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Cummins Onan 10.0 HDKCA-11506 Generator Review

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Leading the field with quiet Diesel Generators?

It has enough juice to power three air conditioners. Quieter than the minimum sound level required by the National Park Service. This generator is ideal for camping and RVing. A wide range of products from Cummins Onan are known for their reliability, and it is a brand you can rely on.

Quick Summary

Features
The Cummins Onan 10.0 HDKCA-11506 Generator is powered by diesel.
This RV diesel generator has far less NVH than other RV generators (Up To 15 dBA Quieter).
Fuel Pumps Powered by Electricity.
The cooling system and the muffler are housed in a sound-dampening enclosure.
An Oil and Coolant Level Check/Fill Service and Maintenance Point Accessible from the Bottom, as well as Top-Mounted Switches.
Appliances are less likely to be damaged when powered by pure sine waves.
Larger RVs benefit from the quiet diesel performance of computer-controlled constant speed engines.
Less Noisy Than Requirements for a National Park.
Troubleshooting is made easier by self-diagnostic capabilities.
Powerful enough to run two or three rooftop air conditioners.

Generators for RVs, Motorhomes, and Campervans

Before we jump into the Cummins Onan 10.0 HDKCA-11506 Generator Review, let's consider some important points:

How big of a generator do you need?

The wattage drawn by each of your appliances must be known in advance in order to get an accurate answer. To get an idea of how much electricity you're using, there are online calculators, and you can also check the labels or tags on your electronic gadgets.

Knowing that most generators have two wattage ratings is also helpful. Most equipment requires more energy to start than it does to run, which explains why. When starting an air conditioner, a generator may provide up to 3000W at the start, although it may only be rated at 2600W for long-term operation.

When choosing a portable generator for your motorhome, it's crucial to keep in mind the items you'll be using at the same time, such as an air conditioner, fridge, and lights. 

How noisy are they?

Finding the quietest generator for your RV is worth the effort. Because you don't want to be kept awake at night, or disturb anyone who is pitching near you, noise level is a vital consideration. For this reason, some campgrounds do not allow generators, so be careful to verify before you arrive.

Inverter-equipped generators are smaller, lighter, quieter, and use less fuel. They can power delicate electronic gadgets like smartphones, tablets, computers, and medical equipment, as well as larger ones like air conditioners.

A popular silent generator is the Westinghouse iGen2500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator, with a noise level of only 52 dBA and a run time of up to 10 hours on its built-in fuel tank.

It has a starting power of 2500 watts and an operating power of 2200 watts, is extremely portable, and has a handle on top for convenient transport.

If you need more power, you can connect a second generator to it in parallel. In addition, it has an automatic low oil shut-off mechanism, which helps keep the engine running smoothly.

An inverter generator, such as the one offered by Champion, could be the quietest option for your RV. 59dBA from 23 feet, which is no louder than a regular conversation, and can run for 7.5 hours on petrol or 14.5 hours on propane are the specifications for this device.

How heavy are they?

What you do with your motorhome's generator is vital to consider. The generator should have wheels and a suitable handle if it is not going to be permanently positioned under your vehicle. The more power a device has, the heavier it is.

However, the weight-per-wattage ratio varies greatly from model to model. Fortunately, a wheel kit is included with the majority of 3000W - 6500W generators. If you require a lot of power, you could buy two 2000W generators and join them together to create 3600W, which would be a lighter choice. One will suffice when the other isn't applicable.

A Honda EU22200i and companion generator weigh less than 23 kilograms, which may be more appropriate for your situation. To connect them, you'll need a parallel cable, which you can get separately.

Which fuel do they take?

That depends on what RV/motorhome you have, it's usually a good idea to go with one that matches the fuel type you're already using in your vehicle. If your RV is powered by diesel, you'll want a diesel generator; if your RV is powered by gasoline, you'll want a gasoline generator. 

Propane has a shelf life of unlimited storage, whereas gasoline and diesel have a shelf life of six to fourteen months.

In the case of long and lonely excursions, propane-powered devices like the Champion and Westinghouse types are likely the best option. Since diesel generators have a higher power output, investing in one can be a good idea if your equipment requires higher outputs. 

Cummins Onan 10.0 HDKCA-11506 Generator Review


Cummins 40KYFA6747 4000W Gas Generator

Hopefully this below review will give you an idea about if this generator is a good fit for you!

Are Onan a brand you can trust?

It has been a leader in power generation equipment and engines for more than 50 years since D.W. (David) Onan founded the company in 1920.

When Onan's initial generator sets went on sale a few decades ago, there were a lot of changes in technology, marketplaces and companies which Onan was right out in front of. 

They became the world's leading designer and manufacturer of diesel engines ranging from 55 to 2,700 horsepower for on-highway vehicles, industrial equipment, and electricity production, Cummins Engine Company (now Cummins Inc.) bought out Onan Corporation in 1986.

The Onan brand's product lines have grown throughout time, but they've maintained their reputation as dependable, forward-thinking, and dependable.

Cummins Power Generation, a part of Cummins Inc. and a global leader in the design and manufacture of power generation products and services, develops Onan-branded products today.

These items are utilized in marine, recreational vehicle, commercial and residential standby applications.

With the largest and best-trained international distributor/dealer network in the business, Cummins Onan generators are well supported. Consequently, Cummins Onan distributors/dealers are readily available when you require assistance.

When you need genuine components, high-quality service and experienced installation assistance, you can rely on this broad network. In order to provide customers with the best possible service and support, Cummins Onan employees undergo comprehensive training and certification.

