Cummins/Onan — Returning the Engine to Service
Maintenance
From a Cummins/Onan operator's manual covering: P216, P218, P220, P224, P224G-1/1264F. Check it applies to your exact model before use.
Applies to: Cummins/Onan P216, Cummins/Onan P218, Cummins/Onan P220
Procedure
- Remove the cover, all protective wrapping and the plug from the exhaust outlet.
- Check the tag on the oil base and change the oil if the viscosity is not appropriate for expected ambient temperatures.
- Check the fuel filter and fuel lines to make sure they are secure and have no cracks or leaks.
- Check that the choke, throttle and governor linkages move freely.
- If so equipped, clean and check the battery per the manufacturer's instructions and connect the battery cables (positive [+] cable first).
- Start the engine; initial startup may be slow with smoke and rough operation until oil in the cylinders burns off.
- If the engine does not start, clean or replace the spark plugs as they may be fouled by the oil added during storage.
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.