Service parts for the K38
Grouped by system, with how many of each the parts manual calls for.
Air intake
1 requiredFuel system
1 requiredOil system
1 requiredCooling system
1 requiredPrices captured from merchant listings; some links are affiliate links. Confirm against your serial number before ordering.
Specifications
| Alternator | Stamford/AvK AvK |
|---|
Maintenance & consumables
for the Cummins/Onan K38 and K50| Item | Spec | Capacity | Part # | Interval | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air filter | unloader valve cap spring | 3810257 | Amazon eBay | ||
| Fuel filter | fuel filter, Cummins Part No. 256837 or Fleetguard® AF-251 | 3315844 | Amazon eBay $74.95 FridayParts $16.66 | ||
| Oil filter | filter wrench | 3375049 | 250 hr | Amazon eBay | |
| Battery | charger | — | 6000 hr | ||
| Belt | Install the fan belt idler assembly, the three lock washers and capscrews. | — | 6000 hr | ||
| Coolant | 6.8 L | — | 1500 hr | ||
| Coolant filter | 3822648/3823348 | 6000 hr | buy | ||
| Oil | Military Specification MIL-L-644, Type P-9 | 45.0 L | — | 6000 hr | |
| Spark plug | — | 6000 hr |
Service intervals
40| Item | Action | Hours | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air cleaner element - restriction | Check | 250 hr | 6 mo | Replace air cleaner element as required |
| Air compressor air cleaner element | Replace | 250 hr | 6 mo | Cummins two-cylinder compressor |
| All belts | Check | 250 hr | 6 mo | |
| Belt tension | Check | 250 hr | 6 mo | Measure in center span of pulleys; fan idler pulley design self-tensions |
| Belts | Check | 250 hr | 6 mo | Replace cracked or frayed belts |
| Coolant filter | Change | 250 hr | 6 mo | At each oil and filter change interval |
| Cooling fan | Check | 250 hr | 6 mo | Check for cracks, loose rivets, bent or loose blades |
| Cooling system additives (DCA4) | Check | 250 hr | 6 mo | Check concentration whenever coolant is added between filter changes |
| Crankcase breather tube/hose | Check | 250 hr | 6 mo | Remove and check internally for obstructions or sludge; clean or replace |
| Engine oil | Change | 250 hr | 6 mo | Whichever occurs first |
| Engine oil and oil filters | Change | 250 hr | 6 mo | Whichever occurs first |
| Fan idler pivot arm | Lubricate | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Water pump type grease until grease appears |
| Fuel filter | Replace | 250 hr | 6 mo | Clean area around fuel filter head first |
| Hoses | Inspect | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Check/replace as required |
| Lubricating oil | Test | 250 hr | 6 mo | First 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. |
| Oil filters | Change | 250 hr | 6 mo | Change filters with oil |
| Pulley tensioner | Check | 250 hr | 6 mo | |
| Batteries | Check | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Check electrolyte level and state of charge |
| Cold start aids | Check | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Seasonal |
| Crankshaft end clearance | Inspect | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Measure with dial indicator |
| Engine (steam clean) | Clean | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Before conducting any 1500 hour maintenance |
| Engine mounting bolts and nuts | Check | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Tighten loose; inspect rubber |
| Engine protection system | Check | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Follow manufacturer's recommended procedures |
| Fan idler pulley tensioner | Adjust | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Solid control rod engines only; shock absorber engines require no adjustment |
| Front engine support | Lubricate | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Lubricate until grease appears at outside of support |
