Quick video on what fixed my new 5500 from shutting down. Video also shows how to pull codes on the genset. #rv #rvlife #rvliving #rvfulltime #rvfun #rving #rvtravel
Add me to your list. Brand new Onan 5500 genny in our brand new 5th wheel camper, ran fine at the dealership when they fired it up for me to show it works. Got it home, ran for 2 minutes, spit spit chug chug, shut down. Half hour later it started again, less than 2 minutes spit spit chug chug and done. Found your video, sure as shit the oil was filled to the top almost pouring out when i removed the dipstick. Took a pump handle off of a soap dispenser bottle, removed a 16oz red solo cup fill and another 3/4 of a water bottle to get the level just above the add mark. She purred like a kitten for 30 minutes before I shut her down. THANK YOU so much for this video, saved myself and many many others a ton of troubleshooting and money for nothing.
My onan 5500 generator was coding cault code 12! Over charging. Same symptoms, i changed fuel pump filter and lines! Changed oil and still had a shut down! Little did i think all i needed was to drain a little oil! Thank you so much!!!!!
I had the exact same problem with a brand new unit Watched your video and checked my oil….full to the brim. Pumped it down and now it runs fine. Thank you!
I had not changed the oil since buying my RV and the manual said it wasn't due for many more hours. I looked at the dip stick and added some oil to get it closer to the top of the hash marked area. On my next trip it was pretty hot out and while running the A/C the generator stopped several times at between 15 minutes and two hours of run time. I assumed it was too hot or something. When I saw a few videos like this, I drained all the oil and put in exactly 1.5 liters (4000 series gen) of fresh oil as called for in the manual and ignored the dip stick. I test ran it on a hot day and it ran for several hours without stopping. For good measure I also added more insulation to the fuel line where it went near the cylinder head. Thanks for the info.
Ran into this exact issue recently, thank you for confirming the “over oiling” condition. I did the same thing using the dip stick to measure the oil level. Drained out the oil like you have it, and bingo, no issues. I appreciate it bud.
Had the same problem this past weekend. Could not keep the genny running. Spent much of Monday trying to find a repair shop that would work on it to no avail. Watched hours of videos some saying 'replace carburetor, Onan carb $400.00+, some said replace fuel filter and fuel pump, Onan fuel pump $100.00+. Found this video, figured zero $$, worth at least trying. Generator ran for 4 hrs with both A/C going. THANK YOU! My RV has the same Onan model as this!
@@RockyRohde if not an update dipstick at least a Service Bulletin so the information could get out! Watching videos on this problem some people have spent thousands $$ and a lot of lost time without a successful "repair". Some have even taken their rigs to Onan/Cummins shops and paid for new fuel pumps that did NOT fix the problem. Thanks again for the FIX! I have a trip coming up in 3 weeks and will NEED more A/C than the coach's dash A/C can deliver.
Thank you so much!!! The oil level was high on dipstick…. I took a turkey baster and removed 250 ml of oil!!! So I started up the Onan!!! And it works perfectly!!!!thank you!!!!!
My buddy has been camping multiple times. Used it for a day no issues. Second day prime and it was start for a couple seconds. Drained the oil to the add oil mark and it started and ran for the rest of the weekend.
wow, I sure hope this fixes my issue! Mine has been doing the exact same thing and when I messed with it today I got the same error code and the oil is right to the threads! Thanks for posting this!!!
I did the same. My 4000 was intermittently stalling out. Put in a new fuel filter and it still stalled. Came home after camping and drained the oil and put less oil in than requested. It will stall out if not enough oil so there is a low oil safety sensor in the gen so experiment yourself but I fixed my issue. These oil dip sticks and ports are poorly engineered. And don’t get me started about the spark plug.
