HomeEnginesCummins/Onan QSK23

Cummins/Onan QSK23 Engine

The Cummins/Onan QSK23 is a 23 L 6-cylinder turbocharged engine rated at 1500 rpm, producing up to 1000 kW. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the C750 D6, C800 D6, CFP23E and CFP23E-F10. It holds 12 L (3.2 gal) of oil and 12 L (3.2 gal) of coolant.

Also known as: Cummins QSK23

Part of the Cummins/Onan QSK23 engine family — 3 variants share parts & fitment.

23.0 L
Displacement
6
Cylinders
1500 rpm
Rated speed
1000 kW
Gross power

Engine specifications

Oil capacity12.0 L
Coolant capacity12.0 L
Displacement23.0 L
Cylinders6
AspirationTurbocharged
Rated speed1500 rpm
Gross power1000 kW

Common problems

15
  • Over Current 1471
  • Low Coolant Level 197
  • Weak Battery 1442
  • Under Frequency 1448
  • Too Long in Idle 2342
  • Speed/Hz Match 1469
  • Speed Signal Lost 121
  • Shutdown After Battle Short 1123
  • Short Circuit 1445
  • Remote Emergency Stop 1434
  • Pre-Low Oil Pressure Sensor 143
  • Pre-High Cool Temp 146
  • Power Down Failure 1417
  • Overspeed 234
  • Over Frequency 1449

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Cummins/Onan QSK23.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filterAF25544AF25544 Amazon $1537.19 eBay $285.93
Fuel filterFS1006FS1006 Amazon $33.95 eBay $29.99
Oil filterFull-flow with by-pass valveLF9325250 hr Amazon eBay $127.04 KuduParts $74.00
Battery526−0112500 hr
BeltDirect drive centrifugal blower fan15000 hr
CoolantAntifreeze 50/50 (Ethylene glycol)24000 hr
Coolant filter503−1675500 hr
OilCummins QuickServe® Commitment54.8 U.S. QT250 hr
Spark plug151−0411500 hr

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

Service intervals

23
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Lubricating oilTest250 hr6 moFirst service — For high horsepower engines with Eliminator™ oil filter option: take oil samples every 250 hours and analyze per Cummins Engine Oil Recommendations Bulletin 3810340; repeat for at least three oil change intervals.
filtersChange1000 hrwith CENTINEL, depending on load factors
ELIMINATOR self cleaning filter coreOther1500 hrRequires servicing only every 1,500 hours. Saves up to 90% of lube system maintenance costs and increases productivity.
fuel filterChange1500 hrFleetguard NanoNet media
engine oilChange4500 hrwith CENTINEL, railway applications
Coolant pumpInspect24 moEvery two years
Coolant pump/alternator beltInspect12 moAnnual
Coolant pump/alternator beltReplace48 moEvery four years
Coolant thermostatReplace48 moEvery four years (removal/installation)
Cooling system - heat exchangerClean24 moDrain and flush if contaminated
Cooling system - heat exchangerDrain24 moEvery two years; drain and flush the cooling system
Drive shaftLubricate12 moGrease universal joint fittings
Electrical componentsInspect12 moAnnual
Electrical components, wiring harness, gaugesInspect12 mo
Engine oil and filterChange12 moChange the oil at least once annually
Engine supportsInspect12 moCheck torque on support capscrews
Fuel pumps and filtersInspect12 moAnnual
Heat exchangerTest12 moPressure test
Raw water zinc anodeInspect12 moReplace if eroded more than 50%
TurbochargerInspect12 moAnnual
Turbocharger mounting nutsAdjust12 moTorque to recommended value
Turbocharger mounting nutsCheck12 moAnnual; torque to recommended value
Valve lashAdjust48 moEvery four years; by a skilled technician

