Home›Engines›Cummins/Onan ESG-642

Cummins/Onan ESG-642 Engine

The Cummins/Onan ESG-642 is an engine. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx. It holds 6 L (1.6 gal) of oil and 7 L (1.8 gal) of coolant.

Also known as: Onan Modified Ford V-6 ESG-642

Part of the Cummins/Onan ESG642 engine family — 2 variants share parts & fitment.

6.0 L
Oil capacity

Engine specifications

Oil capacity6.0 L
Coolant capacity7.0 L

Generator sets powered by this engine

1
Cummins/Onan xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

How to read your Cummins/Onan engine serial & model number →

Common problems

15
  • Low battery voltage (Warning) — PCC voltage supply approaching level at which unpredictable operation may occur. 441
    Cause: Weak or discharged battery.
    Fix: Recharge or replace the battery. Specific gravity for a fully charged battery is approximately 1.260 at 80 F (27 C).
  • Low AC voltage (Shutdown) — Engine will shut down. 1447
    Cause: Fault simulation was enabled with InPower.
    Fix: With InPower, verify that the related fault simulation is not enabled. If you do not have InPower, remove battery power from the control to disable fault simulation overrides.
  • Fail to crank (Shutdown) — Engine will not start. 1438
    Cause: Starter is bad.
    Fix: Reset the control. Attempt to start, and test for B+ at the starter. If there is B+ at the starter, the starter could be bad. Test starter (see engine service manual). Replace the starter. If B+ is not present at the starter, go to next step.
  • Weak battery (Warning) — No action is taken by the PCC. 1442
    Cause: Weak or discharged battery.
    Fix: Recharge or replace the battery. Specific gravity for a fully charged battery is approximately 1.260 at 80 F (27 C).
  • Under frequency (Shutdown) — Generator set will shut down. 1448
    Cause: Fault simulation was enabled with InPower.
    Fix: With InPower, verify that the related fault simulation is not enabled. If you do not have InPower, 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. (Control Alive indicator on Base board is not flashing.)
    Fix: Poor battery cable connections. Clean the battery cable terminals and tighten all connections.
  • Over frequency (Warning) — No action taken by the PCC. 1449
    Cause: Fault simulation was enabled with InPower.
    Fix: With InPower, verify that the related fault simulation is not enabled. If you do not have InPower, remove battery power from the control to disable fault simulation overrides.
  • KW overload (Warning) — No action taken by the PCC. 1444
    Cause: Fault threshold is not set correctly with InPower.
    Fix: Reset the threshold to the highest allowable setting. Determine the required operating range before adjusting the threshold.
  • High AC voltage (Shutdown) — Engine will shut down. 1446
    Cause: Fault simulation was enabled with InPower.
    Fix: With InPower, verify that the related fault simulation is not enabled. If you do not have InPower, remove battery power from the control to disable fault simulation overrides.
  • CAN DATALINK LOST MESSAGES (WARNING) — Engine will not start (If fault occurred during genset operation, genset may continue to operate). 427
    Cause: Power removed from ECM (keyswitch) during genset operation. O pressed on control during genset operation. (This is a nuisance fault only, not a critical fault.)
    Fix: Reset control by pressing Fault Reset button with O/Manual/Auto switch in O (Off) position.
  • J1939 time out error 285
  • High fuel supply pressure 442
  • High battery voltage (Warning) — PCC damage will occur. 442
    Cause: Excessive battery charging voltage.
    Fix: Adjust charge rate of AC powered battery charging circuit according to manufacturers instructions.
  • Engine cranks but will not start
    Cause: Empty fuel tank, fuel leaks, or plugged fuel lines
    Fix: Correct as required
  • CAN engine shutdown (Shutdown) — Engine will not start. 1245
    Cause: No B+ at Keyswitch input to CM850 module.
    Fix: Refer to code 427 instructions.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Cummins/Onan ESG-642.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Fuel filter—
Oil filter—
Battery—
Belt—
Coolant filter—
OilStandby Power (Normal Oil Filter)6.0 Qts—250 hr
Spark plug—

