Also check out my video on exercising and carburetor maintenance for the Cummins Onan RV QG 4000 generator here: ua-cam.com/video/355iwj83LqI/v-deo.html
Not that I would EVER want to teach the teacher, but I did notice a couple of things from your video that will help you. First, I noticed that you were "priming" gas flow with the start button when the generator was already warm right after the oil change. Secondly, the reason it didn't start right up after the oil change (sputtered and shut down) was because it was horribly flooded. The PROPER way to shut this generator down is to only press the switch down for about 1 second it will shut down on its own. You don't need to hold it down until the engine dies out (looked like 6 or 7 seconds in your video). After flooding the carb too much on the first shut-down after your oil change you primed it unnecessarily again, totally flooding the carb again. LOL, it only took me 9 of the 13 years I've had this same Generator. it will help keep that mew genset running great. These gens can be very temperamental !! Learn how to read the codes that are given off by the number of flashes the on/off button light does. Most importantly "Exercise" this generator at least once every month for 30 minutes under some load, such as the A/C. which is about 1/2 of the max load. Lastly, myself and some others have been using Stabil 360 MARINE FORMULA fuel stabilizer. It costs a little more than the regular Stabil, but you only use half as much but it coats the system avoiding varnishing of the carb, fuel tank and inside the engine. Works like magic in all small engines too. You'll notice the difference over time. Don't buy too too,much as the shelf life is 2 years after opening. Great prices on Amazon or e-bay. i bought 32 oz bottle for $21, and I'm almost out. At 1oz per 10 gal of fuel (doubling it for winter storage) you can see we use this Gen a lot and go places where if it craps out, your going home unless you can find full hookups!! Most RV problems are self inflicted, and a part of the learning process!! After 25 years (10 retired with zero commitments other than my also retired wife!!) of RV'ing, when you think you know it all, you find out you don't!! Keep the Videos coming RV Habit!!
Hi Jim thanks for commenting. I"m always willing to learn. I will try cutting back on priming it and see if that is an improvement. I have read on some forums people hold down the prime button for 30 seconds! I was told just till the light goes on which is always less than 5 seconds. As for shutting off the generator I have tried only holding the stop button for a few (1 or 2 seconds) and the darn thing wont shut off lol. I do use the Sta-bil 360 Marine and I agree the stuff works great. After years of RVing this is the first rig I have ever owned with an on board generator. I exercise it every two weeks under load for at least one hour. Thank you for your help its always great to have experienced input. Thanks for watching and stay safe.
Thanks for the info. Just bought a used 2018 Leprechaun. Gen set has 180 hours and the oil has never been changed! I’m using Amsoil; since I’m a dealer. Gonna change now then in another 5 hours and hopefully it will flush any deposits out. It’s amazing someone will spend $100k on a motorhome and not $10 on an oil change... smh Thanks for the info again!!
Hi AJ, I am a big fan of Coachman RVs and the Leprechaun is a great rig. On board generators tend to be severely undermaintained. I would look into a Seafoam treatment also to help clean out the carb. The good news is it has 180 hours on it which means the pervious owner used it and Onan generators love to be used. It is when they are not used that they begin to have problems. Good luck and congrats on your purchase.
RV Habit I keep pints of Seafoam around the shop. However, bought a gallon to keep in the rig today. Full tank of fuel I placed 60 ounces in the main tank and ran the gen for an hour to flush it through as well as drove the rig for about 5 miles to “shake it up”. Thanks for the reply sir. Stay safe
@@Wegowing Sir what kind of oil did you use , weight and ect on your generator? I bought a 2020 coachmen freelander 21QB and Gen has 79 hours on it . They told me at the dealership that the break in period was 100 to 150 hours. After researching I found out its only 20 to 30 hours, no books came with my rig ! Any info would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Daven, I use 15W40 since that's what Onan recommends. The Onan oil can be a bit pricey. You should change the oil every year or 100 hrs., whichever is sooner. Air filters last a long time but at least check it when changing oil. The 4000 has no oil filter so it is a very easy process. Check out my other video on exercising the generator which is essential to keep it running well. ua-cam.com/video/355iwj83LqI/v-deo.html
@@RVHabit Already checked it out and sub bro you do great videos I'm Def going to do the sea foam treatment ! What brand of 15W40 oil would recommend if i don't use the onan brand ?
I don't know why but I lost several comments and questions. Someone asked does the generator need to be level to operate. The short answer is no. As long as your not parked on a steep incline you should be fine.
@@RVHabit I I've already checked that one out I don't think I want to go to that much trouble just to clean out a carburetor. I'll just start it up and let it run but thank you
You're not using the primer correctly. Push and hold the primer up to 30 seconds. The longer it hasn't been run, if the air temp is cold or if it ran out of fuel, the longer you hold it down. The light does not mean it is ready to crank, but that the fuel pump is running. Notice how it started and then died quickly. The primer needed to run longer. If the generator has been run, no priming is needed. Its similar to not choking a warm engine although the primer doesn't ad fuel to the engine, it only fills the carb bowl. Doing this correctly will extend the life of the starter significantly.
