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Cummins/Onan 4B3.3 G1 Engine

The Cummins/Onan 4B3.3 G1 is an engine. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the C38 D5.

Also known as: Cummins Inc. 4B3.3 G1

Part of the Cummins/Onan 4B3.3 engine family — 2 variants share parts & fitment.

Engine specifications

Common problems

15
  • LOW ACE VOLTAGE (SHUTDOWN) — Engine will shut down 13
    Cause: Fault simulation was enabled with a PC based service tool
    Fix: With a PC based service tool, verify that the related fault simulation is not enabled. If you do not have a PC based service tool, remove battery power from the control to disable fault simulation overrides.
  • Engine does not crank in manual mode (no fault message) — Engine will not start
    Cause: No power supplied to control; Poor battery cable connections
    Fix: Clean the battery cable terminals and tighten all connections; Remove connector P11 and check for B+ at P11-3 & 15 and GND at P11-9 & 10. If B+ or ground missing, isolate to harness and TB BAT terminal mounted on engine block. If B+ and ground check OK, cycle power to base board by reconnecting P11 and retry operation.
  • LOW OIL OR PRE-LOW PRESSURE (WARNING/SHUTDOWN) OIL PRESSURE SENSOR TYPE : SENDER — Calibration-dependent. No action is taken by the Control for code 215. Engine will shut down for code 2 2/215
    Cause: Fault simulation was enabled with a PC based service tool
    Fix: With a PC based service tool, verify that the fault simulation is not enabled for the oil pressure sensor. If you do not have a PC based service tool, remove battery power from the control to disable fault simulation overrides.
  • HIGH AC VOLTAGE (SHUTDOWN) — Engine will shut down 12
    Cause: Fault simulation was enabled with a PC based service tool
    Fix: With a PC based service tool, verify that the related fault simulation is not enabled. If you do not have a PC based service tool, remove battery power from the control to disable fault simulation overrides.
  • HIGH OR PRE-HIGH COOLANT TEMPERATURE (SHUTDOWN/SHUTDOWN) — Calibration-dependent. No action is taken by the Control for code 202. Engine will shut down for code 1 1/202
    Cause: Fault simulation was enabled with a PC based service tool
    Fix: With a PC based service tool, verify that the fault simulation is not enabled for the coolant sensor. If you do not have a PC based service tool, remove battery power from the control to disable fault simulation overrides.
  • Generator set output frequency cannot be maintained. 81 u
  • Engine does not crank in remote mode (no fault message) — Engine will not start in remote mode, but starts in manual mode
    Cause: The remote start switch or configurable wiring is faulty
    Fix: Reset the control. Attempt to start, and check for ground at TB1-11. If ground level is not present, isolate to the remote switch or configurable wiring. Repair as necessary. If ground is present, go to next step.
  • Configurable Input (Warning) — Warning. 204/205
    Cause: If there is no actual fault, the problem may be an external wiring problem
    Fix: Disconnect the signal lead from TB1 and reset the control. Check the following pins. CUST_IN1 - TB1-14 CUST_IN2 - TB1-12 If the message drops out, the external wiring has a short circuit. Grounding of either input activates fault
  • WEAK BATTERY — Lamp: Warning; Indicates that 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 time 221
    Fix: See code 213 for corrective action.
  • Weak Battery (Warning) 221
    Cause: Refer to code 213
    Fix: Refer to code 213
  • Voltage on any phase has dropped below a preset value.
    Fix: Adjustable over a range of 50-95% of voltage, time delay 2-20 seconds. Default value is 90% for 5 seconds.
  • VOLTAGE BIAS OOR — Lamp: Shutdown; Indicates the voltage bias circuit output is out of range (OOR), high or low. (I/O Module option.) 102
  • UNDER FREQUENCY — Lamp: Shutdown; Indicates that engine speed has dropped below 90% of nominal for approximately 10 seconds 15
    Fix: Check fuel supply, intake air supply and load.
  • Under Frequency (Shutdown) — Generator set will shut down. 15
    Cause: Fault threshold is not set correctly with PC based service tool; Overload; Fuel or air delivery problem; Governor fault; Loose connector or Base board is bad
    Fix: Reset the threshold to the lowest allowable setting. Determine the required operating range before adjusting the threshold; Check the load and correct any overload. Check operation by disconnecting load and restarting generator set; Refer to the engine service manual; Check fuel shutoff solenoid adjustment; Repair connections (P13) or replace the Base board if necessary
  • SPEED SIGNAL LOST — Lamp: Shutdown; Indicates that no magnetic pickup pulses are sensed for a Loss of Speed delay. If a magnetic pickup is not installed, then speed sensing is performed by monitoring AC line frequency, this fault cannot occur 45

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Cummins/Onan 4B3.3 G1.

