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Cummins Onan QG 4000i Onboard RV Generator w/ Inverter - 4,000 Watts - Gasoline - CARB Compliant
Cummins Onan

Cummins Onan QG 4000i Onboard RV Generator w/ Inverter - 4,000 Watts - Gasoline - CARB Compliant

Part Number: CM42ZR
In Stock
$4,849.62
Retail:$4,999.61
You Save: $149.99
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When your old RV Onan quits—maybe right in the middle of your trip—this direct replacement brings back quiet, reliable power for your RV AC, fridge, and more, so you can keep exploring with all the comforts of home, no hookups required. 1-800-940-8924 to order Cummins Onan generators part number CM42ZR or order online at etrailer.com. Free expert support on all Cummins Onan products. Great prices and Fastest Shipping for Cummins Onan QG 4000i Onboard RV Generator w/ Inverter - 4,000 Watts - Gasoline - CARB Compliant. Generators reviews from real customers.
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  • Reviews (3)
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Cummins Onan Generators - CM42ZR

  • Inverter
  • Gas
  • Fixed Mount
  • Cummins Onan
  • 4000 Running Watts
  • 120 Volt Output
  • Electric Start
  • CARB Approved

When your old RV Onan quits—maybe right in the middle of your trip—this direct replacement brings back quiet, reliable power for your RV AC, fridge, and more, so you can keep exploring with all the comforts of home, no hookups required.


Highlights

  • Direct Replacement: Installs where your old Onan sat—no odd adapters needed.
  • Easy Starts, Every Time: Reliable one-touch starting keeps your RV AC, fridge, and essentials running.
  • Clean, Stable Power: Built-in inverter delivers safe, consistent electricity for sensitive electronics.
  • Extra-Quiet Operation: Soundproofing and enclosed muffler mean quieter days and nights.
  • USDA Spark Arrestor Muffler: Safe for national forests and campgrounds—no mods needed for compliance.
  • Worry-Free Protection: Built-in shutoffs for low oil, overload, and engine issues let you relax wherever you park.

Features to know about

Seamless Replacement or Upgrade for Your RV

If your old generator finally gave out, this Onan QG 4000i fits in the same spot as your original. You'll still need to hook up the fuel line, electrical, and exhaust, but the major work is already done for you. Enjoy the comforts you count on—morning coffee, fully charged devices, and lights on at any hour. Plus, it has enough power to run one 13,500 BTU high-efficiency air conditioner, so you can beat the summer heat and stay comfortable wherever you park.

Reliable Power, Every Time

After a long drive or when the weather turns wet and rainy, nobody wants to wrestle with a bulky generator. With one-touch start, automatic choke, and remote switching capability, powering up is always simple, rain or shine. All you have to do is press the power button and relax. And the built-in shutoffs handle low oil, overloads, and engine quirks automatically, so you can settle in for the night with your fridge cold, your CPAP on, and no worries about unexpected shutdowns.

Inverter Technology for Modern RV Living

The built-in inverter delivers clean, stable electricity—perfect for laptops, tablets, and other sensitive electronics. No more worries about power surges or fried circuits. Your devices stay safe, your lights don't flicker, and you get reliable AC power for today's gear.

Peace and Quiet, Anywhere

This generator uses sound-dampening technology and a special muffler to help keep things peaceful. You won't have to raise your voice for campfire stories, cut conversations short, or lose sleep to engine noise. It also meets National Park Service noise guidelines, so you can experience brilliant fall foliage in the Great Smoky Mountains or visit the steaming geysers at Yellowstone without worry.

Simple Upkeep for the Real World

From routine oil changes to swapping out the air filter, service is straightforward. No need to be a mechanic—just basic tools and a few minutes are all it takes to keep things running strong for years to come. And with built-in self-diagnostic capability, troubleshooting issues is faster and easier so you can spend less time on maintenance.

