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Cummins/Onan 6BT5.9-D(M) Engine

The Cummins/Onan 6BT5.9-D(M) is a 5.9 L 6-cylinder turbocharged engine rated at 1800 rpm, producing up to 91 kW. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the 6BT5.9.

Also known as: Cummins 6BT5.9-D(M)

Part of the Cummins/Onan 6BT5.9 engine family — 4 variants share parts & fitment.

5.9 L
Displacement
6
Cylinders
1800 rpm
Rated speed
91 kW
Gross power

Engine specifications

Displacement5.9 L
Cylinders6
AspirationTurbocharged
Rated speed1800 rpm
Gross power91 kW

Service specifications

60
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
ClearanceExhaust Manifold Flatness0.10mmMAX
ClearanceFlywheel Bore Alignment T.I.R.0.020mmMAX, SAE No. 1, 2, 3
ClearanceFlywheel Bore Runout T.I.R.0.127mmMAX
ClearanceTurbocharger Wastegate Actuator Rod Travel5mmapproximately, without sticking or air leakage
ClearanceValve Depth C0.99 MIN, 1.52 MAXmm
ClearanceValve Head Rim Thickness0.79mmMIN
ClearanceValve Seat Grinding Depth B0.254mmMAX
ClearanceValve Seat Grinding Width1.5 MIN, 2.0 MAXmmwith 60 degree stone (A) and 15 degree stone (B)
ClearanceValve Seat-to-Valve Guide Concentricity0.05mmMAX, 360 Degrees
ClearanceValve Seats Grinding Cleanup Depth0.254mmMAX
ClearanceValve Spring Compression Height49.25mmat 289.13 N MIN [65.0 lbf] / 321.16 N MAX [72.2 lbf]
ClearanceValve Spring Free Length55.63mmMIN
ClearanceValve Spring Inclination1.0mmMAX
ClearanceValve Stem Diameter7.94 MIN, 7.98 MAXmm
GapOverspeed switch air gap0.005 in. / 0.13 mmin / mm
OtherAmperage222.1Arated
OtherGenerator voltage adjustment range via rheostat R21+/-3 percent of rated nameplate voltagepercent
OtherKilowatts80kWrated
OtherLOP and HET fault time delay following starter disconnectabout 10 secondsseconds
OtherOver/under voltage module time delay (to prevent nuisance tripping)25 percent, or approximately 2.5 secondspercent / seconds
OtherOvercrank limit (three 15-second cranking cycles with two 15-second rest periods)75 secondsseconds
OtherOverspeed module time delaytypically one secondseconds
OtherPower Factor1.0rated
OtherTime delayed start / time delayed stop adjustment range1 to 15 seconds (start); 1 to 15 seconds (stop); cool-down 3-5 minutes recommendedseconds / minutes
OtherValve Seat Grinding AngleIntake: 30, Exhaust: 45degrees
PressureDifferential Pressure to Open Bypass Valve138kPa
PressureLow oil pressure shutdown setpoint14 psi (97 kPa)psi (kPa)shutdown
PressureLubricating Oil Pressure at Idle69kPaMinimum Allowable
PressureLubricating Oil Pressure at Rated207kPaMinimum Allowable
PressureOil Pressure55-93load bank test
PressurePre-low oil pressure alarm setpoint20 psi (138 kPa) or lesspsi (kPa)pre-alarm
PressurePressure Cap (104°C systems)103kPa
PressurePressure Cap (99°C systems)48kPa
PressureRegulating Valve Opening Pressure449kPa
PressureTurbocharger Wastegate Functional Pressure200kPaapplied to capsule
ResistanceCircuit breaker insulation resistance (between each pole and to ground)less than 100,000 ohms indicates a groundohm
ResistancePermanent magnet exciter stator resistance4.4ohms line-to-line
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER ROTOR column0.016ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER ROTOR column0.022ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER ROTOR column0.025ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER ROTOR column0.047ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER ROTOR column0.062ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER ROTOR column0.071ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER ROTOR column0.11ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER STATOR column0.67ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER STATOR column0.8ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER STATOR column1.1ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER STATOR column1.3ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 EXCITER STATOR column1.7ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 ROTOR (L-L or series wye) column0.078ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 ROTOR (L-L or series wye) column0.091ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
ResistanceTable 5-1 STATOR column19.5ohmapproximate, at 68 F (20 C) +/-10%
SpeedFrequency60Hzrated
SpeedOverspeed module potentiometer adjustment range / setting1500 to 2500 RPM; set 1800 to 1900 RPM (50 Hz), 2100 to 2200 RPM (60 Hz)RPM
SpeedOverspeed shutdown setpointapproximately 2100 r/min (60 Hz units), 1850 r/min (50 Hz units)r/min
SpeedRated engine speed1800 r/min (60 Hz), 1500 r/min (50 Hz)r/min
TemperatureCoolant Temperature94-194°Fload bank test
TemperatureHigh engine temperature shutdown setpoint215 F (102 C)F (C)shutdown
TemperatureLow engine temperature lamp setpoint70 F (21 C) or lowerF (C)warning lamp
TemperaturePre-high engine temperature alarm setpoint205 F (97 C) or higherF (C)pre-alarm

