ashton23l Posted June 27 Report Share Posted June 27 I need a new carb for my Onan 5500. It’s part number 541-0765. Looks like they run $450-$500. I prefer oem but the Amazon replacements are $50 each. Anyone have good luck with the knockoffs? Do I stick with oem? Wanted to clean and rebuild, but when tightening the altitude knob (black piece missing) because it was way too fat, the adjustment screw broke off (oops). So looks like a new one needed Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
packnrat Posted June 27 Report Share Posted June 27 (edited) yes oem is costly. you are paying for the brand name. and far better quality control as it will fit correctly and work correctly. as the (i do not want to accused as going political here) knockoffs can be more of a problem than one can believe. and not just for a carb. so i say buy oem and relax. Edited June 27 by packnrat Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GlennWest Posted June 27 Report Share Posted June 27 Seriously doubt Onan makes their carburetor. Possibly the Amazon one is same item. Look at yours for the manufacturer. I suspect Zama makes it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ashton23l Posted June 27 Author Report Share Posted June 27 Also, once I install the oem part, is there much tuning and adjustment? I’m debating on Cummins doing the work Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pat & Pete Posted June 27 Report Share Posted June 27 I have to wonder why you think you need a new carb ? Did you smash it with a huge hammer or run over it with a 'dozer or some such ? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ashton23l Posted June 27 Author Report Share Posted June 27 48 minutes ago, Pat & Pete said: I have to wonder why you think you need a new carb ? Did you smash it with a huge hammer or run over it with a 'dozer or some such ? Well, I broke the brass altitude screw, which I cannot seem to find a replacement parts kit. Looks like they are just sold as a unit Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
VC 23RSS Posted June 27 Report Share Posted June 27 I'm one of the lucky ones having great luck with the Amazon carbs. One for a string trimmer and one for a Craftsman 4 stroke mini-tiller. It is a difficult decision to make wondering if the difference is quality or profit. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pat & Pete Posted June 27 Report Share Posted June 27 Hmm , in 12 years of sea level to well over 4000 feet , I've never changed anything for altitude and never had a problem with the generator doing its job . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bobsallyh Posted June 27 Report Share Posted June 27 I know I'd give the $50.00 carb a shot. If it was a problem, then I'd spring for the OEM. To me, It's worth a try. An Onan is like an old woman, requires a lot of TLC. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ranger Smith Posted June 28 Report Share Posted June 28 Amazon will allow you to do a return within 30 days. Buy it and try it. If it does not work properly return it as defective. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pat & Pete Posted June 28 Report Share Posted June 28 As I implied , I wouldn't waste time or money if the generator runs fine as it is . But , that's me . If you feel the need to have a new needle , buy the cheapest repop carb you can and simply use its needle in the current OEM carb . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ashton23l Posted June 28 Author Report Share Posted June 28 59 minutes ago, Pat & Pete said: As I implied , I wouldn't waste time or money if the generator runs fine as it is . But , that's me . If you feel the need to have a new needle , buy the cheapest repop carb you can and simply use its needle in the current OEM carb . This was a consideration. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ashton23l Posted June 28 Author Report Share Posted June 28 1 hour ago, Ranger Smith said: Amazon will allow you to do a return within 30 days. Buy it and try it. If it does not work properly return it as defective. The only issue there is I’m going on a 7 day boondocking trip in 2 weeks. I need it to work! 2 kids under 2 with no a/c in 90*+ heat isn’t gonna work Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ashton23l Posted June 28 Author Report Share Posted June 28 Because of the trip, I bought 2 cheap ones and 4 extra plugs. I’ll get through the week one way or the other! I’ll report back on my luck Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ray,IN Posted June 29 Report Share Posted June 29 Take the broken parts to a machine shop and have an new one made. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ashton23l Posted July 2 Author Report Share Posted July 2 **UPDATE** well, I’m sold on the carbhub carbs from Amazon. I bought 2 just in case. A 10mm socket and flat blade screwdriver had it switched out and running in 15 min. It starts east now, runs smooth and works perfect. For the first 2-3 min it surged but hasn’t a single time since. It now runs better than it did with the original equipment. Hopefully it keeps on keepin on. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GlennWest Posted July 2 Report Share Posted July 2 That's terrific to hear Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
VC 23RSS Posted July 2 Report Share Posted July 2 Surging is caused by a lean mixture which would happen until the engine warms sufficiently. Glad to hear all is well. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ashton23l Posted July 18 Author Report Share Posted July 18 23 hours in, one time had some surging, i rocked the altitude knob back and forth and its all good. otherwise shes running well and hasnt had an issue yet. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pat & Pete Posted July 18 Report Share Posted July 18 Good you worked it out . Can't have the kiddos too uncomfortable . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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