RV Onan Generator Start Up Problems. Fix it here. Hint & Tips

Автокөліктер мен көлік құралдары

Hey guys, this is Bear from Bear’s Workshop. In this video we are going over some of the first things to look at when your generator won't start or stay running. Please hit the like and Subscribe buttons to see more. Thanks for watching.
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Пікірлер: 370

  • @BearsWorkshop
    @BearsWorkshop4 жыл бұрын

    Hey everyone, let me know if this video was helpful to you and lets hit that Subscribe button. Thanks for watching!

  • @mrbiscuit3037

    @mrbiscuit3037

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you. This was very helpful! I got it running.

  • @jayneweathers

    @jayneweathers

    3 жыл бұрын

    Subscribing!

  • @elmerwaltermeyer8340

    @elmerwaltermeyer8340

    2 жыл бұрын

    There is no coolant in a generator.

  • @lucpelletier4692

    @lucpelletier4692

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hi from Alberta Canada!! Big thanks for all your precious info 🙏 I like your tum up 👍👍👍

  • @patriotmike5714

    @patriotmike5714

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hello Mr. Bear all I’m getting is a clicking can’t get it to turn over got good house batteries Well I’m getting is the solenoid clicking do you have any pointers for me?

  • @ericsalzer6416
    @ericsalzer6416 Жыл бұрын

    Very good video. The process he walks through covers all the bases. Excellent!! Thanks !!

  • @PearsonParty
    @PearsonParty2 жыл бұрын

    Excellent descriptions and I appreciate the regular common language you used. New owner and this is everything I needed to know!

  • @luiscarrasco9607
    @luiscarrasco96073 жыл бұрын

    EXCELLENT INSTRUCTOR. THANKS BEAR !!

  • @Ascending_Leo816
    @Ascending_Leo816 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for just walking through all the scenarios of generator issues.. its so hard sometimes to stay calm when your generator dies when your away in hot states and the generator shuts off and there no sure way of knowing until you get dirty. Thank you.

  • @captnawty7966
    @captnawty7966 Жыл бұрын

    Hey Ben, very helpful video for us "Newbie's" who are first time 5th wheel owners. I subscribed and please keep these helpful videos coming.

  • @johnnmcguire1
    @johnnmcguire13 ай бұрын

    Man you just saved me a LOT of hassle! I can't hear a fuel pump running or tell that anything is actually happening holding the stop button, but sure enough, after 2 cycles the generator fired right up! The RV had been sitting for 6 years and I KNEW it had a lot of really old gas in it and run through the generator when I tested it. I was convinced I was going to rebuild that carb. Thank you!

  • @mrclay50
    @mrclay502 жыл бұрын

    Thank you, you gave me some good places to start I'll check it out tomorrow and let you know how it goes,

  • @smilingsun47
    @smilingsun4710 ай бұрын

    Thank you thank you thank you! It’s been three days of 105 and up degrees outside and unable to start the bounder or the generator. But after watching this video I finally got the generator going. Thank you so much you have no idea. Now I’m sitting in it with the air on waiting for it to cool down.🎉🎉🎉🎉

  • @Olive-oilien
    @Olive-oilien2 жыл бұрын

    This is a great video. Thank you for making it.

  • @sherwindean
    @sherwindean Жыл бұрын

    An amazing video, tips are on point mainly because the points you indicated hits a thorough walk-through that solved my issues. So thank you and keep doing what you do because every bit helps the next individual that’s a do it yourselfer…my made up word

  • @iyoutome
    @iyoutome2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks brother, appreciate you... I do believe you just reminded me that it's not starting because of low Fuel... I'm just above a qtr tank, it wants to start but then stops... Thanks for the heads up... Will be filling up as we get moving in a couple of days, hoping that is the solution... Peace, love and cheer!

  • @ShawnLivesInItaly
    @ShawnLivesInItaly2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks Bear Workshop this is cool info - cheers brother

  • @goldengold4ever
    @goldengold4ever Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the great information!

  • @FullMoon7
    @FullMoon73 жыл бұрын

    Outstanding information, thank you Bear our 2003 Fleetwood Storm Generator won’t start. We will try your suggestions.

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    Good luck! Let me know.

  • @corlainehughes7007
    @corlainehughes7007 Жыл бұрын

    You are so rad strength to the point lost of good info thank you hopefully I can get mine going need a shower going nuts full time rver was running great

  • @mdoddbama
    @mdoddbama2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for your video. Helpful tips. I have a 2019 Winnebago travado 59k Van RV on a ram ProMaster chassis. It has a 2800 Onan generator. We bought it used the first of February and everything has been fine until a trip to Jacksonville Florida to visit our son in the navy. Once about halfway there we stopped to make coffee and it wouldn't start it just clicked when I tried to start it. I tried a few more times over the next few hours and eventually it just fired up and was running fine for almost a week on and off. Friday night while we were boondocking after a couple hours of running with the AC the generator stopped. It would restart but only run for a few minutes before stopping. When we bought the van the generator only had 10 hours on it telling me the gentleman didn't run it enough after 3 years. So when I got home I changed the oil in it assuming it still had to break in all in it just wasn't sure. It cranked immediately after I was finished and ran for a few minutes then stopped. Since then all I get is a click (at the generator) when trying to start. I'm assuming I may have house battery issues but I don't know I can't get under it to check them. Them being 3 years old I guess that's a possibility? I am going to my tire place in the morning and have them put it on the rack and check the two house batteries. I also thought possibly a solenoid on the onan? Thoughts? Not low gas or low oil

  • @katyorlando4413
    @katyorlando44133 жыл бұрын

    Very clear-I will troubleshoot with this info-Iam now a subscriber-thank you

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the sub!

