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Cummins/Onan 6BTA5.9-G5 Engine

The Cummins/Onan 6BTA5.9-G5 is a 5.9 L 6-cylinder turbocharged engine rated at 1500 rpm. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the 6BTA5.9. It holds 16.4 L (4.3 gal) of oil and 19.75 L (5.2 gal) of coolant.

Also known as: Cummins 6BTA5.9-G5

Part of the Cummins/Onan 6BTA5.9 engine family — 11 variants share parts & fitment.

5.9 L
Displacement
6
Cylinders
1500 rpm
Rated speed
16.4 L
Oil capacity

Engine specifications

Oil capacity16.4 L
Coolant capacity19.75 L
Displacement5.9 L
Cylinders6
Aspirationturbocharged
Rated speed1500 rpm

Service intervals

18
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Air intake systemInspect500 hr6 moEvery 19,000 km [12,000 mi], 500 hours, or 6 months
AntifreezeCheck1000 hr12 moEvery 38,000 km [24,000 mi], 1000 hours, or 1 year
Valve lash clearanceAdjust1000 hr12 moInitial adjustment at 38,000 km [24,000 mi]; subsequent at 77,000 km [48,000 mi]
Air cleaner filterInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Air compressorInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
AntifreezeChange2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Belt tensionCheck2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Belt tensionerInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Charge air cooler (CAC)Check2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Cooling systemDrain2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years; drain/flush/fill
Fan hubInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Fuel filterReplace2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Intake systemInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Lubricating oilChange2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Lubricating oil filterReplace2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Vibration damperInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
valve clearanceCheck2000 hrB-Series (4BT3.3): valve clearance checks not required for 2000 hours, twice the industry standard
engine overhaulOther20000 hrQSK23-Series: expected life cycle to 20,000 hours before first overhaul

