RVing message boards > Tech Talk
Onan 5500 Generator ... what oil??
winnie32v:
I have an Onan 5500W Generator and I need to change the oil.
Just bought this unit a few months ago and this job is on the list of maintenance things to do.
So, what type and viscosity is recommended?
I was even thinking of a synthetic oil, but wasn't sure if that was OK if the generator has about 280 hrs on it.
Thanks for the advice.
afchap:
That generator is WAY under-utilized/maintained! It needs to be run under load apx 1hr per month, oil changed every 150 hrs OR 12mo whichever comes first. I suspect you could download the manual fron Cummins/Onan ...without that I would use a good 10/40w oil. I would not waste my $$ on synthetic.
FrontrangeRVer:
I use Mobil1 20-50 Synthetic Oil. We have nearly 500 hours on our 2006 model Onan 5500.
Onan recommends 15-40 oil.
nuffsaid:
Use a diesel specific 15/40 oil, there are lots of good choices, Delo 400, Shell Rotella, Mobil Delvac are all good. If you are going to use the generator in a very cold climate, consider Rotella 5/40 synthetic for easier cold starts. Walmart is a good choice for value on these oils.
winnie32v:
--- Quote from: nuffsaid on June 20, 2012, 10:47:40 PM ---Use a diesel specific 15/40 oil, there are lots of good choices, Delo 400, Shell Rotella, Mobil Delvac are all good. If you are going to use the generator in a very cold climate, consider Rotella 5/40 synthetic for easier cold starts. Walmart is a good choice for value on these oils.
--- End quote ---
This is a gas generator. As stated above, I went to the Onan website and looks like they recommend a 15w-40 oil for the most versatile conditions. (I'm from Pa. )
So, I'll be looking into this.
next, is to remove oil filter and see what kind that is and replace it.
I have running this generator for 2 hrs each month at about 1/2 load (air conditioner) and it runs well. starts on the second try.
Any more suggestions will be appreciated.
Thanks for your time.
Paul
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