HomeCummins/OnanCummins/Onan 37 DGBA

Cummins/Onan 37 DGBA Generator Set

The Cummins/Onan 37 DGBA is a 37 kW (46 kVA) diesel standby generator set powered by a Cummins/Onan 4B3.9 engine. It operates at 60 Hz and 3-phase. It holds about 11 L (2.9 gal) of oil and 21 L (5.5 gal) of coolant.

37 kW
Standby
11.0 L
Oil capacity
1
Document types

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

Typical fuel consumption for 35–40 kW Diesel generators →

Compare with other 35–40 kW Diesel generators →

Specifications

Fueldiesel
Frequency60.0 Hz
Standby power37 kW
Standby kVA46
ControllerDetector 12 (optional), Detector 7 (standard)
Oil capacity11.0 L
Phase3
Power factor0.8
Battery voltage24 Volts DC V
Battery quantity2
Coolant capacity21 L

Engine

Cummins/Onan 4B3.9
Oil capacity11.0 L
Coolant capacity21.0 L

Maintenance & consumables

for the Cummins/Onan 4B3.9
ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filterReplace yearly or when service indicator pops up8760 hr
Fuel filterChange per maintenance schedule500 hr
Oil filterChange per maintenance schedule500 hr
BatteryGroup 4D, 12 Volt, 1080 CCA minimum, vented lead acid
BeltCheck tension per maintenance schedule; replace if hard or brittle
CoolantRefer to Cummins engine Operation and Maintenance Manual for coolant recommendations/specifications29.5 L500 hr
Coolant filterChange per maintenance schedule500 hr
OilRefer to Cummins engine Operation and Maintenance Manual for lubricating oil classification and viscosity25.2 L500 hr
Spark plug

Service intervals

4
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Crankcase oilChange50 hrFirst service — Drain and replace the crankcase oil after the first 50 hours of operation on new generator sets (break-in)
Valve lashAdjust1000 hrFootnote 5: Contact an authorized service center for service.
Alternator bearings (sealed)Inspect4000 hrInspect all sealed bearings every 4000 to 4500 hours (10000 hr/2 years)
Alternator bearings (sealed)Replace30000 hrReplace all sealed bearings every 30000 hr/5 years (or if necessary after 10000 hr/2 years)

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

20
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
OtherAutomatic stop delay after normal power source returnsabout 15 minutesminutes
OtherCoolant level below radiator cap openingabout two inches (50 mm)mmcold engine
OtherExercise periodat least once a week for a minimum of 30 minutes with loadminutes
OtherPower rating reference conditionsaltitude 300 feet (92 m), ambient temperature 81 F (27 C)
PressureLow oil pressure shutdown14 psi (97 kPA)psi
PressureNormal engine oil pressure range25 to 40 psi (172 to 275 kPa)psi
PressurePre-low oil pressure alarm20 psi (137 kPA) or lesspsi
ResistanceBattery specific gravity (recharge threshold)recharge if below 1.260specific gravity
SpeedCycle cranking (optional)three 15-second cranking cycles with two 15-second rest periodsseconds
SpeedOvercrank cranking limit75seconds
SpeedOverspeed shutdown (50 Hz units)1850 +50r/min
SpeedOverspeed shutdown (60 Hz units)2100 ±90r/min
SpeedStarter disconnect speed450 to 570RPM
TemperatureEngine coolant maintained minimum per NFPA 110 (with coolant heaters)90 F (32 C)F
TemperatureHigh engine temperature shutdownabove 222 F (106 C)F
TemperatureLow engine temperature (LET) alarm70 F (21 C) or lowerF
TemperaturePre-high engine temperature alarmapproximately 215 F (102 C)F
VoltageGenerator AC voltage regulation from no load to full loadplus or minus two percent%
VoltageRandom voltage variation for constant loadsplus or minus one percent%
VoltageVoltage adjusting rheostat rangeapproximately plus or minus five percent adjustment of the rated output voltage%

