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Cummins/Onan Performer P224 Engine

The Cummins/Onan Performer P224 is a 0.98 L 2-cylinder naturally aspirated engine rated at 3600 rpm. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the GHA, GHAB Spec 102 and RS 12000. It holds 3.3 L (0.9 gal) of oil.

Also known as: Onan Performer P224

Part of the Cummins/Onan P224 engine family — 2 variants share parts & fitment.

0.98 L
Displacement
2
Cylinders
3600 rpm
Rated speed
3.3 L
Oil capacity

Engine specifications

Oil capacity3.3 L
Displacement0.98 L
Cylinders2
AspirationNaturally Aspirated
Rated speed3600 rpm

Common problems

15
  • Exhaust system must be installed in accordance with the genset Installation Manual.
    Fix: The exhaust system must be installed in accordance with the genset Installation Manual.
  • Zero Cross Sense Loss 45
    Fix: Check field flash; quad voltage; quad winding; quad wiring; rotor and brushes; control
  • Under Voltage 13
    Fix: Check loads; rotor and brushes; stator; control
  • Under Frequency 15
    Fix: Check engine speed; control
  • Starter Fault 32
    Fix: Check battery voltage; battery condition; battery connections; starter; external loads; field flash; quad windings; control
  • Processor Fault − ROM 42
    Fix: Check verify fault; control
  • Processor Fault − RAM 43
    Fix: Check verify fault; control
  • Overcrank 46
    Fix: Check fuel pressure; spark; battery level; control
  • Over Voltage 12
    Fix: Check output voltage; control
  • Over Frequency 14
    Fix: Check engine speed; loads; control
  • No AC Output (Genset)
    Fix: Check load breakers closed; broken or loose wires; output to load breakers; AC output; evaluate fault codes, if present; field flash; control; output from control to brushes; rotor winding resistance; rotor winding grounded; stator winding resistance
  • Loss of Field Sense 48
    Fix: Check verify fault; control
  • Loss of AC Sense 27
    Fix: Check wiring from generator to control; generator stator; generator rotor; control; external shorts
  • High Battery Voltage 29
    Fix: Check battery connections; battery charge rate; battery condition
  • High AC Output (Genset)
    Fix: Check broken or loose wires; output lead wiring configuration; control connections at control; evaluate fault codes, if present; main rotor, slip rings, and brushes; main stator

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Cummins/Onan Performer P224.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filterReplace Engine Air Filter—500 hr
Fuel filter—
Oil filterOil filter change—100 hr
BatteryCheck the battery terminals for clean, tight connections. Loose or corroded connections have high electrical resistance which makes starting harder.—100 hr
Belt—
Coolant filter—
OilSynthetic or Mineral API rated SG or higher3.5 quart—100 hr
Spark plugSpark plug replacement (2 plugs)—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

2
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Engine Valve Clearance (Lash)Adjust100 hrFirst service — Table 4-1 footnote 6: then every 100 hours
Engine Oil and Oil FilterChangeFirst service — Table 4-1 footnotes: perform first time at 24 hours; more often in dusty conditions and hot weather (footnotes 1,2,3)