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
ClearanceBelt tensioner spring case to arm maximum clearance3mm
OtherBattery specific gravity (fully charged)1.260
OtherBattery specific gravity (replace threshold)1.215
OtherBattery specific gravity replacement threshold1.215below this value replace the battery
OtherBattery specific gravity, fully charged1.260
OtherDB9F-DB9M serial cable length (Part Number 4918418)1.83M
OtherExtension DB9F to DB9M length (Part Number 3162851)30.48M
OtherINLINE™5 datalink adapter current requirement250mAat +8 VDC to +50 VDC
OtherMaximum resistance of starting circuit0.002Ohms12V
OtherMaximum resistance of starting circuit0.004Ohms24V
OtherPressure sensing line nominal size inside diameter1/2in. (12.7 mm)connected between the transducer (located under the FPDP) and the pump discharge flange and the discharge check valve
OtherUSB cable length (Part Number 4918419)2M
OtherUSB cable length (Part Number 4918591)5M
PressureCoolant expansion pressure/fill cap minimum pressure10kPa (15 psi)
PressureCooling loop cooling water pressure limit270psiinstallations where the discharge pressure is greater than 270 psi (pressure reducing valve required upstream of the cooling loop)
PressureCooling loop pressure regulator setting276kPa (40 psi)
PressureCooling loop pressure regulator setting345kPa (50 psi)
PressureDischarge set point pressure / maximum control pressure100/110, 170/175, or 240/250psiset by the factory and not adjustable; specify at time of order
PressureHeat exchanger pressure test276kPa (40 psi)air pressure applied; monitor 5 minutes
PressureHeat exchanger pressure test (applied air)276kPahold 5 minutes, no pressure change
PressureMaximum cooling water pressure on local gauge414kPa (60 psi)
PressureMinimum oil pressure during test run69kPa (10 psi)engine running
PressureOil pressure minimum during test run69kParunning
PressureOil pressure range at rated276-414kPaat rated
PressureOil pressure range at rated40-60PSI (276-414 kPa)at rated
PressureRaw water working pressure range at heat exchanger60PSI (413 kPa) MAX
PressureVSPLC set point range100 to 400psi
PressureVSPLC transducer pressure offset limit+/-10PSIresolution 0.1 PSI
ResistanceMaximum resistance of starting circuit0.001Ohms
SpeedCrank termination setpoint600RPMfactory-set; should not be changed
SpeedMinimum crank speed100RPM
SpeedMinimum crank speed110RPM
SpeedMinimum crank speed120RPM
SpeedMinimum crank speed125RPM
SpeedMinimum crank speed130RPM
SpeedMinimum crank speed150RPM
SpeedOperating speed1470RPM
SpeedOperating speed1760RPM
SpeedRPM adjustment increment10RPMmax +/-50 RPM
SpeedTypical cranking speed120RPM12V and 24V
SpeedTypical cranking speed130RPM12V and 24V
TemperatureCoolant temperature alarm (TB-5)100°Chigh engine temperature
TemperatureCoolant temperature for oil change70C (158 F)before shutting off engine
TemperatureCoolant temperature operating range70-107C (158-225 F)test run check
TemperatureCooling system leak test temperature82C (180 F)operate engine until reached
TemperatureEngine coolant heater minimum temperature49°C24 h after shutdown
TemperatureEngine coolant heater temperature49C (120 F)or above
TemperatureLow engine temperature signal (TB-312)37.8°C
TemperatureMaximum fuel temperature at lift pump inlet160F (71 C)
TemperatureMaximum temperature rise between ambient air and engine air inlet30F (16.7 C)
TemperatureNormal operating temperature180-212F (82-100 C)
TemperatureNormal operating temperature82-100°C
TemperatureStandard thermostat range180-203F (82-95 C)modulating
Torque1/2 in. pipe plug into cast iron55N-m
Torque1/2-13 SAE grade 5 cap screw into cast iron95N-m
Torque1/4 in. pipe plug into cast iron25N-m
Torque1/8 in. pipe plug into cast iron20N-m
Torque3/4-10 SAE grade 5 cap screw into cast iron325N-m
Torque3/8-16 SAE grade 5 cap screw into cast iron40N-m
Torque5/16-18 SAE grade 5 cap screw into cast iron20N-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
CoolantEthylene-Glycol 40% = -23 C (-10 F); 50% = -37 C (-34 F); 60% = -54 C (-65 F); 68% = -71 C (-96 F)above -71°CFreeze protection chart
CoolantPropylene-Glycol 40% = -21 C (-6 F); 50% = -33 C (-27 F); 60% = -54 C (-65 F); 68% = -63 C (-82 F)above -63°CFreeze protection chart
Coolant50% ethylene glycol antifreeze and 50% waterFleetguard ES COMPLEAT EG or Fleetguard PG Plusabove -37°C22.3 L (engine only)Use 50% concentration (40% to 60% range) with SCA required for wet-sleeved engines. Antifreeze at 68% provides maximum freeze protection and must never be exceeded. Use soft or distilled water not exceeding 300 ppm hardness.
Coolant50% ethylene-glycol / 50% waterFleetguard ES COMPLEAT EG or Fleetguard PG Plusabove -37°C12.3 LAntifreeze concentration chart: 40%=-23C, 50%=-37C, 60%=-54C, 68%=-71C; never exceed 68%
Engine oilCummins Engine Oil Recommendations Bulletin 3810340Used to analyze oil samples for high horsepower engines with Eliminator™ oil filter option.
Engine oil15W-40Premium Blue or equivalentCummins recommends Premium Blue 15W-40 oil for most climates. Do not use special break-in oils. Oil capacity of pan (high-low) 20-16 qt (18.9-15.1 L); total system capacity 6.3 gal (23.8 L).
FuelB100 biodieselASTM D6751Must conform prior to blending; revised to include a cold soak test; stability requirement still in effect.
FuelB20 biodiesel blendASTM D7467Applies to biodiesel blends B6–B20; includes oxidation stability requirement; replaces Cummins' previous EMA B20 specification requirement. Must be purchased from a BQ9000 Certified Marketer; B100 must be sourced from a BQ9000 Accredited Producer.
FuelB5 biodieselAll Cummins automotive and industrial engines are compatible with B5 biodiesel.
FuelNo. 2 dieselASTM no. 2DDo not use copper or galvanized pipe for supply/return lines
FuelNo. 2 diesel (ASTM no. 2D)ASTM no. 2 diesel fuel specificationsUse ONLY no. 2 diesel fuel. Do not mix gasoline, alcohol, gasohol, ethanol, or methanol with diesel fuel.
Fuelbiodiesel (Europe)EN 14214Published by CEN, European Committee for Standardization. Equivalent biodiesel specifications required internationally.
GreaseNLGI #2 lithium complexGood quality semi-synthetic, molybdenum-fortified-47°C to 204°CFor drive shaft universal joint grease fittings; protects from -47 to 204 C (-54 to 400 F).

