Home›Engines›General Motors industrial spark-ignited

General Motors industrial spark-ignited Engine

The General Motors industrial spark-ignited is a 5 L naturally aspirated engine rated at 1800 rpm. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the GGPC. It holds 2.2 L (0.6 gal) of oil.

Also known as: GM industrial spark-ignited

5.0 L
Displacement
1800 rpm
Rated speed
2.2 L
Oil capacity

Engine specifications

Oil capacity2.2 L
Displacement5.0 L
Aspirationnaturally aspirated
Rated speed1800 rpm

Generator sets powered by this engine

1

Common problems

15
  • Over Current 1471
  • Low Coolant Level 197
  • Weak Battery 1442
  • Under Frequency 1448
  • Too Long in Idle 2342
  • Speed/Hz Match 1469
  • Speed Signal Lost 121
  • Shutdown After Battle Short 1123
  • Short Circuit 1445
  • Service Engine Fault 1318
  • Remote Emergency Stop 1434
  • Pre-Low Oil Pressure Sensor 143
  • Pre-High Cool Temp 146
  • Power Down Failure 1417
  • Overspeed 234

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the General Motors industrial spark-ignited.

Service intervals

18
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
coolant levelCheck8 hrDaily or after 8 hours
engine oil levelCheck8 hrDaily or after 8 hours
general set inspectionInspect8 hrDaily or after 8 hours. Check for oil, fuel, cooling and exhaust system leaks. Check exhaust system audibly and visually with set running.
air cleaner (normal duty filter)Check100 hr1 moMonthly or after 100 hours. Replace element after 500 hours. Perform more often in extreme duty conditions.
all hardware (fittings, clamps, fasteners, etc.)Check100 hr1 moMonthly or after 100 hours
battery electrolyte levelCheck100 hr1 moMonthly or after 100 hours
coolant heater(s)Check100 hr1 moMonthly or after 100 hours
drive beltCheck100 hr1 moVisually check belt for evidence of wear or slippage. Replace if hard or brittle.
exterior of radiator for obstructionsCheck100 hr1 moMonthly or after 100 hours
generator air outletCheck100 hr1 moMonthly or after 100 hours
AC generator and controlsCheck500 hrYearly or after 500 hours
anti-freeze concentrationCheck500 hrYearly or after 500 hours
engine oil and filter (normal duty filter)Change500 hr12 moPerform at least once a year. Perform more often in extreme duty conditions.
radiator hoses for wear and cracksCheck500 hrYearly or after 500 hours. Replace if hard or brittle.
engine coolant port capsCheck1000 hrReplace after 4 years or 1000 hours.
radiatorDrain1000 hr24 moDrain and flush radiator - 2 years or after 1000 hours
spark plugsInspect1000 hrReplace every 1000 hours.
oxygen sensorTest1500 hrMust be performed by a qualified mechanic. Replace every 1,500 hours (recommended).

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

21
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
GapSpark plug gap0.030inch
GapSpark plug gap0.762mm
OtherBattery specific gravity, charge the battery if below1.215
OtherBattery specific gravity, fully charged (corrected)1.260corrected to 80 deg F (27 deg C)
OtherHydrometer specific gravity correction0.004for every ten degrees the electrolyte temperature is above 80 deg F (27 deg C)
OtherOil filter installation tightening after gasket contact1/2 to 3/4turnafter gasket just touches mounting pad
PressureAir filter cleaning maximum air pressure30psi
PressureExhaust Backpressure (Max. Allowed)20inch WC
PressureExhaust Connection size3inch NPT
PressureFuel flow inlet pressure (NG/LPG) minimum7.0inch H2O
PressureFuel flow inlet pressure NG/LPG Vapor Withdrawal maximum13.6inch H2O
PressureLPG Liquid Withdrawal inlet pressure312psi
PressureRadiator cleaning maximum pressure (low pressure compressed air or water)35psiin opposite direction of normal air flow
SpeedStart cycles (default)3cycles15 seconds cranking and 15 seconds rest
TemperatureEngine jacket water coolant minimum to be maintained (NFPA 110)90deg F
TemperatureLow coolant temperature warning trip21deg Cengine not operating
TemperatureLow coolant temperature warning trip (Engine Cold Code 1435)70deg Fengine not operating
TemperatureMaximum engine temperature before adding coolant120deg Fallow engine to cool below before adding coolant
TemperatureMinimum start temperature with engine jacket water coolant heaters-25deg F
TemperatureRecommended minimum ambient for standby gensets with engine jacket water coolant heaters (NFPA 110)40deg F
TemperatureScreen Saver mode activation delay10minutes