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

Service intervals

18
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Charge air pipingCheck8 hrDaily or after 8 hours
Coolant levelCheck8 hrDaily or after 8 hours
Engine oil levelCheck8 hrDaily or after 8 hours
Fuel levelCheck8 hrDaily or after 8 hours
General genset inspectionInspect8 hrDaily or after 8 hours. Check for oil, fuel, cooling and exhaust system leaks; check exhaust audibly and visually with set running.
Air cleaner (clean if required)Clean50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours; perform more often in dusty conditions
Battery charging systemCheck50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours
Coolant heaterCheck50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours
Exhaust condensate trapDrain50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours
Water and sediment from fuel tankDrain50 hrWeekly or after 50 hours; drain 1 cup or more of fuel to remove water and sediment
Radiator hoses for wear and cracksInspect100 hrMonthly or after 100 hours
Starting batteriesCheck100 hrMonthly or after 100 hours
Battery electrolyte levelCheck200 hrCheck at least every 200 hours of operation
Crankcase oil and filterChange250 hr12 moRefer to Cummins Engine Operation and Maintenance Manual. Standby applications: change every 12 months or 250 hours, whichever comes first.
Valve lashAdjust1000 hrAdjust after 1000 hours; contact an authorized service center for service
Air cleaner elementReplace12 moReplace yearly or sooner if service indicator pops up; more often in dusty conditions
Generator set exerciseTest1 moExercise at least once a month for a minimum of 30 minutes at not less than 30 percent of nameplate rating
Rupture basin leak detect switchTest12 moSome areas may require weekly inspections by safety code.

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
ClearanceMPU sensor to gear tooth adjustmentback out one quarter turnturnafter contacting gear tooth
GapFloat switch lift to test open1/8inchbelow C-clip stop
OtherBattery electrolyte specific gravity, fully charged (corrected)1.260corrected to 80 °F (27 °C)
OtherBattery recharge threshold specific gravity1.215
PressureIdle oil pressure10-30psiidle
PressureIdle oil pressure69-207kPaidle
PressureIdle oil pressure shutdown limit55kPaidle
PressureIdle oil pressure shutdown limit8psiidle
PressureIdle oil pressure warning limit12psiidle
PressureIdle oil pressure warning limit83kPaidle
PressureNormal oil pressure276-483kPa
PressureNormal oil pressure40-70psi
PressureOil pressure shutdown limit103kPa
PressureOil pressure shutdown limit15psi
PressureOil pressure warning limit138kPa
PressureOil pressure warning limit20psi
ResistanceCoolant heater coil resistance10 to 60ohmsthermostat closed
ResistanceExciter rotor (matching 220-4447 parts)0.167 or 0.180ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceExciter rotor (matching 220-4448 parts)0.180 or 0.210ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceExciter stator (matching part numbers with main stator 0.0371-0.0410 range)19.5ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceExciter stator (matching part numbers with main stator 0.0561-0.0620, 0.0860-0.0950, 0.1354-0.1496)20.3ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceExciter stator winding insulation resistance1megohmreplace if less than
ResistanceFuel solenoid coil resistance30ohmsindicates coil OK
ResistanceGenerator winding insulation resistance (exciter stator, exciter rotor, main rotor, main stator)minimum 1megohm
ResistanceGovernor actuator circuit resistance7.5ohmsindicates OK
ResistanceHarness open-circuit check10 or lessohmsOK
ResistanceHarness short-circuit checkmore than 200kohmsOK
ResistanceMain rotor (220-4448-07, -13, -19, -31)1.11ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor (220-4448-08, -14, -20, -32)1.20ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor (220-4448-09, -15, -21, -33)1.31ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor (220-4448-10, -16, -22, -34)1.50ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor (220-4448-11, -17, -23, -35)1.66ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor (220-4448-12, -18, -24, -36)1.80ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor (220-4448-37 through -42)2.05ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor (matching 220-4447-06, -11, -16)0.57ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor (matching 220-4447-07, -12, -27)0.64ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor (matching 220-4447-08, -13, -28)0.67ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor (matching 220-4447-09, -14, -29)0.80ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor (matching 220-4447-10, -15, -30)0.93ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 77 F (25 C)
ResistanceMain rotor winding insulation resistance1megohmreplace if less than
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-060.0561-0.0620ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-070.0466-0.0515ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-080.0371-0.0410ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-090.0228-0.0252ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-100.0181-0.0200ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-110.0860-0.0950ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-120.0613-0.0677ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-130.0480-0.0530ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-140.0309-0.0341ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-150.0261-0.0289ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-160.0561-0.0620ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-170.0428-0.0473ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-180.0333-0.0368ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-190.0228-0.0252ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-200.0171-0.0189ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-260.1354-0.1496ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-270.0960-0.1050ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-280.0713-0.0788ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-290.0485-0.0536ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)
ResistanceMain stator 220-4447-300.0404-0.0446ohmsapprox. +/-10% at 68 F (20 C)