| Heat exchanger zinc plugs (marine only) | Check | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Check length of all zinc plugs; replace if 50 percent eroded |
| Steam clean engine | Clean | 1500 hr | 12 mo | Before any 1500 hour maintenance |
| Valves and injectors | Adjust | 1500 hr | 12 mo | First service — Initial adjustment; then not again before 6000 hour/2 year injector calibration |
| Air compressor | Inspect | 6000 hr | 24 mo | Discharge and intake checks |
| Coolant | Change | 6000 hr | 24 mo | Clean and flush cooling system |
| Cooling system | Change | 6000 hr | 24 mo | Clean system and change antifreeze; whichever comes first |
| Crankcase breather element | Replace | 6000 hr | 24 mo | Clean/replace |
| Engine protection system | Adjust | 6000 hr | 24 mo | Calibration required |
| Fan hub | Inspect | 6000 hr | 24 mo | End clearance and grease leakage |
| Fan idler pulley assembly | Replace | 6000 hr | 24 mo | Rebuild or replace as necessary |
| Fuel pump | Clean | 6000 hr | 24 mo | Clean and calibrate at a Cummins Authorized Repair Location |
| Injectors | Clean | 6000 hr | 24 mo | Clean and calibrate at a Cummins Authorized Repair Location |
| Thermostats and seals | Replace | 6000 hr | 24 mo | Discard worn thermostats and seals |
| Throttle travel/throttle air cylinder | Check | 6000 hr | 24 mo | Throttle lever breakover 3 to 6 mm |
| Turbocharger | Inspect | 6000 hr | 24 mo | Check blades, shaft spin, axial and radial clearance |
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| Type | Item | Value | Unit | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clearance | Crankshaft end clearance | 0.13 MIN / 0.51 MAX | mm | |
| Clearance | Crankshaft end clearance | 0.13 to 0.51 | mm | engine mounted in unit |
| Clearance | Fan hub bearing end clearance | 0.03 MIN / 0.15 MAX | mm | |
| Clearance | Fan hub bearing end clearance | 0.03 to 0.15 | mm | |
| Clearance | Thermostat seal installation depth | no more than 0.51 | mm | below top of cast edge |
| Clearance | Turbocharger BB (RR-151) and (RR-153) end clearance | 0.09 MIN / 0.13 MAX | mm | |
| Clearance | Turbocharger BB bearing radial clearance - RR-151 | 0.75 MAX | mm | 0.030 in |
| Clearance | Turbocharger BB bearing radial clearance - RR-153 | 0.55 MAX | mm | 0.021 in |
| Clearance | Turbocharger axial end play - HC5A | 0.05 MIN / 0.13 MAX | mm | |
| Clearance | Turbocharger axial end play - HT7100 | 0.06 MIN / 0.16 MAX | mm | |
| Clearance | Turbocharger axial end play - T18A | 0.10 MIN / 0.23 MAX | mm | |
| Clearance | Turbocharger radial clearance compressor impeller - HC5A | 0.15 MIN / 0.45 MAX | mm | |
| Clearance | Turbocharger radial clearance turbine wheel - HC5A | 0.20 MIN / 0.55 MAX | mm | |
| Gap | Heat exchanger zinc plug erosion limit A | approximately 19 | mm | 0.75 in; new 51 mm [2 in] |
| Gap | Heat exchanger zinc plug erosion limit B | approximately 6.4 | mm | 0.25 in; new 16 mm [0.625 in] |
| Other | Air compressor discharge carbon deposit thickness limit | 2 | mm | 1/16 in |
| Other | Air starting motor minimum air pressure | 480 | kPa | |
| Other | Alternator belt tension | 356 | N | Burroughs tension gauge ST-1293 |
| Other | Fan belt tension (20, 22, 24 inch fan center) | 2668.9 to 2891.3 | N | two pulley fan drive |
| Other | Fan belt tension verification (28 inch fan center) | 2891.3 to 3336.2 | N | two pulley fan drive |
| Other | HVT non-top stop injector travel adjustment | 10.234 | mm | |
| Other | Maximum intake restriction, clean air filter element | 380 | mm H2O | |
| Other | Maximum intake restriction, dirty air filter element | 635 | mm H2O | |
| Other | Maximum vibration damper thickness - Houdaille | 66.38 | mm | 2.574 in |
| Other | Maximum vibration damper thickness - Made in England Before F-82 | 65.91 | mm | 2.595 in |
