ONAN BG 6500LP Generator

[Robert Norris]

Good afternoon Beaver Community.
I have a 1997 Beaver Patriot with a Onan BG 6500 LP, propane generator. Our last trip out, it was working fine. Went to start it and it turn over OK but didn't start. Laid off the switch a few seconds and attempted to engage the switch again. A very loud squeal instead of the cranking sound emerged.
I thought the starter went out but don't want to replace the starter if that is not the problem. Has anyone experienced this?

[Eric Maclean Co-Admin]

Robert
I assume the Gen set is mounted in the front of the coach between the frame rails .
If the starter is failing to crank the Gen set the first thing to check is the voltage at the heavy power feed wires at the back of the Gen set these battery feed cables run the length of the coach and may have bad connections causing significant volt drop which could be your problem.
With a volt meter connect between the positive and negative cables at the back of the Gen set have someone attempt to start the Gen set and observe the voltage during cranking if the voltage drops below 9 volts you have a low or bad battery or bad connections somewhere along those cables.

Eric

[Robert Norris]

Thanks Eric.
The chassis batteries are new but I will check the voltage at the back of the gen set.
It sounds like a metal against metal sound. I don't hold the start button long because it doesn't sound good.
I'll let you know what I find. Thanks again.

[Eric Maclean Co-Admin]

Robert
If your getting a grind noise when cranking you may have a sticking starter inertia drive which is not engaging the ring gear properly
By simply removing the starter inspecting for rust or  dirt buildup on the starter shaft or drive parts and cleaning and lubricating you may cure the problem.

Eric

[Robert Norris]

Thanks Eric.
First off, please call me Bob.
Is there a manual for this gen set?

[Gene Obie]

If this isn't it you should be able to find manual on cummins website.

https://www.cummins.com/sites/default/files/rv-manuals/0983-0101.pdf

[Eric Maclean Co-Admin]

Bob
Have you made any progress with the Gen set?