Noise Pollution of the Cummins Onan 10.0 HDKCA-11506 Generator

As a generator designed for recreational vehicles, the Onan 10000 Quiet Diesel Generator meets all of the CARB and EPA criteria and specifications. All 50 states are available for purchase.

Class A and Class C motorhomes with diesel engines will appreciate this product. Onan's 10kW diesel generator powers three 15,000 BTU air conditioners as well as up to 4000 watts of auxiliary loads for lighting and appliances.

Cummins Onan 10.0 HDKCA-11506 Generator is ideally suited for RVs

For diesel-powered generator applications, including RV Motorhomes, the Onan 10kW Diesel Generator fulfills CARB and EPA regulations in all 50 states as I have just stated but it is worth pointing out again.

Using digital voltage and frequency control, the generator set provides a clean sine wave output that is safe for electronic devices.

A 45-Amp, 2-pole circuit breaker protects against overload. Fuel and battery connections are bulkhead-style, with a watertight connector for remote operation. Fuel distribution is ensured via an electronic pump and timed glow plugs.

In RV parks, national parks, and rural campgrounds, you may travel without worrying about making a lot of noise. When measured at a distance of fifty feet, the Onan 10000 Quiet Diesel Generator emits no more than 60 decibels of sound pressure level (dBA).

You can expect to hear less than 70 decibels (dBA) at a distance of 10 feet from a typical installation. The USDA-approved, spark-arresting muffler is included in the generator set's sound insulated lid. The intake silencer further decreases noise by using a focalized mounting technique to reduce vibration.

The Cummins Onan 10.0 HDKCA-11506 Generator is easy to use

The microprocessor-based controller of the Onan Quiet Diesel Generator from Cummins provides onboard diagnostics and troubleshooting. In order to meet ANSO/RVIA standards, the controller adjusts voltage and frequency within 2 percent and 0.1 percent, respectively.

Low oil, overvoltage, overspeed, and overcrank are all prevented by the generator's safety features. The controller is safeguarded by DC circuits with fuses. A timer built into the generator set makes it easier to keep track of how much time is left on the fuel tank.

Three-year limited warranty on RV Generator Set Quiet Diesel RV QD 10000 includes everything except for maintenance and maintenance materials for two years. Parts and labor are covered under the Onan Quiet Diesel Generator warranty for the third year. The first three months of a 90-day adjustment policy allow for small modifications.

The Onan 10000 Quiet Diesel Generator Manual is included in the package.

Fuel Consumption of the Cummins Onan 10.0 HDKCA-11506 Generator

For Class A and Class C motorhomes, the Onan 10 KW generator is the ideal option. Additionally, it can power up to three 15,000 BTU air conditioners and a variety of home devices and appliances. Because it complies with the EPA's strictest standards, it can be sold across the country.

This generator is suitable for all national park rules. 

An engine with a 4-cycle cycle and microprocessor controls are among the other features of this generator.

Additionally, a vibration-reducing focalized mounting mechanism and intake silencer are included with the generator.

To put it mildly, the 10 KW Onan generator is one of the most expensive options because it is one of the best. The price of this generator is usually about $10,000 from most of the vendors.

As a result of its relative scarcity, it's typically sold by private individuals looking to unload a used model.

This one is very comparable to the 12.5 KW generator in terms of fuel consumption, however it consumes less than the alternative type.

No load yields 0.33 gallons per hour, half load yields 0.54 gallons, and full load yields 0.78 gallons per hour.

This is above average in its class. 

Changing the oil on an Onan generator is super easy

Every 10,000 hours or once a year, whichever comes first, Onan RV suggests replacing the oil. You'll be ready to go for the season in about 20 minutes. 1.6 quarts of SAE30 or 15W-40 oil and a T30 torx bit are all you'll need, along with a 12mm socket and an oil pan. 

First, give the generator five minutes to warm up. Using a T30 Torx bit, remove the oil drain stopper protective plate from under the generator once it has warmed up. You can then use a 12mm socket to remove the oil drain plug from the engine.

Drain the oil into a suitable container and store it safely. Don't put on the protection plate yet.

Start the generator after adding 1.6 quarts of Onan-approved oil. Make sure the oil drain cap is not leaking before using it. The oil drain plug protector should be replaced if there is no leaking.

Use a dipstick to check the oil level at the oil filling station. Remove any remaining oil from the generator and dispose of it properly. Checking the generator's air filter is also a good idea. Your generator may require additional steps, so be sure to check the owner's manual.

Final Thoughts

For RVers, Onan generators are a godsend. All of these generators are made with RVers and travelers in mind, since they all meet the noise and safety standards of national parks.

Even though these generators are more expensive than the average, they come equipped with more features and characteristics than most others.

In addition, they are more long-lasting and offer better guarantees. Even when the long-term financial disparities between diesel and other fuel sources are taken into account, diesel generators are typically more expensive than gas or propane ones.

Overall, Onan generators are superior in terms of specs, features, and fuel consumption when compared to other generators on the market today.

The price of these generators is likely to be higher, but most RV owners will find it worth it.

Take a look at each generator's specifications to determine which one is best for your needs and budget.

About Tom Bell

Hey, I’m Tom, the owner of Generator Reviews! I built this website to help you get the very most out of your generator and select the correct one for your personal circumstances. This site contains reviews of virtually every generator, detailed buying guides, as well as maintenance advice to help you keep yours in tip-top shape!

Disclaimer

Generator.Reviews is an independent review business. I am not affiliated with any manufacturers and do not accept paid reviews. When you buy through my links, I may earn a commission which helps me to maintain this website and keep the reviews coming your way!

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