THIS IS HOW I FIXED MINE, IN THE CASE OF.... "I CAN'T START MY GENERATOR" It's has been two years since last time it was running, so I started by checking oil level full at gen dipstick (it won't start if low oil because of sensors) then I checked gasoline more than 1\4 tank in the RV (also safety sensors), sparkplug checked for good spark, also checked the manual reset circuit braker ( to be ON) at front motorhome engine compartment for 12v current to the generator to be able to start it, also cleaned the carburetor and even installed new one but same situation, then checked wires and found some has been chewed like gum by rats at the back of starting switch generator panel so I replaced them, at this time the generator started but stay running only by keep pushing the switch on all the time, so then finally I knew it was internal electrical problem from the engine itself, so I took the generator out from my RV to work in my garage, (I did this by myself with some tools and old Mayan tricks ) lol, it's really heavy for one person. I disassemble the unit at my garage and started by removing the cover, then the cooling fan or flywheel unit (it's 2 items in one) until finally I was at the gen rotor and brushes assembly area and this is what I found: one more wire chewed by filthy rats plus the stinky rat nest in the middle of the generator motor coil, I fixed the wire and sanded the commutator copper contacts where the brushes are sitting becouse they were real duty with old urine from the rats, and of course I got rid off the stinky nest, lol!!! Then 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 (available at any auto parts for $25.00) to pull the aluminum fan out and (flywheel). Just picture this: (Any gasoline engine run smooth if gasoline and DC current aren't interrupted) so following this important principle you'll always find the problem to be fixed. Also if you have a onan microlite 4000 like mine, don't run it for more than a minute without the cover because 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 or two members...just kidding, lol!!! After testing the gen then I did put the air cooling assembly back and the rest of components including the cover, now it's ready to be installed at my RV. Once the gen was installed back at my motorhome I started it to be tested for electric power but not before flipping the electric switch (on) at the gen starting control panel (sometimes hiding under or around the panel) to transfer power to my RV GFCI main outlet and electric panel as well, my motorhome it's equipped with GFCI so I reset it and tested for green led light indicating power is ready at my main breakers panel, so I turned my main breaker (on) along the others ones but no power was present at my breaker main switch (faulty main braker) so I flipped it many times, sometimes you can make it work again, mine did work, lol!!! I'm happy because everything works now including the ref for cold drinks and AC for this crazy summer, lol! Later I'll buy me a new main braker, for now this is a resurrected generator story that needed to be shared. If this can help eaven one person to save time and $$$ it'll make me more happy, thanks for reading!
Thank you so much for this video! My friends Thor Challenger RV has the same model generator, except is propane powered. I drained 15 oz. of oil dipstick shows oil above the add mark still. Bam works fine now.
Brand new 44.5’ fifth wheel , Over $100k and the generator wont run, with 4 hours on it!!! As you can imagine, I just about lost my damn mind🤣 I’m having the exact same issue and I will be going to drain some oil out of that thing tonight. Thank you thank you!!
I have trhe same generator that came with my 22 Entegra motorhome and I have the same problem. When I first bought the motorhome on Sept2021 it would shut down after 8 minutes with the 2 a/c on. I took it to Cummins and they said it was the fuel pump. Cummins replaced the pump, and I still kept have shutdown problems, but now it would run a bit longer. I took it back to Cummins (San Leandro CA) again, this time they adjusted the "hertz". It still would shut down under a load. I just took it a 3rd time to them because it first shut down after 1 hr and then the next time was 3 hrs. Cummins has my motorhome now and I guess maybe next week after the Memorial Day holiday they might find out what the problem is. I told them the first time I took it about another TH-cam video that like yours they said to keep the oil level lower. They told me they have never heard of that and that I should keep the level where it should be. If this time I still have problems, I will lower the level of oil and see if it fixes the problem. Thank you for your video.
Just curious if your generator issue was resolved by Cummins in San Leandro, CA. My winnebego has been there 4ntimes now for the unexpected shut down issue. So far they have replaced fuel pump and control board. Just curious how your last visit with them turned out.
@@jwh3388 Cummins has not been able to find the cause. I have been dealing with Bob who is understanding about the problem. When they have it, it doesn't shut off and then on my way home to Morgan Hill it shut down. I saw a video on TH-cam that if you have the oil level just above the add mark it would not shut down. I sucked out about 16 oz of oil and ran it for two hours without shutting down. I have not used the motorhome since then. Stay in touch please.
I am also dealing with Bob. My oil level is just over the ad oil line. I continued to have the same problem. I will let you know what occurs after this fourth visit with bob and Cummins
I have had the exact issue with my 5500. Ty!! After an oil/filter change and fuel filter change. Same issue. The Onan manual says fuel level and oil pressure is something to check with code 36 (unknown shutdown). Specifically, it mentions high oil levels. I checked and it was perfect on the dip (and, that was with 2qt oil with filter change per the manual). So I shrugged and dismissed oil. However, it was also not sparking even with starting fluid. Unplugged and replugged the oil pressure switch thinking it might be stuck open for some reason... Voila! Fired right up. But, still dies at the 15 min mark. All of this to say, I'm gonna drain some oil and see if that's the issue. Thinking about it now, I'm pretty sure this started (months ago, but I'm 90% solar and didn't need the genny) when I added oil to the genny when it was showing 'low' on the stick. I remember thinking it took a hell of a lot of oil to fill the thing from 'low'. I remember making an overfill mistake on a Honda Rebel 250 once. I checked and filled the oil with the bike on the kickstand. Needless to say, it ran like trash and even threw oil up into the air cleaner! Anyway... Off to drain off some oil. Onan needs to issue a SB on this.
