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International Harvester C 549 Engine Engine

The International Harvester C 549 is a 8.99 L 8-cylinder gas/gaso engine rated at 1800 rpm. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the 70.0 KR and 85.0 KR.

Also known as: International Harvester C 549

8.99 L
Displacement
8
Cylinders
1800 rpm
Rated speed

Engine specifications

Displacement8.99 L
Cylinders8
AspirationGas/Gaso
Rated speed1800 rpm

Generator sets powered by this engine

2
Cummins/Onan 70.0 KRCummins/Onan 85.0 KR

Common problems

11
  • Overspeed shutdown.
    Fix: Check governor and throttle linkages for freedom of movement. Check overspeed switch.
  • Overspeed light on, no shutdown.
    Fix: Disconnect wire at TB11-29. Light on after reset; replace engine monitor board.
  • Overcrank fault lamp lights and engine stops cranking after approximately 75 seconds.
    Fix: See engine service manual for troubleshooting fuel system, ignition system, etc. After correcting fault, reset engine monitor relay by placing Run-Stop/Reset-Remote switch to Stop/Reset position, depressing Reset button, then to the required running position.
  • Fault lamp lights immediately after engine starts.
    Fix: Check for: Overspeed condition as engine starts.
  • Fault lamp lights and engine shuts down after running for a period of time.
    Fix: Check the following:
  • Engine stops cranking and fault lamp lights, after cranking approximately 75 seconds.
    Fix: After correcting problem, reset engine monitor relay by placing Run-Stop/Reset-Remote switch to Stop/Reset, then back to the required running position.
  • Engine runs, shuts down, cranks for 75-seconds, cranking cycle stops, overcrank light ON.
    Fix: Check fuel supply, check ignition.
  • *Low oil pressure shutdown.
    Fix: A. Oil level. Replenish if necessary. b. Sensor. Faulty sensor will shut down engine. c. Refer to engine service manual for troubleshooting guide for oil system.
  • *Low oil pressure light ON. No shutdown.
    Fix: Disconnect wire at TB11-30. Light ON after relay reset. Replace engine monitor board.
  • *High engine temperature shutdown.
    Fix: A. Coolant level. Replenish if necessary. b. City water cooled sets. Check water flow, valves, etc. c. Check sensor; check thermostat. d. Radiator model, check fan belts, radiator for obstructions, etc.
  • *High engine temperature light ON. No shutdown.
    Fix: Disconnect wire at TB11-31. Light ON after relay reset. Replace engine monitor board.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the International Harvester C 549.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filterGasoline fueled sets are equipped with an oil bath air cleaner. Service the air cleaner with oil, filling to the level marks on the cleaner. Use the same SAE number as used in the crankcase. However, if air cleaner renewal is likely to be frequent, it is not necessary to use expensive heavy duty oil in the air cleaner. A straight non-detergent mineral oil is satisfactory.—40 hr find
Fuel filterCheck all connections in fuel system for security, to ensure that pressure will not bleed off when engine is not in use. Pressure should be maintained for immediate starting if unit is on standby service.—40 hr find
Oil filter—100 hr find
Belt— find
CoolantCooling system was drained prior to shipment. Fill cooling system before starting. Nominal capacity is 10 gallons (22 liters). For units using either a radiator or heat exchanger (city water cooled), fill the system with clean soft water. Use a good rust and scale inhibitor additive. If a possibility exists of a radiator cooled set being exposed to freezing temperatures use anti-freeze with an ethylene-glycol base. During initial engine run, check the coolant level several times and replenish if necessary to compensate for air pockets which may have formed during filling.22.0 liters—
Coolant filter— find
OilLubrication System: Engine oil was drained prior to shipment. Fill engine to capacities shown. After engine has been run, check dipstick, add oil to bring level to full mark. Record total capacity for future oil changes. Do not mix brands nor grades of lubricating oils.—100 hr

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

Common questions

What is the displacement of the International Harvester C 549?

The International Harvester C 549 has a displacement of 8.99 liters with 8 cylinders.

Which generators use the International Harvester C 549 engine?

The International Harvester C 549 powers 2 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan 70.0 KR, Cummins/Onan 85.0 KR.

How often should you change the oil in the International Harvester C 549?

The International Harvester C 549 oil change interval is every 100 hours.

What is a common problem with the International Harvester C 549 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the International Harvester C 549 is: Overspeed shutdown.. Fix: Check governor and throttle linkages for freedom of movement. Check overspeed switch..