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
ClearanceCamshaft Bearing Clearance0.0015-0.0030inch (0.038-0.076 mm)
ClearanceCamshaft End Play0.0110-0.0480inch (0.279-1.219 mm)
ClearanceConnecting Rod Bearing to Crankshaft Clearance0.0020-0.0033inch (0.051-0.084 mm)
ClearanceConnecting Rod Side Clearance0.0020-0.0160inch (0.051-0.406 mm)
ClearanceCrankshaft End Play0.0060-0.0120inch (0.152-0.305 mm)
ClearanceCylinder Bore Honed Diameter3.5625-3.5635inch (90.49-90.51 mm)
ClearanceGenerator Brush Wear Limit (wire insertion into brush holder hole)1inch (25 mm)replace if exceeded
ClearanceGovernor Cup Travel7/32inch (5.55 mm)
ClearanceMain Bearing Clearance0.0024-0.0042inch (0.061-0.107 mm)
ClearanceMaximum Allowable Cylinder Out-of-Round0.003inch (0.08 mm)
ClearanceMaximum Allowable Cylinder Taper0.003inch (0.08 mm)
ClearanceMinimum Valve Margin1/32inch (0.8 mm)
ClearanceOil Bypass Valve Plunger Diameter0.3105-0.3125inch (7.89-7.94 mm)
ClearanceOil Pump Gear Backlash0.0010-0.0080inch (0.025-0.203 mm)
ClearancePiston Clearance in Cylinder0.0070-0.0090inch (0.178-0.229 mm)measured 90 degrees to pin 1.187 inch below top of piston
ClearancePiston Ring End Gap in Cylinder0.0100-0.0200inch (0.254-0.508 mm)
ClearancePiston Ring Side Clearance (top groove)0.0020-0.0080inch (0.051-0.203 mm)
ClearanceStarter Brush Minimum Length0.43inch (11 mm)replace if less
ClearanceTappet Clearance in Bore0.0020-0.0040inch (0.051-0.102 mm)
ClearanceTiming Gear Backlash0.0010-0.0050inch (0.025-0.127 mm)
GapSpark Plug Gap0.025inch (0.64 mm)
OtherCamshaft Center Pin Extension from Camshaft End3/4inch (19 mm)
OtherExhaust Valve Rotatorspositive type on exhaust valves
OtherIgnition Timing (electronic ignition)20degrees BTDCnon-adjustable
OtherStarter Commutator Minimum Diameter1-1/16inch (27 mm)replace armature if turned below
OtherValve Interference AngleValve face 44 degrees, seat 45 degreesdegrees
PressureEngine Oil Pressureat least 20psi (138 kPa)at normal operating temperature / governed speed
PressureGas Supply Pressure, NG or LP vapor9-13inches WC (229-330 mm WC)at supply
PressureLP Liquid Supply Pressure30 to 300psi (20.7 to 2070 kPa)
PressureMinimum Cylinder Compression Test Pressure75psi (517 kPa)
ResistanceAC Sense Transformer H1 to H2309 +/- 10%ohms
ResistanceAC Sense Transformer X1 to X2391 +/- 10%ohms
ResistanceGenerator Rotor F1-F2 Winding Resistance25.47 +/- 10%ohms
ResistanceGovernor Actuator Coil Resistance1.5 to 3.0ohmsleads disconnected
ResistanceIgnition Coil Primary Resistance2.90 to 3.60ohms
ResistanceIgnition Coil Secondary Resistance14,500 to 19,800ohms
ResistanceRotor Insulation Resistance (grounds, each slip ring to shaft)100,000ohms minimumMegger 500 VDC or more
ResistanceSpark Plug Cable Resistance3,000 to 15,000ohms
ResistanceStarter Stator Winding Resistance0.01 to 0.19Ohmsunit not running; Rx1 scale
ResistanceStator Insulation Resistance100,000ohms minimumnot more than 500 VDC test
ResistanceStator Winding Q1-Q21.185ohms+/- 5%
ResistanceStator Winding T1-T20.095ohms+/- 5%
ResistanceStator Winding T3-T40.095ohms+/- 5%
SpeedGoverning Speed3600RPM (60 Hz)
TemperatureCrankshaft Gear Preheat325degrees F (168 degrees C)
TorqueAdapter-Engine Mounting Screws25-29lb-ft (34-39 N-m)
TorqueAdapter-Generator Mounting Screws25-35lb-ft (34-47 N-m)
TorqueConnecting Rod Bolts27-29lb-ft (37-39 N-m)
TorqueCylinder Head Nuts (Cold, with compression washers)15-17lb-ft (20-23 N-m)cold
TorqueEngine to Mounting Plate30-35lb-ft (41-47 N-m)
TorqueExhaust Manifold Mounting Screws9-11lb-ft (12-15 N-m)
TorqueFlywheel Mounting Capscrews50-55lb-ft (67-75 N-m)
TorqueFront Vibration Isolators Center Screw30-35lb-ft (41-47 N-m)
TorqueFront Vibration Isolators Flange to Oil Base Screws16-20lb-ft (22-27 N-m)
TorqueGearcase Cover8-10lb-ft (11-14 N-m)
TorqueIntake Manifold Mounting Screws20-23lb-ft (27-31 N-m)
TorqueOil Base Screws18-23lb-ft (24-31 N-m)
TorqueOil Pump7-9lb-ft (10-12 N-m)
TorqueOther 1/4 inch Cylinder Block Stud and Nuts7-9lb-ft (10-12 N-m)
TorqueOther 3/8 inch Cylinder Block Stud and Nuts18-23lb-ft (24-31 N-m)

