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Cummins/Onan QSJ2.4 Engine

The Cummins/Onan QSJ2.4 is a 2.4 L 4-cylinder naturally aspirated or turbocharged (varies by generator set model) engine rated at 1800 rpm. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the C20 N6, C22 N6, C25 N6 and C30 N6. It holds 12.8 L (3.4 gal) of coolant.

Also known as: Cummins QSJ2.4

2.4 L
Displacement
4
Cylinders
1800 rpm
Rated speed

Engine specifications

Coolant capacity12.8 L
Displacement2.4 L
Cylinders4
AspirationNaturally aspirated or turbocharged (varies by generator set model)
Rated speed1800 rpm

Common problems

5
  • Engine Oil Pressure Low (Warning) Code 143
  • Engine Coolant Temperature High (Shutdown) Code 151
  • Engine Coolant Temperature Above Normal (Warning) Code 146
  • Fire Hazard
    Cause: Contaminated insulation is a fire hazard.
    Fix: Remove any contaminated insulation and dispose of it in accordance with local regulations.
  • Any spillage that occurs during fueling or during oil top-off or oil change must be cleaned up before starting the generator set.
    Fix: Clean up any spillage before starting the generator set.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Cummins/Onan QSJ2.4.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Fuel filterEvery 500 hours of operation or as needed, whichever comes first—500 hr
Oil filterEvery 1000 hours of operation or as needed, whichever comes first—1000 hr
BatteryAs needed—
Oil500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first—804 hr

Pooled from every document that names this exact engine — confirm the interval and part number against your unit's serial number.

Service intervals

35
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Air cleaner restriction indicator (where fitted)Check24 hrDaily or after 24 hours, whichever occurs first. If indicator shows red, replace air cleaner elements and reset indicator.
Air intake systemInspect24 hrDaily or after 24 hours. Visually and audibly check for leaks, wear or damage.
Batteries - connections secure and battery area clearCheck24 hrDaily or after 24 hours and Weekly or after 50 hours.
Coolant level of radiator(s) (water jacket & LTA)Check24 hrDaily or after 24 hours. Top up with Cummins recommended coolant mix if low.
Engine oil levelCheck24 hrDaily or after 24 hours. Top up to engine specifications level with recommended oil.
Exhaust components and hardware (fittings, clamps, fasteners)Inspect24 hrDaily or after 24 hours and Weekly or after 50 hours. Visually and audibly inspect for wear or damage.
Generator set enclosureCheck24 hrDaily or after 24 hours. Walk-around inspection; ensure no inlets/outlets restricted and safety systems in place.
Operator panelCheck24 hrDaily or after 24 hours. Replace component if not functioning properly.
Engine Oil and Oil FilterChange200 hr24 moFirst service — First 25 hours.
Battery conditionCheck50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours.
Charge alternatorCheck50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours. Check visually and audibly when generator set is running.
Coolant lines and radiator hosesCheck50 hr12 moWeekly or after 50 hours and 12 Months or after 200 Hours. Check for leaks, wear and cracks.
Cooling fan bladesInspect50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours. Visually inspect for wear or damage.
Drive belt, condition and tensionCheck50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours. Check for wear or slippage.
Emergency Stop Button (where fitted)Test50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours. With generator set running, press Emergency Stop button.
Fuel lines and hosesCheck50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours. Visually check for leaks, wear or damage.
Radiator air flowInspect50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours. Check for blockage, debris, wear or damage.
Air cleanerReplace100 hrReplace air cleaner.
Aftercooler core (where fitted)Check200 hr12 mo12 Months or after 200 Hours.
Complete System TestTest200 hr24 moMust be performed by a qualified service technician; see transfer switch manual.
Coolant heater (where fitted)Check200 hr12 mo12 Months or after 200 Hours. Check it has power and is running.
Electrical connections (battery, starter motor and alternator connections)Check200 hr12 mo12 Months or after 200 Hours.
Engine Air FilterReplace200 hrPerform more often in dusty conditions.
Engine Valve ClearanceAdjust200 hr24 moMust be performed by a qualified service technician.
Engine groundCheck200 hr12 mo12 Months or after 200 Hours. Clean as necessary.
Engine mountsCheck200 hr12 mo12 Months or after 200 Hours.
Engine oil and filtersReplace200 hr12 moFirst service — After the initial 50 hour interval and every 200 hours thereafter; 12 Months or after 200 Hours.
Radiator coreClean200 hr12 mo12 Months or after 200 Hours. Cleaning schedule may be reduced depending on operating conditions/environment.
Spark plugsInspect200 hr12 mo12 Months or after 200 Hours. Replace as necessary.
Starting BatteryClean200 hrClean and check starting battery.
Starting motorCheck200 hr12 mo12 Months or after 200 Hours.
Timing belt conditionInspect200 hr12 mo12 Months or after 200 Hours. Visually inspect.
Turbocharger (where fitted)Check200 hr12 mo12 Months or after 200 Hours.
Water pumpCheck200 hr12 mo12 Months or after 200 Hours.
Cooling system coolantReplace24 mo2 Years.

