Cummins RS17A Generator: Specs and Model Overview
The Cummins RS17A is rated 17kW on natural gas and 17kW on propane. It uses a QSJ999G, 999cc air-cooled V-twin engine at 3,600 rpm. It fits homes whose verified loads fit comfortably inside 17kW, with more starting headroom than the RS13A.
Cummins RS17A questions answered: sizing, cost, fuel and maintenance
Cummins RS17A Specifications
| Specification | Cummins RS17A |
|---|---|
| Natural-gas / propane output | 17 / 17 kW |
| Rated current at 240V, NG / LP | 70.8 / 70.8 A |
| Engine | QSJ999G, 999cc air-cooled V-twin |
| Speed | 3,600 rpm |
| Weight | 531 lb |
| Main generator breaker | 100 A |
| NG at half / full load | 165 / 258 ft³/hr |
| LP vapor at half / full load | 63 / 102 ft³/hr |
| Motor starting at 30% voltage dip | 34 kVA; transient, not continuous kW |
| Warm-weather generator-only part number | A071Z394 |
| Dimensions, L × W × H | 34.1 × 36 × 27.3 in |
| Published sound | 65 dBA at 23 ft; quietest point at normal load |
| Starting battery | 12V Group 51R; 450 CCA at 32°F |
| Warranty | 5-year / 2,000-hour limited warranty on the generator; RA automatic transfer switches 2-year; extended warranty options available |
Scope: U.S. 120/240V single-phase, 60Hz. Figures follow NAS-6254-EN, September 2025; altitude, temperature, fuel quality and ordered options may change performance. Confirm the supplied unit’s specification and serial-number documentation.
Source: Cummins NAS-6254-EN, September 2025 specification. Warranty: Cummins NAS-6254-EN specification, Rev. 10/19; confirm the current warranty statement with the dealer.
Where the RS17A Fits
Choose from simultaneous running loads and the largest motor start. The fuel-specific rating is a continuous-output ceiling; a starting kVA figure describes a brief transient. A transfer switch connected to the whole service does not guarantee all appliances can run together.
The RS17A fits homes whose verified loads fit comfortably inside 17kW, with more starting headroom than the RS13A. Include HVAC compressor starts, pumps, electric heat and EV charging in the load plan. Use the generator size calculator to organize the list, then have an installer validate it.
Cost and Installation Scope
Get an itemized local installed quote; an equipment price does not cover the complete project. No verified current model-specific retail price is asserted here. Require separate line items for the generator and options, automatic transfer switch, battery, delivery and lifting, foundation, electrical work, fuel piping or tank, permits, commissioning and any meter upgrade or load controls. Compare equal scopes from qualified local installers. Remote siting, trenching, service changes and cold-weather accessories can materially change the total. Our whole-house generator cost guide explains the scope to compare.
Transfer Switch and Fuel Supply
Confirm the exact package and transfer-switch model in writing. The generator-only air-cooled model does not imply an included ATS. For the 20kW platform, RS20AC (A071Z402) packages the generator with a 200A service-entrance-rated ATS; RS20A (A071Z397) is the warm-weather generator-only choice. RS20ACE (A071Z395) is the extreme-cold bundle. Have the installer specify amperage, voltage, phase, service-entrance rating, number of panels and any load-management controls. The generator’s output amperage and the utility-service or ATS rating are different design limits.
Source: Cummins NAS-6254-EN, September 2025 specification.
At full load, the linked table gives 258 ft³/hr on natural gas and 102 ft³/hr on LP vapor. Confirm combined appliance demand and pressure at the generator, with the gas utility or propane supplier involved where necessary.
Ownership and Service
A062J680 Issue 6 lists oil and filter changes at the first 25 and 100 operating hours, then every 200 hours or two years, whichever comes first. Check oil daily during outages. Valve-clearance work is also scheduled at the first 25 and 100 hours and every 200 hours, and must be performed by a qualified technician. The air filter is scheduled at 200 hours or two years; dusty or hot conditions require more frequent checks or service. Follow the complete August 2024 table and confirm applicability to your model’s spec letter and serial number.
Source: Cummins operator manual A062J680, Issue 6, August 2024.
Compare Cummins Models
Sources and Model Verification
These are manufacturer-authored documents; some PDFs are hosted by suppliers. Specifications are revision-specific. Confirm the ordered model, serial number, spec letter, voltage, phase, fuel, enclosure and warranty statement with the dealer. The linked liquid-cooled operator manual applies to Spec A, and should not substitute for a later unit’s service instructions. Confirm current equipment and installation pricing in a written local quote.