  • @enterthechamber9377
    @enterthechamber93772 жыл бұрын

    This video helped me alot. Thank you

  • @lauralea3858
    @lauralea38583 жыл бұрын

    Thanks easy peasy information to understand

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    Glad it was helpful!

  • @Thatcntrygirl1
    @Thatcntrygirl1 Жыл бұрын

    2015 Tiffin allegro bus dead gen only clicks I’ll be cking these things tomorrow! Thanks for this!

  • @bobcat409
    @bobcat4092 жыл бұрын

    Good info. Thanks.

  • @seancarrick6800
    @seancarrick68003 жыл бұрын

    Very helpful. Thank you.

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    You’re welcome.

  • @tiperik99
    @tiperik992 жыл бұрын

    Saved me on a trip in our Tiffin. Needed just a tiny bit of oil. Thanks.

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad to help!

  • @Skariah212
    @Skariah2122 жыл бұрын

    You are awesome. Thank you. Great explanation.

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad it was helpful!

  • @anthonychinea6722
    @anthonychinea672211 ай бұрын

    Thank you great information 🙏

  • @ellpat2928
    @ellpat292810 ай бұрын

    Thank you for all these tips I am having trouble with my Onan generator but I’m beginning to wonder if it’s the batteries thank you so much.

  • @julesfalcone
    @julesfalcone3 жыл бұрын

    Bear: Thanks for answering so many questions. You're 1 in a million.

  • @imsaint007
    @imsaint0072 жыл бұрын

    Nice video very informative , I did know I have to hold the start for 30 sec. I do have a Onan 6.5 RV on my Airstream 86 345 just got it and do not have any manuals for the generator , I had a problem to start but if I close the choke it will start , maybe I need todo a full service oil change etc, etc,

  • @rickkatevas6221
    @rickkatevas62212 жыл бұрын

    My generator wouldn`t start. After watching your video I checked the carb linkage and the choke was stuck wide open. After I moved the linkage up and down it unstuck and started right up. THANK YOU....

  • @ronszklamy2338
    @ronszklamy2338 Жыл бұрын

    thanks for sharing!

  • @classaendlessadventure2879
    @classaendlessadventure28793 жыл бұрын

    great vid thanks for info

  • @cll4612
    @cll4612 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you!!

  • @jameshamm7911
    @jameshamm79113 жыл бұрын

    Hi and thanks for the info. I have a 5500 series that starts great when cold and runs like a champ, but has hot starting problems (smells like the unit siphons gas and floods the carb). If I go outside and open the choke fully, it starts pretty easy, so I know it must be there. However; the choke seems to be working fine.

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    Could be old gas. A dirty carb or bad gaskets on the carb. Those would be the first things I would check.

  • @Ascending_Leo816

    @Ascending_Leo816

    Жыл бұрын

    Check you oil level ans smell it for gas. You might have a oil evaporate to fumes and now it's starts with other issues. 😊

  • @flippingnic2983
    @flippingnic29832 жыл бұрын

    Great video, thanks!!

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad you liked it!

  • @flippingnic2983

    @flippingnic2983

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@BearsWorkshop I shared in in my Van Mechanics group on FB as well!

  • @panchamama
    @panchamama2 жыл бұрын

    thank you , my onan would not grab in my class b and the battery charge was low. started van and badda boom badda bing.. 💥

  • @bmorg57
    @bmorg572 жыл бұрын

    Great info. Learned some things. My problem is that the access door on the RV chassis doesn't have a big enough opening to open the generator cover. I have Class C Thor Freedon Elite.

  • @rightbrainink

    @rightbrainink

    Жыл бұрын

    We do as well, and neither I nor my husband can get the cover off. Did you figure it out?

  • @rightbrainink

    @rightbrainink

    Жыл бұрын

    Aha! Found someone who showed how! kzread.info/dash/bejne/lJuJqZdmkcq6p5M.html

  • @imeltyt4599
    @imeltyt45994 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Exactly what I was looking for :)

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    4 жыл бұрын

    Glad I could help!

  • @desertpair2

    @desertpair2

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@BearsWorkshop I don't think you helped! The original question from Nick was "show the cooling system." The reply from iMeltYT was "exactly what I was looking for." Meaning, I think, he agrees with Nick, that you haven't provided any info on the cooling system.

  • @imeltyt4599

    @imeltyt4599

    3 жыл бұрын

    Denys A No he did help me not sure what you are talking about as my comment had nothing to do with Nicks. Thank you Denys for nothing

  • @desertpair2

    @desertpair2

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@imeltyt4599 My comment was to Bear's Workshop, not to you. Try to focus. (My last comment on this subject.)

