I need to add 5 bottles, correct?

[@RVstreet]

@@golfnut2599 Yep.

[@richardtapert8041]

Your videos are good, but when you said to exercise your generator in the park just shut of the park circuit breakers you for got to mention you have to remove the plug from the park service and plug it back to your vehicle I order to get power from your generator

[@RVstreet]

A few RV's are wired that way...note taken, but many, many RV's are not that way including ours. thx Richard 👍

[@jamesloghry8083]

C'mon man. Take care o my stuff