The Cummins/Onan NTA-855-G1 is an engine rated at 1800 rpm. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the 275NTA1 and DFM 275. It holds 31 L (8.2 gal) of oil and 20.8 L (5.5 gal) of coolant.
Also known as: Cummins NTA-855-G1
Part of the Cummins/Onan NTA855 engine family — 17 variants share parts & fitment.
| Oil capacity | 31.0 L |
|---|---|
| Coolant capacity | 20.8 L |
| Rated speed | 1800 rpm |
How to read your Cummins/Onan engine serial & model number →
Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Cummins/Onan NTA-855-G1.
| Item | Action | Hours | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coolant heater | Check | 8 hr | ||
| Coolant level | Check | 8 hr | ||
| Generator set | Inspect | 8 hr | Check for oil, fuel, cooling and exhaust leaks; check exhaust system audibly and visually with set running | |
| Oil level | Check | 8 hr | ||
| Air cleaner | Clean | 50 hr | Clean if required; more often in extremely dusty conditions | |
| Battery charging system | Check | 50 hr | ||
| Drive belt tension | Check | 50 hr | Visually check belts for evidence of slippage | |
| Exhaust condensation trap | Drain | 50 hr | ||
| Fuel level | Check | 50 hr | ||
| Battery level/specific gravity | Check | 100 hr | ||
| Fuel tanks water/sediment | Drain | 100 hr | Drain 1 cup or more of fuel to remove water and sediment | |
| Generator air outlet | Check | 100 hr | ||
| Antifreeze and DCA concentration | Check | 250 hr | 6 mo | |
| Crankcase oil and filter | Change | 250 hr | 6 mo | First service — Perform initial change after first 50 hours, subsequent changes per maintenance schedule |
| Generator assembly | Clean | 250 hr | 6 mo | |
| Heat exchanger plugs | Check | 250 hr | 6 mo | If equipped |
| Air cleaner element | Change | 500 hr | 12 mo | More often in extremely dusty conditions |
| Coolant filter | Change | 500 hr | 12 mo | |
| Cooling system | Clean | 500 hr | 12 mo | |
| Crankcase breather | Clean | 500 hr | 12 mo | More often in extremely dusty conditions |
| Fuel filters | Change | 500 hr | 12 mo | |
| Generator bearing | Inspect | 1000 hr | ||
| Generator bearing | Replace | 10000 hr | 24 mo | Prime power: every 10,000 hours or two years; standby power: every five years |
Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.
| Type | Item | Value | Unit | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clearance | Exhaust pipe clearance to combustible wall or partition | at least 12 inches (305 mm) | inch | |
| Clearance | Mounting base surface height above floor | at least 6 inches (152 mm) | inch | |
| Gap | Air cleaner element cleaning nozzle distance | at least 1 inch (25 mm) | inch | low pressure compressed air 30 psi (207 kPa) |
| Other | Air cleaner element solvent soak time | 15 | minutes | Donaldson D1400 solvent or equivalent |
| Other | Battery specific gravity | 1.260 | specific gravity | 1.225 recommended above 95 F (35 C) ambient; 1.280 at 80 F (27 C) |
| Other | Engine belt driven charging alternator output | 35 | ampere, 24 VDC | |
| Other | Fuel pump lifting capacity | 5 feet (1.525 m) | feet | |
| Other | Maximum sulphated ash content of lubricating oil | 1.85 | percent | |
| Other | Overcrank crank cycle | 15 seconds crank / 15 seconds rest, 80-second limit | seconds | |
| Pressure | Cranking oil priming pressure at filter head priming port | 15 | psi (103 kPa) | 15 seconds of cranking |
| Pressure | Low oil pressure shutdown | 12 | psi (83 kPa) | |
| Pressure | Lubrication system priming pressure | 30 | psi (207 kPa) | during priming |