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

60
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
ClearanceAir compressor carbon deposit thickness maximum1.6mm1/16 inch
ClearanceCrankshaft end play0.127 to 0.431mm0.005 to 0.017 in
ClearanceCylinder block flatness end-to-end maximum.076mm.003 in
ClearanceCylinder block flatness side-to-side maximum.051mm.002 in
ClearanceCylinder head flatness end-to-end maximum - 4 cylinder.203mm.008 in
ClearanceCylinder head flatness end-to-end maximum - 6 cylinder.305mm.012 in
ClearanceCylinder head flatness side-to-side maximum.076mm.003 in
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
ClearanceGear backlash - all gears0.08 to 0.33mm0.003 to 0.013 in
ClearanceLubricating oil pump gerotor drive/planetary to port plate maximum0.381mm0.015 in
ClearanceLubricating oil pump gerotor planetary to body bore maximum0.127mm0.005 in
ClearanceLubricating oil pump tip clearance maximum0.1778mm0.007 in
ClearanceTensioner spring case to arm clearance (max)3mm [0.12 in]
ClearanceTurbocharger Wastegate Actuator Rod Travel5mmapproximately, without sticking or air leakage
ClearanceTurbocharger end play - serial number 840638 and after0.03 to 0.08mm0.001 to 0.003 in
ClearanceTurbocharger end play - serial number before 8406380.10 to 0.16mm0.004 to 0.006 in
ClearanceTurbocharger radial clearance0.30 to 0.46mm0.012 to 0.018 in
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
ClearanceValve depth installed0.99 to 1.52mm0.039 to 0.060 in
ClearanceValve guide diameter8.019 to 8.090mm0.3157 to 0.3185 in
ClearanceValve stem diameter7.94 to 7.98mm0.3126 to 0.3142 in
ClearanceVibration damper index line misalignment (max)1.59mm [1/16 in]
ClearanceWastegate specified measurement0.33 to 1.3mm0.013 to 0.050 inch
GapBelt deflection at longest span9.5 to 12.7mm [3/8 to 1/2 in]
GapMaximum allowable intake restriction - non turbo20in. H2O50.8 cm H2O; with dirty air filter element
GapMaximum allowable intake restriction - turbo25in. H2O63.5 cm H2O; with dirty air filter element
OtherValve Seat Grinding AngleIntake: 30, Exhaust: 45degrees
OtherWastegate actuator rod movement5mm0.200 in; at 200 kPa [29 psi]
PressureCharge air cooler pressure drop48kPa7 psi or less in 15 seconds with 207 kPa [30 psi] applied
PressureDifferential Pressure to Open Bypass Valve138kPa
PressureFilter bypass valve opening pressure138kPa20 psi
PressureFuel pump gallery pressure minimum at rated RPM140kPa20 psi
PressureFuel transfer pump diaphragm minimum output pressure21kPa3 psi
PressureFuel transfer pump piston minimum output pressure at rated speed172kPa25 psi
PressureIntake manifold pressure differential maximum21kPa3 psi; between turbocharger outlet and intake manifold; check charge air cooler
PressureLubricating Oil Pressure at Idle69kPaMinimum Allowable
PressureLubricating Oil Pressure at Rated207kPaMinimum Allowable
PressureLubricating oil pressure at idle (minimum allowable)69kPa [10 psi]at idle
PressureLubricating oil pressure at idle - minimum allowable69kPa10 psi; idle
PressureLubricating oil pressure at rated (minimum allowable)207kPa [30 psi]at rated rpm
PressureLubricating oil pressure at rated - minimum allowable207kPa30 psi; rated speed
PressureLubricating oil pressure switch actuation55kPa8 psi
PressureMaximum exhaust restriction - 91 EPA cert114.3mm Hg4.5 in Hg
PressureMaximum exhaust restriction - 94 EPA cert with oxidation catalyst152.6mm Hg6 in Hg
PressureMaximum exhaust restriction - non automotive76.2mm Hg3 in Hg
PressureMaximum fuel filter pressure drop35kPa5 psi
PressureMaximum fuel inlet restriction to transfer pump100mm Hg4 in Hg
PressureMaximum fuel return restriction518mm Hg20.4 in Hg
PressureMaximum inlet pressure to injection pump70kPa10 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
Coolant40% water and 60% antifreezebelow -37°CRecommended for temperatures below -37°C [-34°F]. Never use more than 60% antifreeze.
Coolant50 percent ethylene-glycol base antifreeze and 50 percent waterabove -37°CRequired for operation above -37°C [-34°F]. A 40 percent water / 60 percent antifreeze mixture is recommended below -37°C [-34°F]. Never use more than 60 percent antifreeze. Never use water alone.
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.
Coolant50-percent ethylene glycol or propylene glycol antifreeze / 50-percent waterLow-silicate antifreeze meeting ASTM 4985 test (GM6038M spec.); water must not exceed 300-ppm hardness or 100 ppm chloride or sulfateabove -33°CNever use more than 68-percent antifreeze. Drain/replace every 2 years, 320,000 km [200,000 mi], or 6000 hours. 68% EG = -63 C [-81 F]; 68% PG = -71 C [-96 F].
Engine oil10W-30below -5°CLimited use can aid starting and provide sufficient lubricating oil flow at ambient temperatures below -5°C [23°F]; continuous use of low viscosity oils can decrease engine life.
Engine oil10W-30 (low-viscosity)below -5°CLimited use for easier starting below -5 C [23 F]; continuous use can decrease engine life
Engine oil5W-20 or 5W-30 (synthetic CEISG / CE/SG)Synthetic CEISGbelow -23°CArctic operation - ambient temperatures consistently below -23 C [-10 F] with no engine warm provisions
Engine oilSAE 15W-40API CE/SG (such as Cummins Premium Blue)CC/CD or CD/SF engine oils can be used where CE oil is not available, but lubricating oil change interval must be reduced to one-half the interval given in the maintenance schedule.
FuelASTM No. 2-D diesel with minimum cetane number of 40ASTM No. 2-Dbelow 0°CBelow 0 C [32 F] use a blend of No. 1-D and No. 2-D (winterized No. 2 D). Use low-sulfur fuel with cloud point at least 10 degrees below lowest expected fuel temperature. Viscosity must be kept above 1.3 centistokes at 40 C [104 F]. Do not mix gasoline, alcohol, or gasohol with diesel fuel.
FuelNo. 2 diesel fuelcetane value 42-50Diesel Fuel Grade No. 1 above 0°C [32°F] can cause contamination/poor operation.

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
Overhead Set (Valve Lash Adjustment) adjustment

⚠ To avoid engine or timing pin damage, disengage the timing pin after locating top dead center.

Tools: 1/2-inch drive, Engine Barring Tool, Part No. 3824591, Feeler Gauge, 14-mm Wrench, Flat-Blade Screwdriver or 5-mm Allen Wrench, 15 mm wrench

  1. Remove the valve cover.
  2. Locate top dead center (TDC) for cylinder No. 1 by barring the crankshaft while pressing on the timing pin.
  3. When the timing pin engages the hole in the camshaft gear, cylinder No. 1 is at TDC on the compression stroke.
  4. Set only valves indicated by the arrows (E = exhaust, I = intake).
  5. Holding the locknut steady with the wrench, adjust the valve clearance with the screwdriver or Allen wrench.
  6. Tighten the locknut to 24 N*m [18 ft-lb], and measure the valve lash again.
  7. Mark the vibration damper, and rotate the crankshaft 360 degrees.
  8. Adjust the remaining valves as indicated; tighten locknuts to 24 N*m [18 ft-lb].
  9. Install the rocker lever covers and tighten the capscrews to 24 N*m [18 ft-lb].
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.
Belt Tensioner - Replacement maintenance

Tools: 15 mm

  1. Remove the drive belt.
  2. Remove the capscrew and replace the tensioner.
  3. Tighten the capscrew to 43 N•m [32 ft-lb].
Cooling System - Drain/Flush/Fill maintenance

⚠ Do not remove the pressure cap from a hot engine. Wait until the coolant temperature is below 50 C [122 F].