I heard you say "T-30 for the screws'' but I missed what size socket for the drain plug. My generator has warning placards saying do not run without panels in place, so I had to start it from inside the rig.
Hi, that is true that the generator should be run with the cover in place so it cools properly. Starting it from outside for a few minutes should not be an issue. My drain plug requires a 12mm socket.
You can start it and run it with the panel off for a couple minutes while servicing it etc. That warning is don’t leave it off while running it under a full load for a long time. Someone may think, it’s hot and running hard, Maybe leaving the door open will help cool it. No! Don’t do that!
I would only recommend genuine Cummins Onan Green Label parts. Always check your specific Onan 4000 for correct part numbers but here are links to the majority of the Onan 4000 generators. Cummins Onan Fuel Pump A047N926 on Amazon: amzn.to/3dSthra Cummins 1460705 Onan Carburetor on Amazon: amzn.to/2ZMU7eo
Good job. No info packet was included when I bought my 2018 Entegra Esteem. Just a quick start guide. No info on when to exercise. What if I need to exercise in freezing weather? Will oil be ok for short runs? Again, thanks for the info. More than I get from General Rv.
You need 15W-40 oil to run in freezing temps. If your running SAE30 oil, that is only recommended for above freezing temps. Remember to run at least at half load when exercising. I run mine for at least one hour when exercising. If you can't exercise it regularly make sure you're using a fuel stabilizer. Thanks so much for taking time to comment.
Few questions, so no oil or air filter? How do you know if it is surging? Mine is running fine but sometimes the stop button from inside the coach is not stopping the generator. Always starts when pushing start, sometimes stops when push stop, works well. I’ll need to do an oil change soon. Thanks again for the videos!
Hi the 4000 does not have an oil filter. It does have an air filter but I just keep an eye on it. It does not typically need to be changed as often as oil. As for not shutting off intermittently from inside. I would start with checking the switch it may be bad or have loose wiring. Good luck.
Going to be doing full time living in our fifth wheel, will not have power for a bit, how long can this generator run on a tank of gas and is it fine to run 24/7 if needed?
Well this generator runs on gas from the chassis in my vehicle. Most say it uses about half a gallon an hour. Based on my usage that seems about right. If running constantly i would stop it every day to check the oil level.
Check out my other video about maintenance on the generator, especially if you don't run it every two weeks. It shows how to keep the carburetor clear of the effects of ethanol fuel. Thanks for watching.
Hi, 25 to 30 hours is about right to change that break-in oil. I have a video on generator exercising. These generators do not like to sit without being run. I run mine every two weeks when my rig is parked at home. Also, in the exercising video, I find the Seafoam treatment works great. I have increased the mixture to 2 parts gasoline to 1 part Seafoam. Thanks for watching.
Hey Lou I was looking for what oil to use on my propane generator 4000 . When I googled it, you came up first. I thought that was cool, ours is taking some time to prime up. Hope all is well. Life with ken and jane
Hi guys, I made the big time if I'm on top of google search woohoo! I don't know much about the propane generators but the gas ones take either straight SAE 30 for gas engines and if you want to use 15w40 its actually diesel motor oil. Hope you guys are enjoying your journey.
@@RVHabit I used my jacks also only to level the vehicle for adding the oil. I could only put 1.5 qts without overflowing. Onan does state as you did 1.6 capacity. I must had some still in the engine somewhere when I drained it.
@@RVHabit I myself don't use synthetic, thank you for your imput... Your video was the only one I saw that answered certian questions that the other video's did not cover ... thank you again..
When Cummins says to change after first 20-30 hours, is that regardless of the time frame? I just bought a 2 year old rv. The generator only has 17 hours on it. Should I still change the oil. It probably wasn’t changed. I would imagine it would be a good idea to change it every year even if it’s the starting oil? Thx!
I personally would change the oil. The 20 to 30 hours is the break in period, 17 hours on a generator is not a lot of hours. I would get in the habit of running it under load for at least one hour every three to 4 weeks. These generators do not like to sit unused. They run better when they are used on a regular basis, Watch my video on exercising the generator. There are some good tips. Congrats on the new RV,
Very helpful video, thank you for posting. We have the almost identical forest river model - just a few years older, our only question is how do you reset the "change oil" message" on the control center panel inside the actual RV. We can not find a reset button or any info in the manuals. Thanks for any help! John.
Hi I don't know of any oil change message for Onan generators. It may just be a meter that indicates to change oil based on hours of use. Many of them reset after several hours of run time
Hi, you cannot reset the hour meter. The hour meter is designed to keep a running total of hours for the life of the generator. Thanks for watching and great question.