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
Coolant50/50 coolant solution (50% pure water and 50% antifreeze)above -37°C26.1 LIf temperatures below -37 deg F (-38 deg C) are possible, use a mixture of 65% antifreeze and 35% water. Do not use antifreeze containing anti-leak additives. Use clean, low-mineral soft water.
Engine oilSAE 15W-40API classification SJ, SH or SLTurbocharged engines, or engines in high ambient temperature installations.
Engine oilSAE 5W-30API classification SJ, SH or SLbelow -18°CIf ambient temperatures are consistently below 0 deg F (-18 deg C).
Engine oilSAE 10W-30API classification SJ, SH or SLabove -18°C5.5 LRecommended for your engine from 0 deg F (-18 deg C) or above.
FuelPropane (Liquid or Vapor) or Natural Gas, or a combination of two fuelsMinimum inlet pressure NG/LPG 7.0 inch H2O (1.7 kPa); maximum NG/LPG Vapor Withdrawal 13.6 inch H2O (3.4 kPa); LPG Liquid Withdrawal 312 psi (2,153 kPa).

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

67
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
1123Shutdown After BSCategory A faultShutdown
1124Delayed ShutdownCategory E faultWarning
1131Battle Sh ActiveCategory E faultWarning
121Speed Signal LostCategory A faultShutdown
1311Customer Input #1Category E fault; optional customer selectionThe nature of the fault is an optional customer selection (example inputs: Low Fuel Day Tank, Water In Fuel, Ground Fault). Programmable via the InPower service tool.
1312Customer Input #2Category E fault; optional customer selectionThe nature of the fault is an optional customer selection. Programmable via the InPower service tool (default: Warning).
1313-1316Network Fault 1 through 4Category E fault
1317Customer Input #3Category E fault; optional customer selectionThe nature of the fault is an optional customer selection. Programmable via the InPower service tool (default: Warning).
1318Service EngineCategory B faultWarningIndicates that emissions criteria might not be met due to one of the following: engine running in open loop, lean mixture, rich mixture, or failed fuel system component.
1334Crit Scaler ORCategory A faultShutdown
1335Noncrit Scaler ORCategory B faultWarning
135Oil Pressure Sensor HCategory C faultWarning
141Oil Pressure Sensor LCategory C faultWarning
1416Failt to ShutdownCategory C faultWarning
1417Pwr Down ErrorCategory D faultWarningIndicates that the control cannot power down due to some unknown condition. Possible drain on battery. Contact an authorized service center for service.
143Pre-Low Oil PresCategory D faultWarningIndicates the engine oil pressure has dropped to an unacceptable level. If the generator is powering critical loads and cannot be shut down, wait until the next shutdown period and then follow code 415 procedure.
1433Emergency StopCategory D fault; indicates local Emergency StopShutdownTo reset the local/remote Emergency Stop button: Pull the button out. Move the O/Manual/Auto switch to O. Press the front panel Fault Acknowledge/Reset button. Select Manual or Auto, as required.
1434Remote E-stopCategory D fault; indicates remote Emergency StopShutdownSee code 1433 to reset.
1435Low Coolant TempCategory D fault; warning occurs when the engine coolant temperature is 70 deg F (21 deg C) or lowerWarningIndicates engine coolant heater is not operating or is not circulating coolant. Check that coolant heater is connected to power supply and for blown fuse or disconnected heater cord. Check for low coolant level and replenish; look for possible coolant leakage points and repair.
1438Fail to CrankCategory D fault; possible fault with control, speed sensing or starting systemShutdownSee code 441 for corrective action.
144Coolant Sensor HighCategory C faultWarning
1442Weak BatteryCategory D fault; during cranking the battery voltage is at or below the weak battery warning trip point for a time greater than or equal to the weak battery set timeWarningSee code 441 for corrective action.
1443Battery FailedCategory D fault; dead battery - engine will not startShutdownSee code 441 for corrective action.
1444kW OverloadCategory B faultWarning
1445Short CircuitCategory A faultShutdown
1446High AC VoltageCategory A faultShutdown
1447Low AC VoltageCategory A faultShutdown