Service specifications

55
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
ResistanceCoolant heater coil resistance10 to 60ohmsclosed heater
ResistanceInjection pump actuator resistance2.3ohms
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.415Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.437Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.465Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.545Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.551Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.657Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.67Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.708Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.857Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.89Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.983Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain rotor resistance0.99Ohmswithin 10% of value
ResistanceMain stator winding resistance0.3Ohms
ResistanceMain stator winding resistance0.353Ohms
ResistanceMain stator winding resistance0.51Ohms
ResistanceMain stator winding resistance0.625Ohms
ResistanceMain stator winding resistance0.95Ohms
ResistanceMain stator winding resistance1.33Ohms
ResistanceMain stator winding resistance1.908Ohms
ResistanceStator insulation resistance1.0Meg-Ohmminimum to Earth (Ground)
TorqueAVR cover to NDE bracket5Nm
TorqueAVR to NDE bracket5Nm
TorqueAxial air inlet cover to NDE bracket5Nm
TorqueClamping spacer to rectifier hub2.8/3.6Nm
TorqueCoupling disc to flywheel51Nm
TorqueCoupling disc to shaft75Nm
TorqueDE Adaptor to Flywheel housing51Nm
TorqueDE Adaptor to frame blocks26Nm
TorqueDE Air outlet cover6.5Nm
TorqueDiode fitting2.8/3.6Nm
TorqueDiode fitting torque36 to 42in-lbs (4 to 4.8 Nm)
TorqueEBG Housing cover to housing6.5Nm
TorqueEBG Rtr to shaft50Nm
TorqueEBG Str Hsg to NDE bracket10Nm
TorqueEBG Str to EBG Str Hsg10Nm
TorqueEarth lead to NDE bracket6Nm
TorqueExcitor stator to NDE bracket10Nm
TorqueFan to fan hub 290 and 3445Nm
TorqueMain rotor terminals24in-lbs (2.7 Nm)
TorqueNDE bracket to Frame blocks26Nm
TorquePigtail terminals24in-lbs (2.7 Nm)
TorqueRadial Inlet cover to Nde bracket5Nm
TorqueRectifier hub to excitor rotor2.8/3.6Nm
TorqueRotor leads to Clamping spacer2.8/3.6Nm
TorqueSmall Terminal box to NDE bracket5Nm
TorqueStator Lead to terminal studs6.5Nm
TorqueSurge suppresser terminals24in-lbs (2.7 Nm)
TorqueTerminal block to NDE bracket5Nm
TorqueTerminal box lid to terminal box5Nm
TorqueVaristor to rectifier hub2.8/3.6Nm
VoltageMPU output while cranking3.5 to 15VACwhile cranking
VoltageOil pressure sender output0.5VDCat 0 psi
VoltageOil pressure sender output4.5VDCat 100 psi

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
FuelNumber 2 diesel fuelDirect injection