| Pressure | Maximum allowable exhaust backpressure | 41 inches H2O / 3.0 | inches H2O / inches Hg | |
| Pressure | Normal oil pressure range | 40 to 70 | psi (276 to 483 kPa) | engine at operating temperature |
| Pressure | Pre-low oil pressure alarm | 18 or less | psi (124 kPa) | |
| Speed | Fine speed adjustment range via Speed Adjust potentiometer | less than +100 | RPM | |
| Speed | No-load governed speed, 50 Hz 3% droop | 51.5 Hz (1545 RPM) | Hz/RPM | no load |
| Speed | No-load governed speed, 50 Hz 5% droop | 52.5 Hz (1575 RPM) | Hz/RPM | no load |
| Speed | No-load governed speed, 50 Hz isochronous | 50.0 Hz (1500 RPM) | Hz/RPM | no load |
| Speed | No-load governed speed, 60 Hz 3% droop | 61.8 Hz (1854 RPM) | Hz/RPM | no load |
| Speed | No-load governed speed, 60 Hz 5% droop | 63.0 Hz (1890 RPM) | Hz/RPM | no load |
| Speed | No-load governed speed, 60 Hz isochronous | 60.0 Hz (1800 RPM) | Hz/RPM | no load |
| Speed | Overspeed shutdown, 50 Hz units | approximately 1850 | r/min | |
| Speed | Overspeed shutdown, 60 Hz units | approximately 2100 | r/min | |
| Temperature | Engine temperature for cooling system flush | above 194 | F (90 C) | operate engine 5 minutes |
| Temperature | Heat exchanger water temperature | 165 to 195 | F (74 to 91 C) | |
| Temperature | High coolant temperature shutdown | 223 | F (106 C) | |
| Temperature | Low coolant temperature lamp lights | 70 or lower | F (21 C) | |
| Temperature | Normal water (coolant) temperature | 165 to 195 | F (74 to 91 C) | depending on load and ambient temperature |
| Temperature | Pre-high engine coolant temperature alarm | 215 or higher | F (102 C) | |
| Torque | Oil drain plug | 60-70 | ft-lb (81-95 N.m) | |
| Torque | Oil filter housing priming plug | 15 to 20 | ft lb (20 to 27 N.m) | |
| Voltage | Battery voltmeter (battery condition) | 26 to 28 | volts | engine running |
| Voltage | Starting/charging DC system | 24 | VDC |
Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.
| Fluid | Grade | Standard | Ambient | Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coolant | Water/antifreeze mixture with DCA | Permanent type antifreeze per supplier proportion; water clean, low mineral content, free of chloride, sulphate or acid; do not use anti-leak additive antifreeze | 15.5 U.S. Gal | Cooling system with standard set mounted radiator; engine only capacity 5.0 U.S. Gal (19 Litres) for NT models, 5.5 U.S. Gal (20.8 Litres) for NTA/NTTA models | |
| Engine oil | SAE 5W grade synthetic | API class CC/CD; sulphated ash max 1.85 percent; pour point 9 F (5 C) below lowest expected temperature; viscosity 10,000 mPa.s max at -31 F (-35 C) and 4.1 mm2/s min at 212 F (100 C) | below -25°C | For ambient consistently below -13 F (-25 C) with no provision to keep engine warm. Do not use petroleum base 5W. | |
| Engine oil | SAE 20W-40 | API Class CC/CD, maximum sulphated ash 1.85 percent | above -32°C | 10.5 U.S. Gal | Printed as 'Normal duty -32 F (0 C) and above - SAE 20W-40'. Refer to Cummins Engine Manual for extreme conditions. Do not mix oils of another classification or brand. |
| Engine oil | 10W-30 | Multigrade oil meeting API classification | -25°C to 25°C | Oil viscosity grade selection table: -13 to 95 F (-25 to 25 C) = 10W-30 | |
| Fuel | ASTM No. 2 Diesel Engine Fuel | Refer to Cummins Engine Manual for analysis limits; will also operate on No. 1 or similar diesel fuels | Never use galvanized fuel lines, fittings or fuel tanks |
Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.
