Troubleshooting guide

59
58
Q: How frequently should I change oil if I won’t be using the
generator for several months?
A: Typically just like a car, change oil for seasonal temperature
changes. For long storage, see your Operator’s Manual for
extended out-of-service protection.
Q: Should I use straight 30-weight oil or is the multi-viscosity oil I
use in my vehicle okay?
A: For best generator performance, we recommend you use OnaMax
™
,the
Green Label Parts oil specifically formulated for RV generators. However,
you can use the same oil you use in your vehicle engine provided it meets
or exceeds SG/CE API specifications. To get you off to a good start,
all new Onan and Camp Power generators are factory prepared with
OnaMax 15W-40 oil.
Q: Will high-octane gasoline reduce the amount of fuel varnish?
A: No, because varnish is a form of fuel degradation that is not a function of
octane level. Rather, it is a function of fuel quality, age and additive treatment.
High-octane fuel without stabilizer additive will oxidize or varnish at a faster
rate than fuel treated with a fuel stabilizer.
Q: When I’m checking my oil, does the dipstick need to be
screwed in all the way?
A: In order to get the correct oil level reading, the dipstick must be screwed in
completely on all models with a screw-type dipstick, except for the 2800 and
2500 MicroLite
™
and Camp Power models; it sits on top of the fill tube. Make
sure the vehicle is level when checking oil level.
Q: Do diesel generators need exercising like gasoline
generators?
A: Yes, it helps lubricate the seals and engine components and keeps carbon
from building up. Regular exercise also heats up the generator windings and
removes or expels excess moisture. In sets equipped with brushes, exercising
helps prevent corrosion build up on the slip rings.
Q: How do I keep mice/rodents out of my generator
during storage?
A: Use rodent prevention techniques around the generator/compartment just as
you would with any other area of your RV.
Q: Can I run an RV generator in a National Park?
A: Yes. Onan
®
and Camp Power
™
installed generators are quieter than the
National Park sound level requirements. (During allowable hours of use.)
Q: What is carburetor icing? What conditions cause it? How can
it be prevented?
A: Carburetor icing occurs in damp, cool outside conditions, causing rough
operation, stalling and throttle sticking. If your generator is equipped with a
summer/winter lever, operate the generator in the “winter” position in humid
temperatures of 55°F or less. This will pre-heat the intake air so ice won’t
form in the carburetor.
Q: Once the generator is started, should it continue to run for a
certain length of time?
A: Ideally, Onan and Camp Power generators should run for a minimum of 30
minutes to give them a chance to warm up. Once warmed up, running your
generator for five-minute intervals should be fine. But remember to turn on
some appliances so the generator works while it’s running. Running it for
more than 30 minutes at no load only burns fuel unnecessarily and adds
costly maintenance.
Q: How are “will-fit” generator replacement parts different
from Green Label Parts™?
A: Onan genuine Green Label Parts
™
are tested and designed specifically for
RV applications. Will-fit parts and gaskets can be the correct shape, but
because of inadequate design, the wrong material, or poor quality, they
could cause premature failure, leakage or performance problems. Use of
some non-Onan replacement engine parts may affect the unit’s emissions
certification, and damage caused by use of oil and air filters other than
Green Label Parts is not covered under your generator warranty.
Q: How often should I perform maintenance on my generator?
Will doing it myself affect my warranty?
A: The Operator’s Manual that accompanies each generator outlines proper
maintenance procedures and intervals. If you follow the procedures
correctly, warranty coverage remains intact. However, proper maintenance
will obviously affect warranty coverage. For more information, see the
Maintenance Intervals charts on page 15.