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

26
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
111Engine Control Module Critical Internal FailureEngine Control Module Critical Internal Failure - Bad Intelligent Device or ComponentShutdown
1117Power Lost With Ignition OnPower Lost With Ignition On - Data Erratic, Intermittent, or Incorrect
115Engine Speed/Position Sensor CircuitEngine Speed/Position Sensor Circuit - lost both of two signals from the magnetic pickup sensor - Data ErraticShutdown
122Intake Manifold Pressure Sensor CircuitIntake Manifold Pressure Sensor Circuit - Voltage Above Normal, or Shorted to High SourceWarning
123Intake Manifold Pressure Sensor CircuitIntake Manifold Pressure Sensor Circuit - Voltage Below Normal, or Shorted to Low SourceWarning
135Oil Pressure Sensor CircuitOil Pressure Sensor Circuit - Voltage Above Normal, or Shorted to High SourceWarning
141Oil Pressure Sensor CircuitOil Pressure Sensor Circuit - Voltage Below Normal, or Shorted to Low SourceWarning
143Oil Pressure LowOil Pressure Low - Data Valid But Below Normal Operational Range - Moderately Severe LevelWarning
144Coolant Temperature Sensor CircuitCoolant Temperature Sensor Circuit - Voltage Above Normal or Shorted to High SourceWarning
145Coolant Temperature Sensor CircuitCoolant Temperature Sensor Circuit - Voltage Below Normal or Shorted to Low SourceWarning
146Coolant Temperature HighCoolant Temperature High - Data Valid But Above Normal Operational Range - Moderately Severe LevelWarning
151Coolant Temperature LowCoolant Temperature Low - Data Valid But Above Normal Operational Range - Most Severe LevelShutdown
221Barometric Pressure Sensor CircuitBarometric Pressure Sensor Circuit - Voltage Above Normal, or Shorted to High SourceWarning
234Engine Speed HighEngine Speed High - Data Valid But Above Normal Operational Range - Most Severe LevelShutdown
235Coolant Level LowCoolant Level Low - Data Valid But Below Normal Operational Range - Most Severe LevelShutdown
415Oil Pressure LowOil Pressure Low - Data Valid But Below Normal Operational Range - Most Severe LevelShutdown
418Water in Fuel Indicator HighWater in Fuel Indicator High - Data Valid But Above Normal Operational Range - Least Severe LevelWarning
441Auxiliary Temperature Sensor Input #1Auxiliary Temperature Sensor Input #1 - Special InstructionsShutdown
442Auxiliary Pressure Sensor Input #1Auxiliary Pressure Sensor Input #1 - Special InstructionsShutdown
451Injector Solenoid Cylinder #1 CircuitInjector Solenoid Cylinder #1 Circuit - Current Below Normal, or Open CircuitWarning
452Injector Solenoid Cylinder #5 CircuitInjector Solenoid Cylinder #5 Circuit - Current Below Normal, or Open CircuitWarning
453Injector Solenoid Cylinder #3 CircuitInjector Solenoid Cylinder #3 Circuit - Current Below Normal, or Open CircuitWarning
561Injector Solenoid Cylinder #5Injector Cylinder #5 - Mechanical System Not Responding Properly or Out Of AdjustmentWarning
689ECM Program Memory (RAM) CorruptionECM Program Memory (RAM) Corruption - Condition ExistsWarning
731Starter Relay CircuitStarter Relay Circuit - Voltage Above Normal, or Shorted to High SourceWarning
755ECM Data LostElectronic Control Module data lost - Condition ExistsWarning