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Service specifications

60
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
ClearanceMinimum to combustible walls (front)915mminstallation
ClearanceMinimum to combustible walls (side)1524mminstallation
ClearanceMinimum to combustible walls (top)762mminstallation
GapSpark Plug Gap0.7 - 0.8mm (0.027 - 0.031 in)
GapSpark plug gap (NA)0.040inch (1.0 mm)
GapSpark plug gap (T/TAA)0.030inch (0.76 mm)
OtherMaximum I2 (negative sequence)8%
PressureEngine oil pressure low (shutdown) threshold - Code 41526psig (180 kPa)for greater than 10 seconds
PressureFuel Shutoff Solenoid Coil Voltage Threshold10.2VDCwhile attempting to start
PressureFuel supply pressure - maximum3.5kPa
PressureFuel supply pressure - minimum1.5kPa
PressureLubricating Oil Pressure at Rated Speed (Minimum)310kPa (45 psi)at rated speed
PressureMaximum Fuel Supply Pressure (either fuel)3.2kPa (13 inch water column)under any condition
PressureNatural Gas Fuel Supply Pressure3.5 - 12inch water column (0.9 - 3.0 kPa)
PressurePropane Vapor Fuel Supply Pressure1.5 - 3.0kPa (6 - 12 inch water column)
ResistanceEngine harness pin resistance (ECM to sensor) - Code 5569 diagnosis5 ohms or lessohms
ResistanceGovernor Actuator Resistance2.8 ±5%Ohms
ResistanceRotor Ground Resistance> 1 megohm on megger, or infinity on an ohmmetermegohm
ResistanceRotor Winding Resistance F1 to F2 (13 kW)26 +/-10%Ohmsat 75 °F room temperature
ResistanceRotor Winding Resistance F1 to F2 (17/20 kW)30.5 +/-10%Ohmsat 75 °F room temperature
ResistanceSense L1(W) - Sense L2(V) (13 kW)0.24 +/-10%Ohms
ResistanceSense L1(W) - Sense L2(V) (17/20 kW)0.107 +/-10%Ohms
ResistanceStator Ground Resistance> 1 megohm on megger, or infinity on an ohmmetermegohm
ResistanceStator Winding Resistance L1 to N (13 kW)0.112 +/-10%Ohmsat 75 °F room temperature
ResistanceStator Winding Resistance L1 to N (17/20 kW)0.042 +/-10%Ohmsat 75 °F room temperature
ResistanceStator Winding Resistance Q1 to Q2 (13 kW)2.56 +/-10%Ohmsat 75 °F room temperature