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
Coolantwater/antifreeze mixture21.0 litresCapacity with standard radiator 5.5 gallons (21 litres) for 37 DGBA, 35 DGBB, 40 DGBC, 50 DGCA, 60 DGCB; 6.5 gallons (25 litres) for 80 DGDA, 100 DGDB. Do not use antifreeze with anti-leak additives.
Engine oilSAE 5W syntheticAPI class CC/CD; sulphated ash content does not exceed 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 -23°CFor ambient temperature consistently below -10 F (-23 C) with no provision to keep engine warm; do not use petroleum base 5W grade oil
Engine oilSAE 10W30 / SAE 15W40 / SAE 20W40 (spec table)-25°C to 35°C11.0 litresSpecifications table: Oil Capacity with Filters 11.5 quarts (11 litres) for 37 DGBA, 35 DGBB, 40 DGBC, 50 DGCA, 60 DGCB; 17.3 quarts (16 litres) for 80 DGDA, 100 DGDB. Oil type -13 F to 95 F (-25 C to 35 C) SAE 10W30; 14 F (-10 C) and above SAE 15W40; 32 F (0 C) and above SAE 20W40
Engine oilSAE 10W-30API Class CC/CD (max sulphated ash 1.85 percent)-23°C to -10°C-10 F (-23 C) to 14 F (-10 C)
Engine oilSAE 15W-40API Class CC/CD (max sulphated ash 1.85 percent)above -10°C14 F (-10 C) and above
Engine oilSAE 20W-40API Class CC/CD (max sulphated ash 1.85 percent)above 0°C32 F (0 C) and above
FuelNo. 2 diesel fuelEngine will also operate on No. 1 fuel or other similar fuels; consult engine manufacturer for specific requirements

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

12
CodeNameMeaningSeverityAction
FAULT 1FAULT 1 (red) lampIndicates an undedicated fault. May be field programmed as a shutdown or non-shutdown, and as a timed or non-timed fault (normally set for timed shutdown).ShutdownDetermined when the set installation is designed.
FAULT 2FAULT 2 (red) lampIndicates same features as Fault 1 (normally set for timed shutdown).ShutdownDetermined when the set installation is designed.
HI ENG TEMPHI ENG TEMP (red) lampIndicates engine has shut down because of critically high engine temperature (above 222 F/106 C) or low coolant level.ShutdownAllow engine to cool; check coolant level and replenish; check for cooling airflow obstructions; check fan belt; reset control and restart.
LO FUELLO FUEL (yellow) lampIndicates fuel supply is marginally low.WarningCheck fuel supply and replenish as required.
LO OIL PRESLO OIL PRES (red) lampIndicates engine has shut down because of critically low oil pressure (below 14 psi/97 kPa).ShutdownCheck oil level, lines and filters; replenish oil if low; reset control and restart; contact an authorized service center if oil pressure is not in the range of 25 to 40 psi (172 to 275 kPa).
LOW ENG TEMPLOW ENG TEMP (yellow) lampLights if engine temperature is marginally low for starting (70 F/21 C or lower); may indicate an inoperative coolant heater.WarningCheck coolant heater power supply, fuse and heater cord; check coolant level and replenish.
OVERCRANKOVERCRANK (red) lampIndicates engine has failed to start during the cranking period.ShutdownCheck for empty fuel tank, fuel leaks or plugged fuel lines; check for dirty fuel or air filter and replace if necessary; reset control and restart.
OVERSPEEDOVERSPEED (red) lampIndicates engine has shut down because of excessive speed.ShutdownContact an authorized service center for service.
PRE HI ENG TEMPPRE HI ENG TEMP (yellow) lampIndicates engine temperature is marginally high (approximately 215 F/102 C) and engine continues to operate.WarningReduce load if possible; check air inlets and outlets and remove obstructions to airflow.
PRE LO OIL PRESPRE LO OIL PRES (yellow) lampIndicates engine oil pressure is marginally low (20 psi/137 kPa or less) and engine continues to operate.WarningFind and correct the cause as soon as possible.
RUNRUN (green) lampComes on when starter circuit opens after set starting.Info
SWITCH OFFSWITCH OFF (flashing red) lampIndicates generator set is not in automatic start mode.WarningMove the Run/Stop/Remote switch to the Remote position for automatic starting.