  • @imeltyt4599

    @imeltyt4599

    3 жыл бұрын

    Denys A you literally mentioned me incorrectly in your post lol try to focus on your own posts

  • @garys.8333
    @garys.83333 жыл бұрын

    Lot of good information here without wasting a lot of time. I appreciate how you take us through the problem and what to look for. I have a problem with my Onan 4000. Last fall I changed the oil and exercised it over the winter a few times. This spring...it would crank, but not start. It turned out to be a spark plug. For the next few months, everything ran fine. Last week I stopped in a rest area and tried to fire up the generator and all it would do is crank...would not fire. I haven’t had a chance to get in and check things out yet, but it was really strange that a few hours earlier, it had started and ran fine. The rest area was not level, so I tried it again when I got home...same problem. I have heard that to have a generator serviced can be very costly. I would be interested to hear your thoughts.

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    I would check oil level first, then try the starter fluid and see if it runs on that. If it does then you may have a fuel issue. Either fuel filter or fuel pump. That is where I would start.

  • @garys.8333

    @garys.8333

    3 жыл бұрын

    Bear, I have an update on my generator issue. I had about 1/2 a tank of gas, so I put a bottle of Star Tron fuel treatment in the tank, filled it up with fresh gasoline and put the levelers down. Then I checked the oil level, it was good, tried to crank it...crank but no start. I took the plug out and checked the spark and it looked good (I had replaced the plug about a month ago). Then I took the air filter cover off. (Winnebago must think you will NEVER need to service the generator because the access was not large enough). I was kind of working from remembering what you had in your video. When I got the air filter cover off...there was some mouse nesting materials, I really couldn’t see where it was, but I cleaned it out as best as I could. Once again, crank but no start. I was able to spray some starting fluid in the general area of the air filter and it was enough to get it started.I ran it for about 25 minutes with the AC pulling about 15 amps. Then turned the AC off and ran it no load for another five minutes. I shut it off and cranked it...and it started up! Thanks for the tips, saved me a ton of money. I did have one mishap. I dropped the wing nut that holds the air cleaned cover on. Can’t find it anywhere...probably because it is impossible to see in that part of the compartment. I am going to buy a new wing nut and see how things run. Again, thanks for the informative video.

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@garys.8333 Glad to hear it worked out!

  • @fedhater1
    @fedhater12 жыл бұрын

    Very helpful, would love a quick link to a decent priced tune up kit and part numbers...

  • @randypendleton2529
    @randypendleton25292 жыл бұрын

    I have a Onan 7000 EFI in Denver. It has trouble staying running. I’ve figured out to disconnect the load w the Circuit Breakers on the Generator near the start switch. Then it will stay running. I have to wait for about 15 minutes sometimes for it to warm up and then apply the load by Turing on the Circuit Breakers. Then it holds. There is an RV style AC unit on the system. I think it may have a heater package on it too. Took it to Cummins one time before and they found no issues. I thought it might not be set for high altitude. They said no.

  • @jeffpeak5429
    @jeffpeak54295 ай бұрын

    Good video. Quick note… a rapid clicking sound when attempting to prime or start a diesel generator could also be an extremely cold generator. We’ve had single-digit temps here in NW Arkansas the last several days. My Onan fired up and ran for two seconds, died, then showed a code to heat the generator. Hope this helps.

  • @shaneksmith1957
    @shaneksmith19572 жыл бұрын

    Thank You for your time. Short version. I have been using my generator with success. I got to empty and started a trip. I filled up and got back eight hours later. I filled the generator up. 20220520. Generator would start then cough like you explained. It ran just long enough to get the slideouts out open. Then my imagination went wild. I was post toasted for the trip and came back to the generator in two days. My thoughts were I may have put some damn diesel in the unleaded tank for the generator. but the little drop of fuel in the fill up smelled like regular. I opened up the front just like you did and noticed gas coming out of the carburetor, but am so upset I can't figure out if i accidentally put diesel in there or not. Didn't know the light was for error codes. Filter wasn't near as dirty as yours. So I put things back together and tried to siphon some gas to see how bad I screwed up or if that is the problem. I couldn't siphon anything. Fuel tank registers full. The first attempt after a long trip it was 97 degrees and i thought it was too damn hot because air conditioners and equipment seem to fail when i need them the most. Second day it was pleasantly cool. So I Put it back together and walked away and am wondering how to either drain the bad gas and get a suggestion for how bad i may have screwed up the motor with a bit of diesel. If I happened to put the proper gas in there I am level have checked the oil. All but the coolant.

  • @locopilot1
    @locopilot1 Жыл бұрын

    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!!!

  • @dannyrusso8279

    @dannyrusso8279

    Жыл бұрын

    I have the same exact problem. I had evidence of mice making a nest in the generator housing. I suppose they made a way up to the coil also.

  • @rigobertoaguilar-tejeda1775
    @rigobertoaguilar-tejeda17752 жыл бұрын

    Hey thanks for such a wonderful way to explain the possible issues with the generator. I want to know how the coach auxiliary batteries are recharged? I usually turn on the generator however my batteries seem not to be charged later on when I want to start the generator again and I end up charging them. I have an Winnebago ford 87 with an Onan generator. Any ideas where to start?