Yeah you would think they would issue something about it.. never had one issue since draining some oil… the way it shuts down makes you think it’s a fuel delivery issue but it’s not…
Couldn't get mine to start at all without starting fluid and it would die when you stopped spraying. Had fuel at the carb bowl, but I noticed my pump was original (7 years old with 2300 hours on it). I replaced the pump and filter. Still no start. Pulled the carb and cleaned it out. Wasn't very dirty but I did see a few tiny rusty looking specs in the main jet. Put it back on and it fired right up!! Ran for about 15 minutes with no issues. Turned the fridge only on and it immediately started surging and bogging down. The bog gradually got longer for about 5 minutes until ishut it down. But I turned the fridge off about 1 minute before and the bog didn't stop. Now it starts and dies with a code 15.
This only applies to models with oil pump and pressure sensor. Older models don't. Drain oil and put in what is specified with high quality low foam oil like diesel. Doing this puts the level at mid point cold. If running issues still occur, fuel delivery is most likely. The fuel pumps often work intermittently for a while when they are beginning to fail. At the generator start button, pushing prime should result in a sound from the pump. If it dies and runs, wait till it stops and push the prime again. If its the pump there will be no sound. I just did this and replaced the pump. Started in seconds and ran ac for half an hour with no surging or stopping. So if you have and older onan, don't drain oil. Troubke shoot for fuel issues.
This does help. I started mine for the first time the other day and I swear I smelled burning oil. Then yesterday it did the random shut off and acted like it needed fuel. I'll try and come back to this comment and let you know if draining some helped. Thanks!
The owners manual for my 5500 says to not screw in the dipstick, the service manual says to screw in the dipstick when checking the oil. I emailed the Cummins Onan support team to see which one is right and have gotten no response. Also, normally that is marked on the dipstick whether to screw in or not. I have a brand new 5500 and my oil shows full on my dipstick not screwed in and I have had no issues.
I have the same model generator and I have a Stryker tow hauler. Having the same problem currently and my generator also seems to have too much oil in it. Since you posted this video in September, has the generator still be running fine?
@@RockyRohde awesome, thanks for the quick reply. I'll go drain some oil out of it and update this post when I have a better idea if that helps or not.
mine seems to shut down when it gets totally unloaded,, such as when it has the house batteries charged,, poof it shut down. could over fill still be my problem? and i wonder if it be ok to open the drain and drain a bit? thx!
I cant wait to get home and check the error code on mine. It was stalling last winter and I had a friend help to do the oils, plugs, and even replace the carburetor, but now it wont start at all. I bet the oil is plum filled up. Can that cause it to not start at all>? It'll crank,and it'll burn some starter fluid but other than that NOTHING.
Do you have an exact amount of oil that is in your generator? I want to change out the oil and want to put in however much instead of pulling oil out - in fear of pulling too much out.
I bought a used genetic only a year old. I opened the district and oil and gasoline overflowed out? Like previous owner tried to do a flush out put new oil in it after draining engine and filter hope it starts in morning.....
Had on in my boat. Total junk. Shouldnt have to be a back yard mechanic to turn on a light switch. No excuse. Threw mine overboard and bought a Honda. Works perfect runs for days
What about fuel not getting to the generator? Tank is half full. I can feel the pump pulling when I disconnect the line. Fuel not making it from the tank. 2021 heartland torque t322
You might have a leak in the hose on the frame.. I would cut suction line at the tank and dip it in some gas.. if it runs the pickup tube broke or plugged in the tank. Sometimes these lines run along outside of the frame. If you have a blowout or lines rub tire it will create a hole.
962 "LIKES" and 120 Comments! At what point does Cummins Onan fix the issue, after a class action lawsuit? Year old Onan 4000 on a horse trailer that is now doing the same thing after 50 hours, and the dealership preformed the first oil change. I doubt it is fuel or fuel pressure since I can prime it and the unit is about 10' above the fuel tank. I already removed half a pint and I am at the ADD mark, it still is shutting down. I guess tomorrow I'll pull another half pint out and see if it solved the issue. Sorry for this vent, but does any corporation in the RV or marine industry take ownership and responsibility? We ALL are spending a TON of our hard earned money for these toys, the least they can do is provide with products and support that works!!! I guess as long as the shareholders and investors are happy with quarterly and annual earnings that's all that really matters to them!!
I have the same problem took some oil out new filter gas and oil filter still dies after 5 minutes any ideas would be helpful we have the same generator 55 onan
I swear... If I walk out to this '19 Thor hurricane 34m with 54hrs on the Genset.. and this is the issue... I'ma find that engineer.. Drove 30mins on a 107°F day in an easy bake oven. Couldn't get the gen set to start after a "family friend" took it to a buddy to help out my in-laws.
