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Cummins/Onan 4BT 3.9 Generator Set

Cummins/Onan 4BT 3.9 generator set: . Specifications, engine details, filters, oil capacity and 3 document types.

3
Document types

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Specifications

Ratings spec sheet not in our library yet — see the documents below.

Filters & service parts

model family
ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filterMax intake restriction 635 mm [25.0 in] H2O turbocharged; 510 mm [20.0 in] H2O naturally aspirated—
Fuel filterStandard filter used as secondary filter in dual-filter applications—500 hr
Oil filter—250 hr
BeltMax deflection 9.5 to 12.7 mm [3/8 to 1/2 in]—
Coolant50-percent water and 50-percent ethylene glycol or propylene glycol-base antifreeze; low-silicate meeting ASTM 4985 (GM6038M)—6000 hr
OilSAE 15W-4014.2 liters—250 hr

Compiled from this model's family documentation — may include parts for closely-related variants. Confirm the exact part for your serial number.

Service intervals

16
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Air intake systemInspect500 hr6 moEvery 19,000 km [12,000 mi], 500 hours, or 6 months
AntifreezeCheck1000 hr12 moEvery 38,000 km [24,000 mi], 1000 hours, or 1 year
Valve lash clearanceAdjust1000 hr12 moInitial adjustment at 38,000 km [24,000 mi]; subsequent at 77,000 km [48,000 mi]
Air cleaner filterInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Air compressorInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
AntifreezeChange2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Belt tensionCheck2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Belt tensionerInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Charge air cooler (CAC)Check2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Cooling systemDrain2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years; drain/flush/fill
Fan hubInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Fuel filterReplace2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Intake systemInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Lubricating oilChange2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Lubricating oil filterReplace2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 2 years
Vibration damperInspect2000 hr24 moEvery 77,000 km [48,000 mi], 2000 hours, or 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