1448Under FrequencyCategory D fault; possible fuel system problem or overload conditionShutdownCheck for dirty or plugged air filter and replace if necessary. Check operation by disconnecting load and restarting generator set. Fuel system requires adjustment or fuel delivery is inadequate - contact an authorized service center. Reset the control and restart.
1449Over FrequencyCategory A faultWarning
145Coolant Sensor LowCategory C faultWarning
1452Gen CB Not CloseCategory A faultWarning
1453Gen CB Not OpenCategory A faultWarning
1459Reverse PowerCategory A faultShutdown
146Pre-High Coolant TempCategory D faultWarningIndicates the engine has begun to overheat (coolant temperature has risen to an unacceptable level). Reduce the load if possible by turning off non-critical loads. Check air inlets and outlets and remove any obstructions to airflow. If engine can be stopped, follow code 151 procedure.
1461Loss of FieldCategory A faultShutdown
1466Modem FailureCategory C faultWarning
1468Network ErrorCategory C faultWarning
1469Speed/Hz MatchCategory A faultShutdown
1471Over CurrentCategory B faultWarning
1472Over CurrentCategory A faultShutdown
151High Coolant TempCategory D faultShutdownIndicates the engine has overheated (coolant temperature has risen above the shutdown trip point). Allow the engine to cool completely. Check the coolant level and replenish if low; look for coolant leaks. Check for obstructions to cooling airflow. Check fan belt and repair or tighten if necessary. Check the blower fan and circulation pumps on remote radiator installations. Reset the control and restart.
197Low Coolant LevelCategory D faultWarningIndicates engine coolant level has fallen to an unacceptable level. If the generator is powering critical loads and cannot be shut down, wait until the next shutdown period, and then follow 235 Coolant Level Alarm procedure.
2323-2326Network Fault 5 through 8Category E fault
2327PTC FaultCategory B faultWarning
2329Low S1 FrequencyCategory E faultWarning
2331Low S1 VoltageCategory E faultWarning
2335Excitation FaultCategory A faultShutdown
2336Memory ErrorCategory A faultShutdown
2337Pwr Tran DisabledCategory C faultWarning
2338Pwr Tran FailureCategory C faultWarning
2339Pwr Down EnabledCategory E faultWarning
234OverspeedCategory A faultShutdown
2341High Control TempCategory B faultWarning
2342Too Long in IdleCategory E fault; generator set has been in Idle mode too long (10 minutes maximum)WarningIndicates the generator set has been in Idle mode too long (10 minutes maximum).
235Low Coolant LevelCategory D faultShutdownIndicates engine coolant level has fallen below the alarm trip point. Allow the engine to cool down completely. Check the coolant level sight glass at LTA top tank and replenish if low. Look for possible coolant leakage points and repair if necessary. Reset the control and restart.
2358High S1 VoltageCategory E faultWarning
2396S1 CB Not CloseCategory E faultWarning
2397S1 CB Not OpenCategory E faultWarning
2966PTC TimeoutCategory C faultWarning
2967Governor FaultCategory C faultWarning
2968AVR FaultCategory C faultWarning
2969LON FailureCategory C faultWarning
2972Field OverloadCategory A faultShutdown
359Fail To StartCategory D faultShutdownIndicates a possible fuel system problem (engine cranks but fails to start). Open any closed fuel shutoff valve. Check for dirty or plugged air filter and replace if necessary. Fuel delivery to the set is inadequate - contact an authorized service center. Reset the control and restart.
415Low Oil PressureCategory D faultShutdownIndicates engine oil pressure has dropped below the shutdown trip point. Check oil level, lines and filters. If the oil system is OK but oil level is low, replenish. Reset the control and restart.
441Low Bat VoltageCategory D faultWarningIndicates battery voltage supply to the control is approaching a low level. Discharged or defective battery - check the battery charger fuse and recharge or replace the battery. Clean the battery cable terminals and tighten all connections. Check battery charge voltage float level if applicable (raise float level).
442High Bat VoltageCategory D faultWarningIndicates battery voltage supply to the control is approaching a high level at which damage to the control can occur. Check the float level on the battery charger if applicable (lower float level).

