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Getting the Onan Started

Posted: Sun Nov 02, 2014 4:08 pm
by bjanakos
My new to me 78' F32 is equipped with an Onan 6.5 genset. I am told that the previous owner had not run it for possibly more than a decade. I have no reason why, but to be honest, there is not much need for a generator on a fishing boat.

It's nit the highest priority, but I am curious if I can get this thing fired up. I'll start by replacing ignition parts and cleaning out the carb. I would probably try a compression test, but I am worried about the rings. Should I spray some PB blaster in the spark plug holes ans let is sit for a a few days?

Otherwise, what else to look for before turning her over?

Re: Getting the Onan Started

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 6:44 am
by Allen Sr
If you are going to put anything in the cylinders use Marvel Mystery Oil not PB blaster.

Re: Getting the Onan Started

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 9:28 am
by prowlersfish
X2 on the MM oil

Re: Getting the Onan Started

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 9:46 am
by larryeddington
So you do no harm before getting it to run take the belt off of the raw water pump. Assuming you get it started you will not want fragments of old impeller all over the water system. I posted an article on my journeys with getting my 6.5 up and running. Many of the parts are very spendy, example the bearing and shaft assembly are over $400, I made mine which is explained for about $160 and $29 bearing. Also the electric choke pull off may have seen better days also about @120. Mine now works perfectly and starts instantly.

There are article on the net on how to convert to electronic ignition using parts from the RV version of the 6.5. I have not done that as yet and won't until need arises.

Re: Getting the Onan Started

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 11:44 am
by bjanakos
I will look up your article (if you posted it here), but if you have the link off-hand, it would be much appreciated.

Should I figure on just replacing the impeller first before turning it over?

Re: Getting the Onan Started

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 12:06 pm
by larryeddington
My article for making a bearing, and using different pulley.

http://www.trojanboats.net/wforum/viewt ... ing#p78740

Electronic Ignition is here:

http://www.smokstak.com/forum/showthread.php?t=50493

Re: Getting the Onan Started

Posted: Mon Nov 03, 2014 3:15 pm
by bjanakos
Thank you!