Thank you! We have very similar units. We have a Coachman Leprechaun 260 DS. The CD that came with our RV nor the quick guide booklet is not as near useful as your video. I do not understand why the oil should be changed so quickly in the initial use of the unit but not going to argue. Do you have a correct listing of error codes? Our monitor shows a blinking 8. I would also like your input on how to add fresh water to the unit when dry camping. We attempted to add water using a 12V pump to the same location you add city water to unsuccessfully (gravity?) Is there another location that the pump could be utilized, or a location where you could pour gallon jugs with a funnel? Thank you in advance!
Hi Jared and thank you for commenting. The first oil change is quick as it is considered break in oil and may become contaminated during engine break in. If I can give you one word of advice with the Onan generators is to use them. Lack of use will gum up the carburetor. Also use a good fuel stabilizer. I use Sta-Bil Marine 360 with good results. I run mine at least every two weeks under load for at least one hour. Most say you can run once a month and be ok. Any way you decide but definitely run it. I don't have the codes nearby but I will look to see if I can find them. As for fresh water tank fill. Not being familiar with your exact model rig it can have one of two ways to fill the fresh water tank. The first is the same port as your city water connection but there will be a knob to turn that will say fill or potable water. The second way and more common on class C's is a gravity fed port. This port is separate from your city water inlet and the connection is not for direct connection to a hose. The hole is usually a little bigger for you to stick the hose into or use a device such as the Secure-Fill which I did a video on. On this type of gravity fill no pump is needed. Good luck and let us know what type of fresh water fill you have so we can benefit from the information.
Thanks. Our Coachmen Leprechaun 260 DS has only one port to turn the knob for potable water. The tank fills fine using the hose connected to my water faucet. The problem I am having is while boondocking. I bought a 12V (1/10 HP) water pump to try to add extra water. The pump will work as long as it is not connected to the RV. Once connected to the RV, it won't pump water. I feel it has to do something with pressure. Any advice? Also, it looks like the message we get on the control panel for the generator is like a blinking hourglass.
+Jared Douglass yes the blinking hourglass is the indicator that says the number indicates hours on the generator. This is normal display when generator is running. It is an hour counter that shows total accumulated hours on generator. As for your pump my first guess is the pump Is just not strong enough to push the water all the way to the fresh water tank.
I just finished dewintering my 2020 Coachmen 21QB the fresh water tank is not gravity flow. I found out the hard way when sanitizing my tank. I had to drain some water out of the fill hose, add the required amount of bleach to the hose, then attach the hose and turn on the water, filled the tank no problem.
RV Habit you will get a much cleaner oil change if you don’t warm the engine. Pull the plug and put it back when it stops dripping. It will take a little longer but you get a much better “change”. I usually pull the plug and come back and check it later that day. Also you can pour a little clean oil in while your drain plug is open to help flush out more dirty oil. This does take quite a bit longer but .........
RV Habit warmer oil does drain faster no doubt. It just takes forever for all the oil that’s stuck and clinging to internal engine surfaces and components to reach the drain hole. That’s why I choose to drain my oil with a cold engine after the motor has been sitting over night or longer. I’ll sometimes pull a drain plug and come back the next day. I realize some don’t have that kind of time so getting most of the oil out will suffice but I’m just picky I guess. I’ll also pour a 1/4 to 1/2 quart clean oil and let it run out as well. I feel that helps push some dirty oil from the oil valleys in the head(s). And like I said, this is all just my opinion but I have done a few tests and the oil is always cleaner on the dipstick after doing the cold method. Hope all that makes sense and helps.
RV Habit I know but to check the oil level do I screw it all the way in or just stick it from outside my generator is the Onan 4000 evap it doesnt have oil filter
My model # 4KY-6747R Spec: R When I enter the model # on the website and then the Spec: R ......the model# disappears. Can you tell me what the Spec letter represents?
I am not an authorized Onan mechanic but I believe the R indicates it is a remote start series. It may also just indicate manufacturer changes to your unit versus the previous spec letter.
I modified my drain bolt to a quick drain valve. My Forest River was designed with the drain just above the carriage frame. Maybe 6" of room. Pain in the ass to change the oil. Not no more.
@@RVHabit Where can I get or what size is the washer, I checked it for leaks, but once it started and ran for a bit, it started leaking. I assume the washer is bad.
Also check out my video on exercising and carburetor maintenance for the Cummins Onan RV QG 4000 generator here: ua-cam.com/video/355iwj83LqI/v-deo.html
Diggin' your videos! Excellent job. I'm at 18 hours on my 4000 Onan and will change the oil myself now that I know it's pretty easy. Thanks Lou! 👍
You can do it!
