Cummins/Onan — Oil Change
Maintenance · Crankcase
From a Cummins/Onan operator's manual covering: P216, P218, P220. Check it applies to your exact model before use.
Applies to: Cummins/Onan P216, Cummins/Onan P218, Cummins/Onan P220
Before you start
- Hot crankcase oil can cause burns if it comes in contact with skin. Wear protective clothing and keep fingers and hands clear when draining oil.
- Accidental starting of the engine can result in severe personal injury or death. Disconnect the negative battery cable and spark plug wires while servicing engine.
Procedure
- Run engine until thoroughly warm before draining oil.
- Stop engine, place a pan under the drain outlet.
- Remove the oil drain plug or open the drain valve.
- After oil is completely drained, replace drain plug or close drain valve.
- Refill with oil of the correct API classification and appropriate SAE viscosity grade.
- Oil level should be to the FULL mark of the dipstick.
- Start engine and run briefly to check for oil leaks around the drain plug.
Tools required
- Drain pan Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- Oil level to FULL mark of dipstick
Full service-parts list: Cummins/Onan P216 →, Cummins/Onan P218 →, Cummins/Onan P220 →
Source: Cummins/Onan operator'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.