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 oilSynthetic oilAPI Class SG or SHRecommended in regions with temperature extremes when oil is changed only once a year
Engine oil5W-30API Class SG or SH (SG/CD, SG/CE, SH/CD, SH/CE)-28°C to 10°CExpected ambient -20 deg F to 50 deg F
Engine oil10W-30 / 10W-40API Class SG or SH (SG/CD, SG/CE, SH/CD, SH/CE)-18°C to 27°CExpected ambient 0 deg F to 80 deg F
Engine oil15W-40 (OnaMax)API Class SG or SH (SG/CD, SG/CE, SH/CD, SH/CE)-12°C to 38°CExpected ambient 10 deg F to 100 deg F
Engine oilSAE 30 (single-grade, preferable when consistently above freezing)API Class SG or SH (also SG/CD, SG/CE, SH/CD, or SH/CE)above 0°C3.5 quart (3.3 liter)Expected ambient 32 deg F (0 deg C) and higher
FuelLP grade HD-5 or equivalent, at least 90 percent propaneHD-5Commercial LP may contain more than 2.5 percent butane causing poor vaporization below 32 deg F (0 deg C)
FuelNatural gas, methane content at least 90 percent (by volume)Commercially available natural gas

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

18
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
2Low Oil FaultThe controller sensed that the low oil pressure cutoff did not open within 10 seconds of starting or closed during operation.ShutdownCheck engine oil level and add oil; drain excess oil; repair low oil pressure cutoff switch (S1) wiring or replace switch; service worn lubricating system and/or engine.
3Service Check FaultA Level Two fault occurred.WarningCheck the second-level fault code (toggle switch Off/Auto again).
4Overcrank FaultCranking exceeded 20 seconds without engine starting.ShutdownOpen fuel shutoff valves; check governor linkage; fill LPG tank; inspect spark plug cables; service air cleaner; check exhaust; check fuel solenoid; check gas supply pressure; ignition tests; check governor controller board; compression test.
12Overvoltage FaultController not able to regulate to rated voltage.ShutdownService the brushes and slip rings; replace the genset control PCB.
13Undervoltage FaultController not able to regulate to rated voltage.ShutdownRun with fewer loads; check power factor; service brushes and slip rings; test generator field/stator/quadrature windings; replace control PCB.
14Overfrequency FaultController not able to regulate to rated frequency.ShutdownCheck governor linkage for binding; check governor controller board.
15Underfrequency FaultController not able to regulate to rated frequency.ShutdownRun with fewer loads; fill LPG tank; inspect spark plug cables; service air cleaner; check fuel solenoid; check gas supply pressure; ignition tests; check exhaust; check governor linkage; check governor controller board; compression test; replace control PCB.
27AC Output Sense FaultController unable to sense output voltage.ShutdownCheck AC sense circuitry continuity; check AC sense transformer (H1-H2 309 ohms +/-10%, X1-X2 391 ohms +/-10%); replace control PCB.
29High Battery Voltage FaultVoltage across battery system greater than 17.5 volts.WarningTest the battery charging system; select a lower battery charge rate.
32Low Cranking Speed FaultCranking speed less than 180 rpm for more than 2 seconds.ShutdownClean/tighten battery cables; recharge/replace battery; use oil of proper viscosity; test charging system; check field windings (P1-1/P1-10) and quadrature windings (P1-3/P1-9); replace control PCB.
35Control Card Failure FaultMicroprocessor EEPROM error during self-test.ShutdownReplace the genset control PCB.
36Mechanical FaultEngine stopped without command by controller.ShutdownFill LPG tank; inspect spark plug cables; service air cleaner; check fuel solenoid; check gas supply pressure; check field windings; ignition tests; compression test; replace control PCB.
38Field Overload FaultToo many low power factor loads.ShutdownReduce appliances running simultaneously, especially high motor starting loads; have air conditioners checked (locked compressor rotor can cause very low power factor).
41Generator Rotor FaultController failed to sense field voltage.ShutdownTest rotor; replace the genset control PCB.
42Processor FaultMicroprocessor ROM error during self-test.ShutdownReplace the genset control PCB.
43Processor FaultMicroprocessor RAM error during self-test.ShutdownReplace the genset control PCB.
45Speed Sense FaultController failed to sense quadrature frequency.ShutdownCheck field windings continuity across P1-1 and P1-10; check quadrature windings across P1-3 and P1-9 (replace stator if open); replace control PCB.
48Field Sense Lost FaultController failed to sense field voltage.ShutdownReplace the genset control PCB.

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
Adjusting Gas Supply Pressure adjustment

⚠ Gaseous fuels are flammable and explosive. Keep all ignition sources away. High gas supply pressure can cause gas leaks.