ResistanceStator Winding Resistance Q1 to Q2 (17/20 kW)1.45 +/-10%Ohmsat 75 °F room temperature
SpeedEndurance run period (normal duty air cleaner test)30secondsafter oil/filter change, run then shut off and wait 5 minutes
SpeedRated RPM3600rpm
TemperatureAlternator Temperature Switch Contacts Open197 - 210°F (92 - 99 °C)
TemperatureEngine coolant temperature above normal (warning) - Code 146225°F (107.2 °C)for greater than 5 seconds
TemperatureIntake manifold temperature high (shutdown) - Code 155203°F (95 °C)for greater than 10 seconds
TemperatureIntake manifold temperature high (warning) - Code 488185°F (85 °C)for more than 90 seconds
TorqueAC Battery Charger Screws0.9 - 1.2Nm
TorqueAccess Panel Fasteners (oil drain)5.0 - 6.6Nm
TorqueAir-Fuel Mixer Flange Bolts13ft-lb (17.5 Nm)
TorqueAirbox Cover Bolts3.2 - 4.0Nm
TorqueAirbox Mounting Brackets Bolts3.2 - 4.0Nm
TorqueAirbox to Mixer/Throttle Body Nuts3.2 - 4.0Nm
TorqueAlternator Fan/Rotor Retention Nut113 - 139Nm
TorqueAlternator Ground Strap to Skid Bolt5 - 6.2Nm
TorqueAlternator Ground Strap/B- to End Bell Bolt12.3 - 15Nm
TorqueAlternator Heater18 - 22Nm
TorqueAlternator Leads into Circuit Breaker4 - 5Nm
TorqueAlternator Leads into Circuit Breaker: Bonding Jumper4 - 5Nm
TorqueAlternator Leads into Circuit Breaker: Neutral Lead/Lug Bolt5.5 - 6.5Nm
TorqueAlternator Leads into Circuit Breaker: Neutral Lug Hex Screw4 - 5Nm
TorqueBattery Charge Alternator Mounting Bolts8 - 12Nm
TorqueBattery Tray Bolt3.2 - 4Nm
TorqueBrush Block Access Panel (Plastic) Bolt3.2 - 4Nm
TorqueBrush Block Bolts2.3 - 3.2Nm
TorqueControl Board Bracket to Enclosure Bolt9.8 - 11.9Nm
TorqueControl Board to Bracket Mounting Bolt2.8 - 3.5Nm
TorqueCrankcase Reed Valve Cover Bolts8 - 12Nm
TorqueCylinder Head Bolts50Nmtighten in pattern shown
TorqueDipstick (Shipped Separately)9.8 - 11.9Nm
TorqueEnclosure Hood Hinge Assembly Bolts5.6 - 6.6Nm
TorqueEnclosure M6 Bolts - All Panel Connections and Cross Bars5.6 - 6.6Nm
TorqueExhaust Baffle to Muffler Clamp Nuts13.9 - 16.8Nm
TorqueExhaust Manifold Nuts33 - 40Nm