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
Coolant40% water and 60% antifreezebelow -37°CRecommended for temperatures below -37°C [-34°F]. Never use more than 60% antifreeze.
Coolant50% ethylene-glycol base antifreeze and waterabove -37°CRequired for operation above -37°C [-34°F]. Never use more than 60% antifreeze. Never use water alone.
OtherStarting battery electrolyte specific gravity1.26 specific gravity1.225 specific gravity recommended where ambient temperature is consistently above 95 F (35 C) to reduce electrolyte loss

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

13
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
FAULT 1Fault 1 (Detector-12)Red undedicated fault; may be programmed as timed or non-timed shutdown or fault light only (normally factory set for timed shutdown)ShutdownRefer to Tests and Adjustments section and perform necessary adjustments
FAULT 2Fault 2 (Detector-12)Red fault, same features as Fault 1 (normally factory set for non-timed shutdown)ShutdownRefer to Tests and Adjustments section and perform necessary adjustments
HI ENG TEMPHigh Engine TemperatureRed lamp; engine shutdown because coolant temperature rose above 215 F (102 C); not operable if coolant level too lowShutdownMaintain adequate coolant level; check coolant level and temperature gauge; replace switch S2, thermostat, or tighten fan belt as needed
LO FUELLow Fuel (Detector-12)Yellow lamp; fuel supply marginally low (if equipped)WarningReplenish fuel supply
LO OIL PRESLow Oil PressureRed lamp; engine shutdown because oil pressure dropped below 14 psi (97 kPa); fault inhibited during cranking and time delayed about 10 seconds after starter disconnectShutdownCheck oil level; monitor oil pressure gauge; replace switch S1 if gauge reading within normal range
LOW ENG TEMPLow Engine Temperature (Detector-12)Yellow lamp; engine water jacket temperature 70 F (21 C) or lower; indicates possible inoperative coolant heaterWarningCheck coolant heater; lamp should extinguish after engine warms up
OVERCRANKOvercrankRed lamp; starter locked out because of excessive cranking time; limits cranking to 75 seconds (three 15-second cranking cycles with two 15-second rest periods)ShutdownPress Reset switch (S11) to clear the fault before attempting to restart
OVERSPEEDOverspeedRed lamp; engine shutdown due to excessive speed; factory set approximately 2100 r/min (60 Hz units) or 1850 r/min (50 Hz units)ShutdownAdjust or replace overspeed switch/module; reset before restarting
PRE HI OIL TEMPPre-High Oil Temperature (Detector-12)Yellow lamp; engine temperature marginally highWarning
PRE Hi ENG TEMPPre-High Engine Temperature (Detector-7)Yellow lamp; engine temperature marginally high, 205 F (97 C) or higherWarningFind and correct cause as soon as possible
PRE LO OIL PRESPre-Low Oil PressureYellow lamp; engine oil pressure marginally low, 20 psi (138 kPa) or lessWarningFind and correct cause as soon as possible
RUNRunGreen lamp; comes on when both primary and secondary starter circuits are opened after unit startsInfo
SWITCH OFFSwitch Off (Detector-12)Flashing red lamp; generator set is not in automatic start operation modeInfoPress Run/Stop/Remote switch to Run or Remote position

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
Electric Governor Calibration Checks adjustment