| Other | Maximum vibration damper thickness - Made in England F-82 and After | 65.66 | mm | 2.585 in |
| Other | Minimum cranking speed without starting aid | 150 | RPM | |
| Other | PTD injector travel limits | 7.77 to 7.87 | mm | |
| Other | PTD injector travel verification specification | 7.80 MIN / 7.82 MAX | mm | |
| Other | PTD non-top stop injector travel adjustment | 7.82 | mm | |
| Other | PTD non-top stop injector travel limits | 7.77 to 7.87 | mm | |
| Other | Turbocharger end play - AiResearch T18A | 0.10 to 0.23 | mm | |
| Other | Turbocharger end play - HT100 | 0.06 to 0.16 | mm | |
| Other | Turbocharger end play - Holset HC5A | 0.05 to 0.13 | mm | |
| Other | Two pulley fan drive belt tension (set) | 2668.9 to 2891.3 | N | 600 to 650 lbf |
| Other | Two pulley fan drive belt tension (verify) | 2891.3 to 3336.2 | N | 650 to 750 lbf |
| Other | Vibration damper maximum thickness - Houdaille | 65.38 | mm | |
| Other | Vibration damper thickness variation (four readings 90 degrees apart) | must not vary more than 0.25 | mm | 0.010 in |
| Other | Vibration damper thickness variation - maximum | 0.25 | mm | four locations 90 degrees apart |
| Pressure | Coolant pressure cap minimum | 50 | kPa | 7 psi |
| Pressure | Exhaust back pressure - maximum | 75 | mm Hg | at rated speed and load |
| Pressure | Exhaust back pressure maximum | 75 | mm Hg | 3 in Hg, at rated speed and load |
| Pressure | Maximum allowable intake restriction - clean filter element | 380 | mm H2O | 15 in H2O |
| Pressure | Maximum allowable intake restriction - dirty filter element | 635 | mm H2O | 25 in H2O |
| Pressure | Maximum allowable restriction to fuel pump - clean filter | 100 | mm Hg | 4 in Hg, at rated power |
| Pressure | Maximum allowable restriction to fuel pump - dirty filter | 200 | mm Hg | 8 in Hg, at rated power |
| Pressure | Maximum allowable restriction to pump - clean filter | 100 | mm Hg | at rated power |
| Pressure | Maximum allowable restriction to pump - dirty filter | 200 | mm Hg | at rated power |
| Pressure | Maximum allowable return line restriction | 63 | mm Hg | |
| Pressure | Maximum allowable return line restriction with check valves and/or overhead tanks | 165 | mm Hg | 6.5 in Hg |
| Pressure | Oil pressure - minimum at idle RPM | 138 | kPa | |
| Pressure | Oil pressure, main oil rifle - maximum at rated RPM | 483 | kPa | 15W-40 oil at 107 C [225 F] |
| Pressure | Oil pressure, main oil rifle - minimum at rated RPM | 310 | kPa | 15W-40 oil at 107 C [225 F] |
| Pressure | Oil pressure, main oil rifle, maximum at rated RPM | 483 | kPa | 15W-40 oil at 107 C [225 F] |
| Pressure | Oil pressure, main oil rifle, minimum at idle RPM | 138 | kPa | 15W-40 oil at 107 C [225 F] |
| Pressure | Oil pressure, main oil rifle, minimum at rated RPM | 310 | kPa | 15W-40 oil at 107 C [225 F] |
| Pressure | Throttle air cylinder leak test pressure | 689 | kPa | no leakage allowed |
| Pressure | Throttle air cylinder test pressure | 560 | kPa | extension rod retracted |
| Speed | Engine speed - must not exceed | 2400 | RPM | any circumstances |
| Speed | Engine speed must not exceed | 2400 | RPM | under any circumstances |
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
| Fluid | Grade | Standard | Ambient | Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coolant | 50 percent ethylene glycol / 50 percent water | Low-silicate antifreeze meeting ASTM D4985 (less than .10% silicate) | 50/50 gives -34 F freeze point and 228 F boiling point; working range 40 to 60 percent antifreeze; use refractometer, not hydrometer; pre-charge 1.5 SCA units per gallon | ||
