New Onan owner, looking for advice

[StWeiler 6]

A few weeks back I couldn't turn down buying a 518H that had been owned by the local school district for plowing.  This is my first ever Onan, and I'm a bit nervous but happy at the same time.  I've owned my fair share of Kohlers, B&S', Techy's, etc.  

 

So in essence, my questions are this:

1.  Any special tips/tricks for doing routine maintenance?

2. Any special attention needed to prevent any kind of catastrophic failure?

3. Any preventive measures to take that can extend the lifespan?

 

Overall, just any tips or advice that will help this motor hold up to time.  At 745 hours she sounds lean and mean.  I am truly impressed with the power it has.  BUT....I almost would rather swap it out for a Kohler if given the chance. 

[MalMac 1,332]

I am sure you have heard everybody talk about the overheating problems. Keep the grass screen clean at all times. Make sure the fins are cleaned out. Onans like to be de-carbon. Keep valves adj. warm the engine up before working it and cool it down before shut off. This gives the block and other parts a chance to equalize in temp. Always work at full throttle. Ovoid long periods of lugging the engine. Best not to put heavy lug on it at all. Do not let it set for days or months with cheap gas in it. It will cause you all kinds of trouble. I am sure others will chime in here. I like my Kohlers too. The Onans are good motors just very finicky and like lots of attention and TLC.

[StWeiler 6]

Thanks, I've read way too many horror stories of rebuilding the carbs on these.  Hoping to avoid this as much as possible (although I know it will be inevitable).

[nylyon-(Admin) 7,945]

I haven't had to rebuild the carb on mine, but I have had to clean it which is a piece of cake!  On the bottom of the fuel bowl, there's a drain plug, remove it, spray in cleaner using the little red tube getting the jet really good, replace plug start'er' up!

[posifour11 723]

Really good fuel filter.

[Tankman 3,523]

I partial to Kohlers myself.

Pickin' up the 520-8 hasn't changed my mind however, this Onan moves, sounds great, is a work horse.

I'm a stickler for PM (preventive maintenance). My USMC Motor Pool training.

I change oil, plugs, air cleaners, clean carbs, check air, grease, change gear lube, just 'cause I'm retired and have time and, "My USMC Motor Pool training" (Camp Lejeune, NC).

I wouldn't worry 'bout the Onan if you service it. Why not service ahead of schedule? :smile:

[StWeiler 6]

Tank, I am proactive vs. inactive when it comes to preventative maintenance as well.  Which is why I am trying to get ahead of the game and learn as much as possible on certain nuances that these Onans can have. 

 

Thanks