Cummins Onan 5500
RV maintenance is performed according to the number of miles you travel. Similarly, generator maintenance is based on hours of running time. If your generator does not come equipped with an hour meter, install one, and place it in an easy to see location near the RV’s electrical panel so you can keep track of the hours your generator runs.The most ignored appliance on your RV!
By John Wendt
I believe most RV owners forget that they have another engine on board that should be treated no differently than the drive engine of their tow vehicle or motor home.
The lack of attention comes from their lack of knowledge of their own generator, when I recently asked RV owners at a seminar I had just given them what they had learned one participant remarked that he was going to have to get more intimate with his generator, the seminar made him realize how little he really knew about this appliance.
A Cummins Onan RV generator is an investment that can bring you many years of comfort and enjoyment. However, all generators require proper break in, exercising and periodic maintenance for dependable, ongoing performance. Your Operator’s Manual outlines the specific maintenance procedures and service intervals for your particular model. If you do not have an Operators Manual they can be obtained on line at CumminsOnan.com or at your local Cummins Onan Distributor or Dealer. Take good care of your generator and it will take good care of you.
RV maintenance is performed according to the number of miles you travel. Similarly, generator maintenance is based on hours of running time. If your generator does not come equipped with an hour meter, install one, and place it in an easy to see location near the RV’s electrical panel so you can keep track of the hours your generator runs.
Do’s and Don’ts for Better Generator Performance
The Do’s
DO keep your generator clean by wiping it periodically with a clean cloth.
DO turnoff all appliances in cold weather before starting your generator, for best long-term performance.
DO check the operator’s manual for the periodic maintenance schedule.
DO check the exhaust system regularly for damage or leaks Make sure the exhaust pipe extends out at least one inch beyond the vehicles perimeter.
DO check the air filter periodically and it by tapping it on a flat surface. Never wash it in solvents or blow it out with an air hose.
DO exercise your generator regularly.
DO change your fuel filter. The fuel filter is an often forgotten part of any engine. Your generator has one too. It removes bits of debris from the fuel to prevent clogging the carburetor jets. Over time the fuel filter collects enough material to become plugged which restricts fuel flow and reduces the generators’ power delivery. Be sure to change the fuel filter on a regular maintenance schedule.
The Don’ts
DON’T run the generator for long periods of time without using it to power appliances. It wastes fuel and may cause the engine to misfire.
Don’t attempt to adjust the carburetor, governor, choke, etc. yourself
Don’t run your generator with the door panel open.
So take a little time and care of your generator and when you need it most it will always be there for you.
John Wendt is a Certified Red Seal Journeyman RV Technician with 35 years in the RV Industry, was an RV Instructor at Okanagan College for 9 years, and has been with Cummins Western Canada for 5 years as the Consumer Products Representative.