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Cummins/Onan EH09-2D Engine

The Cummins/Onan EH09-2D is a 3.5 L forced air-cooled, 4-cycle, ohv gasoline engine engine. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the P1700i. It holds 0.4 L (0.1 gal) of oil.

Also known as: CUMMINS ONAN EH09-2D, EH09-2D

Part of the Cummins/Onan EH09 engine family — 2 variants share parts & fitment.

3.5 L
Displacement
0.4 L
Oil capacity

Engine specifications

Oil capacity0.4 L
Displacement3.5 L
AspirationForced air-cooled, 4-cycle, OHV Gasoline Engine

Common problems

15
  • Unit Runs Then Surges
    Cause: Loose or worn spark plug leads.
    Fix: Check spark plug leads at spark plug & ignition coil.
  • Unit Starts And Runs, Then Stops When The Start Switch Is Released
    Cause: Low fluid levels.
    Fix: Check & bring all fluids up to the appropriate levels.
  • No electricity is generated at receptacle
    Cause: DC circuit breaker is turned OFF
  • Cranks Slowly
    Cause: Low battery.
    Fix: Check battery fluid level.
  • Cranks But Won’t Start
    Cause: Fuel below generator pickup level in tank.
    Fix: Add fuel.
  • Unit Runs Then Stops, Or Stops When Driving Around A Corner
    Cause: Low fuel level.
    Fix: Add fuel.
  • Fails To Crank
    Cause: Low battery.
    Fix: Check battery fluid level.
  • Exhausting Black Smoke
    Cause: Dirty air filter.
    Fix: Replace air filter.
  • No electricity is generated at receptacle — Overload Lamp turned ON (Red)
    Cause: Overload Lamp is turned ON (Red)
    Fix: Stop the engine and check the appliances and/or generator for overloading
  • No electricity is generated at receptacle — loose connection at AC receptacle and DC terminals
    Cause: AC receptacle and DC terminals have loose connection
    Fix: Secure connection if necessary
  • No electricity is generated at receptacle — engine starting attempted with appliances already connected
    Cause: Engine starting was attempted with appliances already connected to generator
    Fix: Turn off switch on the appliance, and disconnect cable from receptacle. Reconnect after generator has been started properly
  • No electricity is generated at receptacle — DC circuit breaker turned OFF
    Cause: DC circuit breaker is turned OFF
    Fix: Depress the circuit breaker into ON position, after making sure the electric appliances are in the normal condition
  • Engine fails to start — spark plug contaminated
    Cause: Spark plug contamination
    Fix: Remove spark plug and clean electrode
  • Engine fails to start — loose spark plug cap
    Cause: Spark plug cap is loose
    Fix: If loose, push spark plug cap back into place
  • Engine fails to start — generator connected to an appliance
    Cause: Generator is connected to an appliance
    Fix: If connected, turn off the power switch on the connected appliance and unplug

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Cummins/Onan EH09-2D.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filter—200 hr
Fuel filter—
Oil filter—100 hr
Belt—
Coolant filter—
Hydraulic filter—
Spark plugNGK BMR4A—500 hr

Pooled from every document that names this exact engine — confirm the interval and part number against your unit's serial number.

Service intervals

7
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Oil levelCheck8 hrCheck oil daily or every 8 hours of operating time; perform a general inspection daily per Operator's Manual
Engine oilChange50 hrFirst service — Break-in: change engine oil after the first 20-50 hours of operation (RV QG/RV QG RM); perform at least once a year
Battery & connectionsClean1 moClean & check battery & connections; perform more often in hot weather
Oil/oil filter - Quiet Diesel 10000/12500ChangeFirst service — Break-in then repeat (footnotes 1-4, 2-4)
Oil/oil filter - Quiet Diesel 5500ChangeFirst service — Break-in then repeat (footnotes 1-4, 2-4)
Oil/oil filter - Quiet Diesel 7500/8000ChangeFirst service — Break-in then repeat (footnotes 1-4, 2-4)
Spark arresterClean1 moClean arrester; perform sooner if engine performance deteriorates