Tools: Manometer (at least 14 inches / 350 mm WC)

  1. Close the gas supply shutoff valve.
  2. Remove the 1/8 inch pipe plug from the regulator test port and connect a manometer (scale range at least 14 inches WC).
  3. Open the gas shutoff valve and try starting the genset.
  4. While genset runs at no load, adjust the gas supply pressure regulator to obtain 11 inches (279 mm) WC.
  5. If genset will not start, jumper the fuel solenoid to the battery cable connections so it stays open, then check and adjust pressure.
  6. Check gas supply pressure under full load; low pressure may indicate undersized supply piping.
  7. Disconnect any jumpers and thread in and tighten the pressure test port plug.
Governor Rod Adjustment adjustment
  1. Unsnap the yoke from the ball joint on the throttle lever. Make sure ball joint is mounted in lower hole of throttle lever.
  2. Loosen the yoke locknut.
  3. While holding the throttle lever against the throttle stop screw, turn the yoke in or out to align the hole in the yoke to the end of the ball stud.
  4. Then turn the yoke two full turns to shorten the linkage and tighten the locknut.
  5. Make sure yoke is perpendicular to the face of the throttle lever, then install yoke onto ball joint.
Valve Clearance (Lash) Adjustment adjustment

⚠ Automatic startup of the genset while performing maintenance can cause severe personal injury or death. Push the control switch to Off and disconnect the negative (-) battery cable.

Tools: 7/16 inch socket, 5/8 inch socket, 9/16 inch tappet wrench, 7/16 inch tappet wrench, Feeler gauge

  1. Remove the roof panel.
  2. Remove the intake manifold to access the valve tappets. Air cleaner housing may stay on carburetor.
  3. Remove the air intake screen from the engine divider panel.
  4. Remove the valve covers (use 7/16 inch socket).
  5. Remove the spark plugs (use 5/8 inch socket) to ease turning the engine.
  6. Rotate crankshaft clockwise with a 5/8 inch socket on the flywheel capscrew. When one cylinder's valve begins to move, adjust the opposite cylinder.
  7. Measure clearance with feeler gauge between valve stem and tappet.
  8. Use a 9/16 inch tappet wrench to hold the tappet; turn the 7/16 inch adjusting screw as needed. Screw is self-locking.
  9. For the left cylinder, turn engine one revolution until TC marks line up, then repeat.
  10. Replace all parts, use new gaskets, and torque all screws according to Thread Torques.
Alternator Output Test diagnostic

⚠ Do not reverse battery leads. Do not allow engine to run without being connected to the alternator.

Tools: Volt-ohmmeter

  1. Check battery voltage with unit not running. If not within 12 to 13 VDC, charge battery.
  2. With engine running, check battery terminal voltage (regulator output). Should be 13.6 to 14.7 VDC.
  3. If greater than specified, replace regulator-rectifier assembly; if less, check wires, connections and fuses.
  4. Disconnect both AC stator leads and test AC voltage at stator leads with engine running. Should be 57 VAC.
  5. Use the Rx1 scale to check stator for open or ground. Stator winding resistance should be 0.01 to 0.19 Ohms.
Cylinder Compression Test diagnostic

Tools: Cylinder compression tester

  1. Start the genset and let it warm up.
  2. Stop the genset and remove and inspect the spark plugs.
  3. Insert the compression gauge nozzle into one spark plug hole, hold the throttle open and crank the engine. Note the pressure.
  4. Repeat the test on the other cylinder.
  5. Service the engine if pressures do not meet Specifications (minimum 75 psi / 517 kPa).
Testing the Generator (Rotor and Stator) diagnostic

⚠ Many troubleshooting procedures present hazards that can result in severe personal injury or death. Only qualified service personnel should perform service.

Tools: Digital ohmmeter, Megger or insulation resistance meter

  1. Test field flash voltage at brush holder terminals with engine cranking; check for 12 VDC.
  2. If not present, disconnect F1 and F2 leads and check for 12 VDC while cranking engine.
  3. Test rotor grounds between each slip ring and rotor shaft (Megger at 500 VDC or more). Reading should be 100,000 ohms or greater.
  4. Test rotor for open/shorted windings between F1 and F2 leads. Resistance should be 25.47 ohms +/- 10%.
  5. Isolate stator windings and test for opens and grounds between T1-T2, T3-T4 and Q1-Q2.
  6. Resistance values: T1-T2 0.095 ohms, T3-T4 0.095 ohms, Q1-Q2 1.185 ohms (+/- 5%).
Air Filter Replacement maintenance
  1. Set the genset control to the Off position.
  2. Remove the through-bolt and cover.
  3. Reassemble the air filter with a new air filter element and wrapper. Do not oil the filter or wrapper.
  4. Do not over-tighten the through bolt.
Battery Care maintenance

⚠ Batteries give off explosive gases. Do not smoke near batteries. Battery electrolyte can cause severe eye damage and skin burns.