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
CoolantBalanced coolant mixture of water, antifreeze and coolant additives; refer to Cummins engine Operation and Maintenance Manual21.0 L5.5 Gal with standard radiator; DGBB, DGBC, DGCA, DGCB
Engine oilRefer to Cummins engine Operation and Maintenance Manual for lubricating oil recommendations/specifications11.0 L12 Qts with filters; DGBB, DGBC, DGCA, DGCB
FueldieselDiesel; do not use zinc coated or copper fuel lines
GreaseLithium based-30°C to 120°C81.0 mlMobilux No. 2 or Shell Alvania R3; generator end bearing; temperature range -22 F to +248 F (-30 C to +120 C); grease divided between bearing, bearing cap cavity and cartridge cavity.

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

72
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
121SPEED SIGNAL LOSTMag pickup speed indication is not being sensed.ShutdownRestart and check RPM on digital display; inspect MPU wires/connector pins; check for 3.5 to 15 VAC at MPU while cranking.
135OIL PRESSURE SENSOR HEngine oil pressure sender signal is shorted high.WarningCheck sender/connectors/wires; verify fault simulation not enabled; check 0.5 to 4.5 VDC at P7-13 (OP OUT) and P7-17 (OP COM).
141OIL PRESSURE SENSOR LEngine oil pressure sender signal is shorted low.WarningCheck sender/connectors/wires; check for shorts/open circuits at P7-13, 17, 21.
143PRE-LOW OIL PRESEngine oil pressure dropped to an unacceptable level.WarningCheck oil level, lines and filters; replenish if low; if powering critical loads wait until next shutdown period and follow code 415.
144COOL SENSOR HIGHEngine coolant temperature signal is shorted high.WarningCheck sender/connectors/wires; check resistance between P7-30 (IH20) and P7-34 (IH20 COM).
145COOL SENSOR LOWEngine coolant temperature signal is shorted low.WarningCheck sender/connectors/wires; check for shorts at P7-30 and P7-34.
146PRE-HIGH COOL TMPEngine has begun to overheat (coolant temperature risen to an unacceptable level).WarningReduce load; check air inlets/outlets and remove obstructions to airflow; if engine can be stopped follow code 151.
151HIGH COOLANT TEMPEngine has overheated (coolant temperature above the shutdown trip point).ShutdownAllow engine to cool; check coolant level; check airflow obstructions; check fan belt; check blower fan/remote radiator pumps; reset control and restart.
197LOW COOLANT LEVELEngine coolant level has fallen below the warning trip point.WarningAllow engine to cool; check coolant level and replenish; look for leaks; reset control and restart.
212OIL TEMP SENSOR HEngine oil temperature signal is shorted high.WarningCheck sender/connectors/wires; check resistance between P7-22 (OIL TEMP) and P7-26 (OIL TEMP COM).
213OIL TEMP SENSOR LEngine oil temperature signal is shorted low.WarningCheck sender/connectors/wires; check shorts and resistance between P7-22 and P7-26.
234OVERSPEEDEngine has exceeded normal operating speed.ShutdownClear fault and restart genset; check fault threshold; monitor RPM; check electronic governor actuator.
235LOW COOLANT LEVELEngine coolant level has fallen below the shutdown trip point.ShutdownCheck coolant level and replenish; look for leaks; reset control and restart.
359FAIL TO STARTEngine cranks but fails to start (possible fuel system problem).ShutdownCheck for empty fuel tank, fuel leaks, or plugged fuel lines; replace dirty fuel filter; replace dirty air filter; reset control and restart.
415LOW OIL PRESSUREEngine oil pressure has dropped below the shutdown trip point.ShutdownCheck oil level, lines and filters; replenish if low; reset control and restart.
421OIL TEMPEngine has begun to overheat (oil temperature above unacceptable level) (Optional).WarningReduce load; check air inlets/outlets; if engine can be stopped follow code 151 and check engine oil level.