| Coolant | 50/50 low-silicate antifreeze and quality water | ASTM D4985 (less than 0.10% silicate as Na2SiO5) | Must be pre-charged with supplemental coolant additives (DCA4) to 1.5 units per gallon; never below 1.2 or above 3 units per gallon. Do not use soluble oils. | ||
| Coolant | 60 percent ethylene glycol / 40 percent water | Low-silicate antifreeze | -54°C to -32°C | Arctic specification coolant mixture for -32 to -54 C [-25 to -65 F] | |
| Engine oil | Cummins Engine Oil Recommendations Bulletin 3810340 | Used to analyze oil samples for high horsepower engines with Eliminator™ oil filter option. | |||
| Engine oil | SAE 15W-40 | API CE or CF4 | Cummins Premium Blue or equivalent; CD or CD/SF acceptable where CE/CF4 not available; sulfated ash must not exceed 1.85 mass percent | ||
| Engine oil | SAE 5W-30 synthetic CE/SF | API CE or CF4 | below -23°C | For ambient temperatures consistently below -23 C [-10 F] with no provision to keep engine warm | |
| Fuel | ASTM No. 2 diesel | No. 2 D; blends of No. 2 D and No. 1 D below 0 C [32 F] | Viscosity must be kept above 1.3 cSt; maximum cloud and pour points 6 C [10 F] lower than ambient | ||
| Fuel | B100 biodiesel | ASTM D6751 | Must conform prior to blending; revised to include a cold soak test; stability requirement still in effect. | ||
| Fuel | B20 biodiesel blend | ASTM D7467 | Applies 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. | ||
| Fuel | B5 biodiesel | All Cummins automotive and industrial engines are compatible with B5 biodiesel. | |||
| Fuel | biodiesel (Europe) | EN 14214 | Published by CEN, European Committee for Standardization. Equivalent biodiesel specifications required internationally. | ||
| Grease | Water pump type grease (Amoco Rykon Premium No. 2 / Chevron SRI / Exxon Unirex N2 / Shell Dolium R / Texaco Premium RB) | Fan idler pivot arm and front engine support lubrication |
Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.
Procedures
12Alternator Belt Adjustment adjustment
⚠ Over-tensioning of alternator belts can result in premature accessory drive bushing wear and seal leakage.
Tools: GT-1293 Burroughs Tension Gauge
- Loosen the alternator and adjusting link mounting capscrews.
- Loosen the jam nuts on the adjusting screw.
- Turn the adjusting screw clockwise to tighten the belt tension.
- Check the belt tension with a gauge.
- Tighten the jam nuts on the adjusting screw to 55 Nm [40 ft-lb].
- Tighten the adjusting link and alternator mounting capscrews to 55 Nm [40 ft-lb].
- Check the belt tension again.
Crossheads - Adjustment adjustment
Tools: ST-669 Torque Wrench Adapter
- Adjust the crossheads on the cylinder that has both valves closed.
- Loosen the crosshead adjusting screw locknuts on the intake and exhaust valve crossheads.
- Turn the adjusting screw out at least one turn.
- Hold the crosshead down against its guide.
- Turn the adjusting screw in until it touches the top of the valve stem but does not raise the crosshead.
- Hold the adjusting screw and tighten the lock nut to the torque value.
Dipstick Calibration adjustment
⚠ The dipstick will break if the scribe mark is too deep.
Tools: scribe
- Drain the oil from the pan.
- Install the dipstick in the dipstick tube.
- Use clean 15W-40 oil to fill the oil pan to the specified low level.
- Remove the dipstick and scribe a mark across the dipstick at the oil level. Mark the low level with an L.
- Install the dipstick and add additional oil to the specified full level.
- Remove the dipstick and scribe a mark across the dipstick at the oil level. Mark the high oil level with an H.
PT (type D) Injector - Adjustment adjustment
⚠ The injector plunger is under spring tension. Do NOT allow the tool to slip.
Tools: 3822575 adjustment kit, 3822574 rocker lever actuator, ST-669 adapter
- Install injector and valve adjustment kit, Part No. 3822575.
- Adjust indicator tip to touch top of injector plunger.
