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Cummins/Onan NHP / NHPV Engine

The Cummins/Onan NHP / NHPV is a 2-cylinder engine rated at 3600 rpm. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the NHP-NHPV. It holds 3.3 L (0.9 gal) of oil.

Also known as: Onan NHP / NHPV

2
Cylinders
3600 rpm
Rated speed
3.3 L
Oil capacity

Engine specifications

Oil capacity3.3 L
Cylinders2
Rated speed3600 rpm

Generator sets powered by this engine

1
Cummins/Onan NHP-NHPV

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

Common problems

5
  • Wrong Valve Clearance
    Fix: Broken Valve Spring, Valve or Valve Seat Leaking, Piston Rings Worn or Broken, Wrong Bearing Clearance
  • Poor Air Circulation
    Fix: Dirty or Oily Cooling Fins
  • Out of Fuel
    Fix: Check Lean Fuel Mixture - Readjust, Rich Fuel Mixture, Poor Quality Fuel, Dirty Carburetor, Dirty Air Cleaner, Dirty Fuel Filter
  • Loose or Corroded Battery Connection
    Fix: Low or Discharged Battery, Faulty Starter
  • Ignition Timing Wrong
    Fix: Wrong Spark Plug Gap, Worn Points or Improper Gap Setting, Bad Ignition Coil or Condenser, Faulty Spark Plug Wires

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

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filter140-1175 Amazon eBay $25.00
Oil filter122-0323200 hr Amazon eBay $41.99 NAPA $12.22 FridayParts $39.99
Oilhigh temperature low ash gas engine oil designated 'SE'4.0 quart (3.3 litre)—100 hr
Spark plugOnan 167-0240 or equivalent167-0240100 hr Amazon eBay

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

Service intervals

8
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Cylinder head bolt torqueCheck50 hrFirst service — Recheck head bolt torque before engine has run a total of 50 hours
Breaker pointsCheck100 hrCheck every 100 hours of operation and replace if necessary
Engine oilChange100 hrChange oil every 100 hours (nameplate)
Spark plugsReplace100 hrRemove both spark plugs and install new ones every 100 hours
Oil filterReplace200 hrReplace normally after every 200 hours of operation
Valve lashAdjust200 hrNever exceed 200 hours of operation between valve lash adjustments
Cylinder headsClean400 hrRemove cylinder heads for cleaning at least every 400 hours or when poor performance is noticed
Valve tappetsAdjust400 hrCheck and adjust at least every 400 operating hours or when poor performance is noticed

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

49
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
ClearanceCamshaft bearing0.0015 - 0.0030inch (0.04 - 0.08 mm)room temperature 70 F
ClearanceConnecting rod end play (ductile iron)0.002 - 0.016inch (0.05 - 0.41 mm)room temperature 70 F
ClearanceCrankshaft end play0.005 - 0.009inch (0.13 - 0.23 mm)room temperature 70 F
ClearanceCrankshaft main bearing0.0025 - 0.0038inch (0.06 - 0.10 mm)room temperature 70 F
ClearanceCrankshaft main bearing journal - standard1.9992 - 2.0000inch (50.78 - 50.8 mm)
ClearanceCylinder bore - standard size3.5625 - 3.5635inch (90.49 - 90.51 mm)
ClearanceMain bearing clearance0.0015 - 0.0043inch (0.04 - 0.11 mm)room temperature 70 F
ClearanceOil pump gear backlash0.002 - 0.005inch (0.05 - 0.13 mm)room temperature 70 F
ClearancePiston to cylinder, strut type0.0015 - 0.0035inch (0.04 - 0.09 mm)measured below oil-controlling ring, 90 degrees from pin
ClearanceStarter armature end play.004 - .020inch (0.10 - 0.51 mm)
ClearanceStarter pinion clearance.02 - .06inch (0.51 - 1.52 mm)
ClearanceTiming gear backlash0.002 - 0.003inch (0.05 - 0.08 mm)room temperature 70 F
ClearanceValve seat interference width1/32 - 3/64inch (0.79 - 1.19 mm)
ClearanceValve stem in guide - exhaust0.0025 - 0.0040inch (0.06 - 0.10 mm)room temperature 70 F
ClearanceValve stem in guide - intake0.0010 - 0.0025inch (0.03 - 0.06 mm)room temperature 70 F
GapBreaker point gap.019inch (0.48 mm)
GapPiston ring gap in cylinder0.010 - 0.020inch (0.25 - 0.50 mm)
GapSpark plug gap.025inch (0.64 mm)
Injection timingIgnition timing (fixed)25degrees BTCelectric start units
OtherBrush wear limit.3inch (7.62 mm)replace brushes when worn less
OtherCommutator runout limit.004inch (0.10 mm)reface commutator when exceeded
OtherStarter no-load current draw60 maximumamp11.5 volt
OtherValve face angle44degrees
OtherValve seat angle45degrees
PressureBrush spring tension (new brush)29 - 38ounces (822 - 1077 g)brush projects a little from the brushholder
PressureNormal oil pressure30psi (minimum)at operating normal temperature / governed speed
PressureOil by-pass valve opening30psivalve begins to open
ResistanceIgnition coil primary resistance4.30 (+10%)ohmsat 70 F
ResistanceIgnition coil secondary resistance14,000 (+10%)ohmsat 70 F
SpeedGovernor idle speed (nominal, no load)1200rpmno load
SpeedGovernor speed drop no load to full load100rpm (not less than)
SpeedMaximum no load speed4000rpmdo not exceed
SpeedMinimum idling speed (variable speed governor)900rpm
SpeedRecommended maximum full load speed3000rpmcontinuous operation
SpeedStarter no-load test speed3700 minimumrpm11.5 volt
TorqueConnecting rod bolt27-29lb-ft (37 to 39 N.m)
TorqueCylinder head nuts15lb-ft (20.3 N.m)
TorqueExhaust manifold10-15lb-ft (13 to 16 N.m)
TorqueFlywheel capscrew35-40lb-ft (47 to 54 N.m)
TorqueGear case cover8-10lb-ft (11 to 14 N.m)
TorqueIntake manifold20-23lb-ft (27 to 31 N.m)
TorqueOil pump7-9lb-ft (9 to 12 N.m)
TorqueOther 3/8 cylinder block nuts18-23lb-ft (24 to 31 N.m)
TorqueRear bearing plate25-28lb-ft (34 to 38 N.m)
TorqueStarter mounting bracket to oil base screws25-28lb-ft (34 to 38 N.m)
TorqueStarter through bolts35 to 44in-lb (4.0 to 4.5 N.m)
Valve clearanceTappets - exhaust.014inch (0.36 mm)cold
Valve clearanceTappets - intake.003inch (0.08 mm)cold
VoltageBattery voltage with unit running (20 A Synchro)14.2 - 14.8Volt DCat 1800 rpm or more