Tools: Frequency meter or tachometer

  1. Start the generator set.
  2. Set no-load speed for desired droop (isochronous 60.0 Hz/1800 r/min).
  3. With no load, turn GAIN clockwise until actuator lever oscillates; reduce until stable.
  4. Reduce GAIN one division, then turn fully clockwise while observing lever.
  5. Turn I adjustment counterclockwise until lever stable; it should oscillate up to 3 times.
  6. Apply and remove loads to check response; recalibrate if unsatisfactory.
Electric Governor Preliminary Adjustments adjustment

Tools: Screwdriver

  1. Set frequency adjust (engine speed) potentiometer to mid position and tighten locking nut.
  2. Set I potentiometer one division from zero.
  3. Set Gain potentiometer at the third division from zero.
  4. For isochronous operation turn Droop potentiometer fully counterclockwise.
  5. Turn droop screw to approximately 40 for 3 percent droop.
  6. Turn droop screw to approximately 80 for 5 percent droop.
Mechanical Governor Speed Adjustment adjustment

Tools: Frequency meter or tachometer, Wrench

  1. Use the frequency control meter (if equipped) or an accurate tachometer.
  2. Loosen the speed adjustment screw locknut.
  3. Start set, warm to operating temperature, then apply full rated load.
  4. Adjust speed adjust screw in or out to reach required speed (60 Hz - 1800 r/min, 50 Hz - 1500 r/min).
  5. Hold screw at proper setting and retighten locknut.
  6. Remove and apply loads to check response; readjust if necessary.
Voltage Regulator Adjustment adjustment

⚠ Seated voltage regulator potentiometers are factory calibrated; further adjustments only by qualified service representative.

Tools: Screwdriver

  1. Adjust voltage control rheostat R21 (if available) to mid position.
  2. Open control panel doors to gain access to voltage regulator.
  3. With set operating and voltage monitored, adjust Volts potentiometer to desired voltage.
  4. Perform fine voltage adjustment (+/-3 percent) with rheostat R21, retighten locking nut.
  5. Stop and restart generator set to confirm proper operation.
Checking Shunt-Trip Operation diagnostic

⚠ Contact with high voltage can cause severe personal injury or death. Do not touch exposed wiring or components.

Tools: Insulation mat or dry wood platform

  1. Refer to order, installation wiring diagrams and unit wire routing to confirm signal source connections.
  2. Apply appropriate signal voltage (12-VDC; 240-, 480-VAC); solenoid should trip breaker open.
  3. If breaker did not trip open, remove signal source; check continuity of interconnect wiring and solenoid leads.
Circuit Breaker Insulation Resistance Check diagnostic

Tools: Insulation resistance meter (at least 500 volts)

  1. Disconnect load and line conductors; place breaker in On position.
  2. Use insulation resistance meter applying at least 500 volts to test leads.
  3. Measure insulation resistance between each pole, and to ground.
  4. Also test between line and load terminals with breaker in Off position.
  5. Reading less than 100,000 ohms indicates a ground; clean case surfaces and retest.
Circuit Breaker Resistance Check diagnostic

⚠ Place Run/Stop/Remote switch in Stop position and disconnect battery negative (-) cable.

Tools: Ohmmeter

  1. Disconnect the line and load wires from the circuit breaker.
  2. Move breaker handle to On position and check resistance across each pole (line to load).
  3. Resistance should be very low (near zero) and relatively equal across all poles.
Testing Rotating Rectifier Diodes diagnostic

⚠ Excessive dust or dirt on diodes causes overheating and eventual failure; keep assemblies clean.

Tools: Accurate ohmmeter

  1. Disconnect all leads from assembly to be tested.
  2. Connect meter lead to positive (X) stud; test CR1, CR2, CR3; record values.
  3. Connect meter lead to negative (XX) stud; test CR4, CR5, CR6; record values.
  4. Reverse meter leads and repeat; readings should be high in one test, low in other.
  5. Replace assembly if any reading is high or low in both tests.
Turbocharger Wastegate Capsule (3-03) Checking diagnostic
  1. Visually inspect the wastegate actuator hose for cracks or holes. Replace if damaged.
  2. Visually inspect the wastegate mounting bracket, actuator rod, and lever for damage.
  3. A bent bracket, rod, or lever must be replaced. Refer to Procedure 3-05.
Turbocharger Wastegate Functional (3-04) Checking diagnostic

Tools: dial indicator, pressure gauge, regulated air pressure source

  1. Attach a dial indicator so its shaft is in line with the wastegate actuator rod.
  2. Set the indicator to zero, with no air pressure applied to the wastegate capsule.
  3. Connect clean regulated air pressure and a pressure gauge to the capsule.
  4. Apply 200 kPa [29 psi]. The rod should move approximately 5 mm [0.200 in] without sticking or air leakage.
  5. No air should be heard to leak through a functional wastegate capsule.
Checking Battery Charge Condition maintenance

⚠ Ignition of explosive battery gases can cause severe personal injury; do not smoke while servicing batteries. Wear protective apron and goggles.