- Lower indicator 12.25 mm [0.5 inch] and lock support.
- Depress rocker lever until injector bottoms two or three times.
- Hold plunger bottomed and set indicator to ZERO.
- Turn adjusting screw until indicator reads specified travel.
- Tighten locknut; verify setting.
Valves - Adjustment adjustment
⚠ Use the correct chart for the engine being serviced or the parts will be damaged.
Tools: 3376592 Inch Pound Torque Wrench, ST-669 Torque Wrench Adapter, feeler gauge
- Select a feeler gauge for the correct valve lash specification and insert the gauge between the rocker lever and the crosshead.
- Torque wrench method: use Part No. 3376592 inch pound torque wrench and tighten the adjusting screw to 0.68 Nm [6 in-lb].
- Feel method: use a screwdriver and turn the adjusting screw only until the lever touches the feeler gauge.
- The adjusting screw must not turn when the locknut is tightened.
- Tighten the locknut to the value indicated.
- The feeler gauge must slide backward and forward with only a slight drag.
- Attempt to insert a feeler gauge 0.03 mm [0.001 in] thicker; the lash is not correct when the thicker gauge will fit.
- Repeat until clearance is correct on both intake and exhaust valves.
Valves and Injectors - General Checking and Adjustment adjustment
⚠ Use the correct chart for the engine or the parts will be damaged.
⚠ Crosshead adjustment must always be made before adjusting the valves.
Tools: 3376592 inch pound torque wrench, 3822575 injector and valve adjustment kit, 3822574 rocker lever actuator, ST-669 torque wrench adapter
- Steam clean engine before removing rocker lever covers.
- Remove rocker lever covers and related components.
- Align valve set (VS) mark on damper or flywheel with pointer.
- Determine cylinder in position; crossheads and valves ready when all valves closed.
- Adjust crossheads before adjusting valves.
- Adjust valves to lash specification with feeler gauge.
- Adjust injectors per PT (type D) or STC/HVT method.
- Tighten locknuts and reinstall rocker lever covers.
Air Cleaner Element Replacement - Single Heavy Duty Dry-Type maintenance
⚠ Holes, loose end seals, dented sealing surfaces and other damage require immediate element replacement.
⚠ Pull the cover and element straight out to avoid damage.
- Wipe dirt from the cover and upper portion of the air cleaner before disassembly.
- Loosen the wing bolt and band clamp securing the dust pan.
- Loosen the wing nut and remove the dust shield from the dust pan. Clean the dust pan and shield.
- Remove the wing nut securing the primary element and inspect the rubber sealing washer.
- Remove the dirty cleaner element and install the new primary element.
- Make sure the rubber sealing washer is in place under the wing nut before tightening.
- Assemble the dust shield and dust pan and secure with the band clamp.
Coolant Filter Replacement maintenance
⚠ Do NOT remove the radiator cap from a hot engine.
⚠ Do not allow oil to get in the filter; it will adversely affect the DCA.
- Remove the coolant system pressure cap and close the shutoff valve(s), if equipped, before removing the coolant filter.
- Push in the knob on the filter head or close the gate valve.
- Lubricate the seal on the new filter with engine oil.
- Install the new coolant filter. Turn the filter until the seal touches the filter head.
- Turn the filter an additional 1/2 to 3/4 of a turn after contact.
- Pull the knob on the filter head out or open the gate valve.
Cooling System - Cleaning System and Changing Antifreeze maintenance
⚠ Do not use caustic cleaners; aluminum components will be damaged.
⚠ Wait until temperature is below 50 C [120 F] before removing the pressure cap.
- Drain the cooling system; do not allow it to dry out.
- Add Fleetguard RESTORE or RESTORE PLUS (1 U.S. gallon per 38-57 liters capacity).
- Fill system with plain water.
- Operate engine at normal temperature (at least 85 C [185 F]) for 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Shut off and drain the system.
- Fill with clean water and operate at high idle 5 minutes above 85 C.
- Shut off and drain; repeat flush if water is still dirty.
- Refill with new heavy duty coolant and SCA.