58
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
ClearanceExhaust Manifold Flatness0.10mmMAX
ClearanceFlywheel Bore Alignment T.I.R.0.020mmMAX, SAE No. 1, 2, 3
ClearanceFlywheel Bore Runout T.I.R.0.127mmMAX
ClearanceTensioner spring case to arm clearance (max)3mm [0.12 in]
ClearanceTurbocharger Wastegate Actuator Rod Travel5mmapproximately, without sticking or air leakage
ClearanceValve Depth C0.99 MIN, 1.52 MAXmm
ClearanceValve Head Rim Thickness0.79mmMIN
ClearanceValve Seat Grinding Depth B0.254mmMAX
ClearanceValve Seat Grinding Width1.5 MIN, 2.0 MAXmmwith 60 degree stone (A) and 15 degree stone (B)
ClearanceValve Seat-to-Valve Guide Concentricity0.05mmMAX, 360 Degrees
ClearanceValve Seats Grinding Cleanup Depth0.254mmMAX
ClearanceValve Spring Compression Height49.25mmat 289.13 N MIN [65.0 lbf] / 321.16 N MAX [72.2 lbf]
ClearanceValve Spring Free Length55.63mmMIN
ClearanceValve Spring Inclination1.0mmMAX
ClearanceValve Stem Diameter7.94 MIN, 7.98 MAXmm
ClearanceVibration damper index line misalignment (max)1.59mm [1/16 in]
GapBelt deflection at longest span9.5 to 12.7mm [3/8 to 1/2 in]
OtherValve Seat Grinding AngleIntake: 30, Exhaust: 45degrees
PressureDifferential Pressure to Open Bypass Valve138kPa
PressureLubricating Oil Pressure at Idle69kPaMinimum Allowable
PressureLubricating Oil Pressure at Rated207kPaMinimum Allowable
PressureLubricating oil pressure at idle (minimum allowable)69kPa [10 psi]at idle
PressureLubricating oil pressure at rated (minimum allowable)207kPa [30 psi]at rated rpm
PressurePressure Cap (104°C systems)103kPa
PressurePressure Cap (99°C systems)48kPa
PressurePressure cap (104 C [220 F] systems)103kPa [15 psi]
PressurePressure cap (99 C [210 F] systems)48kPa [7 psi]
PressureRegulating Valve Opening Pressure449kPa
PressureTurbocharger Wastegate Functional Pressure200kPaapplied to capsule
SpeedEngine cranking speed (minimum)150rpm
TemperatureRing Gear Heating127°C20 minutes in oven preheated
TemperatureStandard Modulating Thermostat Range - fully open95C [203 F]
TemperatureStandard Modulating Thermostat Range - start to open83C [181 F]
TemperatureThermostat Range83-95°CStart 83 [181] - Fully Open 95 [203]
TorqueBelt Tensioner Mounting43N*m [32 ft-lb]
TorqueExhaust manifold43N*m [32 ft-lb]tighten in sequence
TorqueFan Pulley43N*m [32 ft-lb]
TorqueFuel Filter Adapter Nut32N*m [24 ft-lb]
TorqueFuel supply line to lift pump24N*m [18 ft-lb]
TorqueInjector high-pressure fuel line fittings24N*m [18 ft-lb]
TorqueLubricating Oil Cooler Assembly24N*m [18 ft-lb]
TorqueLubricating Oil Pan Drain Plug (aluminum)55N*m [41 ft-lb]lubricated threads
TorqueLubricating Oil Pan Drain Plug (steel)80N*m [59 ft-lb]lubricated threads
TorqueLubricating Oil Pressure Regulator Plug80N*m [59 ft-lb]
TorqueRocker lever cover capscrews24N*m [18 ft-lb]
TorqueStarter Mounting43N*m [32 ft-lb]
TorqueThermostat Housing24N*m [18 ft-lb]
TorqueTurbocharger mounting43N*m [32 ft-lb]
TorqueValve Cover12N*m [106 in-lb]
TorqueValve lash adjustment locknut24N*m [18 ft-lb]
TorqueWater Inlet Connection43N*m [32 ft-lb]
TorqueWater Pump Mounting24N*m [18 ft-lb]
Valve clearanceExhaust clearance (overhead set)0.508mm [0.020 in]cold
Valve clearanceExhaust valve clearance0.51mm [0.020 in]cold
Valve clearanceIntake clearance (overhead set)0.254mm [0.010 in]cold
Valve clearanceIntake valve clearance0.25mm [0.010 in]cold
Valve clearanceValve Clearance - Exhaust0.51mm
Valve clearanceValve Clearance - Intake0.25mm

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
Coolant40% water and 60% antifreezebelow -37°CRecommended for temperatures below -37°C [-34°F]. Never use more than 60% antifreeze.
Coolant50% ethylene-glycol base antifreeze and waterabove -37°CRequired for operation above -37°C [-34°F]. Never use more than 60% antifreeze. Never use water alone.
Coolant50-percent ethylene glycol or propylene glycol antifreeze / 50-percent waterLow-silicate antifreeze meeting ASTM 4985 test (GM6038M spec.); water must not exceed 300-ppm hardness or 100 ppm chloride or sulfateabove -33°CNever use more than 68-percent antifreeze. Drain/replace every 2 years, 320,000 km [200,000 mi], or 6000 hours. 68% EG = -63 C [-81 F]; 68% PG = -71 C [-96 F].
Engine oil10W-30 (low-viscosity)below -5°CLimited use for easier starting below -5 C [23 F]; continuous use can decrease engine life
Engine oil5W-20 or 5W-30 (synthetic CEISG / CE/SG)Synthetic CEISGbelow -23°CArctic operation - ambient temperatures consistently below -23 C [-10 F] with no engine warm provisions
Engine oilSAE 15W-40API CE/SG (CC/CD or CD/SF allowed where CE unavailable; reduce oil change interval to half)Cummins Premium Blue or equivalent. Sulfated ash must not exceed 1.85 mass percent. Do not use break-in oils.
FuelASTM No. 2-D diesel with minimum cetane number of 40ASTM No. 2-Dbelow 0°CBelow 0 C [32 F] use a blend of No. 1-D and No. 2-D (winterized No. 2 D). Use low-sulfur fuel with cloud point at least 10 degrees below lowest expected fuel temperature. Viscosity must be kept above 1.3 centistokes at 40 C [104 F]. Do not mix gasoline, alcohol, or gasohol with diesel fuel.