  • @wisevision2981
    @wisevision29813 жыл бұрын

    Thank you very helpful stuff 👍

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    No problem 👍

  • @jeanninespinner2244
    @jeanninespinner2244 Жыл бұрын

    I thought you were very informative, I found you by looking for information about my class C 1988 calista, wondering if it ran off of gas or propane? Because I have been having problems trying to start it, I had a couple of guys looking at it and nobody knows anything about an onan generator, which is very surprising, so thank you for that information on the movie with RVs I was happy with the price I paid for this one and happy with all the storage room it had & set up it had, it did not come with an owner's manual and it's very hard to find information or nother owners manual, the person I bought it from did not go over much of anything, probably because I talked her down on the price, anyways I'm in search of how to keep her going & to learn all about her, I've taken her out once always happy to see the septic working well and the water working well, I did not get a chance to use the generator, although the electricity in it shorted a couple of times, I still haven't figured out why working on it. So thank you for that information & you look forward to more of your videos to learn more about my Callisto 1988, by the way she was birthed the same year as my daughter... Thank you!!! For your video I look forward to going through more of your videos if needed...✌️❤️ Let's get RVing😅

  • @21847835g
    @21847835g2 жыл бұрын

    Good video. I have an Onan but don't have the same switch so I don't see error codes.

  • @jamesbevins689
    @jamesbevins6893 жыл бұрын

    So a few minutes ago I went out and checked the batteries and made sure they were clean and tight. Even water. Checked the oil that's good. This motorhome is old school doesn't have any lights like what you're talking about. Tried it and still just clicks like yesterday.

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    Check to see what your house battery voltage is. Not enough volts will cause a clicking noise.

  • @MrChip1wa
    @MrChip1wa5 ай бұрын

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

  • @jayneweathers
    @jayneweathers3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Bear, you helped us!!!

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    Glad I could help!

  • @debbiew1967

    @debbiew1967

    3 жыл бұрын

    I have a problem hooking back up onan generator . My husband tries to hook back all the wires but first has to hook up battery but when he touches the wire to battery it starts trying to start and this is happening before everything is hooked up . Need help please

  • @debbiew1967

    @debbiew1967

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@BearsWorkshop please help my husband . He is having problems trying to hook back up the onan generator . He tries to start hooking up wires but first has to put wire back to battery but when he does it tries to start and continues until he takes the wire back off so he can’t hook up the generator because that keeps trying to happen

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    Disconnect the house batteries before hooking up the generator.

  • @debbiew1967

    @debbiew1967

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@BearsWorkshop he done that before everything else .

  • @au-q-miapetsalon1449
    @au-q-miapetsalon14492 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the video. If it a bad gas would be only running miles until a half tank and add a good gas. It wll be enough ? Unfortunately I filled in gas station once a the next day it starts works and turned off.

  • @stevenpolaski9576
    @stevenpolaski95763 жыл бұрын

    is there a low oil switch on a 4kyfa evap generator? i cannot find one, just trying to ensure all of my bases are covered in this troubleshooting

  • @kirkkehrberg7324
    @kirkkehrberg73242 жыл бұрын

    After running the generator for several hours last night I was going to start it up the following morning but when I pushed the start switch down to prime the system it started to crank and would not stop. I had to remore the wires attached to the selenoid to stop the cranking. Any Ideas of what the problem may have been? I removed both wires from the selenoid and now dont know which one goes where on the selenoid. Any help appreciated.

  • @jimwebb9328
    @jimwebb93283 жыл бұрын

    I tried priming and replaced the sparkplug. Also tried the starting fluid. Cranks but no start. It doesn't seem like there is any spark, even with the new plug. Where does the spark come from? Is there a coil? A magneto?

  • @stephenscott4166
    @stephenscott41663 жыл бұрын

    I had a start/stop issue. The light flashed 2 times. I checked the manufacturing web site for error codes. It was low oil. Add oil slowly and let it drain into the generator oil pan. I had to repeat slowly adding oil and rechecking the level screwing the dipstick completely in and then unscrewing it to recheck the level. Be patient and you will get the level correct... No more issue!!!

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    Glad to see you got it working

  • @alec1451
    @alec14513 ай бұрын

    Hi Bear, thank you for the great video. I have the same 5500 generator and it will not prime or crank. I have 12.6V. I went to remove the plastic housing for the switch after removing the thick wire from the bolt with the red rubber boot on it then when i went to remove the plastic housing when my ratchet touched the nut holding it on i had sparks and quickly pulled away the ratchet and didn't reconnect the thick negative wire. Not really sure what to do next. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

  • @ronnylovato7832
    @ronnylovato78322 жыл бұрын

    Great video ! my generator does not turn over from the switch on dashboard. i checked the batteries i am getting 12.4 volts, they are 4 months old and it turns on from the switch on the generator itself.

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    2 жыл бұрын

    Sounds like a switch problem or the wiring to that switch

  • @allenwhite2143
    @allenwhite21432 жыл бұрын

    Have a 1994 Onan. Sitting for 4 months and was running ok when parked. All batteries are at full charge. I now get a rapid clicking sound when I press any of the start buttons and starter won't turn the engine. New starter about a year ago. Clicking sound is near the start switch on the generator panel.