Cooling System Cleaning and Changing Antifreeze maintenance
⚠ Do not use caustic cleaners in the cooling system. Aluminum components will be damaged.
⚠ Wait until the temperature is below 50 C [120 F] before removing the coolant system pressure cap.
- Drain the cooling system. Do not allow the cooling system to dry out. Do not remove the coolant filter.
- Add 3.8 liters [1 U.S. gallon] of Fleetguard RESTORE (or equivalent) for each 38 to 57 liters [10 to 15 gallons] of cooling system capacity and fill with plain water.
- Turn the heater temperature switch to high to allow maximum coolant flow.
- Operate the engine at normal operating temperatures (at least 85 C [185 F]) for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Shut the engine off and drain the cooling system.
- Fill with clean water to flush and operate at high idle for 5 minutes above 85 C [185 F].
- Shut the engine off and drain. Repeat flushing if the water is still dirty.
- Refill the system with new heavy duty coolant and SCA.
Fan Belt - Removal and Installation (Back Side Idler System) maintenance
⚠ The fan belt idler is under tension. Do NOT allow your hands between the idler and belt or fan hub.
Tools: 8-point socket, breaker bar
- Remove the back side idler end of the shock absorber, control rod, or turnbuckle.
- Loosen upper capscrew and remove lower capscrew.
- Relieve idler spring tension with an 8-point socket and breaker bar.
- Remove the fan belt.
- Install the belt on crankshaft and fan hub pulley, aligning grooves with pulley ribs.
- Rotate idler against spring and install lock washer and capscrew; torque 45 Nm.
- Install control rod or shock absorber and tighten capscrews to 60-90 Nm.
Fan Hub Inspection maintenance
Tools: dial indicator
- Remove the fan belt.
- Rotate the fan hub pulley to check for rough or damaged bearings.
- Inspect the pulley grooves for excessive wear.
- Check for grease leakage.
- Use a dial indicator to check the bearing end clearance.
- Replace with a new or rebuilt unit as necessary.
- Install the fan belt.
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 engine does the Cummins/Onan K38 use?
The Cummins/Onan K38 is powered by the Cummins/Onan K38 and K50 engine.
What alternator comes on the Cummins/Onan K38?
The Cummins/Onan K38 uses a Stamford/AvK AvK alternator.
What oil filter does the Cummins/Onan K38 use?
The Cummins/Onan K38 uses oil filter part number 3375049.
What fuel filter fits the Cummins/Onan K38?
The Cummins/Onan K38 uses fuel filter part number 3315844.
What air filter fits the Cummins/Onan K38?
The Cummins/Onan K38 uses air filter part number 3810257.
Troubleshooting
6Symptoms & remedies
| Symptom | Cause | Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Will Not Crank or Cranks Slowly (Air Starter) | Incorrect Oil For Operating Conditions, Oil Temperature Too Low, Insufficient Air Pressure, Starter Malfunction or Incorrect Starter, External or Internal Conditions Affecting Engine Crankshaft Rotation | Change oil and filters. Use recommended type (15W-40), Install oil pan heater, Increase pressure using external air supply, Refer to manufacturer's instructions, Check engine for ease of crankshaft rotation |
| Engine Will Not Crank or Cranks Slowly (Electric Starter) | External or Internal Conditions Affecting Engine Crankshaft Rotation, Battery Connections. Broken, Loose or Corroded, Incorrect Oil, Oil Temperature Low, Battery Rating Too Low, Battery Temperature Too Low, Battery Charge Low, Starting Circuit Component Malfunction | Check engine for ease of crankshaft rotation, Check battery connections, Refer to Section A, Change oil and filters. Use recommended type (15W-40), Install oil pan heater, Replace with correct rating, Check battery heater operation, Check starting circuit components |