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

25
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
GapAir gap between flywheel and pulsar coil0.5mmmeasured with a feeler gauge
OtherPower output change with altitude3.5% decrease per 1000 ft increasetypical power output change based on ambient conditions
OtherPower output change with temperature1% decrease per 10 degF increasetypical power output change based on ambient conditions
ResistanceInsulation resistance (AC receptacle output to ground)1 MΩ or moreMΩmeasured with AC breaker ON; normal
ResistanceInsulation resistance at time of shipment from factory10 MΩ or moreMΩoriginal factory value
ResistanceOil sensor continuity0Ωbelow the lower oil level: ON (continuity); above lower level: OFF (non-continuity ∞)
ResistanceStator winding resistance Red-Blue / Blue-White / White-Red1.2ΩAC 120V specification
ResistanceStator winding resistance Red-Blue / Blue-White / White-Red4.2ΩAC 230V and AC 240V specification
ResistanceYellow-Yellow/Blue (Diode Rectifier connector) winding resistance2.1Ωall AC specifications
SpeedEngine revolution (correct, for troubleshooting)4100-4300rpmturn the APS switch to OFF
TemperatureAmbient conditions for rated power output77degFwith muffler and RV enclosure, per ISO 8528-1; altitude 500 ft (152.4 m), 99 kPa dry
TemperatureSurrounding temperature for stator resistance measurement20°Creference condition
TorqueBase inverter (M8 x 20 bolt and washer, M6 flange nut)9.0-11.0N·m90-110 kgf·cm (6.6-8.1 ft·lbs)
TorqueBlower housing (M8 x 55mm, M8 x 90mm flange bolts)18.0-20.0N·m180-200 kgf·cm (13.3-14.8 ft·lbs)
TorqueCase body bottom (M6 x 18mm flange bolt)2.0-3.0N·m20-30 kgf·cm (1.5-2.2 ft·lbs)
TorqueCylinder baffle / ignition coil bracket (M8 x 16mm, M6 x 12mm flange bolts)3.0-5.0N·m30-50 kgf·cm (2.2-3.7 ft·lbs)
TorqueFlywheel (M8 x 25 bolt and washer)19.0-21.0N·m190-210 kgf·cm (14.0-15.5 ft·lbs); wipe oil from tapered shaft and hole
TorqueFront frame / inverter unit / fuel cock bracket / case body-control panel / rear cover3.0-4.0N·m30-40 kgf·cm (2.2-2.9 ft·lbs)
TorqueIgnition coil / recoil starter / air cleaner base plate (M6 x 14mm flange bolt, M8 flange nut)7.0-9.0N·m70-90 kgf·cm (5.2-6.6 ft·lbs)
TorqueMuffler (M8 x 80mm flange bolt, M6 flange nut)11.0-13.0N·m110-130 kgf·cm (8.1-9.6 ft·lbs)
TorqueRear cover and stator (M6 x 25mm flange bolt)10.0-11.0N·m100-110 kgf·cm (7.4-8.1 ft·lbs)
TorqueRotor (M6 x 20mm flange bolt)10.0-12.0N·m100-120 kgf·cm (7.4-8.9 ft·lbs)
VoltageAC output voltage range 120V/60Hz117-126Vat rated amperage and rated rpm
VoltageAC output voltage range 230V/50Hz225-242Vat rated amperage and rated rpm
VoltageAC output voltage range 240V/50Hz235-252Vat rated amperage and rated rpm

