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Cummins/Onan DFN Engine Engine

The Cummins/Onan DFN is a 10 L 6-cylinder turbocharged engine rated at 1800 rpm, producing up to 330 kW. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the DF. It holds 10 L (2.6 gal) of oil and 10 L (2.6 gal) of coolant.

Also known as: Onan DFN

10.0 L
Displacement
6
Cylinders
1800 rpm
Rated speed
330 kW
Gross power

Engine specifications

Oil capacity10.0 L
Coolant capacity10.0 L
Displacement10.0 L
Cylinders6
AspirationTurbocharged
Rated speed1800 rpm
Gross power330 kW

Generator sets powered by this engine

1

Common problems

15
  • Voltage regulation poor
    Fix: Check continuity from the junction of Control Rectifiers 3 and 4 to the junction of Control Rectifiers 1 and 2
  • The FAULT 1 or FAULT 2 fault lamp lights. Engine shuts down immediately, engine runs for several seconds and then shuts down, or engine continues to run.
    Cause: Engine standard undesignated fault functions are programmed to shut down the set when a fault is sensed. Fault 1 is timed delayed while Fault 2 is immediate. The nature of the fault is an optional selection that is determined when the set installation is designed. The undesignated fault functions may also be programmed for non-shutdown or non-time delay.
  • The external alarm is activated
    Fix: Check the conditions that may have caused the fault
  • The engine does not start.
    Cause: The starter will disengage after a specified period of time and the control will indicate an overcrank fault.
    Fix: Place the Run-Stop-Remote switch in the STOP position and momentarily depress the Reset switch. Wait two minutes for the starter motor to cool and then repeat the starting procedure.
  • The engine does not run after a second attempt at starting.
    Fix: Refer to the Troubleshooting section.
  • SWITCH OFF lamp flashes. 8
    Fix: Position which will prevent automatic starting if an automatic transfer switch is used. Move the Run/Stop/Remote switch to the Remote position for automatic starting.
  • PRE LO OIL PRES lamp lights. Engine continues to operate. 4
    Fix: 4. Indicates engine oil pressure has dropped to 20 psi (138 kPa). If generator is powering critical loads and cannot be shut down, wait until next shutdown period and then follow step 5 procedure. If engine can be stopped, follow procedures in step 5.
  • PRE HI ENGINE TEMP lamp lights. Engine continues to operate. 2
    Fix: 2. Indicates engine has begun to overheat and engine temperature has risen to approximately 205°F (97°C). If generator is powering non-critical and critical loads and cannot be shutdown, use the following: a. Reduce load if possible by turning off non-critical loads. b. Check air inlets and outlets and remove any obstructions to airflow. c. Open doors or windows in generator area to increase ventilation. If engine can be stopped, follow procedure in step 3.
  • Partial loss of residual in Rotor from E2 to heat sink of field rectifier No. 1 until voltage begins to build-up.
    Fix: None; Then remove.
  • Overspeed shutdown. Overspeed
    Fix: Check governor and throttle linkages for freedom of movement.
  • Overspeed light on, no shutdown.
    Fix: 6. Disconnect wire at TB11-29. Light ON after reset; replace engine monitor board.
  • OVERCRANK lamp lights and engine stops cranking. 6
    Fix: 6. Indicates possible fuel system problem. a. Check for empty fuel tank, fuel leaks, or plugged fuel lines and correct as required. b. Check for dirty fuel filter and replace if necessary (see MAINTENANCE section). c. Check for dirty or plugged air filter and replace if necessary (see MAINTENANCE section). d. Refer to Step 5. e. Reset the control and restart after correcting the problem. Contact an Onan Dealer or Distributor for service if none of the above.
  • Overcrank fault lamp lights and engine stops cranking after approximately 75-seconds.
    Fix: Check for empty fuel tank, fuel system leaks, or plugged fuel supply lines. Correct as required.
  • Output voltage slow to build up
    Cause: Open in one or both Field Rectifiers 1 and 2 if defective
    Fix: Test rectifiers and replace if defective
  • Output voltage builds up normally with slightly less than rated voltage at no load and low voltage and low voltage and high voltage after build up
    Cause: Shorted winding in Control Reactor and Gate windings G1-G2 of Reactor A or B if defective
    Fix: Test rectifiers and replace if defective

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

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filterOnan200 hr find
Fuel filterOnan200 hr find
Oil filterOnan503-0616200 hr buy
BeltOnan200 hr find
Coolant filterOnan200 hr find
Oil10W-3010.0 L200 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 oil capacity of the Cummins/Onan DFN?

The Cummins/Onan DFN engine has an oil capacity of 10.0 liters.

What is the displacement of the Cummins/Onan DFN?

The Cummins/Onan DFN has a displacement of 10.0 liters with 6 cylinders.

Which generators use the Cummins/Onan DFN engine?

The Cummins/Onan DFN powers 1 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan DF.

How often should you change the oil in the Cummins/Onan DFN?

The Cummins/Onan DFN oil change interval is every 200 hours.

What is a common problem with the Cummins/Onan DFN engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Cummins/Onan DFN is: Voltage regulation poor. Fix: Check continuity from the junction of Control Rectifiers 3 and 4 to the junction of Control Rectifiers 1 and 2.