441LOW BAT VOLTAGEBattery voltage supply to the control approaching a low level.WarningCheck battery charger fuse; recharge or replace battery; clean and tighten cable connections; check engine DC alternator.
442HIGH BAT VOLTAGEBattery voltage supply approaching a high level at which control damage can occur.WarningCheck float level on battery charger; check battery wiring/calibration.
1122Rated/Idle TransInfo
1123SHUTDOWN AFTER BSA shutdown fault occurred while Battle Short was enabled and transitioned from enabled to disabled.ShutdownReview Fault History and perform corrective action.
1124DELAYED SHUTDOWNA shutdown fault became active while the Delayed Shutdown feature was enabled.WarningReview Fault History and perform corrective action.
1131BATTLE SHORT ACTIVEControl is in Battle Short mode (bypasses several critical fault shutdowns).WarningNone; used for genset operation during emergencies.
1311Customer Input #1WarningOptional customer selection (e.g., Low Fuel Day Tank, Water In Fuel, Ground Fault, Low Starting Hydraulic Pressure, Low Starting Air Pressure). Programmable: enable/disable, status/warning/shutdown, active closed or open, and display name.
1311, 1312, 1317, 1318CUSTOMER INPUT #1 - #4Optional customer-selected fault input is active.Disconnect signal lead from TB1 and reset the control; check external wiring/active input selection.
1312Customer Input #2WarningOptional customer selection; programmable (enable/disable, status/warning/shutdown, active open/closed, display name). Default #2 thru #4 - Warning.
1317Customer Input #3WarningOptional customer selection; programmable (default #3 - Low Fuel).
1318Customer Input #4WarningOptional customer selection; programmable (default #4 - Rupture Basin Fault).
1334CRIT SCALER ORIncorrect feature or calibration was entered into control.ShutdownReload correct feature/calibration file.
1335NONCRIT SCALER ORIncorrect feature or calibration was entered into control.WarningReload correct feature/calibration file.
1337No MessageInfo
1416FAIL TO SHUTDOWNGenset continues to run after receiving shutdown command (Battle Short feature enabled).WarningCheck Battle Short feature setting.
1417POWER DOWN ERRORController cannot power down because of an unknown condition.WarningCheck for possible battery drain.
1433EMERGENCY STOPLocal Emergency Stop.ShutdownPull the button out; move switch to O; press Fault Acknowledge/Reset; select Manual or Auto.
1434REMOTE E-STOPRemote Emergency Stop.ShutdownSee code 1433 to reset.
1435LOW COOLANT TEMPEngine coolant heater is not operating or not circulating coolant (coolant <=70 F [21 C]).WarningCheck coolant heater power/fuse/cord; check coolant level; check heater element (10 to 60 ohms); check sensor.
1438FAIL TO CRANKEngine failed to crank after the PCC received a start signal.ShutdownTest for B+ at the starter; check fuse F3 (2 Amps); check K4 start pilot relay and starter circuitry; refer to code 121.
1442WEAK BATTERYDuring cranking battery voltage at or below weak battery trip point.WarningRecharge or replace battery; check electrolyte level and connections; check harness.
1443BATTERY FAILEDDead battery - engine will not start.ShutdownSee code 1438 instructions.
1444KW OVERLOADGenerator output power exceeded 105% of genset rating (3 sec at 110% of rated).WarningCheck load and load lead connections; check CTs and CT connections.
1445SHORT CIRCUITGenerator output current exceeded 175% of rated.ShutdownCheck load and load lead connections (fault may not reset for several minutes).
1446HIGH AC VOLTAGEPhase voltage exceeded 130% of nominal, or 110% of nominal for 10 seconds.ShutdownCheck fault simulation; clear fault and restart; refer to Generator/Base Board Isolation Procedure.
1447LOW AC VOLTAGEPhase voltage dropped below 85% of nominal for 10 seconds.ShutdownCheck load; reconnect per reconnection diagram; check PMG/field wiring; check P8-21/P8-22 shunt connections.