Specs:

Dimensions & Weight:

  • Overall dimensions: 30" long x 20-1/8" wide x 14" tall
  • Overall weight: 149 lbs

Engine & Performance:

  • Design: 4-cycle, OHV, single cylinder
  • Displacement: 23.7 in³ (389 cm³)
  • Compression ratio: 8.1:1
  • Maximum power: 10.9 bhp (8.13 kWh)
  • Cooling: cross-flow cooling, pressurized system
  • Oil capacity: 2 qt (1.9 L) with filter

Electrical & Fuel:

  • Watts: 4,000
  • Frequency: 60 Hz
  • Voltage: 120 V
  • Amperage: 33.3 amps
  • Circuit breakers: (1) 30-amp breaker
  • Operating temperature: -22° F to 122° F
  • Communication: J1939 capability
  • Fuel: gasoline

Mechanical:

  • Electric fuel pump
  • Remote 12V, 3-wire negative ground starter
  • Electronic ignition
  • 100 in (2.5 m) generator set output leads

Noise:

  • Sound level: 66.5 dBA, meets National Park Service requirements of max 60 dBA @ 50 ft
  • Sound dampening housing with enclosed muffler

Safety:

  • USDA Forest Service approved spark arrestor muffler
  • Integral control box with instant stop switch
  • Low oil pressure and overcurrent protection

Mounting & Construction:

  • Mounting tray with vibration isolation
  • Alloy aluminum crankcase
  • Aluminum alloy cylinder head

Warranty:

  • 3-Year limited

Notes:

  • It is required for maintenance that you run your generator for 2 hours a month with a load on it.
  • Designed for gasoline use only. LPG and diesel models are available - see CM25ZR, CM54RR, CM62ZR, CM72ZR, CM92ZR,CM64RR, CM44RR, CM74RR, or CM94RR.
  • For specialized applications required to meet Tier III Evaporative Emissions of the California Air Resources Board. Effective January 1, 2011, gasoline generator sets on trailers, diesel chassis or any other non-motorized mobile apparatus must have an EVAP generator set, approved tank, EVAP canister, hoses and fittings all meeting the CARB Tier 3 and EPA phase 3 standards and specifications. This law applies in all 50 states.
  • All model year 2024 and later gasoline-fueled spark-ignited small off-road engines rated at equal to or less than 19 kilowatts, and equipment utilizing such engines must meet the evaporative emission requirements as specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 13, Division 3, Chapter 15, Article 1, and 40 CFR 1054.112, and 40 CFR 1060.


A073X541 Cummins Onan RV Generator with Inverter - QG 4000i - 4,000 Watts - Gasoline - 4HGLBA-8306

Installation Details CM42ZR Installation instructions


California residents: click here


Ratings & Reviews

5.0

3 reviews
When your old RV Onan quits—maybe right in the middle of your trip—this direct replacement brings back quiet, reliable power for your RV AC, fridge, and more, so you can keep exploring with all the comforts of home, no hookups required.

by:

Review on Onan QG 4000i Inverter Generator

Hey,
Steve here from etrailer. If your old generator gave out or your motorhome’s generator bay came empty from the dealer, this Onan QG 4000i is probably the one it was meant to have.

This unit gives you 4000 watts of power, runs on gasoline, and uses inverter technology. That means you get clean, consistent power for your air conditioner, microwave, fridge, outlets, and even sensitive electronics.

It’s also super quiet. Built with soundproofing, an enclosed muffler, and a vibration system to keep it smooth. It meets the 60 decibel limit at 50 feet, so it’s good to go in national parks and campgrounds.

If your RV is generator prepped, install is pretty simple. Just connect the fuel, wiring, and exhaust. One button start from inside the RV and you’re ready to roll. It’s great for boondocking or dry camping or just running the A/C on hot days.

Maintenance is easy too. Pop open the access panel without tools and you can check your oil and wiring in a few minutes.

Bottom line, this is a quiet, reliable, inverter generator built for RV life. I recommend it all the time.



by:

Sam C- Product Expert (Solar & Electrical Systems)

If you're running lithium batteries in your RV, whether you're full-time, off-grid, or just solar-prepped—an Onan inverter generator like the CM25ZR, CM42ZR, or CM52ZR is an excellent choice for reliable backup power.

These models produce pure sine wave AC output, which is essential for charging lithium batteries safely, especially if you’re using a smart battery management system (BMS). Unlike traditional generators that can deliver "rough" or fluctuating power, inverter generators deliver the clean, stable voltage that lithium chargers and inverters require. This reduces the risk of fault codes, overheating, or improper charging.

Another benefit is how well these generators integrate with modern inverter/charger systems. A lot of lithium setups use gear that expects high-quality power if you feed it unstable current, the system might reject it or shut down charging altogether. The CM42ZR and other inverter models solve that problem by producing grid-like power that your system can accept with no issue.