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
Engine oilAshless/low ash gas engine oilsOnan recommends high temperature low ash gas engine oil designated 'SE'3.0 quart (3.3 litre); 4 quart (3.8 litre) with filterTypical ashless and low ash gas engine oils source guide; do not use regular motor oils
Engine oilSAE 5Whigh temperature low ash gas engine oil designated 'SE'below 0°CBelow 0 F
Engine oilSAE 10Whigh temperature low ash gas engine oil designated 'SE'-18°C to -1°C0 to 32 F
Engine oilSAE 30high temperature low ash gas engine oil designated 'SE'1°C to 32°C32 to 90 F
Engine oilSAE 50high temperature low ash gas engine oil designated 'SE'above 32°CAbove 90 F
FuelHD-5 propane (95% propane minimum)Recommended for best operating results in Onan LPG engines

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
Breaker Points - Timing (Replacement and Gap Adjustment) adjustment

Tools: Allen wrench, Flat thickness gauge

  1. Remove spark plugs and rotate flywheel TC mark to 25 degrees BTC, then 90 degrees clockwise.
  2. Remove breaker box cover and unplug coil wire at coil (+) terminal.
  3. Remove condenser (screw A) and detach condenser and coil leads (screw B).
  4. Remove two Allen screws (C) and lift breaker assembly from engine.
  5. Replace condenser and point assembly and reinstall in reverse order.
  6. Adjust point gap at .019 inch (0.48 mm) using a clean flat thickness gauge.
  7. Replace breaker box cover and spark plugs.
Carburetor Adjustments Without Exhaust Analyzer adjustment

⚠ Avoid high loads before proper adjustments are made.

  1. Run new engine at least ten hours at normal service load.
  2. Run engine at maximum throttle at normal rpm for ten minutes.
  3. Set main power mixture as lean as possible without noticeable power loss.
  4. If frost remains on regulator over five minutes, check for leaks and vaporizer coil wrap.
  5. Recheck head bolt torque and valve lash after carburetor is adjusted.
Governor Adjustment adjustment

⚠ Run engine about 15 minutes to reach normal operating temperature before adjusting.

Tools: Tachometer

  1. Adjust the carburetor main jet for best fuel mixture at full load.
  2. Adjust the carburetor idle needle with no load connected.
  3. Adjust the length of the governor linkage.
  4. Check governor linkage and throttle shaft for binding or excessive looseness.
  5. Adjust governor spring tension for nominal engine speed at no load.
  6. Check rpm drop between no load and full load; adjust sensitivity as needed.
  7. Recheck the speed adjustment.
  8. Set the carburetor throttle stop screw.
Idle Screw and Idle Stop Adjustment adjustment
  1. Run engine at idle speed (1200 rpm) for ten minutes.
  2. Adjust idle screw for maximum speed.
  3. Set idle stop screw speed at 1350 rpm.
  4. Turn idle screw out until engine speed slows to 1200 rpm.
Initial Start Adjustments (Carburetor) adjustment

⚠ Do not permit any flame, cigarette, or other igniter near the fuel system.