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
Overhead Set (Valve Lash Adjustment) adjustment

⚠ To avoid engine or timing pin damage, disengage the timing pin after locating top dead center.

Tools: 1/2-inch drive, Engine Barring Tool, Part No. 3824591, Feeler Gauge, 14-mm Wrench, Flat-Blade Screwdriver or 5-mm Allen Wrench, 15 mm wrench

  1. Remove the valve cover.
  2. Locate top dead center (TDC) for cylinder No. 1 by barring the crankshaft while pressing on the timing pin.
  3. When the timing pin engages the hole in the camshaft gear, cylinder No. 1 is at TDC on the compression stroke.
  4. Set only valves indicated by the arrows (E = exhaust, I = intake).
  5. Holding the locknut steady with the wrench, adjust the valve clearance with the screwdriver or Allen wrench.
  6. Tighten the locknut to 24 N*m [18 ft-lb], and measure the valve lash again.
  7. Mark the vibration damper, and rotate the crankshaft 360 degrees.
  8. Adjust the remaining valves as indicated; tighten locknuts to 24 N*m [18 ft-lb].
  9. Install the rocker lever covers and tighten the capscrews to 24 N*m [18 ft-lb].
Turbocharger Wastegate Capsule (3-03) Checking diagnostic
  1. Visually inspect the wastegate actuator hose for cracks or holes. Replace if damaged.
  2. Visually inspect the wastegate mounting bracket, actuator rod, and lever for damage.
  3. A bent bracket, rod, or lever must be replaced. Refer to Procedure 3-05.
Turbocharger Wastegate Functional (3-04) Checking diagnostic

Tools: dial indicator, pressure gauge, regulated air pressure source

  1. Attach a dial indicator so its shaft is in line with the wastegate actuator rod.
  2. Set the indicator to zero, with no air pressure applied to the wastegate capsule.
  3. Connect clean regulated air pressure and a pressure gauge to the capsule.
  4. Apply 200 kPa [29 psi]. The rod should move approximately 5 mm [0.200 in] without sticking or air leakage.
  5. No air should be heard to leak through a functional wastegate capsule.
Cooling System - Drain/Flush/Fill maintenance

⚠ Do not remove the pressure cap from a hot engine. Wait until the coolant temperature is below 50 C [122 F].

⚠ Coolant is toxic. Keep away from children and pets.

⚠ Never use water alone for coolant.

Tools: Drain pan with capacity of 19 liters [5 gal]

  1. Drain the cooling system by opening the drain valve on the radiator and removing the plug in the bottom of the water inlet.
  2. Check for damaged hoses and loose or damaged hose clamps; replace as required.
  3. Fill the system with a mixture of sodium carbonate and water (0.5 kg [1.0 lb] sodium carbonate per 23 liters [6.0 gal] of water).
  4. Operate the engine for 5 minutes with the coolant reaching above 80 C [176 F].
  5. Shut the engine off and drain the cooling system.
  6. Fill the cooling system with clean water; operate engine 5 minutes above 80 C [176 F]; drain again until water is clean.
  7. Fill with a mixture of 50-percent water and 50-percent ethylene glycol antifreeze.
Drain Lubricating Oil maintenance

⚠ Avoid direct contact of hot oil with your skin.

Tools: 17 mm wrench, Container able to hold at least 20 liters [15 qt]

  1. Operate the engine until the water temperature reaches 60 C [140 F]. Shut the engine off.
  2. Remove the oil drain plug and drain the oil into a suitable container.
  3. Clean the sealing surface, check the oil drain plug threads, and install the drain plug.
  4. Torque drain plug: steel pan 80 N*m [59 ft-lb]; aluminum pan 60 N*m [44 ft-lb].
Fuel Supply Lines - Vent (Low-Pressure Lines and Fuel Filter) maintenance

Tools: 8 mm wrench

  1. Open the vent screw.
  2. Operate the priming button on the lift pump until the fuel flowing from the fitting is air free.
  3. Tighten the bleed screw to 9 N*m [80 in-lb].
Injector Supply Lines (High Pressure) - Vent maintenance

⚠ While testing the injectors, keep hands and body parts away from the injector nozzle.