@@RockyRohde sadly not. Ended up driving 9hrs off the Thor's cab AC and fans pointed back down the RV. But this RV has a lot of electric gremlins in it I'm finding out, 3years old with 6k miles and 56hrs on the genny.
Christ, not another one that thinks removing a third of the oil from an engine somehow repairs it. I've ask several others that make this claim why this appears to work. Nobody can answer me. The fact is that this just covers up the actual problem, which you ALL most likely still have. Hint: None of you are thinking about whats going on when it shuts down. Mine did this too. I corrected the problem in 3 minutes for free, without removing any oil.
We are waiting on solution.. until you provide yours mine still works great. Over 200 trouble free… Don’t get so mad.. help the world out with answers not complaining
@@RockyRohde Would you run your car engine, or ANY engine, with a third less oil in it? If you went to an oil change place and they told you that your engine takes 6 quarts of oil but they only put 4 back in and it will be ok, would you accept that? Now I'll ask you, why does oil removal let the engine run?
Replaced fuel pump and had it dropped off at service with no fix.. Ask yourself this question….. Would you buy a RV that you can’t use a genset? I understand cooling volumes, heat rejection, heat dissapation, and friction beyond your scope.. Your answer from me is I need the unit to work and I don’t care if I have to buy another genset. I don’t buy things to sit in a service yard.. think about this… I have used it two summers with zero issues.. seems like a fix to me.. We are all still waiting to know your fix? Oh that’s right you have done nothing to share any information to get people out of a bind when they have a inoperable unit. Exactly why you have not said anything yet… A person who legit cared would have commented “this is what really fixes the problem…..” I would respect that 100%… Keep going it moves my video up in the algorithms lol…
@@RockyRohde Yes, I would buy an RV with a non working genset because because I would require a substantial discount, about 5k, and I would repair it for little to no cost. You started this by claiming you fixed the problem without any explanation of why less oil appeared to correct the problem, like everyone else. Did anyone test the fuel pump or fuel flow before replacing it? Apparently not. The problem has nothing to do with cooling volumes, heat rejection, heat dissa(i)pation but with friction, you're getting close. When you replace a perfectly good generator I will gladly take that old piece of junk that doesn't work. I'll pay the shipping.
Maybe you missed the part above.. Replaced the fuel pump… It prob has to do with the direction the generator is mounted and the way the oil moves in the crankcase on braking and acceleration. In fifth wheels they are mounted opposite direction vs travel trailers. I considered the oil might be foaming also and changed brands. I have filled all types of engines that usually require oil to be filled to the bottom of the threads. If you look at the dipstick full is at the top of the threads. Genset works great at the bottom of the threads like all Cummins onans in the past have… new dipstick shows full at the top and it does not work. I’m going to keep filling to the bottom of the threads until you provide a solution.. and no the fuel pump does not fix the problem. If you have a bad fuel pump your problem will be constant not random.
Add me to your list. Brand new Onan 5500 genny in our brand new 5th wheel camper, ran fine at the dealership when they fired it up for me to show it works. Got it home, ran for 2 minutes, spit spit chug chug, shut down. Half hour later it started again, less than 2 minutes spit spit chug chug and done. Found your video, sure as shit the oil was filled to the top almost pouring out when i removed the dipstick. Took a pump handle off of a soap dispenser bottle, removed a 16oz red solo cup fill and another 3/4 of a water bottle to get the level just above the add mark. She purred like a kitten for 30 minutes before I shut her down. THANK YOU so much for this video, saved myself and many many others a ton of troubleshooting and money for nothing.
Glad it helped!!
My onan 5500 generator was coding cault code 12! Over charging. Same symptoms, i changed fuel pump filter and lines! Changed oil and still had a shut down! Little did i think all i needed was to drain a little oil! Thank you so much!!!!!
Thanks for watching!
I had the exact same problem with a brand new unit
Watched your video and checked my oil….full to the brim.
Pumped it down and now it runs fine. Thank you!
Thanks for watching!
I had not changed the oil since buying my RV and the manual said it wasn't due for many more hours. I looked at the dip stick and added some oil to get it closer to the top of the hash marked area. On my next trip it was pretty hot out and while running the A/C the generator stopped several times at between 15 minutes and two hours of run time. I assumed it was too hot or something. When I saw a few videos like this, I drained all the oil and put in exactly 1.5 liters (4000 series gen) of fresh oil as called for in the manual and ignored the dip stick. I test ran it on a hot day and it ran for several hours without stopping. For good measure I also added more insulation to the fuel line where it went near the cylinder head. Thanks for the info.
Wow, I was going to say, change the oil sensor, but with so many people agreeing with you I’d say that you nailed it.