  1. Set main power mixture to position shown in Figure 19.
  2. Turn idle screw in fully clockwise.
  3. Turn idle screw out 2-1/2 turns counterclockwise.
  4. Connect or turn on fuel supply to regulator.
  5. Check (smell) for propane leaks.
  6. Start engine; it should start within 20 seconds if fuel is available.
Tappet Adjustment adjustment

⚠ Adjust valve clearance only when engine is at ambient temperature.

Tools: Feeler gauge, Standard automotive type wrench

  1. Remove parts needed to gain access to valve tappets.
  2. Remove spark plugs to make turning the engine easier.
  3. Turn engine by hand until left intake valve opens and closes; align TC mark.
  4. Check clearance with gauge between valve stem and tappet.
  5. Turn adjusting screw as needed; screw is self locking.
  6. Turn engine one revolution and adjust right hand cylinder the same way.
  7. Replace all parts removed and tighten securely; torque manifold bolts.
Timing Check - Engine Not Running diagnostic

Tools: Continuity test lamp

  1. Connect a continuity test lamp across the ignition breaker points.
  2. Touch one prod to breaker box coil terminal, other to a good engine ground.
  3. Turn crankshaft counterclockwise until points close.
  4. Slowly turn crankshaft clockwise with rotation.
  5. Lamp should go out just as the points break (25 degrees BTC).
Timing Check - Engine Running diagnostic

Tools: Timing light

  1. Connect a timing light according to its manufacturer's instructions.
  2. Either spark plug can be used as they fire simultaneously.
  3. Start engine and check timing at idle speed.
  4. Pointer on flywheel should line up with 25 degree mark on cover.
  5. If marks do not line up, readjust point gap (open to advance, close to retard).
  6. Recheck timing and breaker point gap after adjustment.
Cylinder Head Removal and Installation maintenance

⚠ Do not remove heads when they are hot. Warpage may occur.

Tools: 9/16-inch socket wrench, Torque wrench

  1. Use a 9/16-inch socket wrench to remove cylinder head bolts; lift heads off.
  2. After removing heads, clean out all carbon deposits carefully.
  3. Use new head gaskets and clean heads and cylinder block thoroughly.
  4. Place heads in position and tighten bolts in sequence to 5 ft-lb, then 10 ft-lb, etc.
  5. Torque all bolts to 15 ft-lb (20 N.m).
  6. Recheck torque before engine has run a total of 50 hours.
Protection for Extended Out-of-Service Period (more than 30 days) maintenance

⚠ Discharged batteries are subject to severe damage if exposed to freezing temperatures.

  1. Run engine until thoroughly warmed up.
  2. Turn off fuel supply and run until engine stops from lack of fuel.
  3. Drain oil from oil base while still warm; attach warning tag to refill.
  4. Remove each spark plug; pour one ounce of rust inhibitor or SAE #50 oil into cylinder.
  5. Crank engine over a few times; reinstall each spark plug.
  6. Service air cleaner per maintenance schedule.
  7. Lubricate governor linkage; wrap with clean cloth.
  8. Plug exhaust outlet and cover unit; disconnect battery and follow battery storage procedure.
Returning the Set to Operation maintenance

⚠ Do not smoke while servicing batteries. Explosive gases are emitted.

Tools: Hydrometer

  1. Check service identification tags to properly service the engine.
  2. Uncover and remove all storage seals; remove dust, dirt, or foreign matter.
  3. Check fuel supply tanks, lubricating oil, fuel line, wiring and exhaust connections.
  4. Service air cleaner per maintenance schedule.
  5. Verify oil viscosity is correct for existing ambient temperature.
  6. Clean and check battery; measure specific gravity (1.260 at 25 C) and verify level.
  7. Check engine for fuel or oil leaks; correct as required.
  8. Install fully charged batteries; start engine and check for leaks, voltage output and cooling.
Oil Pump Removal and Reinstallation repair
  1. Crankcase turned on left side.
  2. Unscrew oil pump assembly from intake cup.
  3. Check oil pump thoroughly for worn parts.
  4. Oil the pump to prime it before reinstalling.
  5. Install a new pump assembly if required.
  6. To reassemble, reverse the procedure.

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 oil capacity of the Cummins/Onan NHP / NHPV?

The Cummins/Onan NHP / NHPV engine has an oil capacity of 3.3 liters.

Which generators use the Cummins/Onan NHP / NHPV engine?

The Cummins/Onan NHP / NHPV powers 1 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan NHP-NHPV.

How often should you change the oil in the Cummins/Onan NHP / NHPV?

The Cummins/Onan NHP / NHPV oil change interval is every 100 hours.

What is a common problem with the Cummins/Onan NHP / NHPV engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Cummins/Onan NHP / NHPV is: Wrong Valve Clearance. Fix: Broken Valve Spring, Valve or Valve Seat Leaking, Piston Rings Worn or Broken, Wrong Bearing Clearance.