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Recommended fluids

FluidGradeStandardAmbientCapacityNotes
Coolant50/5050/50 ethylene glycol/water mixture
Coolant50/50 mixturebelow 50°C
CoolantCummins recommended coolant mixTop up coolant system to specifications level with Cummins recommended coolant mix. For NFPA 110 applications a coolant heater is required.
Engine oil0W30Full synthetic gasoline engine oil which meets or exceeds API service SN/SN-RC and ILSAC GF-52.3 LAll temperatures, required below -17 °C (0 °F)
Engine oil5W30 API SMAPI SM4.3 LApproximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 L). Dipstick High mark 4.3 L (4.5 qt), Low mark 3.8 L (4.0 qt).
Engine oil5W30Full synthetic gasoline engine oil which meets or exceeds API service SN/SN-RC and ILSAC GF-5above -17°C2.3 LTemperatures above -17 °C (0 °F)
FuelNatural gas or propane vaporFuel pressure 6-14 inch water column.

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Fault codes

31
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
12OvervoltageInstantaneous Fault: AC voltage S1-S2 greater than 300 VAC. Delayed Fault: AC voltage line-to-line greater than 268 VAC but less than 300 VAC for 3 continuous seconds.ShutdownMeasure AC voltage at the circuit breaker and pins P1-34/P1-35. Cycle loads. Reseat P1. Measure field, quadrature and main winding resistance.
13UndervoltageAC voltage 240 line-to-line is less than 216 VAC for 5 continuous seconds.ShutdownMeasure AC voltage and frequency. Balance loads within 10% line-to-line. Reseat P1. Measure winding resistance and check brush alignment.
14OverfrequencyInstantaneous Fault: Frequency greater than 72 Hz. Delayed Fault: Frequency greater than 66 Hz but less than 72 Hz for 6 continuous seconds.ShutdownMeasure AC current and frequency. Check exhaust, fuel supply, governor actuator, demand regulator and throttle plate. Measure winding resistance and check brush alignment.
143Engine Oil Pressure LowEngine oil pressure is below the low oil pressure warning threshold.WarningCheck the oil level and add oil if necessary. Inspect the engine and surrounding area for external oil leaks; contact your local dealer if a leak is present.
1438Fail to CrankThe engine failed to crank after the generator control received a start signal.ShutdownVerify battery voltage is at least 12 VDC. Charge or replace the battery as necessary.
146Engine Coolant Temperature Above NormalEngine coolant temperature has exceeded 225 °F (107.2 °C) for greater than 5 seconds.WarningReduce loads or recirculation of discharge air in elevated ambient; inspect/clear enclosure air intake and discharge blockage; check and add coolant; clean the radiator core; inspect and replace a broken fan belt.
1472High AC CurrentThe generator output current has exceeded at least 150% of rated current.ShutdownReduce the generator set load by powering off unnecessary household appliances.
15UnderfrequencyFrequency less than 54 Hz (for the 60 Hz model) for 8 continuous seconds.ShutdownMeasure AC current, frequency and load capability. Check air filter, exhaust, fuel supply, governor and ignition. Measure winding resistance and check brush alignment.
151Engine Coolant Temperature HighEngine coolant temperature has exceeded the alarm (shutdown) threshold for high coolant temperature.ShutdownReduce loads or recirculation of discharge air in elevated ambient; clear enclosure air intake and discharge blockage; check and add coolant; clean the radiator core; inspect and replace a broken fan belt.
155Intake Manifold Temperature HighEngine intake manifold temperature has exceeded 203 °F (95 °C) for greater than 10 seconds.ShutdownReduce loads or recirculation of discharge air in elevated ambient; clear enclosure air intake and discharge blockage; check and add coolant; clean the radiator core; inspect and replace a broken fan belt.
19Governor Actuator ShutdownController sensed governor actuator circuit is open or shorted.ShutdownMeasure and verify governor actuator resistance (2.8 Ohms ±5%). Verify governor wiring to the control. Replace if necessary.
197Coolant Level LowCoolant level sensor signal is showing a low coolant level for greater than 10 seconds.WarningRemove radiator cap and check that coolant is up to the required level.
2Low Oil Pressure FaultContinuous ground (greater than or equal to 3 seconds) at the generator set control for oil pressure input. The switch opens the control circuit with pressure.ShutdownMeasure the oil level; disconnect the oil pressure switch and measure continuity from P1-6 and GND; verify switch operation; measure oil pressure with a mechanical gauge; repair or replace relief valve and oil pump if necessary.