  • @CharlesinGA
    @CharlesinGA3 жыл бұрын

    You do not want the power converter (120v ac to 12v dc) powered up during the generator start as it will be heavily loaded and can damage the electronics of the converter, so it is best to NOT have shore power connected during the generator start, or at least trip the circuit breaker for the power converter. Better is to start the engine, this will allow the engine to charge the house batteries thru the charge/boost relay or whatever type of interconnection there is. Your alternator is capable of giving you a 100 amps or more, and the power converter is only capable of half that amount. Also, small point, you showed how to prime the generator but were not clear about the fact you are using the STOP position of the switch to do this.

  • @tedvargovich5020

    @tedvargovich5020

    Жыл бұрын

    The stop button is also the primer button😉

  • @justdeeznuts
    @justdeeznuts3 жыл бұрын

    It stops running at 1/4 tank not because of a sensor but when we install the pick up tube it's set to 12inches from bottom of tank so it cant pull fuel

  • @joemcky1
    @joemcky13 жыл бұрын

    Nice video! I have kind of a weird thing going with mine. On a trip I could not start it, very frustrating. I would prime wait for light then toggle to start....nothing just cranked. Today by mistake I just pushed start ...no prime... jumped right to life! Running great and steady under load and off. Prime must be flooding mine???

  • @jimmundy5745

    @jimmundy5745

    3 жыл бұрын

    Going to try this with mine

  • @pshattuck1

    @pshattuck1

    2 жыл бұрын

    Was it a propane fueled engine, or gasoline?

  • @michellestratford9753
    @michellestratford97532 жыл бұрын

    I don't have a prime 😔. My generator looks way smaller than yours. I replaced the fuel filter, but still no luck. It turns over just fine, but won't 'catch'. I'm in a 1995 RoadTrek camper van and have an Onan generator.

  • @joeKisonue
    @joeKisonue2 жыл бұрын

    If you use seasonally, drain the BOWL. Screw under Altitude. Also bad gasoline in a modern car with fuel injection can be expensive

  • @billhalen
    @billhalen2 жыл бұрын

    Great comprehensive video! I have a Cummings generator in my 2015 Thor Freedom Elite. I started the generator with the aux battery and battery was dead. I started the rv engine and hit the start button for the generator and after multiple tries, the generator started. I turned off the ignition to the rv and the generator quit. I checked the aux battery a d it looked low so I replaced it. Tried to start the generator and nothing, just a single click noise and won't start. Opened up the cover to the generator and found the yellow oil cap laying in the compartment. The oil had totally leaked out! I filled the oil Reservoir back up but still will not crank over. I am afraid I may have unknowingly seized the generator motor. Do you know of any resets? I may have to pull it and rebuild it. $4000 to replace. Any suggestions?

  • @KevinCoop1

    @KevinCoop1

    Жыл бұрын

    Hopefully you found the problem! I had the same issue when I ran the house battery down and started the engine to start the generator. The DC would not work except on generator or shore power. And then would not charge batteries. Under the hood in front of the driver is a metal box with a flat lid. After pulling very hard to get the lid off, there is a 50 amp circuit breaker on the PCB. On the right side of the breaker there is a tiny button. Put your finger on it an slight push resets the breaker. If your batteries are very low, the alternator puts more than 50 amps through them. Long enough and the breaker trips.

  • @dawnrosencrans6046
    @dawnrosencrans60463 жыл бұрын

    Where is the starter wire on the generator? I was told to check that because when I prime and then press start it sucks the batteries dry and everything shuts down. I’ll then have to start the engine, wait a couple minutes and then the generator will start. Thanks

  • @andresalcaraz5443
    @andresalcaraz54432 жыл бұрын

    Hi just wondering why mi onan 5500 discharge the battery once it's working?? Starts perfect but after 3 hours shut off and the battery is dead. Thank you for.you support I got a food.truck.

  • @DavidTaylor-tx8nn
    @DavidTaylor-tx8nn3 жыл бұрын

    Hey bear we bought a new Thor Freedom Traveler A30 in August took it out for one trip then had to take it back to dealer to do some warranty work wood coming loose, the graphics on the outside of the coach pealing off etc etc.....so they had it for three months, by the time we got it back we had to winterize it and then just park it......being new to this I left it parked for a couple of months and went out to start it up and had dead batteries house and engine.....figured out how to hook it up to the 15amp outside connection ergo 110 and got the engine battery all charged up, I am thinking good to go, we had a brutal cold winter so periodically I was in and out just checking on the RV making sure had no broken pipes etc....fast forward to yesterday, went out to run the rv and run the generator, could not get the gen to even register on the control panel, could not get the slide to work etc etc.....there was a gentleman next to me that had an amp meter and he tested my batteries and said they were down to three volts I have two 12 volt batteries I guess the RV does not have something to charge all batteries....I went out to day and purchased a good charger that will drop into maintain mode to keep batteries charged, of course I had to try and charge the house batteries first.....before I left to come back home the voltage was up to 12 but still no luck with getting the window on the control panel to display when I try to hit the start switch on the Onan so now that ive talked your ear off do you think it could be a reset switch on the generator ????? Ive finally figured out how to remove the cover ........the only time we used the gen was when we started it up to make sure it worked when we bought the RV ......any help would be appreciated......Thanks Dave Taylor

