Onan Diesel Generators
When trying to find a diesel powered generator for your RV many people suggest Onan RV generators because of their past quality and performance. However, the newest option is the Cummins Onan 3.2 and it is quickly becoming one of the most popular options for people everywhere thanks to its outstanding features.
Features of the Onan Diesel Generator
This generator is computer controlled with digital voltage regulation to provide constant speed operation no matter what you are trying to power up. It is 120V single phase and the engine RPM is 3600. Other specs on the motor include it being a 1 cylinder, 5.5 HP air cooled engine that uses an electric starting system. It also uses an electric fuel pump and a fuel filter. There is also a cleanable oil screen present.
It has a permanent magnet alternator and starts with an automotive style starter. Similar to other Onan generators, the voltage will not vary more than 3%. This means that you can charge even the most sensitive electronics without fear of it causing damage.
This generator has a USDA approved spark arrestor available, and meets all EPA and CARB regulations for emissions. This is made possible by the heavy duty air cleaner that it has on it.
It is quiet which makes it ideal for smaller RVs where you have less area to get away from the noise. It is so quiet that it is approved of by the National Park Service because when operating it is 60dB @ 50Ft. To further its quietness, you have a double insulated mounting system to reduce the vibration that it may cause and a sound control housing wraps around the cooling system and the generator muffler. The muffler also has a stationary exhaust pipe connection point.
This Cummins generator does have a low oil alert on it to ensure that your generator’s motor is always protected. This should give you peace of mind when running it over long periods of time.
It can easily run a rooftop air conditioner on your RV and promises to still have more power to spare. It has an integrated start/stop control which has an hour meter.
The dimensions of this unit are 30.2”x17.3”x18” and it weighs 205 pounds. There are service doors and places throughout the box that will make maintenance on it easier for you. However, true to the Cummins’ brand name, you should not have to worry about maintenance for many years.
This Onan diesel RV generator has a 3 year limited warranty to ensure your satisfaction. This covers all parts and potential malfunctions. The quality customer care services are there for you anytime you need them.
Onan Diesel Generator Pros
- Works to Generate Power for Even the Most Sensitive Electronics Including Cell Phones or Laptops
- Diesel Powered Engine with Electric Starter and Fuel System
- Approved By Most Organizations
- Very Quiet
- Easy Access Areas for Routine Maintenance
Possible Issues
- No Included Spark Arrestor
- Not a Portable Generator
Is Onan Worth The Price?
When you find an Onan diesel generator for sale, most people recommend you grab it. It is a quality name brand generator that is able to handle anything you need to run off of it, even though some people feel that the watt numbers are a little low.
It runs off of diesel fuel, which in most cases means that you have very little maintenance on it. Some people use diesel powered engines for years before ever truly beginning to experience a problem. The good news with this Cummins Onan diesel generator is that if you do end up experiencing problems with your generator, parts and service is easy to find. However, you will most likely have to go through an authorized dealer to get help. In most cases, this is not a problem because they are available everywhere.
One major downside is that the spark arrestor is sold separately. It is easy to find, but it is a required accessory that some people feel should have been included. It will raise the price of your generator cost by a little bit by buying it.
Overall though, this 3.2 diesel generator is a very high quality generator that is worth the investment. It has a good name backing it, a company that has been in the business for many years, and it has proven through past generators that Cummins knows how to create quality. However, this one, by far, is much better than previous Cummins Oran generators.
