Community Forums

machman72 · 05-18-2005, 01:56 PM

Can anyone tell me how often I should service my Onan generator, and other than change oil and filter, do I need to do anything else to it? Thanks.

machman72 · 05-18-2005, 01:56 PM

Can anyone tell me how often I should service my Onan generator, and other than change oil and filter, do I need to do anything else to it? Thanks.

RV Wizard · 05-19-2005, 12:18 AM

Machman72, if we had more info on what model Onan you had it would help in giving you the correct info. You will want to run it at least 2 hours every month with a 50% load as a minimum. This is neccessary to not only keep the motor in good shape but also drive out moisture from the windings and brushes. Once we have the specific info there is a schedule one of us can provide.

machman72 · 05-19-2005, 02:58 PM

Thanks for the response. It is an Onan Marquis 5000. I have run it quite a bit since we bought the RV. Between boondocking a couple of times, and LP gas problems, it has come in handy. Need to keep it in good shape.

RV Wizard · 05-20-2005, 12:15 AM

Keep an eye on the air filter too. I think that at a 250 hour interval you should replace but I would have to llok it up and don't have a manual handy right now. You can request an manual if you do not have one from Onan.

machman72 · 05-20-2005, 11:12 AM

Didn't see anything on the Onan website for requesting manuals.

RV Wizard · 05-21-2005, 03:54 AM

Check out www.funroads.com; the last time I went there (awhile ago) there was a store you could get these at.

machman72 · 05-21-2005, 05:28 PM

Got it. Looks like a good web site. Have added it to my favorites. A new question. Is there a limit as to how long you should operate your generator under load, before shutting it down and giving it a break?

Matt S. · 05-22-2005, 04:26 AM

Hello,
I am an Onan dealer, I think I can answer your questions. Most all of the Onan gensets can run 40 hours straight, then should be shut down to check oil level. They do not need any rest periods.

Not quite exactly what model you have. If it is a BGM 5000 (marquis) then its within a black sheet metal housing. This IS one of the best units they ever made. The following applies to almost all the Onan units though....

Change oil and filter at 150 hours of use or once a year.
Change spark plugs around 500 hours of use. I'd add a common sense time rule of 3 to 4 years if you don't make those hours.
Fuel filter follows the spark plugs.
Air filter as needed, inspect every 150 hours with the oil change.

Hope this helps and good luck in your travels.

RV Wizard · 05-22-2005, 05:34 AM

Matt, welcome to iRV2.com; glad to have you here with us. Thank you for your input on this topic. We hope you will be a active participant. Looking forward to learning even more from you. Are you an RVer too?

Gary RVRoamer · 05-22-2005, 05:43 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">A new question. Is there a limit as to how long you should operate your generator under load, before shutting it down and giving it a break? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

No. As long as it was installed with adequate ventilation, it is designed to run continuously.