1448UNDER FREQUENCYEngine speed dropped below 90% of nominal for 10 seconds.ShutdownCheck fuel supply, intake air supply and load; check P8 connections.
1449OVER FREQUENCYFrequency is 10% above base frequency for 20 seconds.WarningCheck fuel or air delivery problem; repair P7/P8 connections.
1452GEN CB NOT CLOSEGenset circuit breaker (S2) failed to close when PTC enabled.WarningRefer to Section 5.
1453GEN CB NOT OPENGenset circuit breaker (S2) failed to open when PTC enabled.WarningRefer to Section 5.
1459REVERSE POWERImproper CT phasing.ShutdownCheck wiring to voltage sense circuit; refer to CT Installation in Section 6.
1461LOSS OF FIELDLoss of field (electric) due to reverse kVAR.ShutdownCheck field circuit.
1466MODEM FAILUREControl cannot communicate with the modem.WarningCheck for open, short circuit to ground, and loose connections to the modem.
1468NETWORK ERRORMomentary loss of communication from the LonWorks Network.WarningRefer to the LonWorks Network publications.
1469SPEED/HZ MATCHMeasured speed and measured AC output frequency do not agree.ShutdownCheck calibration file.
1471OVER CURRENTGenerator output current exceeded 110% of rated for 60 seconds.WarningCheck load and load lead connections.
1472OVER CURRENTGenerator output current exceeded 110% of rated; time/current calculation initiated shutdown.ShutdownCheck load and load lead connections (fault may not reset for several minutes).
2327PTC FAULTPTC module or communication link not working properly when PTC enabled.WarningCheck blinking light on PTC module; check B+ TB3-3 to TB3-4; check PTC status voltage TB3-5 to TB3-6 (~0.2 VDC); repower control.
2329LOW S1 FREQUENCYLow utility (S1) frequency.WarningCheck S1 AC inputs and wiring to PTC at TB5; check sensor set points.
2331LOW S1 VOLTAGELow utility (S1) voltage.WarningRepower PCC 2100 control to clear; check S1 AC inputs at TB5; check S1 pickup/dropout set points.
2335EXCITATION FAULTLoss of all three voltage sense leads or failure in excitation circuit.ShutdownCheck field wiring (X1 and X2) for shorts or opens.
2336MEMORY ERRORControl memory error; data corruption of critical operating parameters.ShutdownTry reloading calibration file.
2337PWR TRAN DISABLEDPTC module available but PTC feature not enabled.WarningUse InPower to enable PTC feature; cycle power off for 5 seconds then repower.
2338PWR TRAN FAILUREPTC module trim enabled but control could not communicate with PTC module.WarningCheck blinking light and B+ TB3-3 to TB3-4; check connections between TB2 and TB3; cycle power.
2339PWR DOWN ENABLEDPower Down (sleep) function enabled but PTC module or network board is active.WarningNone required.
2341HIGH CONTROL TEMPControl temperature above normal (158 F [70 C]) for time greater than set time.WarningCheck genset room air flow.
2342TOO LONG IN IDLEGenset has been in Idle mode too long.WarningExit idle mode.
2358HIGH S1 VOLTAGEUtility (S1) voltage increased above over voltage threshold.WarningMeasure S1 AC inputs at PTC module; check utility nominal voltage; check sensor set points.
2396S1 CB NOT CLOSEUtility contact (S1) failed to close with PTC enabled.WarningRefer to Section 5.
2397S1 CB NOT OPENUtility contact (S1) failed to open with PTC enabled.WarningRefer to Section 5.
2966PTC TIMEOUTPTC module is not responding; no longer communicating (PTC status may be okay).WarningCheck PTC status light; check cable connections between PTC module and control; cycle power.
2967GOVERNOR FAULTGovernor hardware drive circuitry contains a fault condition.WarningCheck governor hardware drive circuitry.
2968AVR FAULTAVR hardware contains a fault condition.WarningCheck AVR hardware.
2969LON FAILURENo communications with LonWorks board.WarningCheck communications with LonWorks board.
2971No message (PTC Test Mode Active)PTC Test Mode active.InfoNone required.
2972FIELD OVERLOADAVR Field has been at Max Field for a time greater than the allowed Max Field Time.ShutdownCheck field load.

