Easy Fix for a Clogged Carburetor on an Onan Generator

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding the Problem with Onan Generators
3. The Importance of Cleaning the Carburetor
4. Tools and Materials Needed
5. Step 1: Gather Fresh Gas and Carburetor Cleaner
6. Step 2: Bypassing the Fuel Line
7. Step 3: Priming the Engine
8. Step 4: Running the Generator
9. Step 5: Reconnecting the Fuel Line
10. Conclusion

How to Clean the Carburetor on an Onan Generator for Your RV

Introduction

If you own an RV with a Mini Winnebago or any other model that uses an Onan generator, you may have experienced issues with the carburetor. The generator may not run smoothly and can even rev up and down due to a gunked-up carburetor. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of cleaning the carburetor on your Onan generator without having to remove it. By following these steps, you can potentially solve the problem and avoid costly repairs or replacements.

Understanding the Problem with Onan Generators

Onan generators, particularly in RVs, are known to have issues with their carburetors. These generators rely on the vehicle's gas tank for fuel supply, which can lead to problems when using ethanol gasoline. Over time, the gasoline can separate, causing gelling and clogging of the Jets in the carburetor. This can result in the generator running poorly or not running at all. The lack of a fuel shutoff valve or drain valve exacerbates the problem, as the gasoline can sit in the carburetor's bowl for extended periods, leading to further issues.

The Importance of Cleaning the Carburetor

Cleaning the carburetor is crucial to ensuring your Onan generator runs smoothly. By removing the gunk and build-up in the carburetor, you can restore its proper functionality and avoid performance issues such as fluctuations in RPM. It is an essential maintenance step that can save you from costly repairs or replacing the entire carburetor.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before getting started, gather the following tools and materials:

• Fresh gasoline with high octane (91-92%)
• Carburetor cleaner such as Sea Foam or B12 Chemtool
• Mason jar or container for mixing the cleaner and gasoline
• Hose clamp
• Plastic bag
• Ballpoint pen or similar object for plugging the fuel line

Now that you have everything ready, let's begin the process of cleaning the carburetor on your Onan generator step by step.

Step 1: Gather Fresh Gas and Carburetor Cleaner

The first step is to ensure you have fresh gasoline and a high-quality carburetor cleaner. It is recommended to go to a gas station and purchase high-octane gasoline with an octane rating between 91-92%. This cleaner will provide the best results in cleaning out the carburetor. You can choose between Sea Foam cleaner or B12 Chemtool. Mix the cleaner at a concentration of 1-2 ounces per gallon of gasoline, or if you prefer, mix it at a double strength of 4 ounces per gallon for a more concentrated clean. Make sure to use a container or mason jar that will not be used for food in the future.

Step 2: Bypassing the Fuel Line

To clean the carburetor, it is necessary to bypass the fuel line from the vehicle's tank. This step will allow you to use a separate fuel system and run cleaner through it. Begin by going under the vehicle and locating the fuel line. Undo the post clamp and move it back slightly on the hose. Once the clamp is loose, remove it, but be prepared as gas may flow out due to the higher elevation of the fuel tank. To prevent any spillage, have a ballpoint pen with a plastic bag wrapped around it ready to plug the gas line. Insert the plugged pen into the hose to temporarily seal the fuel line.

Step 3: Priming the Engine

Now that the fuel line has been bypassed, it's time to prime the engine using the primer start button. Press the button to prime the pump and draw the gasoline from the separate fuel tank into the fuel line. This step ensures that the carburetor cleaner reaches the carburetor and begins the cleaning process.

Step 4: Running the Generator

With the engine primed, you can now start running the generator. Let it run for approximately 30 minutes to allow the carburetor cleaner to penetrate and clean the gunked-up parts. After 30 minutes, stop the generator and let it sit for another 30 minutes. This resting period allows the cleaner to further break down any residue in the carburetor bowl. After the resting period, run the generator for an additional 30 minutes to ensure all the treated fuel has been used.

Step 5: Reconnecting the Fuel Line

Once the cleaning process is complete, it's time to reconnect the fuel line to the vehicle's tank. Remove the pen plug from the hose and carefully reattach it to the fuel line. Ensure that the hose clamp is securely fastened to prevent any fuel leaks.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively clean the carburetor on your Onan generator without the need to remove it. This DIY solution can save you time and money by restoring the proper functionality of your generator. Remember to use high-quality carburetor cleaner and fresh gasoline for optimal results. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the carburetor will prolong the lifespan of your Onan generator and keep it running smoothly during your RV adventures.

Highlights

• Cleaning the carburetor on an Onan generator is essential for maintaining smooth operation.
• Onan generators in RVs can have issues with the carburetor due to the use of ethanol gasoline.
• Bypassing the fuel line and using a separate fuel system allows for effective cleaning of the carburetor.
• High-quality carburetor cleaners like Sea Foam or B12 Chemtool are recommended for best results.
• Following the step-by-step process can save you from costly repairs or carburetor replacements.

FAQ

Q: How often should I clean the carburetor on my Onan generator? A: It is recommended to clean the carburetor annually or as needed depending on usage and performance.

Q: Can I use a lower octane gasoline for the cleaning process? A: It is best to use high-octane gasoline (91-92%) to ensure optimal cleaning and performance.

Q: Is it necessary to remove the carburetor for cleaning? A: No, by bypassing the fuel line and using a separate fuel system, you can clean the carburetor without removing it.

Q: Will cleaning the carburetor solve all performance issues with my generator? A: While cleaning the carburetor can solve many common issues, there may be other underlying problems that require professional inspection or repair.

Q: Can I use the same process to clean the carburetor on other generator models? A: The process outlined in this guide is specifically for cleaning the carburetor on Onan generators. Other generator models may require different procedures.