Yeah.. It’s fixed a ton of them…
Save me alot of headache yesterday....thanks!!!
Glad to help
Ran into this exact issue recently, thank you for confirming the “over oiling” condition. I did the same thing using the dip stick to measure the oil level. Drained out the oil like you have it, and bingo, no issues. I appreciate it bud.
Glad it worked!
Thanks for sharing man. You solved the issue I was having with my brand new Onan 5500.
No more random shutdowns.
Thanks for watching!
Had the same problem this past weekend. Could not keep the genny running. Spent much of Monday trying to find a repair shop that would work on it to no avail. Watched hours of videos some saying 'replace carburetor, Onan carb $400.00+, some said replace fuel filter and fuel pump, Onan fuel pump $100.00+. Found this video, figured zero $$, worth at least trying. Generator ran for 4 hrs with both A/C going. THANK YOU! My RV has the same Onan model as this!
Thanks.. you would think onan would have an updated dipstick by now… I have over 100 hours on mine zero issues…
@@RockyRohde if not an update dipstick at least a Service Bulletin so the information could get out! Watching videos on this problem some people have spent thousands $$ and a lot of lost time without a successful "repair". Some have even taken their rigs to Onan/Cummins shops and paid for new fuel pumps that did NOT fix the problem. Thanks again for the FIX! I have a trip coming up in 3 weeks and will NEED more A/C than the coach's dash A/C can deliver.
@@RockyRohde this has been an issue for years and years and years.
Your advice was the fix for me! Thank you so much. My 2007 Itasca with 4K Onan was consistently shutting off after 15 minutes. Thanks!
🙏 thanks!! Solved my shutdown issue right after doing an oil change. Made perfect sense, just about a water bottle full of too much oil
Perfect fix to my 5500 onan on motorhome! Couldn’t figure it out until I saw this video! Changed spark plugs, fuel filter, this worked!!
Glad it fixed it! Thanks for watching..
Onan must be taking dipstick lessons from Harley-Davidson
Thank you so much!!! The oil level was high on dipstick…. I took a turkey baster and removed 250 ml of oil!!! So I started up the Onan!!! And it works perfectly!!!!thank you!!!!!
Glad it helped
My buddy has been camping multiple times. Used it for a day no issues. Second day prime and it was start for a couple seconds. Drained the oil to the add oil mark and it started and ran for the rest of the weekend.
OMG Thank you so much. Ever since I changed my oil and filled it to the full mark
wow, I sure hope this fixes my issue! Mine has been doing the exact same thing and when I messed with it today I got the same error code and the oil is right to the threads! Thanks for posting this!!!
You just so happen to have what looks to be the exact same toy hauler as me too, thanks for the vid gonna try your fix
Did it work?
@RockyRohde haven't had a chance to get to it yet. I'll know after our next dry camp trip.
My man!! So far spot on. Glad I found this video!!
Glad it helped!
I did the same. My 4000 was intermittently stalling out. Put in a new fuel filter and it still stalled. Came home after camping and drained the oil and put less oil in than requested. It will stall out if not enough oil so there is a low oil safety sensor in the gen so experiment yourself but I fixed my issue. These oil dip sticks and ports are poorly engineered. And don’t get me started about the spark plug.
You just helped me get mine going! Thank you! I’m a subscriber now!
Thanks! Glad the video helped..
THIS IS HOW I FIXED MINE, IN THE CASE OF....
"I CAN'T START MY GENERATOR"
It's has been two years since last time it was running, so I started by checking oil level full at gen dipstick (it won't start if low oil because of sensors) then I checked gasoline more than 1\4 tank in the RV (also safety sensors), sparkplug checked for good spark, also checked the manual reset circuit braker ( to be ON) at front motorhome engine compartment for 12v current to the generator to be able to start it, also cleaned the carburetor and even installed new one but same situation, then checked wires and found some has been chewed like gum by rats at the back of starting switch generator panel so I replaced them, at this time the generator started but stay running only by keep pushing the switch on all the time, so then finally I knew it was internal electrical problem from the engine itself, so I took the generator out from my RV to work in my garage, (I did this by myself with some tools and old Mayan tricks ) lol, it's really heavy for one person.
I disassemble the unit at my garage and started by removing the cover, then the cooling fan or flywheel unit (it's 2 items in one) until finally I was at the gen rotor and brushes assembly area and this is what I found: one more wire chewed by filthy rats plus the stinky rat nest in the middle of the generator motor coil, I fixed the wire and sanded the commutator copper contacts where the brushes are sitting becouse they were real duty with old urine from the rats, and of course I got rid off the stinky nest, lol!!!
Then 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 (available at any auto parts for $25.00) to pull the aluminum fan out and (flywheel).