| Code | Name | Meaning | Severity | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BATTERY CHARGER FAILURE | Battery charger failure | Fault condition of on-site battery charger (NFPA 110) | Warning | Refer to battery charger unit and remedy condition |
| CONTROL NOT IN AUTO | Control not in auto | Generator set is not in automatic start operation mode (flashing red) | Warning | Move Automatic Start switch to AUTO position |
| GEN SET UNDER LOAD | Generator set under load | Generator set is attempting to start under a load condition (NFPA 110) | Warning | Remove all loads; reset Exciter Switch to ON |
| LOW BATTERY VOLTAGE | Low battery voltage | Starting batteries are at low voltage condition (NFPA 110) | Warning | Clean and tighten battery cable terminals; recharge or replace battery |
| LOW COOLANT LEVEL | Low coolant level | Fluid level sensing switch provides engine shutdown and lights the high engine coolant temperature fault lamp | Shutdown | Check coolant level and repair leaks |
| LOW COOLANT TEMP | Low coolant temperature (early warning) | Engine coolant temperature marginally low for starting, 70 F (21 C) or lower; indicates inoperative coolant heater | Warning | Check coolant heater power, fuse, cord and coolant level |
| LOW FUEL | Low fuel | Fuel supply is low (NFPA 110) | Warning | Check fuel supply and replenish as required |
| LOW OIL PRESSURE | Low oil pressure (shutdown) | Engine shut down because oil pressure dropped below 12 psi (83 kPa) | Shutdown | Check oil level, lines and filters; replenish; reset control and restart; verify pressure 40 to 70 psi (276 to 483 kPa) |
| OVERCRANK | Overcrank | Starter locked out because of excessive cranking time (cycle cranking 15 s crank / 15 s rest, 80-second limit) | Shutdown | Place Automatic Start switch to OFF/RESET; wait two minutes for starter to cool; repeat start |
| OVERSPEED | Overspeed | Engine has shut down because of excessive speed (frequency detection module on generator PMG output) | Shutdown | Contact distributor for service |
| REMOTE STOP | Remote stop | Engine shut down because of remote signal (customer dedicated) | Shutdown | Refer to specifics of on-site equipment |
Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.
Tools: Frequency meter or tachometer
Tools: Frequency meter or tachometer
⚠ Do not adjust any other voltage regulator potentiometers or rheostats; they are factory-calibrated.
Tools: Screwdriver
⚠ Contact with hot coolant can result in severe burns. Allow system to cool before removing filters.
⚠ Allow cooling system to cool before releasing pressure and removing radiator cap.
Tools: Compressed air
⚠ Do not permit any flame, lit cigarette, spark, pilot light or arcing equipment near the fuel system.
⚠ Handle filters with care to prevent damage; install recommended replacement part if damaged.
Tools: Compressed air
⚠ Crankcase pressure can blow out hot oil; do not check oil while generator set is operating.
Tools: Waste container, Torque wrench
Tools: Priming pump with pressure gauge, Torque wrench
Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.
| Voltage | Phase | Connection | Leads | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 110/190 | 3 | Wye | 12-lead generator | |
| 110/220 | 1 | Double delta (single phase) | 12-lead generator | |
| 115/200 | 3 | Wye | 12-lead generator | |
| 115/230 | 1 | Double delta (single phase) | 12-lead generator | |
| 120/208 | 3 | Wye | 12-lead generator | |
| 120/240 | 1 | Double delta (single phase) | U1, V1, W1, U2, V2, W2, U5, V5, W5, U6, V6, W6 | Single phase, double delta connection will reduce set rating and may not work with 3-phase meters |
| 127/220 | 3 | Wye | 12-lead generator | |
| 139/240 | 3 | Wye | 12-lead generator | |
| 200/346 | 3 | Wye | 12-lead generator | |
| 220/380 | 3 | Wye (High/Low Wye) | 12-lead generator | 60 Hz and 50 Hz listed |
| 230/400 | 3 | Wye | 12-lead generator | 60 Hz and 50 Hz listed |
| 240/416 | 3 | Wye | 12-lead generator | 60 Hz and 50 Hz listed |
| 254/440 | 3 | Wye | 12-lead generator | 60 Hz and 50 Hz listed |
| 277/480 | 3 | Wye | 12-lead generator | |
| Medium voltage (601V to 15kV) | 3 | 6 lead generator | 6-lead generator | Drawing number 3052056 (sht. 2) pertains to medium voltage, 6 lead generators, where applicable |
Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.