Not that I would EVER want to teach the teacher, but I did notice a couple of things from your video that will help you. First, I noticed that you were "priming" gas flow with the start button when the generator was already warm right after the oil change. Secondly, the reason it didn't start right up after the oil change (sputtered and shut down) was because it was horribly flooded. The PROPER way to shut this generator down is to only press the switch down for about 1 second it will shut down on its own. You don't need to hold it down until the engine dies out (looked like 6 or 7 seconds in your video). After flooding the carb too much on the first shut-down after your oil change you primed it unnecessarily again, totally flooding the carb again. LOL, it only took me 9 of the 13 years I've had this same Generator. it will help keep that mew genset running great. These gens can be very temperamental !! Learn how to read the codes that are given off by the number of flashes the on/off button light does. Most importantly "Exercise" this generator at least once every month for 30 minutes under some load, such as the A/C. which is about 1/2 of the max load. Lastly, myself and some others have been using Stabil 360 MARINE FORMULA fuel stabilizer. It costs a little more than the regular Stabil, but you only use half as much but it coats the system avoiding varnishing of the carb, fuel tank and inside the engine. Works like magic in all small engines too. You'll notice the difference over time. Don't buy too too,much as the shelf life is 2 years after opening. Great prices on Amazon or e-bay. i bought 32 oz bottle for $21, and I'm almost out. At 1oz per 10 gal of fuel (doubling it for winter storage) you can see we use this Gen a lot and go places where if it craps out, your going home unless you can find full hookups!! Most RV problems are self inflicted, and a part of the learning process!! After 25 years (10 retired with zero commitments other than my also retired wife!!) of RV'ing, when you think you know it all, you find out you don't!! Keep the Videos coming RV Habit!!
Hi Jim thanks for commenting. I"m always willing to learn. I will try cutting back on priming it and see if that is an improvement. I have read on some forums people hold down the prime button for 30 seconds! I was told just till the light goes on which is always less than 5 seconds. As for shutting off the generator I have tried only holding the stop button for a few (1 or 2 seconds) and the darn thing wont shut off lol. I do use the Sta-bil 360 Marine and I agree the stuff works great. After years of RVing this is the first rig I have ever owned with an on board generator. I exercise it every two weeks under load for at least one hour. Thank you for your help its always great to have experienced input. Thanks for watching and stay safe.
During the winter I would not want to run the AC’s to load the generator, would a space heater do the trick for 30 or so minutes? Thanks
That is exactly what I use during the winter months. A space heater is perfect. I use a 1500w space heater on high.
Great video! My RV didn’t come with the owners manual for the generator so I watched this video and it helped me.
I'm glad it helped. Be sure to check out my video on how to maintain the generator ua-cam.com/video/355iwj83LqI/v-deo.html
martinrps13 Neither did mine. The rv industry is a joke, Russia makes better products.
Thank you for this video. You made it look so easy. This was my first ever oil change!! EASY PEASY! Your video gave me the courage to try!
Great to hear!
Thanks! Thought I was going crazy when I couldn’t find the oil filter :-) that last sentence is worth it’s weight in gold lol
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for the info. Just bought a used 2018 Leprechaun. Gen set has 180 hours and the oil has never been changed! I’m using Amsoil; since I’m a dealer. Gonna change now then in another 5 hours and hopefully it will flush any deposits out. It’s amazing someone will spend $100k on a motorhome and not $10 on an oil change... smh
Thanks for the info again!!
Hi AJ, I am a big fan of Coachman RVs and the Leprechaun is a great rig. On board generators tend to be severely undermaintained. I would look into a Seafoam treatment also to help clean out the carb. The good news is it has 180 hours on it which means the pervious owner used it and Onan generators love to be used. It is when they are not used that they begin to have problems. Good luck and congrats on your purchase.
RV Habit I keep pints of Seafoam around the shop. However, bought a gallon to keep in the rig today. Full tank of fuel I placed 60 ounces in the main tank and ran the gen for an hour to flush it through as well as drove the rig for about 5 miles to “shake it up”.
Thanks for the reply sir. Stay safe
@@Wegowing Sir what kind of oil did you use , weight and ect on your generator? I bought a 2020 coachmen freelander 21QB and Gen has 79 hours on it . They told me at the dealership that the break in period was 100 to 150 hours. After researching I found out its only 20 to 30 hours, no books came with my rig ! Any info would be greatly appreciated!
Hi Daven, I use 15W40 since that's what Onan recommends. The Onan oil can be a bit pricey. You should change the oil every year or 100 hrs., whichever is sooner. Air filters last a long time but at least check it when changing oil. The 4000 has no oil filter so it is a very easy process. Check out my other video on exercising the generator which is essential to keep it running well. ua-cam.com/video/355iwj83LqI/v-deo.html
@@RVHabit Already checked it out and sub bro you do great videos I'm Def going to do the sea foam treatment ! What brand of 15W40 oil would recommend if i don't use the onan brand ?
