Cummins/Onan — Battery Connections
Installation
From a Cummins/Onan service manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.
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Before you start
- Batteries present hazard of explosion.
- Do not smoke or allow arc-producing devices in battery area.
- Do not disconnect battery cables while generator set is cranking or running.
Procedure
- Choose a battery and cables appropriate for the application and provide an adequate battery installation area.
- Use a separate battery from the vehicle starting battery for generator set operation.
- House battery in its own compartment, away from generator set and any spark-producing device.
- Build battery compartment with minimum 1.7 in2 (11 cm2) opening at top and 1.7 in2 (11 cm2) opening at bottom for ventilation.
- Mount battery on a rigid support structure in a location where leaks and spills won't damage set or battery.
- Connect positive (+) battery cable to starter solenoid; assemble B+ terminal boot cover onto generator end of cable.
- Connect negative (-) battery cable to mounting plate using same size cable as positive.
- Connect positive (+) battery cable to POS (+) battery post first, then connect negative (-) battery cable to NEG (-) battery post last.
Specs & values
- 1.7 in2 (11 cm2) ventilation opening at top and bottom
Source: Cummins/Onan service manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.