| Part # | Description | Category |
|---|---|---|
| 140-1346 | Air Cleaner (Includes Element) | Air filter |
| 140-2391 | Element - Air Cleaner (Standard) | Air filter |
| 140-2392 | Element, Air Cleaner - Primary | Air filter |
| 140-2393 | Element, Air Cleaner - Safety | Air filter |
| 511-0084 | Belt, Charging Alternator | Belt |
| 511-0160 | Belt, Drive - V (Fan) | Belt |
| 319-2236 | Bracket, Mounting | Bracket |
| 518-0548-58 | Clamp, Hose | Clamp |
| 130-3537 | CE 1 130-3541 3318318 CE 1 4 501-0551 1 5 503-1467-07 1 503-0189 2 505-0022 1 502-0827 | Coolant filter |
| 130-3541 | Filter, Water - w/Corrosion Inhibiting Chemical DCA4 (Pre-Charging) | Coolant filter |
| 0300-4623-09 | DFCB (600V) | Current transformer |
| 0300-4623-10 | DFCC (600V) | Current transformer |
| 0300-4623-24 | DFCB BR (0-480V) | Current transformer |
| 0300-4623-27 | DFCC BR (0-480V) | Current transformer |
| 155-2287-02 | Gasket, Flange (used with 155-2281 Elbow) | Gasket |
| 501-0551 | Line, Fuel - Flexible (Bypass line) | Hose |
| 503-1467-07 | Hose, Rubber (3/4" ID x 33" LG) Radiator to Filter Housing | Hose |
| 503-1679-02 | Hose, Rubber - Upper | Hose |
| 505-1414-01 | Hose, Rubber - Lower | Hose |
| 122-0526 | Element, Filter | Oil filter |
| 122-0755 | Lube & Bypass Filter (Latest Style Used In Engine Manufacturing) | Oil filter |
| LF3000 | Lube, Spin-On | Oil filter |
| 100-1359 | Engine, Replacement (Cummins NTA855G) | Service part / kit |
| 102-1335 | Plug, Oil Drain | Service part / kit |
| 305-0813-02 | CUMMINS battery charger 208VAC/24VDC/10A | Service part / kit |
| 307-2621-02 | Relay, Start Solenoid (K4) | Service part / kit |
| 309-0437 | (222"F) | Service part / kit |
| 504-0011 | Valve, Shutoff (1/2”) | Service part / kit |
| 505-0019 | Bushing, Pipe - Reducer 1/2” to 3/8”, DFBF (1/2” to 3/8”) 505-0131 DFCB, DFCC, DFCE (3/4” to 3/8”) | Service part / kit |
| 505-0100 | Nipple, Pipe - Close (1/2”) | Service part / kit |
| 526-0029 | *Washer, Flat (1/2") | Service part / kit |
| 526-0219 | Washer, Flat (1/2) | Service part / kit |
| 800-0048 | Screw, Cap - Hex Head (3/8-16 x 3/4”) | Service part / kit |
| 800-0092 | Screw, Cap - Hex Head (1/2-13 x 1.5) | Service part / kit |
| 850-0050 | Washer, Lock - Spring (3/8”) | Service part / kit |
| 870-0212 | Nut, Locking (1/4-20) | Service part / kit |
| 903-0124 | NA | Service part / kit |
| 903-0204 | NA | Service part / kit |
| 903-0500 | NA | Service part / kit |
| 903-0604 | NA | Service part / kit |
| E204747 | Coolant heater 240/480V 6420W 1PH | Service part / kit |
| 508-0292 | Washer, Sealing - Copper | Seal |
| 151-0411 | Pickup, Magnetic | Sensor |
| 193-0244 | Sender, Oil Pressure (E1) | Sensor |
| 193-0375 | Sender, Coolant | Sensor |
| 193-0432 | Sender, Oil Temperature (S2 Engine Block, E4 Oil Pan) | Sensor |
| 309-0179 | Switch, High Water Temperature (Standard Part) Side Mounted On Water Outlet Housing | Sensor |
| 309-0269 | Sender, Temperature-Lo Engine | Sensor |
| 333-0407 | Switch, Pressure - Oil, 14# PSI (SHUTDOWN) With Dual Terminals | Sensor |
| 960-0504 | PCC Control Service Manual | Service manual |
| 960-0507 | Detector Control Service Manual | Service manual |
Parts cataloged across all variants of this engine family — verify the exact part fits your specific variant and serial number before ordering.
The Cummins/Onan NTA-855-G1 engine has an oil capacity of 31.0 liters.
The Cummins/Onan NTA-855-G1 powers 2 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan 275NTA1, Cummins/Onan DFM 275.
A commonly reported issue on generators using the Cummins/Onan NTA-855-G1 is: Engine will not crank. Cause: Fault lamp on. Fix: Correct fault and reset control.