Product Overview
The Cummins 1492513 Onan Fuel Filter is a critical component designed to ensure clean fuel delivery to your engine, particularly for Quiet Diesel (QD) systems. This filter effectively removes contaminants from the fuel, protecting sensitive engine components and maintaining optimal performance. It is manufactured by Cummins, a trusted name in engine and power generation solutions.

Figure 1: The Cummins 1492513 Onan Fuel Filter. This image shows the rectangular metal casing of the filter with two brass threaded ports on the top surface, one at each end, and a central brass stud. The filter has a ribbed design on its sides.
Safety Information
Always observe safety precautions when working with fuel systems. Fuel is flammable and can cause serious injury or fire. Ensure adequate ventilation and have a fire extinguisher readily available. Disconnect the battery before beginning work to prevent accidental engine starts.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and gloves.
- Work in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames or ignition sources.
- Have a spill kit or absorbent materials ready for fuel spills.
- Refer to your vehicle or generator's specific service manual for additional safety guidelines.
Setup and Installation
This section outlines the general procedure for replacing the Cummins 1492513 Onan Fuel Filter. Specific steps may vary depending on your equipment. Always consult your equipment's service manual for detailed instructions.
Tools and Materials Required:
- New Cummins 1492513 Onan Fuel Filter
- Wrench set (appropriate sizes for fuel line fittings)
- Drain pan or container for fuel
- Shop rags or absorbent towels
- Gloves and safety glasses
Installation Steps:
- Prepare the Area: Park the vehicle or generator on a level surface. Ensure the engine is cool. Place a drain pan beneath the fuel filter location to catch any spilled fuel.
- Relieve Fuel System Pressure: Consult your equipment's manual for the proper procedure to relieve fuel system pressure. This often involves removing a fuel pump fuse or relay and cranking the engine briefly.
- Disconnect Fuel Lines: Carefully loosen and remove the fuel lines connected to the old filter. Be prepared for some fuel spillage. Cap or plug the lines to prevent further leakage and contamination.
- Remove Old Filter: Detach the old fuel filter from its mounting bracket. Note its orientation for correct installation of the new filter.
- Install New Filter: Position the new Cummins 1492513 Onan Fuel Filter in the same orientation as the old one. Secure it to the mounting bracket.
- Reconnect Fuel Lines: Carefully reattach the fuel lines to the new filter's ports. Ensure all connections are tight to prevent leaks. Some applications may require pipe sealant on threaded fittings.
- Prime the Fuel System: After installation, the fuel system will need to be primed to remove air. Refer to your equipment's manual for the specific priming procedure. This may involve cycling the ignition key, using a manual primer pump, or bleeding air from the system.
- Check for Leaks: Once the system is primed, start the engine and carefully inspect all fuel line connections around the new filter for any signs of leaks. Address any leaks immediately.
Operating Principles
The Cummins 1492513 Onan Fuel Filter operates as a passive filtration device within the fuel system. Fuel flows from the fuel tank, through the filter, and then to the engine's fuel pump and injectors. Inside the filter, a specialized media traps contaminants such as dirt, rust, and other debris, preventing them from reaching and damaging critical engine components. A clean fuel filter ensures consistent fuel flow and protects the fuel injection system, contributing to efficient engine operation and longevity.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your fuel filter is crucial for the health of your engine. A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow, leading to reduced engine performance or even engine damage.
Inspection and Replacement:
- Inspection: Periodically inspect the fuel filter and its connections for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or physical damage.
- Replacement Interval: The replacement interval for fuel filters varies significantly based on equipment type, operating conditions, and fuel quality. As a general guideline, it is recommended to replace the fuel filter according to the schedule outlined in your equipment's service manual. For many RV and generator applications, this could be annually or every 150-250 hours of operation, whichever comes first.
- Signs of a Clogged Filter: Be aware of symptoms that may indicate a clogged fuel filter, such as:
- Reduced engine power or acceleration
- Engine sputtering or stalling
- Difficulty starting the engine
- Rough idling
- Increased fuel consumption
Troubleshooting
If you experience issues related to fuel delivery, the fuel filter may be a contributing factor. Here are some common troubleshooting scenarios:
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Engine cranks but won't start | Severely clogged fuel filter, no fuel reaching engine | Replace fuel filter. Ensure fuel system is properly primed after replacement. |
| Engine sputters or loses power under load | Partially clogged fuel filter, restricting fuel flow | Replace fuel filter. |
| Fuel leaks around filter connections | Loose connections, damaged O-rings/gaskets, incorrect installation | Tighten connections. Inspect and replace O-rings/gaskets if damaged. Reinstall filter correctly. |
| Engine runs rough or idles poorly | Restricted fuel flow due to dirty filter | Replace fuel filter. |
If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, it is recommended to consult a qualified technician or refer to your equipment's comprehensive service manual.
Specifications
The following specifications apply to the Cummins 1492513 Onan Fuel Filter:
- Model Number: 149-2513
- OEM Part Number: 1492513
- Brand: Cummins
- Product Grade: Replacement Part
- Outer Material: Plastic (Note: The visual appearance is metallic, but the specification states plastic. This might refer to internal components or a specific part of the casing. Users should refer to the product itself for confirmation.)
- Vehicle Service Type: RV
- Item Diameter: 4 Inches
- Style: In-Line
- Item Weight: 12.3 ounces (0.25 pounds package weight)
- Country of Origin: United States
- UPC: 690781000438
Warranty and Support
For information regarding product warranty, please refer to the official Cummins warranty documentation that came with your purchase or visit the official Cummins website. For technical support or further assistance, please contact Cummins customer service directly.
Cummins Official Website: www.cummins.com





