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Caterpillar OHV V-Twin Engine

The Caterpillar OHV V-Twin is a 420 L ohv engine. It powers generator sets from Caterpillar, including the RP12000 E, RP6500 E and RP7500 E.

Also known as: CAT OHV V-Twin

420.0 L

Displacement

On this pageSpecs Generator sets FAQ Service intervals Torque & specs Fluids Procedures

Engine specifications

Displacement	420.0 L
Aspiration	OHV

Generator sets powered by this engine

Caterpillar RP12000 E Caterpillar RP6500 E Caterpillar RP7500 E

How to read your Caterpillar engine serial & model number →

Common problems

Engine Will Not Start
Cause: Generator switch in the off “0” position
Fix: Turn the generator switch to the correct position.
Engine Shuts Down
Cause: Out of fuel
Fix: Check the fuel. Fill the tank if necessary.
Engine Runs Rough (with load)
Cause: Dirty air filter
Fix: Stop the engine and check the air filter. Clean if needed.
Engine Runs Rough (no load)
Cause: Dirty air filter
Fix: Stop the engine and check the air filter. Clean if needed.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Caterpillar OHV V-Twin.

Service intervals

Item	Action	Hours	Months	Notes
Engine Oil Level	Check			First service — Before each start

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

Type	Item	Value	Unit	Condition
Gap	Spark Plug Gap	0.7 - 0.8	mm

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

Fluid	Grade	Standard	Ambient	Capacity	Notes
Engine oil	SAE 30 or 10W-30			1.6 L	Pressurized lubrication system

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

Procedures

Starting the Engine - Electric Start operation

Turn fuel valve to ON position
For cold engine, pull choke knob out
Turn generator switch to START position
Release switch when engine starts
Once engine starts, slowly push choke knob in

Starting the Engine - Recoil Start operation

Turn fuel valve to ON position
For cold engine, pull choke knob out
Turn generator switch to ON position
Slowly pull starter handle until resistance felt
Quickly pull the handle with full force
Once engine starts, slowly push choke knob in

Stopping the Engine operation

Turn generator switch to OFF position
Turn fuel valve to OFF position

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 Caterpillar OHV V-Twin?

The Caterpillar OHV V-Twin has a displacement of 420.0 liters.

Which generators use the Caterpillar OHV V-Twin engine?

The Caterpillar OHV V-Twin powers 3 generator set(s), including Caterpillar RP12000 E, Caterpillar RP6500 E, Caterpillar RP7500 E.

What is a common problem with the Caterpillar OHV V-Twin engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Caterpillar OHV V-Twin is: Engine Will Not Start. Cause: Generator switch in the off “0” position. Fix: Turn the generator switch to the correct position..