What about the plugs and air filter whats the recommended change times for them
Thank you! Going to do this today. No oil filter?
The Onan 4000 does not have an oil filter. This is one of the simpler tasks when maintaining the generator. Good luck!
That was going to be my next question! Thanks to the both of you.
Thanks
I so much appreciate your thoroughness. You show/explain every step and I need that. Thank you!
Thank you Pamela.
Thank you for taking the time to make this Video. Much appreciated.
Thanks Stephen I appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment.
Thanks for the video. I know you said it has no oil filter. Thanks but what about the air filter? Shouldn't that be done every oil change?
I usually check the air filter at oil changes. Unless you spend time in very dusty areas the air filter will last longer than you expect.
I don't know why but I lost several comments and questions. Someone asked does the generator need to be level to operate. The short answer is no. As long as your not parked on a steep incline you should be fine.
Thanks just got my first Owen generator in my used motorhome so definitely going to change all the fluids
Check out my video on exercising the generator also.
@@RVHabit I I've already checked that one out I don't think I want to go to that much trouble just to clean out a carburetor. I'll just start it up and let it run but thank you
You're not using the primer correctly. Push and hold the primer up to 30 seconds. The longer it hasn't been run, if the air temp is cold or if it ran out of fuel, the longer you hold it down. The light does not mean it is ready to crank, but that the fuel pump is running. Notice how it started and then died quickly. The primer needed to run longer. If the generator has been run, no priming is needed. Its similar to not choking a warm engine although the primer doesn't ad fuel to the engine, it only fills the carb bowl. Doing this correctly will extend the life of the starter significantly.
Thanks for the great information!! Especially the size of the 30 torx bit and 12mm metric socket used I really appreciate it!
Hi Amy, Glad it was helpful!
Nicely done. Is there an oil filter to change as well? I don't see an oil filter part number in your low bar.
Hi, there is no oil filter on the 4000.
Did the 4K gen power both ac units at the same time?
I only have one AC. Powering two may be possible with soft starts but its pushing it.
Nicely done and very good instructions. If I’m not mistaken that particular model has no oil filter?
Hi John thank you and yes no oil filter on the 4000.
John C RV Good question. Saved me time looking over You tube for a film on how to change it. Oops, he told us at the end.
Hi Lou, do you also have a video on how to change the spark plugs😬
Sorry I don't have a video on that.
So I watched a few videos on these. Do these generators have no oil filters?
Hi, The Onan 4000 does not have an oil filter. Larger models do have an oil filter.
No oil filter on the Onan 4000 ?
I didn’t see one on mine ?
Onan recommends 10w 40 ?
Correct no oil filter on the Onan 4000. Also, Onan recommends either SAE30 or the more versatile 15w40. I believe they only brand the 15w40 now.
I heard you say "T-30 for the screws'' but I missed what size socket for the drain plug. My generator has warning placards saying do not run without panels in place, so I had to start it from inside the rig.
Hi, that is true that the generator should be run with the cover in place so it cools properly. Starting it from outside for a few minutes should not be an issue. My drain plug requires a 12mm socket.
You can start it and run it with the panel off for a couple minutes while servicing it etc. That warning is don’t leave it off while running it under a full load for a long time.
Someone may think, it’s hot and running hard, Maybe leaving the door open will help cool it.
No! Don’t do that!
You correct Joe. Thanks for commenting.
Hello. Could you suggest or recommend to me a good carburetor and fuel pump for a Onan 4000 generator? Thank you. Tom
I would only recommend genuine Cummins Onan Green Label parts. Always check your specific Onan 4000 for correct part numbers but here are links to the majority of the Onan 4000 generators.
Cummins Onan Fuel Pump A047N926 on Amazon: amzn.to/3dSthra
Cummins 1460705 Onan Carburetor on Amazon: amzn.to/2ZMU7eo
Do you have to use the Cummins oil? Or will any do?
The manufacturer says yes you do. I personally use Rotella Oil for the Genny.
Thank you for the video. My generator is giving me the over crank code. How can I fix this?
Good job. No info packet was included when I bought my 2018 Entegra Esteem. Just a quick start guide. No info on when to exercise. What if I need to exercise in freezing weather? Will oil be ok for short runs? Again, thanks for the info. More than I get from General Rv.
You need 15W-40 oil to run in freezing temps. If your running SAE30 oil, that is only recommended for above freezing temps. Remember to run at least at half load when exercising. I run mine for at least one hour when exercising. If you can't exercise it regularly make sure you're using a fuel stabilizer. Thanks so much for taking time to comment.
RV Habit Thank you.
Job well done. Particularly how you explained every step by step. Great Channel! 👍
I appreciate that!
