My RV has a Onan Emerald 5000 Genset Generator. I will start it and it will start after 3 times cranking it. Runs fine. Turn it off. Then try to start it again and I get nothing. No trying to crank.

Sounds like there's an open in the battery wiring circuit.

https://www.flightsystems.com/pdf/onan-rv-troubleshooting-guide.pdf

To determine if it is from the breaker use a

Tong Tester


These would indicate what current is being consumed by the load.

Do you have an air filter on that thing? Sounds like it's straving for air.

Have you replaced the solinoid too? If not, maybe the solinoid is staying engaged, which keeps your starter, well starting. If the starter stays energised the flywheel WILL tear up the starter gear.


hope this helps

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/matt_8dbc24bf722649ac

Sounds like a flat battery.

Either you have a kill wire ( if I remember it is the brown wire) that is disconnected on one end or the other Or your in coach switch is bad.
Check the switch this way

Remove the switch from the dash/ mounting surface unplug the brown wire - start the genset - ground the brown wire - it should kill the motor
If it kills the motor your switch is bad

You MAY have blown the rotating diodes on the rotor.

This would require servicing.

I have an account in the Buffalo NY area .. they can help you with this .. call 716-668-2666 after 9:00am EST tomorrow (sat)

1. Does the generator stay running when you start it the first time?

2. What color is the housing on this generator? Try to get the model number and serial number.

If the genset is shutting down on the first try, then your probably not creating voltage. However, if this is an older unit then the genset may stay running although no voltage is created. Place a volt meter on the genset to check for output voltage.