| Engine Hard to Start or Will Not Start (Exhaust Smoke Present) | Engine Cranking Speed Low (Below 150 RPM), Engine Driven Units Engaged, Cold Start Aid Needed or Not Working Correctly, Fuel Filter Plugged, Air in the Fuel System, Fuel Suction Line Restricted, Intake Air System Restricted, Fuel Contaminated | Check engine cranking RPM, Disengage engine driven units, Install cold start aid. Check, repair, or replace if necessary, Replace fuel filter, Check for air in fuel, tighten fuel connections and filter, check fuel tank stand pipe, Check fuel line for restrictions, Check intake air system for restrictions |
| Engine Cranks But Will Not Start (No Smoke From Exhaust) | No Fuel In Tank, Shut-off Valve Closed, No Fuel To Injectors, Air In The Fuel System, Engine Driven Units Engaged, Fuel Filter Plugged or Suction Line Restricted, Fuel Contaminated, Intake or Exhaust System Restricted | Add fuel, Use manual override. Repair electrics, Check for fuel, Tighten all fuel filter fittings and connections from fuel tank to fuel pump, Replace fuel filter, Inspect fuel hose for restriction, Verify by operating engine from a temporary supply tank, Check intake and exhaust system for restrictions |
| Engine Starts But Will Not Keep Running | Air In The Fuel System, Engine Driven Units Engaged, Fuel Filter Plugged or Fuel Waxing Due to Cold Weather, Fuel Suction Line Restricted, Fuel Contaminated, Intake or Exhaust System Restricted | Check for air in fuel, tighten fuel connections, tighten filter, check fuel tank stand pipe, Disengage engine driven units, Replace fuel filter. Weather conditions can require fuel heater, Inspect fuel line for restriction, Verify by operating engine from a temporary supply tank, Check intake and exhaust system for restrictions |
| Engine Will Not Shut Off | Fuel Pump Manual Override Open, Fuel Pump Shut-off Valve Disc Stuck, Fuel Tank Vents Plugged, Fuel Drain Line Restricted, Engine Running on Fumes Drawn into Air Intake | Check to make sure manual override screw is out to maximum travel, Check opening and closing of electrics, Remove, clean, or replace vents, Check fuel drain line for loops, crimps, clamped points, Locate and isolate the source of fumes |
Fault codes and symptom→remedy steps extracted from this model’s service/owner documentation; verify against the official manual before servicing. Full Cummins/Onan K38 troubleshooting guide (25 entries) →
Repair guides
21- Air Cleaner Element Replacement - Single Heavy Duty Dry-Type
- Alternator Belt Adjustment
- Cooling System - Cleaning System and Changing Antifreeze
- Cooling System Cleaning and Changing Antifreeze
- Crossheads - Adjustment
- Dipstick Calibration
- Fan Belt - Removal and Installation (Back Side Idler System)
- Fan Hub Inspection
- Fuel Filter(s) Replacement
- Fuel Pump Installation
- Fuel Pump Removal
- Fuel-Water Separator - Draining
- Injectors Installation
- Injectors Removal
- Lubricating Oil and Oil Filter Changing/Replacement
- PT (type D) Injector - Adjustment
- Short Term Storage Preparation (One Month to 6 Months)
- Thermostats and Seals Replacement
- Turbocharger - Inspection
- Valves and Injectors - General Checking and Adjustment
Step-by-step procedures compiled from the Cummins/Onan service manual for this model.