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    On some coaches there is a timer mode for the generator. My buddy had a problem with his, when the batteries would drain, the generator would not start. Found out there was a setting that would not allow his generator to start between certain hours. If the batteries die then the clock will also be wrong so it just may not function at random times. Also try running the coach for awhile. On most coaches the vehicle generator will start to charge the house batteries while the coach is running. You can also try jumping the generator with a battery pack,

  • @DavidTaylor-tx8nn

    @DavidTaylor-tx8nn

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@BearsWorkshop Thanks tried most of those, was out there for a few hours yesterday running the motor I finally found info on how to remove the generator face plate to access the reset switches so ill try checking to make sure we have no switches tripped at the gen.......and try to start it from the source and see if that wakes it up .....if not I guess a trip to where I bought it, things not even a year old yet and not more than four hours on the gen.....Dave

  • @DavidTaylor-tx8nn

    @DavidTaylor-tx8nn

    3 жыл бұрын

    So new info......checked the compartment where house batteries were located and found a curious yellow switch that was visible next to a blue button I reset that yellow switch and the generator fired right up that explains why my house batteries were dead they were not getting charged through the system like my engine battery was.....HOWEVER the rv radio which is an Axxera avm80 POS is now stuck in demo mode and no one seems to have a clue how to get it out I have pulled fuses reset fuses, and reset factory settings and it is still in demo mode and wont stay on one screen, that being said, anyone have a fix for that other than one round from my 9mm ???

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@DavidTaylor-tx8nn Glad to hear that you got it running. 9MM sounds like a reasonable solution.

  • @simonbarron6211
    @simonbarron62113 жыл бұрын

    Hi Bear, I have a question that you might be able to help with. Please. It’s on a 4000 Onan. Should the pump cut off when the bowl is full or is it a constant pressure. I think I may have a case of flooding and priming continually does not stop the pump ? Would appreciate your thoughts ..thanks

  • @philliphall5198

    @philliphall5198

    Жыл бұрын

    Is there fuel in tank or stopped up filter

  • @makeyourownluck5822
    @makeyourownluck5822 Жыл бұрын

    I've got a onan 3600 LP model. Service fault (3blinks) and codes 15,14,13 are coming up. Over frequency, under frequency, controller can't maintain voltage. New air filter, new spark plug, fresh oil with proper level, cleaned the exhaust out. IDK? Is there a voltage control module? Maybe the reg up by the tank? Bad alternator?

  • @PeteyPablo408
    @PeteyPablo40810 ай бұрын

    Is there anything I can spray into the carb hole to clean it a bit? My generator stopped today and it's not starting back up its onan 5.5hgjab LP I know you mentioned starter fluid but on a LP what can I use?

  • @tonydrayton1727
    @tonydrayton1727 Жыл бұрын

    I have a QG3600. Having issues where it will do half a crank then stop, feels like battery is dead but is fully charged 12.6v , load tested to 330CA.. This may happen 2-3 times in a row , walk away and come back then it will turn over and start…any clues appreciated . Not sure if there is a connection but also noted when under load black smoke..

  • @DecayUNCUT
    @DecayUNCUT4 жыл бұрын

    Hello. Could you suggest or recommend to me a good carburetor and fuel pump for a Onan 4000 generator? Thank you. Tom

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    4 жыл бұрын

    I would only order one directly from Cummins. Try to find one locally or go online. I would not buy anything like this that was not OEM.

  • @adamfox2903

    @adamfox2903

    3 жыл бұрын

    Call Onan 1 800-286-6467 tell them your serial number and model number and they should tell you exactly which carburetor is for yours bye the part number and which one to order

  • @soachington
    @soachington2 жыл бұрын

    I have an Onan 2.8 would crank but will not run. Compression is 120 lbs, I have spark and new fuel. I tried starting fluid an no start. Any ideas? Thank you

  • @gailkelleher6286
    @gailkelleher62862 жыл бұрын

    Great video. My yellow cap fell off and I was leaking oil. When I tried to start it (not realizing how low my oil was), it made a nasty clunk sound and failed to turn over. It is an Onan 3600 propane. Does it have a low oil shut off or am I in a catastrophic zone? Thanks.

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    2 жыл бұрын

    It does have a low oil shut off so hopefully after a new cap and some oil it will start up.

  • @billhalen

    @billhalen

    2 жыл бұрын

    I had the same thing happen! Any tips on getting it back up and running or was it catastrophic and rebuild or replace?

  • @allstarsk331
    @allstarsk3312 жыл бұрын

    To get error code. Press prime 3 times within 5 seconds. If it lashes 3 times its a 3. Then tap down one time. It should flash 3 time then pause flash however many more times before pause thats your second #. Mine was 3 than pause flash six pause. Repeat 3 than 6. So was code 36.

  • @lbrockington7025
    @lbrockington70255 ай бұрын

    My generator takes a while to start. I have to prime it several times before it starts. I usually start it about every two to three weeks does it make a difference in the amount of time you prime it?