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
Coolant50/50 ethylene glycol based antifreeze and waterMix thoroughly before adding; use clean soft tap water, distilled water or pure rain; select high quality antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors
Engine oil4-stroke automotive detergent oil of API service class SE or higher (SG, SH or SJ is recommended)API SE or higher0.4 LSpecification table also lists oil pan capacity 0.36
Engine oilSAE 10W-30 / 10W-40 / 0W-30 / 5W-30Use viscosity chart to select grade for expected ambient temperature range; avoid mixing grades or brands
Engine oilSAE 15W-40API CF, CF-4, CG-4, CH-4, CI-4 or CJ-4 (diesel)OnaMax 15W-40 #326-5336; multi-grade recommended year-round in liquid-cooled engines; synthetic oil not recommended
Engine oilSAE-30API SJ, SL or SM (gasoline)OnaMax SAE-30 #326-5339; preferred summer grade for optimum oil consumption control in air-cooled engines
FuelASTM No.2-D / No.1-D / No.2-DLS / No.1-DLS / B5 Biodieselminimum Cetane number 45No.2-D or No.2-DLS above 23 degF; No.1-D or No.1-DLS below 23 degF; B5 Biodiesel above 50 degF; use No.1 diesel below 32 degF and during long light-load periods; cloud point at least 10 degF below lowest expected fuel temperature
FuelAutomotive Unleaded Gasoline3.5 LFuel tank capacity 3.5 L
FuelHD-5 grade liquid propaneat least 90% propaneFuels other than HD-5 can contain more than 2.5% butane causing poor vaporization/starting below 32 degF
FuelRegular unleaded gasolineEthanol blend not more than 10% ethanol; methanol blend not more than 5% methanolUse fresh gas, not more than 30 days old; fuel stabilizer extends fuel life
GreaseGrease (preferably heat resistant) or mobile oilApply to recoil starter rotation parts, friction parts and spring
OtherCummins Onan Premium Fuel System Cleaner12.0 ozTreats up to 24 gallons of gasoline; #326-5342
OtherOnaFresh GXLP fuel stabilizer16.0 ozTreats 40 gallons of gasoline; #326-5365

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

Procedures

7
Air gap adjustment of flywheel and pulsar coil adjustment

Tools: Feeler gauge

  1. Adjust the air gap between flywheel and pulsar coil to 0.5 mm with a feeler gauge.
  2. Attach the pulsar coil to the engine and tighten the bolt in place.
AC output measuring diagnostic

Tools: AC voltmeter, AC ammeter, Frequency meter

  1. Use a circuit with a load such as a hot plate or lamp with a power factor of 1.0.
  2. Adjust the load and rpm.
  3. Check that the voltage range is as specified at the rated amperage and rated rpm.
Measuring insulation resistance diagnostic

⚠ If insulation resistance is less than 1 MΩ, disassemble the generator and measure stator, rotor and control panel individually.

⚠ Insulation failure may cause electrical leak which may result in electrocution.

Tools: Megger tester (500 V range)

  1. Short-circuit the terminals of an AC receptacle using a wire to discharge remaining electricity.
  2. Connect the megger tester across either one output terminal of the AC receptacle and the ground terminal.
  3. Measure with the AC breaker on.
  4. An insulation resistance of 1 MΩ or more is normal (factory value is 10 MΩ or more).
Recoil starter assembly maintenance

⚠ Wear protective goggles before starting assembly.

⚠ Be sure the retaining ring is fitted into the grooves.

Tools: Protective goggles

  1. Install the ratchet and fasten it with retaining ring E.
  2. Install the spiral spring in the reel.
  3. Apply grease to the case.
  4. Properly orient the inner end of the spring.
  5. Hold the reel and softly drop it into the case from the top.
  6. Move the reel gently counter-clockwise, making sure the spring catches.
  7. Install the ratchet guide and return spring into the reel.
  8. Install the friction spring, friction plate and retaining ring C.
  9. Thread the rope through the reel and tie the end.
  10. Wind the rope clockwise seven times with the rope hanging from the reel.
Recoil starter disassembly maintenance

⚠ Wear protective goggles before starting disassembly.

⚠ The pull of the spring is maximized while the rope is fully pulled out; do not release it suddenly.

⚠ Place the reel on a flat table without dropping or shaking.

Tools: Long-nose pliers, Retaining-ring pliers, Protective goggles

  1. Hold the starter handle and pull the starter rope out.
  2. Pull out all of the rope, and align the rope guide and the knot of the rope inside the reel.
  3. Hold the reel with both thumbs so fingers do not become entangled.
  4. Pull the knot of the rope out from the reel and loosen it.
  5. Slowly rewind the rope until the reel stops while controlling the reel with both thumbs.
  6. Hold the case and remove retaining-ring C with the ring pliers.
  7. Beginning at the top, remove the retaining-ring, friction plate and ratchet.
  8. Move the reel left and right at 1/4 turns until it moves smoothly.
  9. Slowly lift the reel, removing it from the case.
Disassembly procedures repair

⚠ Memorize the location of each part when disassembling; tag parts for reassembly.