⚠ Coolant is toxic. Keep away from children and pets.

⚠ Never use water alone for coolant.

Tools: Drain pan with capacity of 19 liters [5 gal]

  1. Drain the cooling system by opening the drain valve on the radiator and removing the plug in the bottom of the water inlet.
  2. Check for damaged hoses and loose or damaged hose clamps; replace as required.
  3. Fill the system with a mixture of sodium carbonate and water (0.5 kg [1.0 lb] sodium carbonate per 23 liters [6.0 gal] of water).
  4. Operate the engine for 5 minutes with the coolant reaching above 80 C [176 F].
  5. Shut the engine off and drain the cooling system.
  6. Fill the cooling system with clean water; operate engine 5 minutes above 80 C [176 F]; drain again until water is clean.
  7. Fill with a mixture of 50-percent water and 50-percent ethylene glycol antifreeze.
Drain Lubricating Oil maintenance

⚠ Avoid direct contact of hot oil with your skin.

Tools: 17 mm wrench, Container able to hold at least 20 liters [15 qt]

  1. Operate the engine until the water temperature reaches 60 C [140 F]. Shut the engine off.
  2. Remove the oil drain plug and drain the oil into a suitable container.
  3. Clean the sealing surface, check the oil drain plug threads, and install the drain plug.
  4. Torque drain plug: steel pan 80 N*m [59 ft-lb]; aluminum pan 60 N*m [44 ft-lb].
Drive Belt - Replacement maintenance

⚠ The belt tensioner is spring loaded and must be pivoted away from the drive belt.

Tools: 3/8 inch square drive

  1. Lift the tensioner to remove and install the drive belt.
  2. Use a 3/8 inch square drive.
  3. Pivot the spring-loaded tensioner away from the drive belt; wrong direction can damage the tensioner.
Fuel Filter - Replacement maintenance

⚠ Mechanical tightening may distort threads, damage the filter element seal or filter can.

Tools: 80 to 95 mm filter wrench, 24 mm, flat blade screwdriver

  1. Remove the combination water separator/fuel filter.
  2. If used, remove the two filters from the dual filter adapter.
  3. Fill the new filter(s) with clean fuel.
  4. Lubricate the seal with clean lubricating oil.
  5. Install the filter as specified by the filter manufacturer.
Fuel Supply Lines - Vent (Low-Pressure Lines and Fuel Filter) maintenance

Tools: 8 mm wrench

  1. Open the vent screw.
  2. Operate the priming button on the lift pump until the fuel flowing from the fitting is air free.
  3. Tighten the bleed screw to 9 N*m [80 in-lb].
Injector Supply Lines (High Pressure) - Vent maintenance

⚠ While testing the injectors, keep hands and body parts away from the injector nozzle.

⚠ Do not bleed the fuel system on a hot engine.

Tools: 17 mm wrench, 19 mm wrench

  1. Loosen one or more fittings at the injectors.
  2. Crank the engine to allow entrapped air to bleed from the lines.
  3. Start the engine and vent one line at a time until the engine runs smoothly.
  4. Tighten the line fittings to 30 N*m [22 ft-lb].
Lubricating Oil Filter - Replacement maintenance

Tools: 90-95 mm, filter wrench

  1. Remove the lubricating oil filter.
  2. Fill the filter with clean lubricating oil.
  3. Apply a light coat of oil to the sealing gasket.
  4. Install the lubricating oil filter.
  5. Use Part No. 3823494.
Replace Fuel Filter (Spin-On Type) maintenance

⚠ Mechanical overtightening will distort threads, filter element seal, or filter can.

Tools: 75 to 80 mm and 90 to 95 mm filter wrenches

  1. Warn the area around the fuel filter head. Remove the filter(s).
  2. Clean the gasket surface of the filter head.
  3. Replace the o-ring.
  4. Fill the new filter(s) with clean fuel, and lubricate the o-ring seal with clean lubricating oil.
  5. Install the filter as specified by the filter manufacturer.

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 6BTA5.9 family

4
Part #DescriptionCategory
3824469fuel pump gear pullerFuel pump
3822509Injection Pump Bore Brush Service ToolInjector
3823276injector bore brushInjector
3377259bosch timing tool (ve)Service part / kit

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 oil capacity of the Cummins/Onan 6BTA5.9-G5?

The Cummins/Onan 6BTA5.9-G5 engine has an oil capacity of 16.4 liters.

What is the displacement of the Cummins/Onan 6BTA5.9-G5?

The Cummins/Onan 6BTA5.9-G5 has a displacement of 5.9 liters with 6 cylinders.

Which generators use the Cummins/Onan 6BTA5.9-G5 engine?

The Cummins/Onan 6BTA5.9-G5 powers 1 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan 6BTA5.9.