HomeEnginesGeneral Motors GM8.1L

General Motors GM8.1L Engine

The General Motors GM8.1L is a 8.1 L engine. It powers generator sets from Cummins/Onan, including the GGLA.

Also known as: General Motors GM8.1L

8.1 L
Displacement

Engine specifications

Displacement8.1 L

Generator sets powered by this engine

1

Common problems

1
  • If the engine does not start, the starter will disengage after a specified period of time and the control will indicate an overcrank shutdown.
    Fix: To clear a Fail to Start shutdown, place the O/Manual/Auto switch in the O position and press the Fault Acknowledge/Reset button. Wait two minutes for the starter motor to cool and then repeat the starting procedure. If the engine does not run after a second attempt, refer to the Troubleshooting section.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the General Motors GM8.1L.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Fuel filter
Oil filter
BatteryGround Voltage: 12 Volts, Group Number: 31, Minimum Rating (Cold Soak): 455 CCA @ 0° F (-18° C)
Belt
Coolant
OilCheck the engine oil level. Keep the oil level near as possible to the dipstick high mark without overfilling.
Spark plug

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

Common questions

What is the displacement of the General Motors GM8.1L?

The General Motors GM8.1L has a displacement of 8.1 liters.

Which generators use the General Motors GM8.1L engine?

The General Motors GM8.1L powers 1 generator set(s), including Cummins/Onan GGLA.

What is a common problem with the General Motors GM8.1L engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the General Motors GM8.1L is: If the engine does not start, the starter will disengage after a specified period of time and the control will indicate an overcrank shutdown.. Fix: To clear a Fail to Start shutdown, place the O/Manual/Auto switch in the O position and press the Fault Acknowledge/Reset button. Wait two minutes for the starter motor to cool and then repeat the starting procedure. If the engine does not run after a second attempt, refer to the Troubleshooting section..