Cummins/Onan P218 / P220 — Engine Speed Adjustment
Adjustments · Governor/throttle linkage and carburetor stops
For the Cummins/Onan P218 / P220, from the Cummins/Onan operator's manual.
Applies to: Cummins/Onan P218, Cummins/Onan P220
Before you start
- Adjusting engine speed above that specified by the equipment manufacturer could cause the equipment to operate at speeds in violation of Federal and State Standards for Safety.
- Moving parts can cause severe personal injury or death. You must be a qualified mechanic.
- Do not bend the high-idle speed stop tang unless you are a qualified mechanic with an accurate tachometer.
Procedure
- Start the engine, observing all equipment manufacturer's instructions and precautions.
- If the throttle cable is connected, loosen the clamp and back out the low-idle speed stop screw so the carburetor speed stop screw touches its stop.
- Adjust engine speed to 1,000 RPM with the carburetor speed stop screw.
- Turn the low-idle speed stop screw to obtain the specified low-idle speed.
- Move the engine throttle link against its stop tang and bend the tang to obtain the specified high-idle speed.
- Hook the throttle link with the throttle cable, pull out slack, tighten the clamp, and check full smooth movement.
Tools required
- Accurate tachometer Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- Recommended low-idle speed 1,100 RPM
- Recommended high-idle speed 3,400 RPM
- Carburetor speed stop screw 1,000 RPM
Full service-parts list: 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.