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
Generator/Base Board Isolation Procedure diagnostic

⚠ This test involves unregulated excitation; disconnect all loads.

⚠ HAZARDOUS VOLTAGE.

Tools: Voltmeter, 12 volt battery, Jumpers

  1. Throw line circuit breaker OFF and shut down the set.
  2. Remove control housing side cover; disconnect exciter stator X and XX leads from AC harness.
  3. Prepare to measure output voltage across generator terminals while set runs.
  4. Connect a 12V battery jumper positive (+) to X lead (Field +).
  5. Check polarity again; polarity must be correct.
  6. Start the set and connect battery negative (-) jumper to XX lead.
  7. If rated output voltage or higher and all phases balanced, generator is likely OK.
  8. If unbalanced troubleshoot main stator; if uniformly low troubleshoot exciter and field circuits.
Testing the Float Switch Assembly diagnostic

Tools: Ohmmeter, Feeler gauge

  1. Remove fuel pump control cover, disconnect wiring jack, unscrew assembly from top of day tank.
  2. Holding assembly vertical, test continuity between each pair of colored leads; all readings zero.
  3. Lift each float to 1/8 inch (3 mm) below the C-clip stop and test continuity; all readings infinity.
  4. Use pipe thread sealant when replacing the assembly.
Testing the PMG diagnostic

⚠ HAZARDOUS VOLTAGE.

Tools: Voltmeter, Wheatstone bridge or digital ohmmeter

  1. Disconnect PMG leads PMG 2, 3 and 4 from AC harness connectors.
  2. Start engine and let speed stabilize.
  3. Measure voltage across PMG 2&3, PMG 3&4 and PMG 4&2.
  4. Voltage should be at least 150 VAC (50 Hz) or 180 VAC (60 Hz) and equal.
  5. Stop set and measure resistance across each pair; each winding approximately 4.4 ohms.
Convert Day Tank Controller 120 VAC to 240 VAC installation
  1. Remove jumpers between TB1-5 & TB1-6 and TB1-7 & TB1-8; connect two jumpers between TB1-6 and TB1-7.
  2. Move selector switch S103 on control PCB to down position for 240 VAC.
  3. On control transformer, remove jumpers between H1 & H3 and H2 & H4; connect two jumpers between H2 and H3.
Convert Day Tank Controller 240 VAC to 120 VAC installation
  1. Remove jumpers between TB1-6 and TB1-7; connect one between TB1-5 and TB1-6 and one between TB1-7 and TB1-8.
  2. Move selector switch S103 on control PCB to up position for 120V.
  3. On control transformer, remove jumpers between H2 and H3; connect one between H1 and H3 and one between H2 and H4.
Current Transformer (CT) Installation installation

⚠ Improper installation of CTs will cause a 1459 Reverse Power shutdown error.

  1. Face the dot on the CT toward the generator (current flows into the dot).
  2. Route CT1 on U load leads (A phase), CT2 on V load leads (B phase), CT3 on W load leads (C phase).
  3. 6-lead sets: route generator output leads through the CTs.
  4. 12-lead sets: route load wires through the CTs.
  5. Connect CT secondary wire 1 to pin 1; 2/3 to pin 2 (high voltage) or pin 3 (low voltage).
Magnetic Speed Pickup Unit (MPU) Installation installation

⚠ Do not use fan blade to bar over engine.

  1. Bar the engine until a flywheel gear tooth lines up in the center of the mounting hole.
  2. Thread the sensor in gently by hand until it just touches the gear tooth.
  3. Back it out one quarter turn and set the locknut.
Checking Battery Electrolyte Level maintenance

⚠ Do not add water in freezing weather unless the engine will run two to three hours to mix water and electrolyte.

  1. Check the level of the electrolyte at least every 200 hours of operation.
  2. Fill the battery cells to the bottom of the filler neck.
  3. If cells are low on water, add distilled water and recharge.
  4. If one cell is low, check the case for leaks.
Checking Battery Specific Gravity maintenance

Tools: Battery hydrometer

  1. Use a battery hydrometer to check the specific gravity of the electrolyte in each battery cell.
  2. Hold the hydrometer vertical and take the reading.
  3. Correct the reading by adding four gravity points (0.004) for every ten degrees above 80 °F (27 °C).
  4. A fully charged battery has a corrected specific gravity of 1.260; charge the battery if below 1.215.
Circuit Board Removal/Replacement maintenance

⚠ Electrostatic discharge will damage circuit boards.