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

59
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
1HIGH COOLANT TEMPEngine has overheated; coolant temperature has risen above shutdown trip point.ShutdownAllow engine to cool. Check coolant level, airflow obstructions, fan belt, blower and circulation pumps. Reset and restart.
2LOW OIL PRESSUREEngine oil pressure has dropped below shutdown trip point.ShutdownCheck oil level, lines and filters; replenish if low; reset and restart; check oil switch.
12HIGH AC VOLTAGEOne or more phase voltages exceeded 130% of nominal for 0 second, or exceeded high AC voltage threshold for time delay.ShutdownCheck fault simulation, block load removal, threshold setting, Base board or generator, voltage sense connections.
13LOW AC VOLTAGEOne or more phase voltages dropped below low AC voltage threshold for time delay.ShutdownCheck fault simulation, threshold, overload, output connections, excitation inputs, rotating rectifier diodes, connector or Base board.
14OVER FREQUENCYFrequency is 10% above base frequency for approximately 10 seconds.ShutdownCheck threshold, fuel or air delivery, governor, connector or Base board.
15UNDER FREQUENCYEngine speed dropped below 90% of nominal for approximately 10 seconds.ShutdownCheck fuel supply, intake air supply, load, threshold, governor, connector or Base board.
27EXCITATION FAULTLoss of all three voltage sense leads or failure in excitation circuit.ShutdownCheck field wiring (X1 and X2) for shorts or opens.
31OVERSPEEDEngine exceeded normal operating speed; default thresholds 1725 RPM (50 Hz) or 2075 RPM (60 Hz).ShutdownCheck cold engine, single step large block load removal, fault simulation, threshold, MPU, governor, flywheel teeth, fuel stop settings.
38FIELD OVERLOADField AVR Duty Cycle has been at maximum for at least 15 seconds.Shutdown
45SPEED SIGNAL LOSTNo magnetic pickup pulses are sensed for Loss of Speed delay; if no MPU, speed sensing is by AC line frequency and fault cannot occur.ShutdownInspect MPU wires/connector pins; test MPU for 3.5 to 15 VAC while cranking; check P11-12 to P11-24; replace Base board if needed.
46HIGH AC CURRENTIndividual phase alternator output current exceeded high current threshold continuously for more than time delay.ShutdownCheck load and load lead connections.
61EMERGENCY STOPRemote Emergency Stop.ShutdownOpen (disable) remote emergency stop button; move rocker switch to OFF or press OFF; select desired operating mode.
71SPEED HZ MATCHMeasured speed and measured AC output frequency do not agree.ShutdownCheck genset setup for number of flywheel teeth.
72FAIL TO CRANKGenset failed to sense rotation for two start attempts; possible control, speed sensing or starting system fault.ShutdownCheck starter, K7 starter relay, Emergency Stop switch/wiring, MPU circuit or Base board.
73FAIL TO STARTEngine cranks but fails to start; possible fuel system or air induction problem.ShutdownCheck fuel tank, leaks, plugged fuel lines, fuel filter, air filter; reset and restart; check glow plugs and governor linkage.
74FAIL TO STOPGenset continues to run after receiving shutdown command from controller.Shutdown
75,76CONFIGURABLE INPUT #1 & #2Optional configurable input fault.ShutdownDisconnect signal lead from TB1 and reset control; check CUST_IN1 TB1-14 and CUST_IN2 TB1-12.
77SHUTDOWN AFTER BSA shutdown fault occurred while Battle Short mode was enabled.ShutdownCheck fault history for faults that may have been bypassed.
81,82,83ANNUNCIATOR FAULT 1,2,3Optional configurable annunciator fault.Shutdown
121Speed Signal Lost - ShutdownShutdown
135/141Oil Pressure Sensor OOR - WarningWarning
143Pre-Low Oil Pressure - WarningWarning
145Coolant Sensor OOR - WarningWarning
146Pre-High Coolant Temp - WarningWarning
151High Coolant Temp - ShutdownShutdown
202PRE-HIGH COOL TMPEngine is operating near cooling system capacity.WarningReview code 1 correction list.
203LOW COOLANT TEMPEngine coolant temperature is 70F (21C) or lower.WarningCheck coolant heater power, low coolant level, heater element; check current draw.
204,205CONFIGURABLE INPUT #1,#2Optional configurable input warning.WarningDisconnect signal lead from TB1 and reset control; check CUST_IN1 TB1-14 and CUST_IN2 TB1-12.
212COOL SENSOR OORCoolant temperature sensor output is out of range (high or low).WarningCheck sender, connectors and wires.
213LOW BATTERYBattery voltage supply to control is approaching a low level.WarningCheck battery charger fuse; recharge or replace battery; clean connections; check wiring/calibration, engine DC alternator, float level.
214HIGH BATTERYBattery voltage supply to control is approaching a high level.WarningCheck float level on battery charger; check battery wiring/calibration.
215PRE-LOW OIL PRESSUREEngine oil pressure dropped below warning trip point.WarningFollow code 2 procedure.
216HIGH AC CURRENTOne or more phase currents exceeded high AC warning threshold for time delay.WarningCheck load and load lead connections.
217OIL PRESS SENSOR OOREngine oil pressure sensor output is out of range (high or low).WarningCheck sender, connectors and wires.
218BATTLE SHORT ACTIVEControl is in Battle Short mode; bypasses several fault shutdowns for emergency operation.Warning
219CHARGER FAILUREBattery charging alternator has not reached acceptable voltage range within selected period (default 120 seconds).WarningRefer to engine service manual if fault occurs; check wiring if not failed.
220FAIL TO SHUTDOWNGenset continues to run after shutdown command; Battle Short feature enabled.Warning
221WEAK BATTERYDuring cranking, battery voltage is at or below weak battery warning trip point for time >= weak battery set time.WarningSee code 213 for corrective action.
222,223,224ANNUNCIATOR FAULT 1,2,3Optional configurable annunciator fault.Warning
225ANNUNCIATOR OUTPUT CONFIGURATION ERRORMismatch in configuration of one of the annunciator relay outputs.WarningCheck network setup for duplicate use of same annunciator relay output; troubleshoot network devices.
234Overspeed - ShutdownShutdown
359Fail to Start - ShutdownShutdown
415Low Oil Pressure - ShutdownShutdown
441Low Battery - WarningWarning
442High Battery - WarningWarning
1311CUST_FAULT #1 - WarningWarning
1312CUST_FAULT #2 - WarningWarning
1317CUST_FAULT #3 - WarningWarning
1438Fail to Crank - ShutdownShutdown
1442Weak Battery - WarningWarning
1446High AC Voltage - ShutdownShutdown
1447Low AC Voltage - ShutdownShutdown
1448Under Frequency - ShutdownShutdown
1449Over Frequency - ShutdownShutdown
1471High AC Current - WarningWarning
1472High AC Current - ShutdownShutdown
1944Annunciator Error - WarningWarning
2335Excitation Fault - ShutdownShutdown
2677Fail to Stop - ShutdownShutdown