Great video. Big difference between 100 and 150 hours. How do you make the call?
I use 100 hours or every year whichever comes first. The 4k model does not have an oil filter so 100 hours seems long enough to me.
Few questions, so no oil or air filter? How do you know if it is surging? Mine is running fine but sometimes the stop button from inside the coach is not stopping the generator. Always starts when pushing start, sometimes stops when push stop, works well. I’ll need to do an oil change soon. Thanks again for the videos!
Hi the 4000 does not have an oil filter. It does have an air filter but I just keep an eye on it. It does not typically need to be changed as often as oil. As for not shutting off intermittently from inside. I would start with checking the switch it may be bad or have loose wiring. Good luck.
Great video! Thank you.
Also, like your taste in watches, can’t go wrong with Invicta
Hi Joe, thanks so much.
Going to be doing full time living in our fifth wheel, will not have power for a bit, how long can this generator run on a tank of gas and is it fine to run 24/7 if needed?
Well this generator runs on gas from the chassis in my vehicle. Most say it uses about half a gallon an hour. Based on my usage that seems about right. If running constantly i would stop it every day to check the oil level.
thanks for the video! I'm getting ready to change mine and this came in super handy!
Check out my other video about maintenance on the generator, especially if you don't run it every two weeks. It shows how to keep the carburetor clear of the effects of ethanol fuel. Thanks for watching.
I have this unit and am doing my 30 hour break in oil change. What other videos do you have to keep this running well? Spark plug ect.. Thx, Don
Hi, 25 to 30 hours is about right to change that break-in oil. I have a video on generator exercising. These generators do not like to sit without being run. I run mine every two weeks when my rig is parked at home. Also, in the exercising video, I find the Seafoam treatment works great. I have increased the mixture to 2 parts gasoline to 1 part Seafoam. Thanks for watching.
Hey Lou I was looking for what oil to use on my propane generator 4000 . When I googled it, you came up first. I thought that was cool, ours is taking some time to prime up. Hope all is well. Life with ken and jane
Hi guys, I made the big time if I'm on top of google search woohoo! I don't know much about the propane generators but the gas ones take either straight SAE 30 for gas engines and if you want to use 15w40 its actually diesel motor oil. Hope you guys are enjoying your journey.
Lou I was just wondering if you ever think about putting a fomoco drain plug on your generator
I havent actually but that may not be a bad idea. I will look into it.
Thank you for explaining the type oil and necessary tools!
Hi Debbie, Very welcome!
What is the opening below the yellow fill plug?
There is no opening just the bottom of generator. Maybe the video view
is deceiving
what if you cant start the generator? can you just replace the old oil while its cold or does it have to be warm?
You absolutely can change the oil if it is cold. Warming only the engine only makes the old oil flow better when draining.
How often do you change the oil? Certain amount of hours?
The oil should be changed every year or I believe every 150 hours. Whichever comes first.
Is your RV raised by the Leveling Jacks. If so is this safe? Thanks for the video.
The leveling jacks are hydraulic. It lifts the RV only enough to stabilize and level the coach. The tires remain on the ground.
@@RVHabit I used my jacks also only to level the vehicle for adding the oil. I could only put 1.5 qts without overflowing. Onan does state as you did 1.6 capacity. I must had some still in the engine somewhere when I drained it.
Does this gen have an oil filter?
No oil filter on the 4000 model.
Thanks for a great how to video. I am about to change the oil in my new generator as well. This video is great. Thank you.
The oil change is so easy. The hardest part is finding the oil at the store lol.
You give the T30 size for the cover but not the drain plug socket size unless I missed it.
I believe it is a 12mm socket
Is that a citizen ecodrive Skyhawk on your wrist?
Very good it is exactly that. I have had it for years when it originally came out. The best built watch I have ever owned.
Do you know what size the crush washer is (or a link to a replacement)? I have a small leak and should probably replace it.
I don't have a link. I would try your local auto parts store or contacting Cummins Onan directly. Good luck.
So it is better to run it on a honda generator? It will run for like 5 hours on a gallon of gas.
I would think your referring to a Honda 2000. The Onan is a 4000 watt generator designed to run anything in the RV most importantly the AC.
@@RVHabit
Yes the eu2200 may run that ac cheaper :) , thank you for the video!.
Don't know if someone has already asked but on a NEW unit 4000 can you use Synthetic oil or should I use Onamax 15w-40
I know some people do use synthetic but I do not. I use the Onamax or Shell Rotella T4 15w-40 for year-round use.
@@RVHabit I myself don't use synthetic, thank you for your imput... Your video was the only one I saw that answered certian questions that the other video's did not cover ... thank you again..
When Cummins says to change after first 20-30 hours, is that regardless of the time frame? I just bought a 2 year old rv. The generator only has 17 hours on it. Should I still change the oil. It probably wasn’t changed. I would imagine it would be a good idea to change it every year even if it’s the starting oil? Thx!
