RV Repair: Onan Marquis 5000 generator, onan marquis, spring problem

Question
Hello,
Generator won't start.  Chassis and house batteries are fully charged (in '96 Bounder 34J.)  Genset oil level correct.  1/2 tank of gas in motorhome.  Genset flywheel rotates readily by hand with the help of a lever between the flywheel vanes.  Solenoid has healthy-sounding clicking when start button is depressed, but the starter doesn't crank the genset.  When pressing the start button there is sometimes a quick metallic ping which seems to emanate from around the starter.  The solenoid was tested by a Cummins dealer and found to be in good condition.  Possible Bendix spring problem?  Tapping the starter housing yielded no results.  If the genset needs to be removed to gain access to the starter, what is the disconnection point?  Support plate/pan with genset remaining attached, or removing genset from support plate/pan?  Thanks for your patience.

Tracy Gordon  

Answer
Check to see if you still have 12v dc AT the generator when you try to start it.  What you are describing is typical of low voltage at the unit its self.  Could also be a poor/ dirty ground wire at the 12 side.  The ping you hear is the bendix on the flywheel. If you decide to remove the generator, I recommend leaving it on the pan.