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Procedures

5
Air Cleaner Element Replacement maintenance

⚠ Filters should be handled with care to prevent damage. If the filter does become damaged, install recommended replacement part.

  1. Remove the air cleaner cover.
  2. Remove thumb screw and gasket washer, then remove the element from air cleaner.
  3. Wipe out the interior of the air cleaner housing and cover with a clean, damp cloth.
  4. Install new element and secure with gasket washer and thumb screw.
  5. Put on the air cleaner cover and secure.
Engine Oil Change maintenance

⚠ Crankcase pressure can blow out hot oil and cause serious burns. Do NOT check oil while the generator set is operating.

Tools: Oil drain pan

  1. Bring the engine up to operating temperature and then shut if off.
  2. Open the drain valve and collect the engine oil in a pan. When the crankcase is drained close the drain valve.
  3. Fill the crankcase to the full mark on the dipstick. Allow for oil filters when drained or if changed.
  4. Start the engine and check for oil leaks.
  5. Shut off the engine and wait 15 minutes before checking the oil level. Add oil if required.
Filling the Cooling System (Standard Radiator and Heat Exchanger Sets) maintenance

⚠ Contact with hot coolant can result in serious burns. Do not bleed hot, pressurized coolant from a closed cooling system.

  1. Remove the cooling system pressure cap and fill the system with water or a water/antifreeze mixture.
  2. When the engine is first started, remove the pressure cap and monitor the coolant level.
  3. As trapped air is expelled from the system, the coolant level will drop and additional coolant should be added.
  4. Replace the pressure cap when the coolant level is stable.
Flushing and Cleaning the Cooling System maintenance

⚠ Excessive air pressure while starting the water flow could split the radiator core. Apply air pressure gradually to avoid damage.

Tools: Flushing gun nozzle

  1. Chemical Cleaning: use a good cooling system cleaner such as sodium bisulphate or oxalic acid and follow the supplier instructions. Neutralize and flush with clean water.
  2. Flushing: open the upper and lower radiator hose connections and install the radiator cap.
  3. Attach a flushing gun nozzle to the lower radiator hose connection and let the water run until the radiator is full.
  4. Gradually apply air pressure to avoid damaging the core. Shut off the air and allow the radiator to refill. Repeat until water coming from the radiator is clean.
  5. To flush the engine block, first remove the thermostat. Attach the flushing gun to the upper radiator hose and fill the block with water.
  6. Restrict the lower radiator hose opening until the block is filled. Apply air pressure and force water from the lower opening. Repeat until water is clean.
  7. Replace the thermostat and all hoses and refill cooling system.
Oil Filter Change maintenance

Tools: Filter wrench

  1. Clean around the filter head.
  2. Using a filter wrench, remove the oil filter.
  3. Fill the filter with clean oil as recommended in Table 5-2.
  4. Apply a light film of lubricating oil to the gasket sealing surface before installing the filter.
  5. Install the filter until hand tight then turn an additional 1/2 turn.
  6. Start engine to verify that filter is tight and does not leak.

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 power rating of the Cummins/Onan 37 DGBA?

The Cummins/Onan 37 DGBA is rated 37 kW standby (46.0 kVA).

Which engine powers the Cummins/Onan 37 DGBA?

The Cummins/Onan 37 DGBA is powered by the Cummins/Onan 4B3.9 engine.

Is the Cummins/Onan 37 DGBA diesel or gas?

The Cummins/Onan 37 DGBA runs on diesel.

What is the oil capacity of the Cummins/Onan 37 DGBA?

The Cummins/Onan 4B3.9 engine in the Cummins/Onan 37 DGBA has an oil capacity of 11.0 liters.