I personally would change the oil. The 20 to 30 hours is the break in period, 17 hours on a generator is not a lot of hours. I would get in the habit of running it under load for at least one hour every three to 4 weeks. These generators do not like to sit unused. They run better when they are used on a regular basis, Watch my video on exercising the generator. There are some good tips. Congrats on the new RV,
@@RVHabit ok thanks very much for the tips. It follows the good saying: use it or loose it!
Very helpful video, thank you for posting. We have the almost identical forest river model - just a few years older, our only question is how do you reset the "change oil" message" on the control center panel inside the actual RV. We can not find a reset button or any info in the manuals. Thanks for any help! John.
Hi I don't know of any oil change message for Onan generators. It may just be a meter that indicates to change oil based on hours of use. Many of them reset after several hours of run time
Is there an oil filter?
Hi Gary, There is no oil filter on the Onan 4000.
Thank for showing us how to seafoam and change oil! Great video.
Thanks for watching.
Crap, now I gotta buy Torx tool. Whatever happened to standardization?
Hi Dave, Yes its not like it used to be. Torx is needed for lots of stuff today. Thanks for watching.
RV Habit Thanks for making it. Hard to get info on how-to’s from manufacturers. You guys making this really make life easier. Thank you.
Happy camping.
What do you do with the OLD OIL?
I bring the old oil to our local Auto Zone. They accept it for free to recycle.
Thanks for the informative video. How do you reset the hour meter?
Hi, you cannot reset the hour meter. The hour meter is designed to keep a running total of hours for the life of the generator. Thanks for watching and great question.
thanks for the info @@RVHabit
Hey i got a couple questions for you, do you have to reset the running hour meter and if so how is it done?
Great question. The hour meter on the Onan Generators are for the lifetime hours of the generator. You do not reset the meter.
Is there not a filter to change?
The 4000 does not have an oil filter.
So this thing doesn't have a oil filter?
No the 4000 does not have an oil filter.
Simple and clear explanation and demonstration. Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you! We have very similar units. We have a Coachman Leprechaun 260 DS. The CD that came with our RV nor the quick guide booklet is not as near useful as your video. I do not understand why the oil should be changed so quickly in the initial use of the unit but not going to argue. Do you have a correct listing of error codes? Our monitor shows a blinking 8. I would also like your input on how to add fresh water to the unit when dry camping. We attempted to add water using a 12V pump to the same location you add city water to unsuccessfully (gravity?) Is there another location that the pump could be utilized, or a location where you could pour gallon jugs with a funnel? Thank you in advance!
Hi Jared and thank you for commenting. The first oil change is quick as it is considered break in oil and may become contaminated during engine break in. If I can give you one word of advice with the Onan generators is to use them. Lack of use will gum up the carburetor. Also use a good fuel stabilizer. I use Sta-Bil Marine 360 with good results. I run mine at least every two weeks under load for at least one hour. Most say you can run once a month and be ok. Any way you decide but definitely run it. I don't have the codes nearby but I will look to see if I can find them.
As for fresh water tank fill. Not being familiar with your exact model rig it can have one of two ways to fill the fresh water tank. The first is the same port as your city water connection but there will be a knob to turn that will say fill or potable water. The second way and more common on class C's is a gravity fed port. This port is separate from your city water inlet and the connection is not for direct connection to a hose. The hole is usually a little bigger for you to stick the hose into or use a device such as the Secure-Fill which I did a video on. On this type of gravity fill no pump is needed. Good luck and let us know what type of fresh water fill you have so we can benefit from the information.
Thanks. Our Coachmen Leprechaun 260 DS has only one port to turn the knob for potable water. The tank fills fine using the hose connected to my water faucet. The problem I am having is while boondocking. I bought a 12V (1/10 HP) water pump to try to add extra water. The pump will work as long as it is not connected to the RV. Once connected to the RV, it won't pump water. I feel it has to do something with pressure. Any advice?
Also, it looks like the message we get on the control panel for the generator is like a blinking hourglass.
+Jared Douglass yes the blinking hourglass is the indicator that says the number indicates hours on the generator. This is normal display when generator is running. It is an hour counter that shows total accumulated hours on generator. As for your pump my first guess is the pump Is just not strong enough to push the water all the way to the fresh water tank.
I just finished dewintering my 2020 Coachmen 21QB the fresh water tank is not gravity flow. I found out the hard way when sanitizing my tank. I had to drain some water out of the fill hose, add the required amount of bleach to the hose, then attach the hose and turn on the water, filled the tank no problem.
Yes I have heard that solution works well with non-gravity fill fresh water tanks. Thanks for sharing.