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
Engine speed adjustment (CFP83 F-10, F-20, F-30) adjustment

⚠ The maximum engine speed should only be altered by a Cummins technician.

  1. Start the engine.
  2. Observe that the engine accelerates to the currently adjusted speed setpoint.
  3. Locate the threaded linkage rod on the fuel pump side of the engine.
  4. Loosen the locking nuts against the stops on the threaded rod.
  5. To increase speed, turn the bolt on the right side of the throttle bracket clockwise.
  6. To decrease speed, turn the bolt counter-clockwise.
  7. When the rated speed is correct, tighten the locking nut against the stop.
  8. Adjust the left-side threaded bolt for maximum speed if needed.
  9. Stop the engine and repeat until the desired speed is attained.
Heat exchanger pressure test diagnostic

⚠ Use Teflon tape or pipe sealant when installing test setup.

Tools: pressure gauge 689 kPa (100 psi)

  1. Install an adapter at the cooling water outlet of the heat exchanger.
  2. Install a pressure test setup with 689 kPa (100 psi) gauge at the cooling water inlet.
  3. Apply air pressure at 276 kPa (40 psi).
  4. Isolate pressure source and monitor gauge for five minutes.
  5. Release pressure and remove test equipment.
Overspeed test diagnostic
  1. From the User Interface screen press the MENU soft key.
  2. Press the OVERSPEED TEST soft key from the Settings Menu.
  3. Press the RUN soft button.
  4. When the dialog box appears, proceed with the test and select Yes.
  5. When the timer expires, ENGINE OVERSPEED flashing in red appears at the top of the FPDP screen.
  6. The engine will enter MANUAL mode until reset.
  7. Press the RESET/STOP switch on the FPDP to reset the fire pump drive engine.
Terminal block test diagnostic

Tools: Digital multimeter

  1. From the User Interface screen press the MENU soft key.
  2. Press the ENGINE SETUP soft key from the Settings menu.
  3. Enter password 806 in the Engine Setup Login screen.
  4. Press the TERMINAL BLOCKS soft key from the Engine Setup menu.
  5. Press the soft key corresponding to the terminal block requiring verification.
  6. Press the RETURN soft key to exit the Terminal Block Test menu.
Battery installation installation

⚠ Battery electrolyte (sulfuric acid) is highly caustic.

⚠ Batteries can emit explosive gases during charging.

⚠ Remove the negative (-) battery cable first and attach it last.

Tools: Neoprene gloves, Safety goggles or full face shield

  1. Install the battery cable kit or equivalent customer-supplied wiring.
  2. Install battery sets in a well-ventilated or otherwise protected location.
  3. Provide adequate room for servicing or replacing the batteries.
  4. Locate the batteries near the engine or increase conductor size as required.
  5. Check the battery cables and connections.
  6. Coat the terminals with petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion.
Connect the INLINE™5 Datalink Adapter to a Personal Computer installation

⚠ A fully populated USB cable, Part Number 4918419, or DB9F-DB9M serial cable, Part Number 4918418, must be used.

  1. Connect the DB9F-DB9M serial cable, Part Number 4918418, or USB cable, Part Number 4918419, to the computer.
  2. Connect the other end of that cable to the INLINE™5 datalink adapter, Part Number 3165033.
  3. Supply +8 VDC to +50 VDC at 250mA through the OEM connector or a separate power source.
  4. Connect the appropriate datalink cable to the INLINE™5 datalink adapter, Part Number 3165033.
  5. Connect the other end of the datalink cable to the vehicle cab or engine compartment datalink connector.
  6. Launch the electronic service tool application software.
Cooling water supply installation installation

⚠ The cooling water supply must be immediately available when the engine is started.

⚠ Do not operate without a pressure cap.