⚠ Remove battery before disassembly.

⚠ Do not clean electrical parts with oil or water.

Tools: Screw driver, Pliers, 10mm Box wrench, 12mm Box wrench, Flywheel puller

  1. Remove the side panels (Left, Right).
  2. Remove the rear cover (four screws).
  3. Remove the rolling wire and choke wire.
  4. Remove the recoil starter handle and guide.
  5. Remove the control panel.
  6. Remove the case body (Left, Right).
  7. Remove the rear frame.
  8. Remove the fuel cock bracket.
  9. Remove the fuel tank and fuel cock.
  10. Remove the control panel and disconnect the three couplers.
  11. Remove the inverter unit (two couplers).
  12. Remove the fuel pipes (carburetor side and crank case side).
  13. Remove the air cleaner and carburetor.
  14. Remove the front frame.
  15. Remove the base inverter, stator/rear cover, rotor, blower housing, flywheel, recoil starter, muffler, ignition coil and cylinder baffle.
Reassembly procedures repair

⚠ Wipe off any oil from the tapered shaft and hole before assembling the flywheel.

⚠ Do not forget to put the 2 pieces of pipe knock.

⚠ Avoid damaging the magnet of the rotor.

Tools: Screw driver, 10mm Box wrench, 12mm Box wrench, Feeler gauge

  1. Install the cylinder baffle.
  2. Install the ignition coil into the ignition coil bracket.
  3. Install the muffler.
  4. Install the recoil starter to the crankcase.
  5. Install the flywheel.
  6. Adjust the air gap between flywheel and pulsar coil to 0.5 mm with a feeler gauge.
  7. Install the pulsar coil and grommet.
  8. Install the blower housing.
  9. Install the rotor.
  10. Install the rear cover and stator into the rotor.
  11. Install the base inverter into the engine main body.
  12. Install the front frame (L) and (R) onto the base inverter.
  13. Install the air cleaner base plate and carburetor.
  14. Install the air cleaner element and cover.
  15. Install the fuel pipes, inverter unit and couplers, fuel tank and fuel cock, rear frame, case body and control panel, recoil starter guide, choke/rolling wires, rear cover and side panels.

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 EH09 family

18
Part #DescriptionCategory
284-75501-03GROMMETHarness
284-79581-03ENGINE HARNESSHarness
34K-21101-03ENGINE HARNESSHarness
002-38080-00FLANGE NUTService part / kit
004-35061-00SCREW and WASHERService part / kit
011-00600-10FLANGE BOLTService part / kit
011-00600-30FLANGE BOLTService part / kit
056-90000-20PURSE LOCKService part / kit
226-75101-03CLAMPService part / kit
284-67101-03Y CONNECTORService part / kit
284-79350-01FLYWHEELService part / kit
284-79530-01IGNITION COILService part / kit
284-79540-01PULSER COILService part / kit
284-79561-01IGNITION COIL BRACKETService part / kit
33K-99001-00ACCESSORY TOOL KITService part / kit
230-75801-03SENSOR RETAINERSensor
230-76301-11OIL SENSORSensor
065-01403-80SPARK PLUGSpark plug

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 EH09-2D?

The Cummins/Onan EH09-2D engine has an oil capacity of 0.4 liters.

What is the displacement of the Cummins/Onan EH09-2D?

The Cummins/Onan EH09-2D has a displacement of 3.5 liters.

Which generators use the Cummins/Onan EH09-2D engine?

The Cummins/Onan EH09-2D powers 1 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan P1700i.

What is a common problem with the Cummins/Onan EH09-2D engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Cummins/Onan EH09-2D is: Unit Runs Then Surges. Cause: Loose or worn spark plug leads.. Fix: Check spark plug leads at spark plug & ignition coil..