22Governor Actuator OverloadMaximum governor output (PWM) for 10 continuous seconds.ShutdownMeasure AC current. Check air filter, fuel supply, intake manifold and gaskets, exhaust and ignition. Verify the actuator function and check the governor linkage.
27Voltage Sense LostThe generator set frequency is greater than 40 Hz and voltage sensed is less than 5 VAC on one or both lines.ShutdownMeasure the AC voltage. Reseat P1. Measure field, quadrature and main winding resistance. Check brush alignment.
29High Battery VoltageDC voltage to controller greater than 19 VDC.ShutdownMeasure DC voltage at the battery, at the generator set and at connector P1. Measure DC voltage with the battery charger turned on and diagnose the faulty charger.
32Low Cranking Speed SenseQuadrature frequency is less than 1 Hz (engine RPM is less than 180) for 3 continuous seconds after pressing start.ShutdownCheck battery and connections. Verify engine and alternator rotation. Check J1 pins. Measure DC voltage at the starter. Check air filter, exhaust, fuel supply and ignition.
35Control Card FailureEEPROM (programming variables) error during self-test.ShutdownReplace the control.
36Generator Set Stopped Without Fault ConditionRPM is less than 500 and sense voltage S1-S2 is at 0 VAC and no other fault condition occurred.ShutdownVerify engine and alternator rotation. Check air filter, exhaust, fuel supply, governor and ignition. Measure winding resistance.
37Invalid Set ConfigurationGenerator set control configuration does not meet any valid configuration.ShutdownUsing the display, reset and save the generator set configuration. If correct and the fault will not clear, replace the control.
4OvercrankThe generator set control did not sense alternator quad winding frequency after cycle crank (30 seconds of cranking and 15 seconds between each crank attempt for a total of 3 crank attempts).ShutdownCheck fuel supply, air/fuel mixture, ignition system, starter, battery and wiring. Check air filter and exhaust. Measure quad voltage during cranking and winding resistances.
415Engine Oil Pressure LowEngine oil pressure is below 26 psig (180 kPa) for greater than 10 seconds.ShutdownCheck the oil level and add oil if necessary. Inspect the engine and surrounding area for external oil leaks; contact your local dealer if a leak is present.
421Engine Oil Temperature HighThe control has detected the engine oil temperature has exceeded the warning threshold.WarningReduce loads or recirculation of discharge air in elevated ambient; inspect/clear enclosure air intake blockage; check and add coolant.
43Processor FaultRAM (programming variables) error during self-test.ShutdownReplace the control as necessary.
441Battery Voltage LowBattery voltage low.WarningInspect the battery cable connections for corrosion and for loose connections.
45Speed Sense FaultWhile running, the quadrature frequency dropped to 0 Hz for 1 continuous second.ShutdownInspect and clean slip rings. Measure quadrature winding resistance between P1-2 and P1-3. Check harness continuity. Measure frequency and droop.
46Generator Set OverloadThe total generator set load is above 105% of rated.ShutdownMeasure the AC current and voltage while running with all connected loads. Identify faulty or short cycling loads and reduce loads as necessary.
488Intake Manifold Temperature HighEngine intake manifold temperature has exceeded 185 °F (85 °C) for more than 90 seconds.WarningReduce loads or recirculation of discharge air in elevated ambient; clear enclosure air intake and discharge blockage; check and add coolant; clean the radiator core; inspect and replace a broken fan belt.
5134Unknown Shutdown at IdleThe generator set failed to start.ShutdownCheck that the manual shutoff valves are open (fuel supply issue).
5569Engine CombustionRapid rate of increase of intake manifold temperature detected.ShutdownInspect hose couplings between compressor outlet and intake manifold; inspect the turbocharger; inspect the mixer; check the TMAP sensor value with GCP Display service tool or InPower; inspect the engine harness and connector pins (resistance should be 5 ohms or less) and repair or replace as necessary.
76Alternator Over TempThe temperature at the alternator is too high. The high temperature switch opens between 197 - 209 °F (91.5 - 98.5 °C). An open condition on this circuit triggers the fault.ShutdownVerify the air inlet and air outlet panels are not obstructed. Measure the temperature sensor wiring (P1-33 to GND) for continuity. Inspect the cooling fan.