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
Adjusting Values/Parameters (Adjust Menu) adjustment

Tools: InPower Service Tool

  1. Press the button next to the arrow symbol until the + and - symbols are displayed.
  2. If necessary, press the button next to the symbols to move to the numeric character to change.
  3. Press + to increase the value or select parameter; press - to decrease or select parameter.
  4. Press the arrow symbol to save changes (cursor on last numeric character when adjusting values).
Vibration Isolator Installation installation

⚠ Ensure that the equipment is stable before installation of the vibration isolator.

  1. Place the vibration isolator under the support point of the equipment, ensure load is uniformly distributed over the top plate.
  2. With the 6 mm spacer in position, tighten the positioning nut.
  3. Turn the adjusting bolt of the spring counter-clockwise to load the spring.
  4. Load all the FSR at the same time to ensure the total load is uniformly spread.
  5. Continue until the spring load equals the load of the equipment.
  6. When equilibrium point is reached, the 6 mm spacer can be removed from the FSR mount.
Checking Specific Gravity maintenance

Tools: Battery hydrometer

  1. Use a battery hydrometer to check the specific gravity of the electrolyte in each battery cell.
  2. Hold the hydrometer vertical and take the reading.
  3. Correct the reading by adding four gravity points (0.004) for every ten degrees the electrolyte temperature is above 80 deg F (27 deg C).
  4. A fully charged battery will have a corrected specific gravity of 1.260.
  5. Charge the battery if the reading is below 1.215.
Cleaning Batteries maintenance

⚠ Electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid that is harmful to the skin and eyes. Wear goggles and protective rubber gloves and apron.

  1. Keep the batteries clean by wiping them with a damp cloth whenever dirt appears excessive.
  2. If corrosion is present around the terminal connections, remove battery cables.
  3. Wash the terminals with a solution consisting of 1/4 pound of baking soda added to 1 quart of water.
  4. Be sure the vent plugs are tight to prevent cleaning solution from entering the cells.
  5. After cleaning, flush the outside of the battery and surrounding areas with clean water.
  6. Coat the terminals with a light application of petroleum jelly or non-conductive grease to retard corrosion.
Draining and Flushing the Cooling System maintenance

⚠ The heater element will burn out if engine coolant is removed with heater connected to power source.

  1. Disconnect engine coolant heater from power source (if equipped).
  2. Allow the engine to cool and then remove radiator pressure cap.
  3. Open the radiator drain cock and remove the water drain plugs (one on each side of engine).
  4. When the coolant is drained, place the end of a water hose into the radiator filler and turn on water supply.
  5. Regulate the flow of water until it equals the outflow from drain openings; continue flushing until outflow is clear of rust sediment.
  6. If equipped with engine coolant heater, drain coolant by removing hose and clamp from bottom of heater.
  7. Replace the water drain plugs and close the radiator drain cock when flushing is complete.
  8. Refill the cooling system with the recommended coolant.
Engine Oil Change maintenance

⚠ Hot crankcase oil can cause burns if it is spilled or splashed on skin.

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

  1. Run engine until thoroughly warm before draining oil.
  2. Stop the set, place a pan under the drain outlet.
  3. Remove the oil drain plug or open the drain valve.
  4. After the oil is completely drained, replace the drain plug or close the drain valve.
  5. Refill with oil of the correct API viscosity grade for the temperature conditions.
Filling the Cooling System maintenance

⚠ Do not add cold coolant to a hot engine. Allow the engine to cool to below 120 deg F (50 deg C) before adding coolant.

