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Why are the Mounting Holes on a Cummins Generator Inline w/Exhaust on the Bottom?  

Updated 11/07/2026 | Published 11/06/2026

Question:

WHY DID ONAN/CUMMINS PUT THE MOUNTING HOLES DIRECTLY INLINE WITH THE EXHAUST ON THE BOTTOM? I HAD TO MODIFY MOUNTING BRACKETS TO GET THE GENERATOR MOUNTED IN MY JAYCO NORTH POINT. NOT A GREAT DESIGN!

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Expert Reply:

Hi Joseph,

I'm sorry you had to go through some unexpected modifications to get your generator installed.

I looked into this and the reason why is that the mounting holes are positioned to line up with the sturdiest structural part of the RV's framework. Since the engine, oil reservoir, and exhaust are all at the bottom of newer RV generators to reduce noise and keep the center of gravity low; the structural framing must support the vibrating mass of the engine on its rubber isolators, so the mounting holes are forced into locations that unfortunately line up directly with where the exhaust downpipe drops out of the muffler.

Due to RVIA and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes regarding heat clearances, the exhaust cannot pass directly beneath or immediately adjacent to fluid service points (like the oil drain plug) because hot exhaust can easily ignite fuel or oil leaks. The downside is that this puts the exhaust directly in the way of standard crossmember mounting brackets.

Was this a direct replacement for an older Cummins generator?

expert reply by:
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Claire H
Joseph R. profile picture

Joseph R.

11/7/2026

No it was a brand new install.

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