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Procedures

12
Converting the Fuel System Type adjustment

⚠ Do not rotate the center section of the valve beyond the detent.

Tools: 6 mm external hex wrench

  1. From the Main screen, select Menu; hold the Next key at least 5 seconds to view the Config Menu.
  2. Highlight 'Config' and click Enter. Use the Next key to navigate to the Fuel Type field; select NG or LP.
  3. Do not change the number in the Config field.
  4. Use a 6 mm external hex wrench to rotate the center section of the fuel valve.
  5. Turn the center section clockwise until the detent is reached; do not rotate beyond this point.
  6. Keep selecting the Back button to save the settings and return to the Main screen.
Generator Config Screen Setup adjustment

⚠ Failure to configure will result in Fault Code 37.

  1. From the Main screen, select Menu.
  2. Press and hold the Next key on the Menu screen for at least 5 seconds to view the Config Menu.
  3. Highlight 'Config' and click the Enter key. The Generator Config screen appears.
  4. Use the Next key to navigate to the Config field. Use the arrow keys to select the appropriate config option (20 = C20N6H/C20N6HC, 21 = C17N6H, 22 = C13N6H).
  5. Use the Next key to navigate to the Fuel Type field. Select NG (natural gas; default) or LP (liquid propane).
  6. Keep selecting the Back button to save the settings and return to the Main screen.
Check the fault log diagnostic
  1. From any Information Menu, hold down the up and down arrows simultaneously for two seconds to access the Service Menu.
  2. Select Fault History.
  3. Active faults are displayed first, followed by Fault History screens newest to oldest.
Fuel Shutoff Solenoid Troubleshooting diagnostic

Tools: Multi-meter, Soapy water solution

  1. Disconnect the four harness leads from the fuel solenoid coils.
  2. Check that battery voltage is being supplied through the generator set harness using a multi-meter between FSOL1+/FSGND1 and FSOL2+/FSGND2 while trying to start.
  3. Verify that the voltage is 10.2 VDC. If no voltage, check for bad wiring; if less than 10.2 VDC, check for bad wiring or discharged battery.
  4. Check for proper solenoid operation by applying 12 VDC to a coil and listening/feeling for activation. Repeat for all solenoids.
  5. If either solenoid does not activate, replace the gas valve assembly.
  6. Check for fuel leaks at the solenoid with a soapy water solution on pipe threads and around the base; tighten or replace as required.
Line Circuit Breaker Troubleshooting diagnostic

⚠ Automated Machinery: accidental or remote starting can cause severe personal injury or death.

Tools: Ohmmeter

  1. Shut down and disable the generator set; disconnect the negative (–) battery cable and reconnect it last when done.
  2. Disconnect the leads going into and out of the circuit breaker (two leads from the alternator at the top L1 and L2, and two from customer wiring at the bottom L1 and L2).
  3. Check continuity: with the breaker on, very low resistance between the L1 lugs and between the L2 lugs.
  4. With the breaker off, the continuity check between L1 and L2 pairs should show open.
  5. Replace the breaker if either of the continuity tests fails.
Testing the Alternator diagnostic

⚠ Disconnect the AVR before doing any insulation resistance test. Discharge the windings by shorting to earth through an earthing rod for at least 5 minutes.

Tools: Ohmmeter, Megger or insulation resistance meter, Wheatstone bridge (0.001 Ohms precision)

  1. Test the rotor for grounded, open and shorted windings using an ohmmeter, testing at the brush block terminals first.
  2. For rotor ground resistance, set the ohmmeter to the highest scale or use a megger; touch one probe to the rotor shaft and the other to a slip ring.
  3. For rotor winding resistance, connect each meter test lead to a separate slip ring and compare to the resistance table.
  4. Test for a short between the main windings and the quad windings.
  5. For stator ground resistance, touch one test probe to the stack and, in turn, the other to each stator lead.
  6. Measure stator winding resistance with a meter having precision down to 0.001 Ohms.
  7. Measure each winding to the stator laminations to check for bad insulation.
Adding Oil maintenance

⚠ Ensure that the generator set engine has cooled down before adding or draining the oil.

  1. Ensure that the oil fill cap area is clean, and prevent debris from entering the engine.
  2. Add the appropriate amount of oil, based on the engine oil level check.
  3. Recheck the engine oil level. Based on the results, add or drain oil.
  4. Clean up and dispose of any oil in accordance with local/state regulations.
Air cleaner element removal and installation (Heavy Duty) maintenance
  1. Wipe dirt from the cover and upper portion of the air cleaner.
  2. Lift tab and turn end cover counter clockwise.
  3. Pull the end cover away from the housing.
  4. Remove the media from the housing.
  5. To install: insert the media into the housing, install the end cover onto the housing, turn clockwise until the latch snaps into place.
Air cleaner removal and installation (Normal Duty) maintenance

⚠ Holes, loose-end seals, dented sealing surfaces, corrosion of pipes render the air cleaner inoperative and require immediate element replacement.