⚠ Accidental starting can cause severe personal injury or death.

Tools: Grounding wrist strap, InPower Service tool

  1. Create a capture file of genset parameter values using InPower before replacing Base board.
  2. Attach grounding wrist strap clip to chassis ground screw and place strap on wrist.
  3. Turn off or remove AC power from the battery charger.
  4. Remove the negative (-) battery cable from starting battery.
  5. Remove/replace the circuit board.
  6. After replacing Base board, write previous settings using the capture file.
Cleaning Batteries maintenance

⚠ Electrolyte is a dilute sulfuric acid harmful to skin and eyes. Wear goggles and rubber gloves/apron.

Tools: Damp cloth

  1. Keep the batteries clean by wiping them with a damp cloth whenever dirt appears excessive.
  2. If corrosion is present, remove battery cables and wash terminals with 1/4 pound baking soda in 1 quart water.
  3. Be sure the vent plugs are tight to prevent cleaning solution from entering the cells.
  4. After cleaning, flush the outside of the battery and surrounding areas with clean water.
  5. Coat the terminals with petroleum jelly or non-conductive grease to retard corrosion.
Engine Oil and Filter Change maintenance

⚠ Contact with used engine oil can cause cancer or reproductive toxicity. Do not contact oil or breathe vapors; use rubber gloves and wash exposed skin.

⚠ Dispose of used oil and filters properly.

  1. Refer to the Cummins engine Operation and Maintenance Manual for the lubricating oil and filter changing procedure.
  2. Refer to Specifications in Section 2 of this manual for oil capacity.
  3. Use oil that meets Cummins recommendations/specifications.

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
CT1 - U load leads (A phase); CT2 - V load leads (B phase); CT3 - W load leads (C phase)6 lead gensets: generator output leads routed through CTs; 12 lead gensets: load wires routed through CTs12-lead sets have dual secondary CTs (3 pins); 6-lead sets have single secondary CTs (2 pins)
110 V - 120 V L-N1Single phase, 2-wirePTC module jumper locations
110V - 120V L-NSingle phase, 2-wireJumper locations for single phase, 2-wirePTC Module AC wiring (0300-5382-01, -02)
190 V - 240 V L-L3Three phaseUse PTC module 0300-5382-01; 50/60 Hz
190, 200, 208, 220, 230, 240, 380, 416, 440, 460, 600 (L-L)3 (three phase)3 or 4 wiresVoltage Configuration submenu; default = 3Ph 208V 4W
190V - 240V L-LThree phaseJumper locations for three phase, 190V-240V L-LUse 0300-5382-01 for 190V-240V L-L, 50/60 Hz
200 V - 240 V L-L1Single phase, 3-wirePTC module jumper locations
200, 220, 230, 240 (L-L)1 (single phase)3 wiresVoltage Configuration submenu (Governor/Regulator Setup)
200V - 240V L-LSingle phase, 3-wireJumper locations for single phase, 3-wirePTC Module AC wiring
380 V - 600 V L-L3Three phaseUse PTC module 0300-5382-02; 50/60 Hz
380V - 600V L-LThree phaseJumper locations for three phase, 380V-600V L-LUse 0300-5382-02 for 380V-600V L-L, 50/60 Hz

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 ESG642 family

3
Part #DescriptionCategory
1-800-888-6266Phone number for Cummins Power GenerationService part / kit
928-0142DOperator’s Manual with PowerCommand® Control PCC2100Service part / kit
TB1-5Charger AC FailureTerminal block

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 ESG-642?

The Cummins/Onan ESG-642 engine has an oil capacity of 6.0 liters.

Which generators use the Cummins/Onan ESG-642 engine?

The Cummins/Onan ESG-642 powers 1 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx.

How often should you change the oil in the Cummins/Onan ESG-642?

The Cummins/Onan ESG-642 oil change interval is every 250 hours.

What is a common problem with the Cummins/Onan ESG-642 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Cummins/Onan ESG-642 is: Low battery voltage (Warning) — PCC voltage supply approaching level at which unpredictable operation may occur.. Cause: Weak or discharged battery.. Fix: Recharge or replace the battery. Specific gravity for a fully charged battery is approximately 1.260 at 80 F (27 C)..