Classic Winnebagos & Vintage RVs

Topic Boards => Generators => Topic started by: enigma960080 on July 16, 2014, 01:52 AM

Title: Onan Emerald 3 6.5k gen cranks but dies
Post by: enigma960080 on July 16, 2014, 01:52 AM
Ok... calling all you onan genset specialists out there.  On my latest  trip, my genny quit right after arriving at campsite.
Guilty, it was overdue for its oil change and it was nearly a quart low.  After letting it cool, I topped off the oil and tried to refire. No joy! When I start (try)  it acts like it tries to run until I let off the switch.   If anyone knows any quick diag tricks, I'm all ears....
Title: Re: Onan Emerald 3 6.5k gen cranks but dies
Post by: Stripe on July 16, 2014, 05:00 AM
This may sound silly, but same happened to me, I even replaced my fuel pump, it ended up being the fuel level in main tank was too low (fuel gauge wasn't working at the time)..  Main pickup sits lower in tank than the generator pickup and so it will die fro lack of fuel before the engine does..  It's a safety feature to keep from using up all your gas with the generator and getting stuck in the middle of nowhere without gas..
Title: Re: Onan Emerald 3 6.5k gen cranks but dies
Post by: piorun on July 16, 2014, 08:37 AM
You need more than 1/4 tank for generator to run.
Title: Re: Onan Emerald 3 6.5k gen cranks but dies
Post by: DaveVA78Chieftain on July 16, 2014, 09:35 PM
Get the model and serial number.  Model number should be something like 6.5 NHE FJ/13566C.  From there we can determine the Spec and correct service manual which you can download from the Members Fee Manuals area.

From there we start isolating what the problem is.

Dave
Title: Re: Onan Emerald 3 6.5k gen cranks but dies
Post by: enigma960080 on July 22, 2014, 08:34 PM
6.5 NHE  1P/26100A  Serial A870 861433
Title: Re: Onan Emerald 3 6.5k gen cranks but dies
Post by: pvoth1111 on July 22, 2014, 08:55 PM
Voltage regulator.....possible.....

http://www.partsfortechs.com/asapcart/pdf/ONAN%20Troubleshooting%20for%20RV's.pdf
Title: Re: Onan Emerald 3 6.5k gen cranks but dies
Post by: enigma960080 on July 22, 2014, 10:12 PM
I got it  to start and run but it is hunting and surging. I  flipped the breakers on the side so as to not  cook any electronics inside


I guess its  time to break out the  DVOM....


corrected number
Quote from: enigma960080 on July 22, 2014, 08:34 PM
6.5 NHE  1R/26100A  Serial A870 861433
Title: Re: Onan Emerald 3 6.5k gen cranks but dies
Post by: DaveVA78Chieftain on July 22, 2014, 10:13 PM
6.5 NHE Spec A, built January 1987

Operators Manual  940-0122 (http://rich.homeunix.com/gravely/engines/onan/all-manuals/940-0122.pdf)

Parts Manual: 940-0228B

Service Manual: 940-0502 - In our members free manuals area

Your description indicates K2 is not energizing which most likely means you need to clean the rotor where the brushes ride.

Hunting & surging is typically carburetor adjustments

Dave
Title: Re: Onan Emerald 3 6.5k gen cranks but dies
Post by: enigma960080 on July 22, 2014, 10:21 PM
Thanks Dave...