Just picture this: (Any gasoline engine run smooth if gasoline and DC current aren't interrupted) so following this important principle you'll always find the problem to be fixed.
Also if you have a onan microlite 4000 like mine, don't run it for more than a minute without the cover because 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 or two members...just kidding, lol!!!
After testing the gen then I did put the air cooling assembly back and the rest of components including the cover, now it's ready to be installed at my RV.
Once the gen was installed back at my motorhome I started it to be tested for electric power but not before flipping the electric switch (on) at the gen starting control panel (sometimes hiding under or around the panel) to transfer power to my RV GFCI main outlet and electric panel as well, my motorhome it's equipped with GFCI so I reset it and tested for green led light indicating power is ready at my main breakers panel, so I turned my main breaker (on) along the others ones but no power was present at my breaker main switch (faulty main braker) so I flipped it many times, sometimes you can make it work again, mine did work, lol!!!
I'm happy because everything works now including the ref for cold drinks and AC for this crazy summer, lol! Later I'll buy me a new main braker, for now this is a resurrected generator story that needed to be shared.
If this can help eaven one person to save time and $$$ it'll make me more happy, thanks for reading!
Thank you so much for this video! My friends Thor Challenger RV has the same model generator, except is propane powered. I drained 15 oz. of oil dipstick shows oil above the add mark still. Bam works fine now.
Glad it helped!!
Thank you solved my problem .
Excellent video! Thanks so much for your help 😊
Glad it was helpful!
Brand new 44.5’ fifth wheel ,
Over $100k and the generator wont run, with 4 hours on it!!!
As you can imagine, I just about lost my damn mind🤣
I’m having the exact same issue and I will be going to drain some oil out of that thing tonight. Thank you thank you!!
Yeah mine kept dying on the way home from dealer.. I thought it was running out of gas… They need an updated oil dipstick already
I have trhe same generator that came with my 22 Entegra motorhome and I have the same problem. When I first bought the motorhome on Sept2021 it would shut down after 8 minutes with the 2 a/c on. I took it to Cummins and they said it was the fuel pump. Cummins replaced the pump, and I still kept have shutdown problems, but now it would run a bit longer. I took it back to Cummins (San Leandro CA) again, this time they adjusted the "hertz". It still would shut down under a load. I just took it a 3rd time to them because it first shut down after 1 hr and then the next time was 3 hrs. Cummins has my motorhome now and I guess maybe next week after the Memorial Day holiday they might find out what the problem is. I told them the first time I took it about another TH-cam video that like yours they said to keep the oil level lower. They told me they have never heard of that and that I should keep the level where it should be. If this time I still have problems, I will lower the level of oil and see if it fixes the problem. Thank you for your video.
It will fix it….
Just curious if your generator issue was resolved by Cummins in San Leandro, CA. My winnebego has been there 4ntimes now for the unexpected shut down issue. So far they have replaced fuel pump and control board. Just curious how your last visit with them turned out.
@@jwh3388 Cummins has not been able to find the cause. I have been dealing with Bob who is understanding about the problem. When they have it, it doesn't shut off and then on my way home to Morgan Hill it shut down. I saw a video on TH-cam that if you have the oil level just above the add mark it would not shut down. I sucked out about 16 oz of oil and ran it for two hours without shutting down. I have not used the motorhome since then. Stay in touch please.
I am also dealing with Bob. My oil level is just over the ad oil line. I continued to have the same problem. I will let you know what occurs after this fourth visit with bob and Cummins
Needed this!
I have had the exact issue with my 5500. Ty!! After an oil/filter change and fuel filter change. Same issue. The Onan manual says fuel level and oil pressure is something to check with code 36 (unknown shutdown). Specifically, it mentions high oil levels. I checked and it was perfect on the dip (and, that was with 2qt oil with filter change per the manual). So I shrugged and dismissed oil. However, it was also not sparking even with starting fluid. Unplugged and replugged the oil pressure switch thinking it might be stuck open for some reason... Voila! Fired right up. But, still dies at the 15 min mark. All of this to say, I'm gonna drain some oil and see if that's the issue. Thinking about it now, I'm pretty sure this started (months ago, but I'm 90% solar and didn't need the genny) when I added oil to the genny when it was showing 'low' on the stick. I remember thinking it took a hell of a lot of oil to fill the thing from 'low'. I remember making an overfill mistake on a Honda Rebel 250 once. I checked and filled the oil with the bike on the kickstand. Needless to say, it ran like trash and even threw oil up into the air cleaner! Anyway... Off to drain off some oil.
Onan needs to issue a SB on this.
Yeah you would think they would issue something about it.. never had one issue since draining some oil… the way it shuts down makes you think it’s a fuel delivery issue but it’s not…
I'm still getting the same issue after draining off about 1/2 qt. I ordered a fuel pump (27 bucks, why not). Sigh. I really am at a loss.