⚠ Do not bleed the fuel system on a hot engine.

Tools: 17 mm wrench, 19 mm wrench

  1. Loosen one or more fittings at the injectors.
  2. Crank the engine to allow entrapped air to bleed from the lines.
  3. Start the engine and vent one line at a time until the engine runs smoothly.
  4. Tighten the line fittings to 30 N*m [22 ft-lb].
Replace Fuel Filter (Spin-On Type) maintenance

⚠ Mechanical overtightening will distort threads, filter element seal, or filter can.

Tools: 75 to 80 mm and 90 to 95 mm filter wrenches

  1. Warn the area around the fuel filter head. Remove the filter(s).
  2. Clean the gasket surface of the filter head.
  3. Replace the o-ring.
  4. Fill the new filter(s) with clean fuel, and lubricate the o-ring seal with clean lubricating oil.
  5. Install the filter as specified by the filter manufacturer.
Replace Lubricating Oil Filter maintenance

⚠ Mechanical overtightening of filter can distort the threads or damage the filter element seal.

Tools: 90- to 95-mm filter wrench

  1. Clean the area around the lubricating oil filter head.
  2. Remove the filter using a 90- to 95-mm filter wrench.
  3. Clean the gasket surface of the filter head; make sure the o-ring is removed.
  4. Fill the filter with clean lubricating oil before installation.
  5. Apply a light film of lubricating oil to the gasket sealing surface.
  6. Install the filter as specified by the filter manufacturer.
Engine Shutdown operation
  1. Allow the engine to idle 3 to 5 minutes before shutting it off after a full-load operation.
  2. Turn the ignition key switch to the OFF position.
Normal Starting Procedure operation

⚠ Do not operate a diesel engine where there are or can be combustible vapors.

  1. Disengage the driven unit, or if equipped, put the transmission in neutral.
  2. With the throttle in the idle position, turn the key to the ON position.
  3. Wait for the WAIT-TO-START lamp to go out, then turn the key to the START position.
  4. If the engine does not start after three attempts, check the fuel supply system.
  5. Idle the engine 3 to 5 minutes before operating with a load.
  6. Do not operate engine at low idle for more than 10 minutes.
Starting Procedure After Extended Shutdown or Oil Change operation
  1. Disconnect the electrical wire from the fuel pump solenoid.
  2. Rotate the crankshaft, using the starting motor, until oil pressure appears on the gauge or the warning lamp goes out.
  3. Connect the electrical wire to the fuel pump solenoid valve.
  4. Start the engine; refer to normal starting procedures.
  5. Refer to fuel system - bleeding to vent the fuel system.

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

Parts

11model family
Part #DescriptionQtySystem
3822509Injection Pump Bore Brush Service Tool1Injector Amazon eBay
3823276injector bore brush1Injector Amazon eBay
3824469fuel pump gear puller1Fuel pump Amazon eBay
3377259bosch timing tool (ve)1Service part / kit Amazon eBay
3824591Barring tool Rotate the engine1Service part / kit Amazon eBay FridayParts $18.60
7202-3005SeriesService part / kit Amazon eBay
C2800Fleetguard® refractometer1Service part / kit Amazon eBay NAPA $393.59
CC2800Fleetguard refractometerService part / kit Amazon eBay
K19-CP460 kWe1Service part / kit Amazon eBay
K38-CP920 kWe1Service part / kit Amazon eBay
K50-CP1240 kWe1Service part / kit Amazon eBay

Compiled from this model's family documentation — may include parts for closely-related variants. Confirm the exact part for your serial number. See the full parts catalog to search and cross-reference.

Available documents

Owner's manual — LeeBoy-Cummins-B3.9-B5.9-Engine-Manuals (Cummins/Onan)Parts manual — 0043090 (Cummins/Onan)Parts manual — Каталог-Cummins-4BT3.9 (Cummins/Onan)Service manual — CONTENTS-Cummins-B-Series-Troubleshooting-Repair-3666087-588pages (Cummins/Onan)

This page was generated from the 4 manufacturer documents above by automated extraction; every figure shown is copied from one of them. How the data is compiled.