Because the engine speed ramps up or down based on demand, you also get better fuel efficiency which is perfect when you’re just topping off your batteries after a few cloudy days or running overnight loads like a fridge and CPAP. Many lithium users also install auto-generator start (AGS), and these models pair well with that kind of automation.

If your rig is lithium-equipped and you want a generator that won’t fight your charging setup or worse, damage it these Onan inverter models are designed with that compatibility in mind.



by:

Kate F- Product Enthusiast at etrailer.com

I’ve
helped quite a few customers lately who work remotely and need to charge laptops, monitors, and camera gear while they’re traveling. Whether they’re full-timing or just working from the road, one thing they all have in common is needing clean, stable power and that’s where an inverter generator makes all the difference.

The Onan inverter models, like the ones under part numbers CM25ZR, CM42ZR, or CM52ZR, are built to produce pure sine wave power, which is just a fancy way of saying they give you the same safe, consistent electricity you’d get at home. That means your laptop charger isn’t going to buzz or overheat, and you’re not putting wear and tear on your devices every time you plug in.

I always tell people, if you’re relying on your tech for work, Zoom calls, editing, charging your batteries, this is one area where you don’t want to compromise. Plus, inverter generators are quieter and more fuel-efficient, so you’re not stuck listening to a loud rumble all day while you’re trying to focus or take a call.

If your RV is your mobile office (even part-time), having an inverter generator isn’t just a luxury, it’s a smart move that protects your gear and makes work on the road way less stressful.


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See what our Experts say about this Cummins Onan Generators

