Forum Discussion

coolmom42's avatar
coolmom42
Explorer II
Nov 16, 2020

generator maintenance?

Other than maintenance as listed in the owner's manual, is there anything that's helpful to keep a generator working well?

This is an Onan 4000 W generator with 220 hours on it, in a 2014 motorhome. So obviously it's not been used a lot. The person I bought it from said he changed the oil at 215 hours. He knows nothing about the previous maintenance, except that the oil was changed at about 115 hours.

I'm thinking that with lack of use, there might be some varnish gunk in the carb, and a couple of cans of Seafoam in the tank would be a good idea.

Any other suggestions?

13 Replies

  • My Honda dealer said that ethanol-free gasoline (if you can find it) produces less varnish. I run mine once a month during the off-season to help clear the carb and to keep the RV battery at full charge.
  • I'd change the oil, spark plug and air filter. It it runs smooth I wouldn't worry about varnish. Add fuel treatment if concerned.
  • Do you trust what the immediate past owner “said?” If not, change the oil.