When does the Onan generator will not run?
Emily Cortez
Published Mar 16, 2026
When does the Onan generator will not run?
When your RV gas tank gets below a quarter of a tank, the Onan will not run. This is a design feature to prevent the generator from using up all your RV gas. ‘1775’ made this point, but your response implies you didn’t understand his comment. Posted By: loving retirement on 05/28/14 09:11pm
When to remove spark plugs from Onan engine?
This is a typical ignition module for an Onan engine. This is a typical ignition coil for an Onan engine. If you are getting no spark at the spark plugs, remove the plug wires
What to do if your Onan ignition is not working?
ONAN IGNITION SYSTEM TROUBLESHOOTING This is a typical ignition module for an Onan engine. This is a typical ignition coil for an Onan engine. If you are getting no spark at the spark plugs, remove the plug wires and check for continuity. No continuity means a bad wire. Replace both of them. Verify the condenser is not grounded.
Why does an Onan generator have a wound resister?
Some of the older units had a wire wound resister in the start circuit. The idea was that when pushing the start button it gave full voltage to the circuit to make starting easier. When the button is released the resister would cut the voltage back somewhat to reduce wear. If the resister burns out the circuit goes open when the button is released.
How do you start a generator in a RV?
(1) Pushing in on the remote start/stop button inside the Roadtrek and also at the access cover at the generator get the same results. (2) I checked the oil and it is with the recommended level. (3) Pushing in either switch results in the starter starting the generator gas engine, however the generator stops the moment I release the switch.
Can a generator be started with the engine running?
(5) While holding the start switch in the run position 120VAC never arrives at any electrical outlet. I am open to any suggestions/ideas of what my Onan problem is. Try starting the generator with the van engine running.
Can a generator run with less than a 4 tank?
The generator will not start or run with less than a 1/4 tank. Once you do get it started you may find that if you turn on a power load soon after starting it will stop again. Let it run for awhile before adding a power load – when it is hard to start. Posted By: Handbasket on 05/28/14 04:13pm
When your RV gas tank gets below a quarter of a tank, the Onan will not run. This is a design feature to prevent the generator from using up all your RV gas. ‘1775’ made this point, but your response implies you didn’t understand his comment. Posted By: loving retirement on 05/28/14 09:11pm
What should I do if my Onan engine has no spark?
This is a typical ignition coil for an Onan engine. If you are getting no spark at the spark plugs, remove the plug wires and check for continuity. No continuity means a bad wire. Replace both of them. Verify the condenser is not grounded.
Why does my Onan start light not work?
Onan gensets have a low oil cut-off that can affect the unit’s operation. The newer Onan gensets will flash a code on the start switch light if they encounter a problem. If you go to they have a manual section which should give you additional troubleshooting options and a guide to deciphering the codes.
Why does the oil pressure switch on Onan generator stick open?
The oil pressure switch of Onan generator often sticks open in case the unit has not seen any use for an extended period of time. In many cases, the situation could be resolved by multiple start/stop cycles, some light tappings should work as well. 2. Defective Control Board
Some of the older units had a wire wound resister in the start circuit. The idea was that when pushing the start button it gave full voltage to the circuit to make starting easier. When the button is released the resister would cut the voltage back somewhat to reduce wear. If the resister burns out the circuit goes open when the button is released.