Mine is about an inch below bottom thread.. I can send you a pic if you like. If I fill it any higher than that it will shut down
The fuel pump fixed the issue for me :)
This fixed my problem!
awesome info thank you!
I just performed my first oil service and I filled to the full line at the threads. I’m definitely trying this to see if it fixes my problem.
Did draining some oil work for you?
Couldn't get mine to start at all without starting fluid and it would die when you stopped spraying. Had fuel at the carb bowl, but I noticed my pump was original (7 years old with 2300 hours on it). I replaced the pump and filter. Still no start. Pulled the carb and cleaned it out. Wasn't very dirty but I did see a few tiny rusty looking specs in the main jet. Put it back on and it fired right up!! Ran for about 15 minutes with no issues. Turned the fridge only on and it immediately started surging and bogging down. The bog gradually got longer for about 5 minutes until ishut it down. But I turned the fridge off about 1 minute before and the bog didn't stop. Now it starts and dies with a code 15.
This only applies to models with oil pump and pressure sensor. Older models don't. Drain oil and put in what is specified with high quality low foam oil like diesel. Doing this puts the level at mid point cold. If running issues still occur, fuel delivery is most likely. The fuel pumps often work intermittently for a while when they are beginning to fail. At the generator start button, pushing prime should result in a sound from the pump. If it dies and runs, wait till it stops and push the prime again. If its the pump there will be no sound. I just did this and replaced the pump. Started in seconds and ran ac for half an hour with no surging or stopping. So if you have and older onan, don't drain oil. Troubke shoot for fuel issues.
Do you fully screw in the stick to check or just set it in the hole without threading it in?
This does help. I started mine for the first time the other day and I swear I smelled burning oil. Then yesterday it did the random shut off and acted like it needed fuel.
I'll try and come back to this comment and let you know if draining some helped.
Thanks!
More than likely it will fix it..
The owners manual for my 5500 says to not screw in the dipstick, the service manual says to screw in the dipstick when checking the oil. I emailed the Cummins Onan support team to see which one is right and have gotten no response. Also, normally that is marked on the dipstick whether to screw in or not. I have a brand new 5500 and my oil shows full on my dipstick not screwed in and I have had no issues.
Having same issue but my issue started after about 45 hours of use with no problems. Any thoughts on that?
I have the same model generator and I have a Stryker tow hauler. Having the same problem currently and my generator also seems to have too much oil in it. Since you posted this video in September, has the generator still be running fine?
Yes zero issues runs on long highway trips no more shutdowns.. your unit is overfull
@@RockyRohde awesome, thanks for the quick reply. I'll go drain some oil out of it and update this post when I have a better idea if that helps or not.
Having the same issue but I’m confused. At what level should the oil be at? Bottom of threads? 1/2 inch below?
mine seems to shut down when it gets totally unloaded,, such as when it has the house batteries charged,, poof it shut down. could over fill still be my problem? and i wonder if it be ok to open the drain and drain a bit? thx!
Did you use some type of suction device to get the oil out? Concerned about draining too much from the bottom.
I used a turkey baster.
get a pint container (deli type) and drain until its almost full. That's what I used, haven't had the problem since I've done that.
I used a turkey baster. I leave it in the truck now all the time. Don’t forget a container too.
I cant wait to get home and check the error code on mine. It was stalling last winter and I had a friend help to do the oils, plugs, and even replace the carburetor, but now it wont start at all. I bet the oil is plum filled up. Can that cause it to not start at all>? It'll crank,and it'll burn some starter fluid but other than that NOTHING.
Possibly.. it could be a plugged jet in carb or 12 volt solenoid on bowl not getting voltage..
Do you have an exact amount of oil that is in your generator? I want to change out the oil and want to put in however much instead of pulling oil out - in fear of pulling too much out.
superb.. yep.. twits used to overfil yanmar diesels on boats and blew seal out of Z drives...
I bought a used genetic only a year old. I opened the district and oil and gasoline overflowed out?
Like previous owner tried to do a flush out put new oil in it after draining engine and filter hope it starts in morning.....
If your fuel tank is 20’ away from the generator, about how long should it take to get fuel to the generator (prime button)?
Listen to the pump with door off.. you can tell when fuel is pumping..
Freakin genius!!!
Glad it helped!
Well done code 15 how do i fix
same exact problem
we thought it didn't have enough oil 🤷🏼♀️
Had on in my boat. Total junk. Shouldnt have to be a back yard mechanic to turn on a light switch. No excuse.
