Cummins/Onan — Generator Set Exercise (Periodic Running Test)
Maintenance · Generator Set and Transfer Switch
From a Cummins/Onan owner's manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.
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Before you start
- Exhaust gas is deadly and can cause serious illness or injury. Shut down the GenSet immediately after detecting an exhaust leak.
- Fuel and oil leaks can create hazardous conditions that can cause serious injury.
Procedure
- At the GenSet, place the Remote/Stop/Run switch to the RUN position. GenSet will start.
- While running, check for visual and audible exhaust system leaks; observe security of exhaust system supports.
- Check the GenSet visually for fuel, oil, or coolant leaks.
- After GenSet reaches operating temperature (approx 10 minutes), observe and record oil pressure, oil temperature, coolant temperature, and battery charging rate.
- Operate the Phase Selector switch on the GenSet panel to read generator outputs; observe and record individual meters.
- If GenSet speed (frequency) or voltage requires adjustment, proceed to the Adjustments section.
- Open the transfer switch cabinet door; move the Motor Disconnect switch to the Off position.
- Transfer then retransfer the load using the manual operator handles.
- Move the Motor Disconnect switch to the Auto position.
- Close the cabinet door.
- At the GenSet, place the Remote/Stop/Run switch to the STOP position. GenSet will stop.
Specs & values
- Run at least 30 minutes once each week with at least 50 percent load (if possible)
Source: Cummins/Onan owner's 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.