  • @thecentralscrutinizer5105
    @thecentralscrutinizer51052 жыл бұрын

    I too, have a 4.0. In the control box, it has what looks like a normal "Ford" solenoid on it & 2 relays, bottom of box. Now is the small center post on solenoid marked with a "S" supposed to be hot all the time???, I thought that only put 12vdc on it when you closed the start switch to make it send power to the starter side of solenoid. I have a constant 12vdc on that "S" post.... and when I push START, it acts like there's not enough battery for it.... it just _"Chatters"_ ,but then I had it turning over the other day, albeit, rather slowly.... I think somebody's got their + & - mixed up... not surprising, I've been re-wiring this behemoth for a month now, somebody didn't know what they were doing and mutilated and massacred the factory wiring and now it's all 18g brown wires and 90 scotchloks later.... hope I never meet this non-wiring jerkoff... still finding these damn scotchloks to this day..... I'd fire any employee who used these crappily designed strand cutting blades Great channel couz.... gonna join the party ;) ~Whirled Peas PS: Weren't you in "Trailer Park Boys" Is that Julian?? ...lolz

  • @PlsKpopMe
    @PlsKpopMe Жыл бұрын

    What kind of coolant might it need? Any kind okay? I'm a single mom about to head across country with my 2 kids, the mechanic checked her out and said she is good to go, but when we went to leave today the generator wouldn't start. It has been sitting for about 9-10 months, so I'm thinking maybe bad gas? But could also be coolant. I have used shore power 99% of the time since buying the RV used last year.

  • @davidpatrick1813
    @davidpatrick18132 жыл бұрын

    New oil and levels messed with to where it will start and run but only a couple of minutes when motor is warm. In AM cool motor it runs about 8 min and stalls. I am looking to bypass the low oil level ground producing switch to test and if it keep running replace it...

  • @RooneyMac
    @RooneyMac9 ай бұрын

    Can it be run with an external fuel source? Skipping the main tank if its so low and you're not looking to dump like 15 gallons into the tank you won't even get to use? Have a Monaco 2000, looks similar to your interior. Was running an "external fuel supply" as id done with an 86 pace arrow just to skip the BS of filling the tank enough for the pickup. One hot day this summer, it ran that external fuel can dry. Refilled the can, hasn't stayed running since. Basically starts and dies immediately, unless holding down the start button. It's getting fuel just fine through the pump and the carb, ive had the carb off twice and made sure everything was cleared and blown through, getting fuel through it, i thought the LoW gAs was simply the tube pickup in the tank not going to the bottom, is it also electronically controled by the fuel gauge sensor now? Edit to add: only code I'm getting is 36. Engine shutdown not commanded by computer.

  • @davidhughes2823
    @davidhughes2823 Жыл бұрын

    Hello, I have a 2018 Fuzion 417 with an Onan 5500. The auto start use to work but now it doesn't, any help would be appreciated. The generator runs fine, just can't use the auto start function. Thanks in advance

  • @keithgreen8529
    @keithgreen85294 жыл бұрын

    Yes manually choked it fires right up so would that be a bad choke ? and how would I fix that ? ty

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    4 жыл бұрын

    There are parts online to replace the choke. There maybe a vacuum line on your choke or it can be electronic. Check the wires or the vacuum line before replacing it. You would just need to find what is the correct part number for your model. To keep it running you can use some wires to keep the choke closed until you get your parts. Also, I had a generator that would not because of bad gas. When I closed the choke halfway it would run. Check your gas.

  • @eyobtil3819
    @eyobtil38193 жыл бұрын

    thanks for this. what is the cause of no out put voltage in generators are normaly run AVR & rotating diode are changed but no solution what is this reason please?

  • @mikevalsera6183

    @mikevalsera6183

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hollo bear here’s one for ya a 1998 coachmen I have power to new starter solenoid new control circuit board but no power past battery connection WHY? Stumped

  • @iwear2differentsocks
    @iwear2differentsocks2 жыл бұрын

    So I have an Onan that won’t crank but the house battery is fine. What should I do in that case?

  • @user-lr2en1pe2g
    @user-lr2en1pe2g Жыл бұрын

    My 1999 Gulf Stream with Onan gen won’t start on battery, works perfectly when plugged in or when engine is running! Help please

  • @jmcgilvary
    @jmcgilvary2 жыл бұрын

    Great Video, thanks! Now, I have an interesting one for you: Onan 5500. Changed threat video, thanks! e house batteries actually ALL the batteries, they are showing 12.2 volts. Tried to start the gen after a few months...NOTHING! No prime red light, no crank, nothing. Ideas? I also tried from the switch on the generator, outside in the bay. Thanks!!

  • @techomega9971

    @techomega9971

    2 жыл бұрын

    Make sure it's plugged into the chassis

  • @jmcgilvary

    @jmcgilvary

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@techomega9971 Talking about the ground? It has a Hi-amp breaker, and has power in and out. That's on the firewall by batteries. No power at power lug on Genset. I'll keep looking. Thanks. Enjoying your videos!

  • @100056463
    @1000564639 ай бұрын

    Hey got an onan 4000w generator that won’t crank replaced the starter solenoid as it would click but there would be no crank. I can manually turn the engine with a wrench but still nothing. I’m thinking it’s the starter but I’m worried it’s possibly seized. It was just on for service at Cummins where the valves were adjusted so that could also be a possibility to why it may be seized?