Tools: Battery hydrometer, Terminal puller

  1. Keep the battery case clean and dry.
  2. Make certain battery cable connections are clean and tight. Use a terminal puller to remove cables.
  3. Always remove the negative (-) cable first and connect it last to reduce arcing risk.
  4. Remove corrosion from terminals with an ammonia solution or 1/4 lb baking soda in 1 quart water. Keep vent plugs tight.
  5. For non-maintenance-free batteries, add distilled water to the split-level marker; add water, not electrolyte.
  6. Use a hydrometer to check specific gravity. Charge if less than 1.215; stop charging at 1.260 at approximately 80 deg F (27 deg C).
Changing Engine Oil and Oil Filter maintenance

⚠ State and federal agencies have determined that contact with used engine oil can cause cancer or reproductive toxicity. Use rubber gloves and wash exposed skin.

Tools: Oil filter wrench, Oil drain pan

  1. Place a pan under the oil drain hose. Run engine until warm, then shut it off.
  2. Remove the oil fill cap, remove the hose plug, open the oil drain valve, and drain all oil.
  3. Close the oil drain valve and replace the hose plug.
  4. Spin off the oil filter canister and catch the oil. Discard filter per local regulations.
  5. Wipe the filter mounting surface clean; make sure old gasket is not stuck.
  6. Ensure gasket is in place on new filter and apply a thin film of oil to it.
  7. Spin on new filter by hand until gasket touches pad, then 1/2 to 3/4 turn more. Do not over-tighten.
  8. Refill with oil per Engine Oil Recommendations and Specifications. Check oil level.
  9. Secure the oil fill cap with a 1/4 turn. Return genset control to Auto when finished.
Checking Engine Oil Level maintenance

⚠ Crankcase pressure can blow hot engine oil out the fill opening causing severe burns. Always stop the genset before removing the oil fill cap.

  1. Set the genset control to the Off position.
  2. Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick, wipe it clean, screw the cap back on, then remove it again.
  3. Add oil as necessary until the full mark is reached. Do not fill above the full mark.
  4. Secure the oil fill cap by turning 1/4 turn to prevent oil leakage.
Removing and Installing the Housing Panels maintenance

⚠ This unit can start automatically. Disconnect the negative (-) cable from the battery. Do not operate the genset without the housing panels secured in place.

  1. Close the fuel supply shutoff valve. If genset can be started, run it until it runs out of fuel.
  2. Press the control switch to Stop.
  3. Remove the front access panel.
  4. Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable from the battery to prevent accidental starting.
  5. Open side doors by lifting handle up and out, turning counter-clockwise, and lifting out.
  6. Remove the two side doors, then the roof panel.
  7. Remove the appropriate end panel to access the control assembly, alternator or engine.
  8. Reassembly is the reverse. Wait to tighten screws until all panels and screws are in place.
Spark Plug Replacement/Tightening maintenance

Tools: Spark plug socket, Torque wrench, Spark plug gap gauge

  1. Set the genset control to the Off position.
  2. Thread the spark plug in by hand until it seats to prevent crossthreading.
  3. If reusing, turn it with a wrench an additional 1/4 turn. If new, turn an additional 3/8 to 1/2 turn.
  4. If using a torque wrench, tighten the spark plug to 8 lb-ft (10 N-m).

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 Performer P224?

The Cummins/Onan Performer P224 engine has an oil capacity of 3.3 liters.

What is the displacement of the Cummins/Onan Performer P224?

The Cummins/Onan Performer P224 has a displacement of 0.98 liters with 2 cylinders.

Which generators use the Cummins/Onan Performer P224 engine?

The Cummins/Onan Performer P224 powers 3 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan GHA, Cummins/Onan GHAB Spec 102, Cummins/Onan RS 12000.

How often should you change the oil in the Cummins/Onan Performer P224?

The Cummins/Onan Performer P224 oil change interval is every 100 hours.

What is a common problem with the Cummins/Onan Performer P224 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Cummins/Onan Performer P224 is: Exhaust system must be installed in accordance with the genset Installation Manual.. Fix: The exhaust system must be installed in accordance with the genset Installation Manual..