My diesel RV generator has had some internal engine problem so I am replacing it. Thinking about trying to overhaul/fix it to have as backup for house & RV - supplies 50 amp power and designed to run long durations.

Not sure exactly what the issue is but the engine is not locked up - tech thinks maybe a bearing issue? I turn wrenches but have never torn into a small (or any size) Diesel engine. What are the odds I could pull it off? Does anyone have any experience working on them - anything particular to them that makes them extra hard?

It is a Cummins Onan QuietDiesel 5500 - 2 cylinder inline diesel. Assume engine is manufactured by Cummins?


Any advice or info appreciated!

What does it sound like and what is it doing?

Whats the basis for thinking its a bearing issue?

You might think about sending off an oil sample and see what result.

When it was running it would start hard/long crank, when it got going sputtered for a while (sometimes die) before it came to idle, white smoke while sputtering and early idle, finally would not start, not locked up. When repair guy had it I never got a full account of what he tried and his diagnosis - lost faith in him and yanked it away.

It is a 2005 model with high hours. Has always been less than fully reliable

I'd find the regional Cummins/Onan engine shop that takes in that model genset. Price out a rebuild with freight. They might also have a program where they swap your genset out with one that came in for refurb.

I'd look at that option first just to get a feel for it.

If you already at the end of service life and want something reliable for the house and a reliable backup for RV, thats what I'd do.

Get me the serial number and I can get a price on a recon engine.

He edited to add a photo.

rwv2055 said:

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Get me the serial number and I can get a price on a recon engine.

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That would be great - Thanks!

Model NO: 5.5HDKBA 2733B HDKBA Spec: B

S/N: I040691864