  • @tihs69
    @tihs692 жыл бұрын

    My Generator solenoid clicks several times as I press the starter button over and over then the starter turns over and all is fine. Sometimes it starts with 3 or 4 clicks sometimes 7 to 10. Is this my starter or solenoid? It is the same for remote or at the Generator?

  • @classic-hb8vs
    @classic-hb8vs Жыл бұрын

    My Onan 5500 ran out of oil. It will turn over. But will not start. Anything I can do other than replace the generator?

  • @MiguelGutierrez-bh4zf
    @MiguelGutierrez-bh4zf2 жыл бұрын

    Hello, my generator will not start. When I try to prime it, it shows it is priming only when I have the rig plugged into my house. When it is not plugged in, no light comes on when priming. Also while it is plugged in, I prime it and then try to start it, I get a kind of buzzing/slight grinding noise, as if the starter does not have enough power to turn over the engine on the generator. It is a quick noise and only last for a half second or so. Nothing at all happens, priming or when trying to start it when the ring is not plugged into my house. Please help or any advice. Thank you, Miguel

  • @brendacalderon9445
    @brendacalderon94453 жыл бұрын

    Ours was working fine and the next day it wouldn't start at all we checked oil it was gone. we filled it, still nothing. maybe we should take some out but my hubby said it don't even have a spark

  • @jcel5870
    @jcel58703 жыл бұрын

    Great video. I have a crank no start issue. I think its spark but, how do I check for no spark. Any help would be awesome thx

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    I would just go ahead and replace the spark plug if you think it is not getting spark. They are cheap and it can surprisingly fix a lot of problems in small motors. Start there.

  • @jcel5870

    @jcel5870

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@BearsWorkshop will do thaaaaank you. Hopefully they'll get her going

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@jcel5870 Good luck. Let me know.

  • @johngravelle3884
    @johngravelle3884 Жыл бұрын

    I have a problem with no start on my Onan 4000. Changed the oil, spark plug, carb.,new gas, still not starting. Ran on a constant 10 hour straight after a power/storm shortage. So many ways to check. Please help!!

  • @jeanninesimonsen8467
    @jeanninesimonsen84672 жыл бұрын

    My Onan was running fine stopped and has never ran again. Won't even make a sound like it is trying. Here is what I have done Full tank of gas Added oil Held start button off 5 seconds House batteries are new 6 months ago and have been used very little. Would you give me some ideas on what else to try please? Thanks so much. Jeannine

  • @johnv3885
    @johnv38859 ай бұрын

    Hi Ben, thanks for the helpful tips! I have the Onan 5500 EVAP, it will only start and run if I hold the butterfly closed or mostly closed (choked), but even when it should be warmed up, it will still only run when I hold it closed or mostly closed. Do you think this is an electric choke problem or something else?

  • @johnv3885

    @johnv3885

    9 ай бұрын

    I should add that when I let the butterfly open on its own after it's warmed up, it starts surging and eventually shuts down - seems like it's flooding. Possible issue with the carb?

  • @rebeccadominguez7624
    @rebeccadominguez7624 Жыл бұрын

    Our 2000 Pace arrow motorhome generator switch inside will not start the generator but will shut it off any idea what can be wrong

  • @jimhaxton1982
    @jimhaxton1982 Жыл бұрын

    I have a 2003 or 4 Onan 2500 propane only. In cranks and I can smell propane in the tail pipe but no startie.

  • @corlainehughes7007
    @corlainehughes7007 Жыл бұрын

    If I accidently put my engine oil 20/50 in generator instead of the 10 could that be why do I need to drain the oil or should it be okay ?

  • @michelleramsey5591
    @michelleramsey55913 жыл бұрын

    Hi Bear, Watched your video and it was helpful, however, we went through all these steps before. We have a Cummins Onan QD 6000 generator with 16Hrs. on it. It has been plugged in to an external source for about 2 weeks. For some reason the converter tripped and we lost our DC/12V. We reset the breaker and now have all our 12 V "appliances" working, however, the generator will not start - it just clicks. We tried to start it with an external battery, but it is doing the same thing. We pressed the stop/prime and got the 3 lights, but no further code/flashes. What could possibly be wrong? Is there another "reset" button for the generator somewhere on this unit? Why would loosing 12V power cause the generator (which was not running) to not be able to run once we reset the converter? Is it possible that we have not waited long enough for the converter to be on? We are hearing a low hissing noise from the converter (which I believe should stop at some point). Sorry for the long-winded review, we're just a bitttttttt frustrated with all of this. Thanks!

  • @BearsWorkshop

    @BearsWorkshop

    3 жыл бұрын

    One possibility that I recently learned of. This happened to my buddies diesel generator. Just would click once when trying to turn it on and then give 3 flashing lights. Turned out the there was an auto-off set up in the generator monitor. It would not run at certain times of the day. If you have the monitor try turning it to Auto-On. The feature is supposed to turn the generator off at certain hours but sometimes the times get messed up.

  • @troybrownrigg1860

    @troybrownrigg1860

    Жыл бұрын

    I have that same exact issue right now! Cummins Onan QG 5500

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