Troubleshooting

6

Symptoms & remedies

SymptomCauseRemedy
PRE HI ENGINE TEMP lamp lights. Engine continues to operate.Indicates engine has begun to overheat and engine temperature has risen to approximately 215F (102C).A. Reduce load if possible by turning off non-critical loads. b. Check air inlets and outlets and remove any obstructions to airflow. If engine can be stopped, follow procedure in step 3.
HI ENG TEMP lamp lights. Engine shuts down.Allow engine to cool down completely before proceeding with the following checks: a. Check coolant level and replenish if low. Look for possible coolant leakage points and repair if necessary. b. Check for obstructions to cooling airflow and correct as necessary. c. Check for a slipping fan belt and tighten if loose. d. Reset control and restart after locating and correcting problem. Contact an authorized service center for service if none of the above.
PRE LO OIL PRES lamp lights. Engine continues to operate.Indicates engine has overheated (engine temperature has risen above 222F/106C) or coolant level is low (sets with coolant level sensor).A. Check coolant level and replenish if low. Look for possible coolant leakage points and repair if necessary. b. Check for obstructions to cooling airflow and correct as necessary. c. Check for a slipping fan belt and tighten if loose. d. Reset control and restart after locating and correcting problem. Contact an authorized service center for service if none of the above.
LO OIL PRES lamp lights. Engine shuts down.Indicates engine oil pressure has dropped to 20 psi (138 kPa).If generator is powering critical loads and cannot be shut down, wait until next shutdown period and then follow step 5 procedure. If engine can be stopped, follow procedures in step 5.
LO OIL PRES lamp lights.Indicates engine oil pressure has dropped to 14 psi (97 kPa).Check oil level, lines and filters. If oil system is OK but oil level is low, replenish. Reset control and restart. Contact an authorized service center if oil pressure is not in the range of 25 to 40 psi (172 to 275 kPa).
OVERCRANK lamp lights and engine stops cranking.Indicates possible fuel system problem.A. Check for empty fuel tank, fuel leaks, or plugged fuel lines and correct as required. b. Check for dirty fuel filter and replace if necessary (see Maintenance section). c. Check for dirty or plugged air filter and replace if necessary (see Maintenance section). d. Reset the control and restart after correcting the problem. Contact an authorized service center for service if none of the above.

Fault codes and symptom→remedy steps extracted from this model’s service/owner documentation; verify against the official manual before servicing. Full Cummins/Onan 37 DGBA troubleshooting guide (13 entries) →

Parts

22
Part #DescriptionQtySystem
300-3606Voltage Regulator Installation (PMG-Excited Generators), Rev. PAvr eBay
300-3607Voltage Regulator Installation (Self-Excited Generators), Rev. GAvr eBay
625-2141Day Tank Pump Control Wiring, Rev. PPump eBay
220-4289-31Main stator assembly (broad range generators)Service part / kit eBay
220-4289-32Main stator assembly (broad range generators)Service part / kit eBay
220-4289-33Main stator assembly (broad range generators)Service part / kit eBay
220-4289-34Main stator assembly (broad range generators)Service part / kit eBay
220-4289-35Main stator assembly (broad range generators)Service part / kit eBay
220-4298-31Main stator assemblyService part / kit eBay
220-4298-32Main stator assemblyService part / kit eBay
220-4298-33Main stator assemblyService part / kit eBay
220-4298-34Main stator assemblyService part / kit eBay
220-4298-35Main stator assemblyService part / kit eBay
220-4298-36Main stator assemblyService part / kit eBay
300-4111Auxiliary Relay Board (ARB), Rev. EService part / kit eBay
319-0969QS-Series Power Distribution Panel Wiring, Rev. GService part / kit eBay
612-64877-Light DC Control Wiring Diagram, Sh 1 and 2 of 2, Rev. VService part / kit eBay
612-648812-Light DC Control Wiring Diagram, Sh 1 and 2 of 2, Rev. WService part / kit eBay
612-6489AC Control Wiring Diagram (Without Meters), Rev. S, modified 6/2001Service part / kit eBay
612-6490AC Control Wiring Diagram (With Meters), Rev. ZB, modified 1/2002Service part / kit Amazon eBay
625-2164Generator Reconnection Diagrams, Sh 1 and 2 of 2, Rev. KService part / kit eBay
625-2256QS-Series Generator Connections When The Voltage Selector Switch Is Provided, Rev. BService part / kit eBay

Service, wear & replacement parts referenced for this model and its engine — confirm the exact part for your serial number. See the full parts catalog to search and cross-reference.

Available documents

Operator's manual — 960-0143 Cummins DGBA DGCA DGDA Operator's Manual (8-2015) (Cummins/Onan)