AUTOMOTIVE and RV MAINTENANCE TIPS

TAKE CARE OF YOUR GENERATOR

As the summer winds down, it is important to remember that all Cummins Onan Generators require periodic mainenance for dependable, ongoing performance.  The generator's Operators Manual outlines the specific mainenance procedures and service intervals.

Maintenance Tips:

Tips to preventing fuel varnishing:

If you store your generator over the winter, or don't operate it often enough to refuel the gas tank every month, you could develop a fuel varnishing problem in your generators engine.  The only way to prevent fuel varnishing are to treat the contents of the tank supplying fuel to the generator with a fuel preservative and to exercise the set.  Cummins Power Generation has develped a fuel preservative and stabilizer, OnaFresh, specifically formulated for Cummins Onan generators.  We recommend adding this preservative to the fuel, especailly on infrequently used RV generators.

Dos and Don'ts for better generator performance:

DO check the air filter periodically and clean it by tapping on a flat surface.  Never wash it in solvents or blow it out with an air hose.

DO change the fuel filter.  The fuel filter is an often forgotten part of any engine.  The generator has one too.  It removes bits of debris from thefuel to prevent clogging the carburetor jets.  Over time, the fuel filter collects enought material to become plugged, which restricts fuel flow and reduces the generator's power delivery.

DON'T attempt to adjust the carburetor, governor, choke, etc., yourself.

Questions & Answers:

Q: How frequently should I change the oil if I won't be usign the generator for several months?

A: Just like a car, typicaly change oil for seasonal temperature changes.  For long storage, see your Operator's Manual for extended out-of-service protection.

                                         AUTOMOTIVE PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

Always consult your owner's manual but a good rule of thumb is:

•  Have the oil and oil filter changed regularly - every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.

•  Have all fluids checked - including brake, power steering, transmission, windshield washer solvent and antifreeze.

•  Check tire inflation once a month.  Under inflated tires can result in a loss of fuel efficiency.

•  Keep your engine tuned.

•  Have the chassis lubricated frequently.  This step extends the life of the moving components of the vehicles suspension system.

•  Check battery cables and posts for corrosion and clean them as needed.  If the battery is not a maintenance free battery, be sure to check the battery fluid.

•  Have the lighting system checked regularly, including headlights, turn signals, brake and taillights.

•  Replace windshield washer blades at least once a year, or sooner if streaking begins.

• Inspect engine belts regularly. Worn belts will affect the engine performance. 

• The air filter should be checked every other oil change for clogging or damage which will ensure that the vehicle is performing at its peak condition.

Check Monthly:  Automatic fransmission fluid,  brakes and brake fluid,  antifreeze, engine oil, lights, tire inflation, windshield washer fluid.

Check Every 3,000 Miles: Battery and cables, belts, chassis lubrication, air filter, exhaust, fuel filter, hoses, lights, power steering fluid, shock absorbers and struts, wiper blades, and change oil and oil filter.