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
Valves - Adjust, All adjustment
  1. Disconnect battery cables
  2. Remove valve cover
  3. Adjust valve lash
  4. Test run unit
Generator/Base Board Isolation Procedure diagnostic

⚠ Hazardous voltage

⚠ Test involves unregulated excitation; disconnect loads

Tools: 12 volt battery, Jumper leads, Voltmeter

  1. Throw line circuit breaker OFF and shutdown set.
  2. Disconnect X and XX exciter stator leads from AC harness.
  3. Prepare to measure output voltage across generator terminals.
  4. Bring two jumpers from 12V battery to X (Field +) and XX (Field -).
  5. Check polarity; correct or test inconclusive.
  6. Start set and connect battery negative to XX.
  7. If rated output voltage or higher and balanced, generator OK; troubleshoot control.
  8. If unbalanced, troubleshoot main stator; if uniformly low, troubleshoot exciter and field.
Testing Diodes diagnostic

⚠ Layers of dust can cause diodes to overheat and fail.

Tools: Ohmmeter

  1. Disconnect diode pigtails from terminal posts.
  2. Measure resistance between each diode pigtail and its plate.
  3. Reverse meter probes and repeat.
  4. Replace diode if resistance high or low in both directions.
Testing Exciter Rotor diagnostic

Tools: Wheatstone bridge, Ohmmeter

  1. Disconnect six rotor winding leads from rectifier terminal posts.
  2. Measure resistance across each pair of rotor windings U-V, V-W, W-U.
  3. Replace whole rotor shaft assembly if any winding resistance not per Table 6-1.
  4. Measure insulation resistance between winding lead and rotor laminations.
  5. Replace rotor shaft assembly if insulation resistance less than 1 megohm.
Testing Exciter Stator diagnostic

Tools: Wheatstone bridge, Digital ohmmeter, Insulation resistance meter

  1. Measure winding resistance with Wheatstone bridge or digital ohmmeter.
  2. Replace stator if resistance not as specified in Table 6-1.
  3. Disconnect X and XX leads and isolate from ground.
  4. Measure resistance between either lead and stator laminations.
  5. Replace stator if insulation resistance less than 1 megohm.
Testing Main Rotor diagnostic

Tools: Wheatstone bridge, Digital ohmmeter, Torque wrench

  1. Disconnect two main rotor leads from rotating rectifier terminals.
  2. Measure resistance between two leads with Wheatstone bridge or digital ohmmeter.
  3. Replace rotor if resistance not as specified in Table 6-1.
  4. Measure resistance between either lead and main rotor laminations.
  5. Replace rotor if insulation resistance less than 1 megohm.
  6. Torque terminals to 24 in-lbs (2.7 Nm) when reassembling.
Testing Main Stator diagnostic

Tools: Wheatstone bridge, Insulation tester

  1. Measure resistance across each pair of stator leads U1-U2, U5-U6, V1-V2, V5-V6, W1-W2, W5-W6.
  2. Use Wheatstone bridge or ohmmeter with at least 0.001 ohm precision.
  3. Replace stator if any winding resistance not as specified in Table 6-1.
  4. Disconnect AVR completely before insulation test.
  5. Disconnect Neutral to Earth and any connections.
  6. Use 500 or 1000 V insulation tester for low voltage generators up to 690V.
  7. Minimum insulation value is 1.0 Meg-Ohm to Earth; dry windings if below.
Genset, Standby - Remove and Install installation
  1. Disconnect and connect battery cables
  2. Disconnect and connect output leads
  3. Disconnect and connect fuel lines
  4. Disconnect and connect exhaust system
  5. Remove and install genset
  6. Test run unit
Magnetic Speed Pickup Unit (MPU) Installation installation

⚠ Do not use fan blade to bar over engine.