Threw mine overboard and bought a Honda. Works perfect runs for days
What about fuel not getting to the generator? Tank is half full. I can feel the pump pulling when I disconnect the line. Fuel not making it from the tank. 2021 heartland torque t322
You might have a leak in the hose on the frame.. I would cut suction line at the tank and dip it in some gas.. if it runs the pickup tube broke or plugged in the tank. Sometimes these lines run along outside of the frame. If you have a blowout or lines rub tire it will create a hole.
pressing the start button (bottom) to obtain the code doesnt work on mine (2022).
What’s your oil type
962 "LIKES" and 120 Comments! At what point does Cummins Onan fix the issue, after a class action lawsuit?
Year old Onan 4000 on a horse trailer that is now doing the same thing after 50 hours, and the dealership preformed the first oil change. I doubt it is fuel or fuel pressure since I can prime it and the unit is about 10' above the fuel tank. I already removed half a pint and I am at the ADD mark, it still is shutting down. I guess tomorrow I'll pull another half pint out and see if it solved the issue.
Sorry for this vent, but does any corporation in the RV or marine industry take ownership and responsibility? We ALL are spending a TON of our hard earned money for these toys, the least they can do is provide with products and support that works!!! I guess as long as the shareholders and investors are happy with quarterly and annual earnings that's all that really matters to them!!
Yep.
How do we drain the oil?
Small valve under dipstick
didnt fix mine. anymore suggestions
Prob fuel pump… or the unit is getting to hot. Check ventilation
I have the same problem took some oil out new filter gas and oil filter still dies after 5 minutes any ideas would be helpful we have the same generator 55 onan
I swear... If I walk out to this '19 Thor hurricane 34m with 54hrs on the Genset.. and this is the issue... I'ma find that engineer..
Drove 30mins on a 107°F day in an easy bake oven. Couldn't get the gen set to start after a "family friend" took it to a buddy to help out my in-laws.
Did it fix it?
@@RockyRohde sadly not. Ended up driving 9hrs off the Thor's cab AC and fans pointed back down the RV. But this RV has a lot of electric gremlins in it I'm finding out, 3years old with 6k miles and 56hrs on the genny.
Christ, not another one that thinks removing a third of the oil from an engine somehow repairs it.
I've ask several others that make this claim why this appears to work. Nobody can answer me.
The fact is that this just covers up the actual problem, which you ALL most likely still have. Hint: None of you are thinking about whats going on when it shuts down.
Mine did this too. I corrected the problem in 3 minutes for free, without removing any oil.
We are waiting on solution.. until you provide yours mine still works great. Over 200 trouble free… Don’t get so mad.. help the world out with answers not complaining
@@RockyRohde Would you run your car engine, or ANY engine, with a third less oil in it? If you went to an oil change place and they told you that your engine takes 6 quarts of oil but they only put 4 back in and it will be ok, would you accept that?
Now I'll ask you, why does oil removal let the engine run?
Replaced fuel pump and had it dropped off at service with no fix.. Ask yourself this question….. Would you buy a RV that you can’t use a genset? I understand cooling volumes, heat rejection, heat dissapation, and friction beyond your scope.. Your answer from me is I need the unit to work and I don’t care if I have to buy another genset. I don’t buy things to sit in a service yard.. think about this… I have used it two summers with zero issues.. seems like a fix to me.. We are all still waiting to know your fix? Oh that’s right you have done nothing to share any information to get people out of a bind when they have a inoperable unit. Exactly why you have not said anything yet… A person who legit cared would have commented “this is what really fixes the problem…..” I would respect that 100%… Keep going it moves my video up in the algorithms lol…
@@RockyRohde Yes, I would buy an RV with a non working genset because because I would require a substantial discount, about 5k, and I would repair it for little to no cost. You started this by claiming you fixed the problem without any explanation of why less oil appeared to correct the problem, like everyone else.
Did anyone test the fuel pump or fuel flow before replacing it? Apparently not. The problem has nothing to do with cooling volumes, heat rejection, heat dissa(i)pation but with friction, you're getting close. When you replace a perfectly good generator I will gladly take that old piece of junk that doesn't work. I'll pay the shipping.
Maybe you missed the part above.. Replaced the fuel pump… It prob has to do with the direction the generator is mounted and the way the oil moves in the crankcase on braking and acceleration. In fifth wheels they are mounted opposite direction vs travel trailers. I considered the oil might be foaming also and changed brands. I have filled all types of engines that usually require oil to be filled to the bottom of the threads. If you look at the dipstick full is at the top of the threads. Genset works great at the bottom of the threads like all Cummins onans in the past have… new dipstick shows full at the top and it does not work. I’m going to keep filling to the bottom of the threads until you provide a solution.. and no the fuel pump does not fix the problem. If you have a bad fuel pump your problem will be constant not random.