Tools: Appropriate-sized container

  1. Provide a cooling water discharge line at the heat exchanger outlet and a supply line to the cooling water inlet.
  2. Check the pressure regulator setting on the cooling loop with water flowing through the heat exchanger.
  3. Adjust the cooling water based on water flow rather than water pressure.
  4. Measure the water flow using a container and elapsed time.
  5. Adjust both pressure regulators to provide flow at or above specifications.
Drive shaft installation installation

⚠ Do not use the engine lifting points for assembly!

Tools: Lifting device, Grease gun

  1. Ensure the engine and pump are correctly aligned.
  2. Verify engine position centered on frame side to side within +/- .76 mm (.03 in).
  3. Align engine center line to pump center line within +/- .76 mm (.03 in).
  4. Ensure pump center line to engine crankshaft center line (vertical) is 2 degrees +/- 1 degree.
  5. Ensure drive shaft mounting flanges are parallel.
  6. Lubricate the grease fittings on the drive shaft universal joint.
  7. Check engine is installed per pump manufacturer's specifications.
Fuel supply installation installation

⚠ Do not use copper or galvanized pipe for the fuel return or supply lines.

⚠ Do not mix gasoline, alcohol, gasohol, ethanol, or methanol with diesel fuel.

Tools: Container for contaminated fuel

  1. Install an elevated no. 2 diesel fuel tank or equivalent compatible with ASTM no. 2 diesel specifications.
  2. Size the fuel tank for the maximum expected full-load operation period.
  3. Install a fuel return line routed to the bottom of the fuel tank.
  4. Install a fuel supply line to the fire pump drive engine.
  5. Open the fuel filter/water separator drain and drain until no water is present.
Coolant pump/alternator belt inspection maintenance

⚠ Disconnect batteries (negative cable first) before service.

Tools: Cummins belt tension gauge 3822524

  1. Place engine in MANUAL and disconnect both batteries (negative first).
  2. Remove belt guard capscrews and belt guard.
  3. Visually inspect belt for frayed, worn, missing pieces or intersecting cracks.
  4. Check belt tension using Cummins belt tension gauge 3822524 at center span.
  5. Reinstall battery cables (negative last).
Coolant system preparation maintenance

⚠ Do not remove the pressure/fill cap from a hot engine. Wait until coolant temperature is below 50 C (122 F).

Tools: Refractometer

  1. Inspect the engine coolant hoses and hose clamps for proper installation and water tightness.
  2. Ensure the engine coolant heater maintains coolant temperature of 49 C (120 F) or above.
  3. Ensure coolant is present in the coolant heater before plugging into a dedicated circuit.
  4. Inspect the heat exchanger weekly for external damage and contamination.
  5. Add coolant if necessary: with sight gauge, keep level visible at center; without, fill to bottom of fill neck.
  6. Re-install the pressure/fill cap.
Cooling system drain and flush maintenance

⚠ Do not remove pressure cap from hot engine; wait until below 50 C (120 F).

⚠ Coolant is toxic - dispose per regulations.

Tools: filter wrench, container (57 L)

  1. Disconnect both batteries (negative first).
  2. Remove coolant expansion tank pressure/fill cap.
  3. Disconnect engine coolant heater power supply.
  4. Place container (min 57 L) under coolant drain valve.
  5. Open the drain petcock and drain coolant; drain engine heater.
  6. Flush with clean fresh water or heat exchanger cleaner.
  7. Install new coolant filter if needed.
  8. Fill with 50/50 antifreeze mixture and vent air.
  9. Operate engine to 82 C (180 F) and check for leaks.

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 QSK23 family

6
Part #DescriptionCategory
204-009Acronyms and Abbreviationsother_service
3822735Plastic bead blasting mediaother_service
4021375QSK23 Troubleshooting and Repair Manualother_service
DKE1200BHTLitho in U.S.A. (17-10)other_service
EX1200-7Upperstructure (continued)other_service
KS-E368RHead Officeother_service

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 QSK23?

The Cummins/Onan QSK23 engine has an oil capacity of 12.0 liters.

What is the displacement of the Cummins/Onan QSK23?

The Cummins/Onan QSK23 has a displacement of 23.0 liters with 6 cylinders.

Which generators use the Cummins/Onan QSK23 engine?

The Cummins/Onan QSK23 powers 10 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan C750 D6, Cummins/Onan C800 D6, Cummins/Onan CFP23E, Cummins/Onan CFP23E-F10, Cummins/Onan CFP23E-F20.

How often should you change the oil in the Cummins/Onan QSK23?

The Cummins/Onan QSK23 oil change interval is every 250 hours.

What is a common problem with the Cummins/Onan QSK23 engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Cummins/Onan QSK23 is: Over Current.