Tools: MPU sensor, Lock nut

  1. Bar engine until a flywheel gear tooth lines up in center of mounting hole.
  2. Thread sensor in gently by hand until it just touches gear tooth.
  3. Back it out one quarter turn and set lock nut.
Air Cleaner Element - Replace maintenance
  1. Remove and install cover and gasket
  2. Remove and install filter element
  3. Test run unit
Circuit Board Removal/Replacement maintenance

⚠ Electrostatic discharge will damage circuit boards.

Tools: Grounding wrist strap, InPower Service Tool, PCC1301 Interface Kit

  1. Turn off AC power to battery charger.
  2. Remove negative battery cable from starting battery.
  3. Wear grounding wrist strap; attach clip to chassis ground.
  4. Create capture file of genset parameters using InPower before replacing Base board.
  5. Remove circuit board connectors and board.
  6. After replacement, write previous settings to new Base board using capture file.
Fuel Filter, Spin-on Type - Replace maintenance
  1. Remove and install fuel filter
  2. Prime fuel system
  3. Test run unit

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
above 300 volts L-LX1 & X2CT secondariesCTs have dual secondaries (3 pins marked X1, X2 & X3).
below 300 volts L-LX1 & X3CT secondariesCTs have dual secondaries (3 pins marked X1, X2 & X3).

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 4B3.3 family

40
Part #DescriptionCategory
AN500T0119ALTERNATORAlternator
0502-1507Adapter-Hose (Oil)Hose
0100-3922Engine-B3.3G1Service part / kit
0155-4215Guard-Exhaust (Support)Service part / kit
0155-4311-02Guard-ExhaustService part / kit
0320-1981-01Accessories-CB (SD Contact)Service part / kit
0320-1981-02Accessories-CB (Shunt Trip)Service part / kit
0320-2225-01Accessories-CB (Shunt Trip)Service part / kit
0320-2225-02Accessories-CB (SD Contact)Service part / kit
0331-0618-02Locknut ConduitService part / kit
0332-4001-01Rail-Terminal Block (300mm)Service part / kit
0337-3583-04Strap-GroundService part / kit
0338-4487Harness-Engine (Mechanical governor)Service part / kit
0338-4720Harness-Engine (Electronic governor)Service part / kit
0338-4819-02Harness ACService part / kit
0338-4819-03Harness ACService part / kit
0504-0264-01Valve-Hydraulic (Oil)Service part / kit
0505-0019Bushing-ReducerService part / kit
0505-2235Adaptor-PipeService part / kit
0526-0399-56Washer-Flat (M5)Service part / kit
0526-0399-60Washer-Flat (M8)Service part / kit
0526-0399-62Washer-Flat (M10)Service part / kit
0800-0309-93Screw-Hex Head (M5)Service part / kit
0800-3017-19Screw-Hex Head (M8 X 20)Service part / kit
0800-3017-35Screw HHC (M10)Service part / kit
0800-3017-37Screw-Hex Head (M10 X 25)Service part / kit
0850-0114-52Washer-Lock (M5)Service part / kit
0850-0114-54Washer-Lock (M8)Service part / kit
0850-0114-55Washer-Lock (M10)Service part / kit
0862-0026-55Nut-Hex (M8)Service part / kit
0862-0026-56Nut-Hex (M10)Service part / kit
0872-0020-01StandoffService part / kit
0872-0021StandoffService part / kit
432PSV6551Selector SwitchService part / kit
961-0518(Issue1)Service part / kit
0193-0430-01Sender-PressureSensor
A-345052Engine oxygen sensorSensor
GM28980UEGO Oxygen SensorSensor
25164640SPARK PLUG,(*33,35 )(AC- R45TS)(AC-DELCO #2)Spark plug
0193-0432ThermostatThermostat

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

Common questions

Which generators use the Cummins/Onan 4B3.3 G1 engine?

The Cummins/Onan 4B3.3 G1 powers 1 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan C38 D5.

What is a common problem with the Cummins/Onan 4B3.3 G1 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Cummins/Onan 4B3.3 G1 is: LOW ACE VOLTAGE (SHUTDOWN) — Engine will shut down. Cause: Fault simulation was enabled with a PC based service tool. Fix: With a PC based service tool, verify that the related fault simulation is not enabled. If you do not have a PC based service tool, remove battery power from the control to disable fault simulation overrides..