Tools: Hydrometer

  1. Check that connections are clean and tight; apply light coating of non-conductive grease.
  2. Check charge condition of starting batteries with a hydrometer.
  3. Keep electrolyte at proper level above plates by adding distilled water.
  4. Check specific gravity and re-charge if below 1.260.
Generator Check list maintenance
  1. Check coolant level and record freeze protection: -35
  2. Visual inspection of radiator
  3. Visual inspection of radiator hoses
  4. Check condition of coolant hoses
  5. Check condition of fuel hoses
  6. Check condition of engine belts
  7. Batteries and QTY: 1, GROUP31P, BATTERY IS GOOD
  8. Battery install date if applicable: (No)
  9. Genset has battery charger: (No)
  10. Genset has coolant heater: (Yes)
  11. Check engine oil level
  12. Engine oil filters last changed date and HRS: 728HRS, 8/4/25
  13. Inspect exhaust system for cracks / leaks
  14. Check rain cap for proper operation
  15. Generator end is 12 lead reconnectable (Yes)

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
110/1903
110/2201
115/2203
115/2301Generator voltage connections (reconnectable type only) per Figure 5-20; single phase double delta connection will reduce set rating and may not work with 3-phase meters
120/2083
120/2401
127/2203
139/2403
220/3803
220/4803
230/4003
240/4163
240/4801
254/4403
277/4803

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

Parts cataloged across the Cummins/Onan 6BT5.9 family

22
Part #DescriptionCategory
982-0200Air FilterAir filter
3824469fuel pump gear pullerFuel pump
DM-3801372Gasket Set - 6BT 5.9Gasket
FP-6B59PREM6B/6BT5.9 In-Frame Kit w/upper gasket set & oil pan gasketGasket
FP-6B59PREML6B/6BT5.9 In-Frame Kit w/upper gasket set & oil pan gasket (late)Gasket
FP-IFK6B59PREM6B/6BT5.9 In-Frame Kit w/upper gasket set & oil pan gasketGasket
FP-IFK6B59PREML6B/6BT5.9 In-Frame Kit w/upper gasket set & oil pan gasket (late)Gasket
3822509Injection Pump Bore Brush Service ToolInjector
3823276injector bore brushInjector
DM-3029551Fuel Injector - 6BT 5.9Injector
LF3349Lube, Full-Flow Spin-OnOil filter
3377259bosch timing tool (ve)Service part / kit
965-0520Cooling FanService part / kit
DM-3802010Main Bearing Set Standard - 4BT 3.9, 6BT 5.9, 6CT 8.3Service part / kit
FP-33569706B/6BT5.9 In-Frame Kit (contains FP-3802160 Piston Kit)Service part / kit
FP-33569716B/6BT5.9 In-Frame Kit (contains FP-3802248 Piston Kit)Service part / kit
TB1-6Control box terminal (TB1-6)Service part / kit
TB1-7B+ OUTPUTService part / kit
DM-3805401Oil Pump - 6BT 5.9Pump
DM-3805403Water Pump - 4BT 3.9, 6BT 5.9Pump
S103Selector switchSwitch
DM-3015282Thermostat 180F - 4BT 3.9, 6BT 5.9Thermostat

Parts cataloged across all variants of this engine family — verify the exact part fits your specific variant and serial number before ordering.

Common questions

What is the displacement of the Cummins/Onan 6BT5.9-D(M)?

The Cummins/Onan 6BT5.9-D(M) has a displacement of 5.9 liters with 6 cylinders.

Which generators use the Cummins/Onan 6BT5.9-D(M) engine?

The Cummins/Onan 6BT5.9-D(M) powers 1 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan 6BT5.9.