Portable Generator User Manual
MQP20P STANDBY GENERATOR • OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #1 (11/28/11) — PAGE 23
INSPECTION/SETUP
MAIN CIRCUIT BREAKER
The generator is equipped with a 3-pole, 100-amp circuit 
breaker to protect it from overload. Make sure that the circuit 
breaker is in the OFF position prior to starting the engine.
LUBRICATION OIL
Fill the engine crankcase with lubricating oil through the 
filler hole, but DO NOT overfill. Make sure the generator 
is level and verify that the oil level is maintained between 
the two notches (Figure 7) on the dipstick. See Table 9 for 
proper selection of engine oil.
Figure 7. Engine Oil Dipstick
When checking the engine oil, be sure to check if the oil is 
clean. If the oil is not clean, drain the oil by removing the 
oil drain plug, and refill with the specified amount of oil as 
outlined in the Perkins Engine Owner’s Manual. Oil should 
be warm before draining.
Other types of motor oils may be substituted if they meet 
the following requirements:
   API Service Classification CC/SC
  API Service Classification CC/SD
  API Service Classification CC/SE
  API Service Classification CC/SF
Table 9. Recommended Motor Oil
FUEL CHECK
Refilling the Fuel System 
This  generator  has  a  fuel  tank  located  in  the  sub  base 
assembly frame (Figure 3). ALWAYS fill the fuel tank with 
clean fresh #2 diesel fuel. DO NOT fill the fuel tank beyond 
its capacity.
Pay attention to the fuel tank capacity when replenishing 
fuel. The fuel tank cap must be closed tightly after filling. 
Handle  fuel  in  a  safe  container.  If  the  container  does 
not have a spout, use a funnel. Wipe up any spilled fuel 
immediately.
Refueling Procedure:
 DANGER
Fuel spillage on a hot engine can cause 
a fire or explosion. If fuel spillage occurs, 
wipe  up  the  spilled  fuel  completely  to 
prevent  fire  hazards.  NEVER  smoke 
around or near the generator.
 CAUTION
ONLY  properly  trained  personnel  who  have  read 
and understood this section should refill the fuel tank 
system.
 WARNING
Diesel fuel and its vapors are dangerous 
to  your  health  and  the  surrounding 
environment.  Avoid  skin  contact  and/or 
inhaling fumes.
 CAUTION
ALWAYS make sure generator is on firm level ground 
before refueling to prevent spilling and maximize the 
amount of fuel that can be pumped into the tank.










