Schedule to Replace Onan Generator Filter August 22, 2017, 11:37:39 am I'm doing a generator oil and air filter change in the next week or so. We're not having any trouble with our generator and we exercise it once a month. The generator has about 150 hours, most from the monthly exercise. I was scanning the operator's manual and saw that the fuel pump has a fuel filter, which as most probably know is in a challenging location. But I didn't see any time frames for the fuel filter replacement. I'd be appreciative of any guidance on the scheduled maintenance for the fuel filter.I also read about cleaning the spark arrestor, which seems simple enough and something I haven't done yet. So I'll clean that after changing the oil.I've been thinking that I should use a crush washer with the 9/16" oil drain plug, which is something I used on a Honda MC some years ago to protect the threaded area of the oil pan. (Recommended by Honda). Has anyone else used a washer? Thanks in advance.
Re: Schedule to Replace Onan Generator Filter Reply #1 – August 22, 2017, 09:02:09 pm I wouldn't bother. It picks up fuel above 1/4 tank. 1 Likes
Re: Schedule to Replace Onan Generator Filter Reply #2 – August 22, 2017, 09:19:01 pm Quote from: hbn7hj - August 22, 2017, 09:02:09 pmI wouldn't bother. It picks up fuel above 1/4 tank.Great point, helpful, and I see your point. Agree! Thank you.
Re: Schedule to Replace Onan Generator Filter Reply #3 – August 23, 2017, 06:35:55 pm We had to have the fuel pump replaced in 2014 and since the filter is attached to the end of it they replaced the filter as well. Later we started smelling gas and found that the factory filter was defective and leaking. We weren't anywhere near the guy that did the original work and he told me that it turned out that some of them had proven defective. I ended up replacing it myself and it is much simpler than the pump.Jim 1 Likes
Re: Schedule to Replace Onan Generator Filter Reply #4 – August 23, 2017, 06:48:47 pm Quote from: Jim & Gayle - August 23, 2017, 06:35:55 pmWe had to have the fuel pump replaced in 2014 and since the filter is attached to the end of it they replaced the filter as well. I certainly appreciate that you took the time to share your experience, which was helpful.
Re: Schedule to Replace Onan Generator Filter Reply #5 – August 24, 2017, 10:41:36 pm Quote from: Traxless - August 22, 2017, 11:37:39 amI'd be appreciative of any guidance on the scheduled maintenance for the fuel filter.According to Cummins Onan, the recommended frequency for replacing the fuel filter is every 450 hours. Btw, the frequency for cleaning the spark arrestor is every 50 hours. Hope this is helpful.
Re: Schedule to Replace Onan Generator Filter Reply #6 – August 31, 2017, 02:28:58 pm While I was able to complete part of the service, I wasn't able to remove both plugs to clean out the spark arrestor. And the one I was able remove was so difficult and took all my strength. The second plug will not budge with a 7/16" wrench. So I'm going to try a 12 point 7/16" socket with an older (broken) torque wrench later today. The first half of this service left me a dripping mess with sore palms.Btw, the oil plug design does not allow for a washer so I just torqued it to specifications. I suppose I could say I was having fun, but then no one would believe that! And so it goes.Correction: Took a 12 point 1/2" socket with a long handled tool. I used an old, broken torque wrench.