  1. Loosen the strap clamp.
  2. Wipe away debris around the air cleaner connection to the engine.
  3. Remove the dirty cleaner and dispose of the dirty element per local requirements.
  4. To install: install the air cleaner and tighten the strap clamp.
Brush Block/Slip Ring Service maintenance

⚠ Make sure the brushes are aligned correctly with the slip rings; otherwise they may break when the generator set is started.

Tools: Scotch Brite pad or commutator stone

  1. Disconnect the field leads from the brush block (F1, F2).
  2. Remove the two mounting screws.
  3. Withdraw the brush block from the alternator end bell.
  4. Inspect the brush block: if either brush is shorter than 11 mm (7/16 inch), binds, or is damaged, replace the brush block assembly.
  5. When installing the brush block, keep the brushes retracted with the wire through the hole; remove the wire after bolting the block in place.
  6. If the slip rings have grooves, pits, or other damage, use a Scotch Brite pad or commutator stone to remove light wear or corrosion.
Changing Engine Oil and Oil Filter maintenance

⚠ Contact with used engine oil can cause cancer or reproductive toxicity.

⚠ Accidental or remote starting can cause severe personal injury or death.

  1. Open the generator set's circuit breaker to prevent the ATS from transferring to generator set source when manually starting.
  2. Manually start the generator set and allow it to run 2 to 5 minutes to warm the engine oil.
  3. Remove the access panels to get to the drain hose.
  4. Stop the generator set and allow it to thoroughly cool. Disconnect the battery charger and the negative (–) battery cable.
  5. Open the oil drain cap to release oil from the engine into the appropriate container, close it, and wipe it clean.
  6. Place an appropriate container below the oil filter. Remove the oil filter by turning it counterclockwise and remove the old gasket.
  7. Clean the filter mounting surface on the engine block.
  8. Make sure the gasket is in place on the new filter and apply a thin film of clean oil to the gasket.
  9. Install the new filter until the gasket just touches the block. Turn it an additional 1/2 to 3/4 turn. Do not over-tighten.
  10. Add the appropriate amount of oil and check the engine oil level.
  11. Reconnect the battery cables, positive (+) cable first, and reconnect the battery charger.
  12. Operate the generator set with no load for approximately 5 minutes to check for leaks at the oil filter or oil drain hose.
  13. Shut down the generator set, wait 5 minutes, and confirm the correct oil level. Check for leaks and repair any identified.
  14. Dispose of the used oil and oil filter according to local environmental regulations.
  15. Re-install the access panels and restore the original generator set settings, then close the generator set breaker.
Check the engine oil level maintenance

⚠ Crankcase pressure can blow out hot oil and cause severe burns. Do NOT check oil while the engine is operating.

  1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean.
  2. Clean off the area surrounding the dipstick port to prevent entry of debris into the oil pan.
  3. Make sure that the engine has not been running for approximately five minutes.
  4. Reinsert and fully seat the dipstick.
  5. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level.
  6. Reinsert and fully seat the dipstick.

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Voltage reconnection

VoltagePhaseConnectionLeadsNotes
120/208312-lead12
120/24014-lead4
120/240312-lead12

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Common questions

What is the displacement of the Cummins/Onan QSJ2.4?

The Cummins/Onan QSJ2.4 has a displacement of 2.4 liters with 4 cylinders.

Which generators use the Cummins/Onan QSJ2.4 engine?

The Cummins/Onan QSJ2.4 powers 20 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan C20 N6, Cummins/Onan C22 N6, Cummins/Onan C25 N6, Cummins/Onan C30 N6, Cummins/Onan C36 N6.

How often should you change the oil in the Cummins/Onan QSJ2.4?

The Cummins/Onan QSJ2.4 oil change interval is every 804 hours.

What is a common problem with the Cummins/Onan QSJ2.4 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Cummins/Onan QSJ2.4 is: Engine Oil Pressure Low (Warning).