  • Will the Furrion Chill Cube Work w/ the Cummins Onan QG 4000i Onboard RV Generator?
    Hey Joseph, it sure will. The Furrion Chill Cube RV Air Conditioner item # LC34DX is most likely going to be more efficient that what you're currently running. It only pulls 1,330 watts while drawing 11.6 amps. The Furrion Chill Cube item # LC34DX has the new R32 refrigerant, which is far more efficient. Your Cummins Onan QG Generator item # CM42ZR is going to have no problems keeping up with this AC unit. Please note that due to the new R32 refrigerant none of the Chill Cube components...
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  • Is Cummins Onan 4000w Generator or Inverter model better for Forest River RV with Victron Inverter?
    Hey Jone - great question, and it sounds like that Sandpiper 38HOK is built for some serious off-grid adventure! We’ve worked with a few customers in similar setups (shout out to Jeff in CO and Laurie in AZ), and here’s the real-world scoop. The # CM32ZR Quiet Series is the classic, field-tested 4000-watt model — tuned for low vibration and ideal for running your A/Cs, fridge, and microwave. It’s a bolt-in friendly option that plays well with your existing Victron inverter for sensitive...
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  • Can I Use the Onan QG 4000 CU64FR to Power My Keystone Passport 239ML With a Soft Start Installed?
    You’re on the right track! The QG 4000 # CM32ZR is one of our most popular setups for small to mid-size travel trailers like your Keystone Passport 239ML — and with that SoftStartRV unit on your 13.5K BTU Dometic, you’re golden. We've heard from customers running setups nearly identical to yours shoutout to Kevin in Tucson and Mary in Arkansas! who say it handles the A/C like a champ, even with the fridge or a few outlets in use. Just make sure your A/C startup draw and other electronic...
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  • What Is Needed To Replace A Onan QG 4000 With A QG 4000i In A Thor Freedom Elite FE27?
    Hi Joseph! The Cummins Onan QG 4000i Onboard RV Generator w/ Inverter - 4,000 Watts - Gasoline - CARB Compliant # CM42ZR is almost an exact swap for your current QG 4000. The physical dimensions are the same, but the air intake and exhaust ports are mirrored (see the included picture as it shows that better than I explained it). As long as you can make that work, you won't need anything else to make the swap! You aren't the first person I have had ask about this swap (it was a different...
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  • Will Onan Cummins Gas 4000w Inverter Generator Power Induction Cooktop And 13.5k BTU AC Unit?
    Yes Blake, with a soft start on your A/C, you can absolutely run both with the Cummins Gas Inverter Generator # CM42ZR. You can probably do it without a soft start capacitor, but you'd want to shut off other electronics while turning on the AC if you don't have a soft capacitor yet, so you can keep the amperage draw to a minimum while it starts. We’ve heard from customers like Jenna in Austin who uses this exact setup in her 2020 Coachmen Freelander. It handles the load efficiently, and...
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  • Replacement Onan QG-4000 Generator In A Jayco RedHawk 31XL
    Hi Miklos! The Onan QG-4000 4KY-26100R you have in your Jayco RedHawk 31XL will be the exact same thing as our part # CM32ZR. While the QG-4000 and QG-4000i both are Onan RV generators and share the same power output (4000 watts), the "i" in QG-4000i indicates it's an inverter generator, which has a different internal design and operating characteristics compared to the standard QG-4000. This makes it CARB complaint, so it can be used in California. It can be used as a replacement, but...
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  • Will Cummins Onan QG 4000i Onboard RV Generator Start Up Automatically if RV Power Goes Out?
    Hey Dennis, thanks for reaching out! The Cummins Onan QG 4000i Onboard RV Generator # CM42ZR will need to be started up manually if the pedestal power goes out. Your RV should have an auto transfer switch, and the Cummins generator can work with a remote switch you can install inside so you won't have to go outside at all, but the generator won't sense that the pedestal is shut down and automatically kick on. I don't know of any generators that have an auto start feature on it, but having...
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  • Is Onan Cummins QG Generator 4000i Actually Better than Previous Generation
    Hey Joseph, I'd be glad to help you decide if the 4000i is a solid enough of an upgrade from what you've had in the past including the older 4000 from Onan. Lets go over some of the changes. The new engine is larger and a different design, It’s all new with 389 cc versus previous 304 cc displacement. The fuel consumption is a lot better. At half load it is 0.27 gallons/hour, which is a big improvement over previous rating of 0.50 at half load. Noise is 63 dB at no load and 66 dB at...
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  • Specification Sheet for a Cummins Onan QG 4000i Onboard RV Generator
    Hey Allan. The only thing I found when I searched 4000i was our Cummins Onan QG 4000i Onboard RV Generator w/ Inverter - 4,000 Watts item # CM42ZR. I have attached the Specification Sheet for it to the bottom of this page. If you need more information, I recommend checking their website. If the Onan 4000i generator is not what you were asking about you can add more information where it says Reply to Jerred H.
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  • Is the inverter-style Onan Generator QG 4000i better for electronics than the standard QG 4000?
    Great question! The Cummins Onan QG 4000i RV Generator w/ Inverter 4,000 Watts # CM42ZR delivers the same raw power 4,000W as the Cummins Onan Quiet Series RV Generator 4,000 Watts # CM32ZR but with cleaner, pure sine wave inverter output. That means it’s perfect for sensitive devices like laptops, Wi-Fi boosters, smart TVs, and CPAP machines. If you're working from the road or running a Victron charging system or lithium batteries, this generator ensures your tech runs without glitches...
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  • Undermount Kit for Onan RV Generator
    Hey Chris, it looks like Onan offers undermount floor kits for their generators like the part # CM42ZR that we carry but we do not carry the kits at this time. Looks like the part number you would need is A030X652.
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  • Troubleshooting Cummins Onan 4000 Starts But Won't Continue Running on 2021 Thor Class C
    Hi Pete; there are quite a few reasons this could be happening with your Cummins Onan QG 4000i # CM42ZR. I would start by checking the oil level. One of the most common problems is too much oil or too little. If you just filled it and it is sitting right at full you might want to suck out a little of the oil and see if that fixes it. You may also have stale fuel if it has been sitting for a while, a clogged fuel filter, dirty carburetor, or a dirty air filter restricting the air flow....
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  • Replacing Noisy Onboard Generator In Jayco Grewyhawk With Cummins Onan Quiet Series 4000w
    Yes, the QG 4000w generator # CM42ZR is known for being ultra-quiet, making it a go-to option for national parks and campgrounds. It's built-in sound-deadening design uses a sealed muffler and vibration isolation. It meets the 60 dB@50 ft standard, so you’ll get more “outdoor coffee and birdsong,” less “lawnmower at the lake.” If you're tired of yelling over your generator, this is your upgrade.
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Info for this part was:

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Expert Research:
Jameson C
Employee Steven C
Installed by:
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Employee Wilson B
Updated by:
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Employee Daron K
Updated by:
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Employee Alex H
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Test Fit:
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Employee Anthony G
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