HomeEnginesCummins/Onan C33 D5

Cummins/Onan C33 D5 Engine

The Cummins/Onan C33 D5 is a 3.3 L naturally aspirated engine. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan.

Also known as: Cummins C33 D5

3.3 L
Displacement

Engine specifications

Displacement3.3 L
Aspirationnaturally aspirated

Troubleshooting

16

Fault codes

CodeMeaningCauseRemedy
81 uGenerator set output frequency cannot be maintained.
59High AC voltage shutdown (Output voltage on any phase exceeds pre-set values).
27Low AC voltage shutdown (Voltage on any phase has dropped below a preset value).
96Lamp: ShutdownIndicates that the engine oil temperature is above normal and has reached the shutdown trip point.
202Lamp: WarningIndicates engine is operating near cooling system capacity (monitor condition). Increase in load or higher ambient temperature may cause High Coolant Temp (1) shutdown.Review code 1 correction list for other possible causes.

Symptoms & remedies

SymptomCauseRemedy
Output voltage on any phase exceeds pre-set values.Values adjustable from 105-125% of nominal voltage, with time delay adjustable from 1-10 seconds. Default value is 110% for 5 seconds.
Voltage on any phase has dropped below a preset value.Adjustable over a range of 50-95% of voltage, time delay 2-20 seconds. Default value is 90% for 5 seconds.
Low oil pressure or high coolant temperatureThe control (with graphical display) will light a yellow Warning lamp or a red Shutdown lamp and display a message on the graphical display. A control without the graphical display indicates a shutdown condition by intermittent flashing of the status indicator.
Unexpected start-up or failure to crankRemote inputVerify that the remote input is not causing the symptom or isolate the control from these inputs before troubleshooting the control.
Equipment damage due to wrong calibration fileDo not swap Baseboards from another genset model and only use the calibration file shown on the nameplate.
Features not available for troubleshooting base boardConfirm that the feature is installed and enabled prior to trouble-shooting the base board for symptoms related to a feature.
Shutdown conditionMake sure that parameter adjustments and time delays, related to the fault condition, have been appropriately set for the application. It may be necessary to write the initial capture file to the device or update the calibration file.
Shutdown or unexpected start-upPress the button to switch to the Off mode. Turnoff or remove AC power from the battery charger. Remove the negative (–) battery cable from the generator set starting battery.
L not start in remote mode, but starts in manual mode.The remote start switch or configurable wiring is faulty.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.
The menu display Auto button, harness or the Base board is bad.Check for continuity between P11-16 (AUTO) to P11-8 (GND). If no continuity when pressing the menu display Auto button, isolate to front membrane panel or wiring harness. If there is continuity, the Base board is bad.
Increase in load or higher ambient temperature may cause High Coolant Temp (1) shutdown.Review code 1 correction list for other possible causes.

Fault codes and symptom→remedy steps extracted from this engine’s service/owner documentation; verify against the official manual before servicing.

Common problems

15
  • 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.
  • Unexpected start-up or failure to crank
    Cause: Remote input
    Fix: Verify that the remote input is not causing the symptom or isolate the control from these inputs before troubleshooting the control.
  • The menu display Auto button, harness or the Base board is bad.
    Fix: Check for continuity between P11-16 (AUTO) to P11-8 (GND). If no continuity when pressing the menu display Auto button, isolate to front membrane panel or wiring harness. If there is continuity, the Base board is bad.
  • Shutdown or unexpected start-up
    Fix: Press the button to switch to the Off mode. Turnoff or remove AC power from the battery charger. Remove the negative (–) battery cable from the generator set starting battery.
  • Shutdown condition
    Fix: Make sure that parameter adjustments and time delays, related to the fault condition, have been appropriately set for the application. It may be necessary to write the initial capture file to the device or update the calibration file.
  • Output voltage on any phase exceeds pre-set values.
    Fix: Values adjustable from 105-125% of nominal voltage, with time delay adjustable from 1-10 seconds. Default value is 110% for 5 seconds.
  • Low oil pressure or high coolant temperature
    Fix: The control (with graphical display) will light a yellow Warning lamp or a red Shutdown lamp and display a message on the graphical display. A control without the graphical display indicates a shutdown condition by intermittent flashing of the status indicator.
  • Low AC voltage shutdown (Voltage on any phase has dropped below a preset value). 27
  • Lamp: Warning 202
    Cause: Indicates engine is operating near cooling system capacity (monitor condition). Increase in load or higher ambient temperature may cause High Coolant Temp (1) shutdown.
    Fix: Review code 1 correction list for other possible causes.
  • Lamp: Shutdown 96
    Cause: Indicates that the engine oil temperature is above normal and has reached the shutdown trip point.
  • L 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.
  • Increase in load or higher ambient temperature may cause High Coolant Temp (1) shutdown.
    Fix: Review code 1 correction list for other possible causes.
  • High AC voltage shutdown (Output voltage on any phase exceeds pre-set values). 59
  • Generator set output frequency cannot be maintained. 81 u
  • Features not available for troubleshooting base board
    Fix: Confirm that the feature is installed and enabled prior to trouble-shooting the base board for symptoms related to a feature.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Cummins/Onan C33 D5.

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.
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.
121Speed Signal Lost - ShutdownShutdown
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.
1311CUST_FAULT #1 - WarningWarning
1312CUST_FAULT #2 - WarningWarning
1317CUST_FAULT #3 - WarningWarning
135/141Oil Pressure Sensor OOR - WarningWarning
14OVER FREQUENCYFrequency is 10% above base frequency for approximately 10 seconds.ShutdownCheck threshold, fuel or air delivery, governor, connector or Base board.
143Pre-Low Oil Pressure - WarningWarning
1438Fail to Crank - ShutdownShutdown
1442Weak Battery - WarningWarning
1446High AC Voltage - ShutdownShutdown
1447Low AC Voltage - ShutdownShutdown
1448Under Frequency - ShutdownShutdown
1449Over Frequency - ShutdownShutdown
145Coolant Sensor OOR - WarningWarning
146Pre-High Coolant Temp - WarningWarning
1471High AC Current - WarningWarning
1472High AC Current - ShutdownShutdown
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.
151High Coolant Temp - ShutdownShutdown
1944Annunciator Error - WarningWarning
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.
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.
2335Excitation Fault - ShutdownShutdown
234Overspeed - ShutdownShutdown
2677Fail to Stop - ShutdownShutdown
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.
359Fail to Start - ShutdownShutdown
38FIELD OVERLOADField AVR Duty Cycle has been at maximum for at least 15 seconds.Shutdown
415Low Oil Pressure - ShutdownShutdown
441Low Battery - WarningWarning
442High Battery - WarningWarning
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

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.

Common questions

What is the displacement of the Cummins/Onan C33 D5?

The Cummins/Onan C33 D5 has a displacement of 3.3 liters.

Which generators use the Cummins/Onan C33 D5 engine?

The Cummins/Onan C33 D5 powers 1 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan C33 D5.

What is a common problem with the Cummins/Onan C33 D5 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Cummins/Onan C33 D5 is: 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..