Parts
43| Part # | Description | Qty | System | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 193736 | O-ring (3), Part No. 193736, has a green dot or stripe. | 1 | O ring | Amazon eBay |
| 205216 | O-ring (2), Part No. 205216, has no markings. | 1 | O ring | Amazon eBay $74.95 |
| 3010510 | O-ring (1), Part No. 3010510, has a red dot or stripe. | 1 | O ring | Amazon eBay |
| 3305373 | Cummins Part No. DCA4 Units | 1 | Coolant filter | Amazon eBay |
| 3313279 | Full flow oil filter (Cummins Part No. 3313279) | 4 | Oil filter | Amazon eBay $19.99 FridayParts $26.68 |
| 3313283 | Bypass oil filter (Cummins Part No. 3313283) | 1 | Oil filter | Amazon eBay |
| 3313287 | Full flow oil filter (Cummins Part No. 3313287) | 4 | Oil filter | Amazon eBay FridayParts $26.68 |
| 3315115 | Cummins Part No. DCA4 Units | 8 | Coolant filter | Amazon eBay $74.95 |
| 3315116 | Cummins Part No. DCA4 Units | 4 | Coolant filter | Amazon eBay $45.60 |
| 3315459 | Cummins Part No. DCA4 Units | 1 | Coolant filter | Amazon eBay |
| 3315844 | Fuel filter (without draincock) | 1 | Fuel filter | Amazon eBay $74.95 FridayParts $16.66 |
| 3315847 | Fuel filter (with draincock) | 1 | Fuel filter | Amazon eBay $16.99 FridayParts $41.10 |
| 3316053 | Cummins Part No. DCA4 Units | 12 | Coolant filter | Amazon eBay $74.95 |
| 3317428 | Cummins Part No. DCA4 Units | 1 | Coolant filter | Amazon eBay |
| 3318157 | Cummins Part No. DCA4 Units | 2 | Coolant filter | Amazon eBay |
| 3318318 | Cummins Part No. DCA4 Units | 15 | Coolant filter | Amazon eBay |
| 3318319 | Cummins Part No. DCA4 Units | 1 | Coolant filter | Amazon eBay |
| 3375049 | Oil Filter Wrench | 1 | Oil filter | Amazon eBay |
| 3376000 | Injector puller | 1 | Injector puller | Amazon eBay |
| 3376497 | Injector puller | 1 | Injector puller | Amazon eBay |
| 3377193 | Battery Tester | 1 | Battery tester | Amazon eBay |
| 3379056 | Air Equipment Manual | Manual | Amazon eBay | |
| 3379071 | Injector PT Rebuild Manual, Bulletin No. 3379071. | Manual | Amazon eBay | |
| 3810235 | Exhaust Gas Turbocharger, RR-153, Instructions for Operation and Maintenance or Bulletin No. 3810235. | Manual | Amazon eBay | |
| 3810242 | Air Equipment Manual | Air filter | Amazon eBay | |
| 3810257 | unloader valve cap spring | Air filter | Amazon eBay | |
| 3810313 | PT (Type D) STC injector shop manual | Manual | Amazon eBay | |
| 3810325 | Exhaust-Gas Turbocharger, RR-151-12, Instructions for Operation and Maintenance or Bulletin No. 3810325. | Manual | Amazon eBay | |
| 3810347 | unloader valve cap spring | Air filter | Amazon eBay | |
| 3810432 | K38 and K50 Troubleshooting & Repair Manual | 1 | Manual | Amazon eBay |
| 3822574 | Rocker lever actuator | 1 | Actuator | Amazon eBay |
| 3822575 | Injector and valve adjustment kit | 1 | Injector | Amazon eBay FridayParts $96.36 |
| 3823875 | Belt tension gauge | Belt | Amazon eBay | |
| FF105 | Fuel filter (Fleetguard® without draincock) | 1 | Fuel filter | Amazon eBay $123.50 FridayParts $16.66 |
| FF105D | Fuel | 1 | Fuel filter | Amazon Amazon eBay $16.99 eBay $16.99 |
| KTA38-0201 | Engine Control Module | 1 | ECM / ECU | Amazon eBay |
| KTA38-0202 | Engine Control Unit | 1 | ECM / ECU | Amazon eBay |
| 3318201 | Battery Cable Group | 1 | Service part / kit | Amazon eBay |
| 33754364 | crack detection developer | Service part / kit | Amazon eBay | |
| 3376592 | Inch Pound Torque Wrench | 1 | Service part / kit | Amazon eBay $174.95 KuduParts $359.00 FridayParts $368.60 |
| 3810304 | K38 and K50 Shop Manual | 1 | Service part / kit | Amazon eBay |
| 3822648/3823348 | Top Stop Tappet Setting Tool (STC equipped engines only) | 1 | Service part / kit | buy |
| KTA38-0203 | Engine Control System | 1 | Service part / kit | Amazon 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
This page was generated from the 8 manufacturer documents above by automated extraction; every figure shown is copied from one of them. How the data is compiled.