Great video Perfect instructor
Hi Teresa, Thanks 👍
Does it have a radiator
The Onan 4k does not have a radiator it is air cooled.
RV Habit it has one piston?
yes
No oil filter?
No There is no oil filter on the 4000
Why do you start the generator before letting the oil out?
You run the generator for five minutes or so to warm the oil. This will helps it drain better.
@@RVHabit Thank you!
why do u need to warm the engine? And also No oil filter?
You warm the engine to warm the oil which aids in draining the oil. No the Onan 4k does not have an oil filter.
RV Habit you will get a much cleaner oil change if you don’t warm the engine. Pull the plug and put it back when it stops dripping. It will take a little longer but you get a much better “change”. I usually pull the plug and come back and check it later that day. Also you can pour a little clean oil in while your drain plug is open to help flush out more dirty oil. This does take quite a bit longer but .........
Tennessee Jeff I was always taught the warmer oil drains easier. I will try it cold next time.
RV Habit warmer oil does drain faster no doubt. It just takes forever for all the oil that’s stuck and clinging to internal engine surfaces and components to reach the drain hole. That’s why I choose to drain my oil with a cold engine after the motor has been sitting over night or longer. I’ll sometimes pull a drain plug and come back the next day. I realize some don’t have that kind of time so getting most of the oil out will suffice but I’m just picky I guess. I’ll also pour a 1/4 to 1/2 quart clean oil and let it run out as well. I feel that helps push some dirty oil from the oil valleys in the head(s). And like I said, this is all just my opinion but I have done a few tests and the oil is always cleaner on the dipstick after doing the cold method. Hope all that makes sense and helps.
How do I check the oil on the 4000 Onan gas generator evap
Just remove the yellow fill cap. It is also a dipstick.
RV Habit I know but to check the oil level do I screw it all the way in or just stick it from outside my generator is the Onan 4000 evap it doesnt have oil filter
no the 4000 does not have an oil filter. i always screw the dip stick all the way in when checkimg the oil.
What type of gas/gasoline type does it take?
Uses regular gasoline 87 octane or better. This model pulls directly from RV gas tank.
@@RVHabit thank you sooo much
Doesn't that thing have an oil filter. I didn't see you change the oil filter.
Hi William, the 4000 does not have an oil filter.
My model # 4KY-6747R Spec: R
When I enter the model # on the website and then the Spec: R ......the model# disappears. Can you tell me what the Spec letter represents?
I am not an authorized Onan mechanic but I believe the R indicates it is a remote start series. It may also just indicate manufacturer changes to your unit versus the previous spec letter.
RV Habit Thank you.
Thanks, great info.
AWESOME VIDEO❣️ Thank you!
You are so welcome!
What about your filter
Hi Marc, the Onan 4000 does not have an oil filter
thank you for the great videos.
Glad you like them!
SAE 30 for summer months
Yes exactly.
Filter change?
Hi Jeff, the 4000 does not have an oil filter.
@@RVHabit yes, I realized that shortly after. Thanks for the follow up.
Thank you so much.
You're welcome!
what about the oil filter??
There is no oil filter on this model.
Great video, right to the point. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Big thanks for the video how about the air filter as I have a 4000 super quiet myself but it's not so quiet
I will be sure to make a short video on the air filter when I open up the rig this spring. Thank you for watching and commenting, Lou.
WHAT SIZE IS THE DRAIN PLUG ??????????????
Hi Kevin, on my unit a 12mm socket removes the oil plug.
oil filter??
There is no oil filter on the 4000 model.
What size is the Drain plug?
Hi Donklaing the plug is a 12mm bolt.
My owners manual calls out a 14MM plug. I've contacted Cummings.
my unit is a "spec P" on a 2016 Forest River Forester. Let us know what Cummins says.
I modified my drain bolt to a quick drain valve. My Forest River was designed with the drain just above the carriage frame. Maybe 6" of room. Pain in the ass to change the oil. Not no more.
Thank you. Very help full sir.
Glad it helped. Thank you for taking time to comment.
so no oil filter?
Hi Alan, There is no oil filter on the 4000.
@@RVHabit Where can I get or what size is the washer, I checked it for leaks, but once it started and ran for a bit, it started leaking. I assume the washer is bad.
Ever had generator without oil drain plug access
Easy change. Good vido.
Hi Allen, Thanks 👍
Very informative thank you sir
You're very welcome
Great video! Thank you!
Glad you liked it! Thanks for commenting.
Thank you!
I dislike my onan 4000 on my rv
Thank you
Merci!
HAHA. That generator sound just like a smart car engine.
Nice vid!👍🏽
Thanks so much.
Thank you for this.
thanks for the video!
Ty made it easy
Thanks so much for commenting.
Thanks
Thanks for watching.
Concise and well done. Thank you!
Hi Scott, Thank you for watching.
thanks very helpful
Thank you for watching.