View Full Version : Onan generator question
My '02 Sierra has an Onan 4.0 genset. Today, I decided to fire off the generator, and it won't crank. The batteries are low (junk- soon to be replaced with 6v Trojans), but even when I plug in shore power to the trailer, when I push the gen start button, the lights in the trailer draw way down like there's a huge load from the generator. There's a loud clicking noise when I push either start button (inside or on the generator) coming from what looks like a starter relay on the generator- do these have a starter relay? Has anyone ever had a problem similar to this with their Onan?
Thanks.
The generator starts off the batteries wheather plugged in to shore power or not. If the batteries are discharged and haven't had enough time to charge,or won't take a charge, the generator won't start and will make the sounds you describe. Probably is the relay you're hearing , just like trying to start your car with a dead battery.
Install those new batteries and try again.
Arizona Griz
08/05/06, 4:09 AM
quote:Originally posted by gdavis
Install those new batteries and try again.
or you can jump the trailer batteries from a vehicle battery.
I had the same problem with mine about 6 months ago, new coach batteries and the problem was solved.
Just Ride It
08/05/06, 8:37 PM
Like Griz said you can plug in the tow vehicle with the batts in place and start it. At least this works on mine, not sure about all.
WildBill
08/05/06, 8:52 PM
Not to change your subject...
...but make sure you are always running a fuel stabilizer in your tank. If you don't your next issue will be build-up in the caburator. Also, make sure your are running the thing atleast once or twice per month for 20-60 minutes. You should also make sure you putting a good load on it for a while when it is running. Then run it to top off the batteries.
NEVERENOUGH
08/06/06, 11:51 AM
If new batteries don't help let me know. My buddy had a similar problem with his 4.0 bought new batteries still didn't work. He had a problem with the gen itself but was an easy fix I will call him and find out what it was and post back.
NEVERENOUGH
08/06/06, 11:55 AM
Ok just talked to my buddy and he said that the starter was stuck engaged. He had to turn what he calls a fan that the starter engages into. TAlked to the guys at Onan and they said this is a problme with the 4.0. Whatever fan he is talking about that the strter engages into should spin freely if not engaged. Hope this helps.
Sorry I didn't get back to this sooner, and thanks for all the assistance folks. It was low-battery syndrome...
All better now. I had a bunch of work to do in the trailer this weekend, and since my wimpy 15-amp garage circuits won't support my RV AC, I put about 4 hours on my gen running the AC so I'd be comfy inside, much to my neighbors' chagrin! :D