  1. Check that all drain cocks are closed and all hose clamps secure.
  2. Open bleeder valve.
  3. Remove the radiator pressure cap and slowly fill the cooling system with the recommended coolant.
  4. When the coolant begins to flow from the engine bleeder valve, close the valve and continue filling the radiator.
  5. When the engine is first started, remove the pressure cap and monitor the coolant level.
  6. As trapped air is expelled, add coolant; replace the pressure cap when the coolant level is stable.
Oil Filter Change maintenance
  1. Spin off oil filter and discard it in accordance with local environmental regulations.
  2. Thoroughly clean filter mounting surface.
  3. Apply a thin film of oil to filter gasket and install new element.
  4. Spin element on by hand until gasket just touches mounting pad and then turn an additional 1/2 to 3/4 turn.
  5. Fill the oil filter with clean lubricating oil by pouring oil into the center hole of the filter.
  6. With oil in crankcase, start engine and check for leaks around filter element.
  7. Retighten only as much as necessary to eliminate leaks but do not overtighten.
Preparing Set for Storage maintenance
  1. Exercise the set as described in the operation section until the engine is up to operating temperature.
  2. Shut down the engine.
  3. Turn off and disconnect battery charger (if equipped).
  4. Disconnect the battery (negative cable first) and store in a cool, dry place; connect to charger every 30 days.
  5. Drain the engine oil while still warm and refill with new oil recommended for set; attach a tag indicating type of oil used.
  6. Remove the spark plugs and pour two ounces of rust preventative oil into each spark plug opening; crank the set for five seconds and replace the spark plugs.
  7. Disconnect engine coolant heater from power source (if equipped).
  8. Drain the cooling system including the engine block.
  9. Remove the air cleaner and seal off the carburetor air inlet opening and the PVC hose.
  10. Plug the exhaust outlets to prevent entrance of moisture, bugs, dirt, etc.
  11. Clean and wipe entire unit; coat parts susceptible to rust with a light coat of oil; cover entire set loosely after engine has cooled down.
Returning Set to Service maintenance
  1. Remove protective cover.
  2. Remove exhaust plugs, seal from carburetor and PVC hose and replace air cleaner.
  3. Check oil dipstick to make sure crankcase is full.
  4. Refill cooling system.
  5. Reconnect the battery (positive cable first) and check specific gravity.
  6. Connect the battery charger (if applicable).
  7. Connect engine coolant heater to power supply (if applicable).
  8. Remove all loads before starting set.
  9. Start set and apply load of at least 50% of nameplate rating.
  10. Check all gauges for normal readings. Set is now ready for service.
Spark Plug Inspection maintenance
  1. Remove the spark plugs and inspect for damaged or cracked insulators, worn electrodes, or excessive carbon deposits.
  2. Replace the spark plug if any of these conditions are noted.
  3. Clean those plugs that can be reused and regap to the amount specified in the Specifications section.
  4. Clean all dirt and grit away from the spark plug seats.
  5. Lightly lubricate spark plug threads with high temp anti-seize compound.
Adjusting Values/Parameters operation

⚠ Enabling Idle Start will cause the generator set to run in idle mode until Idle Start is disabled. A warning is displayed if generator set is left in idle more than 10 minutes. Long periods of engine idling can eventually affect engine performance and may void engine warranty.

  1. Press the button next to the > symbol in the display until the + and - symbols are displayed.
  2. If necessary, press the button next to the symbols to move to the numeric character you wish to change.
  3. Press the button next to the + symbol to increase the value; press the button next to the - symbol to decrease the value.
  4. After adjusting values, press the > symbol to save the changes (cursor must be on the last numeric character).
  5. If the Home button or Previous Main Menu button is pressed before the > symbol, the changes are not saved.

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 oil capacity of the General Motors industrial spark-ignited?

The General Motors industrial spark-ignited engine has an oil capacity of 2.2 liters.

What is the displacement of the General Motors industrial spark-ignited?

The General Motors industrial spark-ignited has a displacement of 5.0 liters.

Which generators use the General Motors industrial spark-ignited engine?

The General Motors industrial spark-ignited powers 1 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan GGPC.

What is a common problem with the General Motors industrial spark-ignited engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the General Motors industrial spark-ignited is: Over Current.