MQ Power DCA180SSJU WHISPERWATT SERIES Guide

PARTS AND OPERATION MANUAL
OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL
To find the latest revision of this
publication, visit our website at:
www.mqpower.com
WHISPERWATTTM SERIES
MODEL DCA180SSJU
60HZ GENERATOR
(JOHN DEERE 6068HF485 DIESEL ENGINE)
Revision #3 (02/01/10)
(PARTS LIST NO. M3870301004)

PAGE 2 — DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10)
PROPOSITION 65 WARNING

DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10) — PAGE 3
1
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect that could cause a crash or could cause
injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Multiquip at 1-800-421-1244.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds
that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy
campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems
between you, your dealer, or Multiquip.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-
327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153), go to http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov; or write to:
Administrator
NHTSA
1200 New Jersey Avenue S.E.
Washington, DC 20590
You can also obtain information about motor vehicle safety from
http://www.safecar.gov.

PAGE 4 — DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MQ POWER DCA-180SSJUMQ POWER DCA-180SSJU
MQ POWER DCA-180SSJUMQ POWER DCA-180SSJU
MQ POWER DCA-180SSJU
WHISPERWHISPER
WHISPERWHISPER
WHISPERWW
WW
WAA
AA
ATTTT
TTTT
TTTMTM
TMTM
TM
GENERATORGENERATOR
GENERATORGENERATOR
GENERATOR
Proposition 65 Warning ........................................... 2
Reporting Safety Defects ........................................ 3
Table Of Contents.................................................... 4
Parts Ordering Procedures ..................................... 5
Specifications .......................................................... 6
Dimensions (Top, Side And Front) ........................... 7
Safety Message Alert Symbols ............................ 8-9
Rules For Safe Operation ................................. 10-13
Generator Decals ............................................. 14-15
Installation ........................................................ 16-17
General Information .............................................. 18
Major Components ................................................ 19
Diagnostic Display ............................................ 20-36
Generator Control Panel ....................................... 37
Engine Operating Panel ................................... 38-39
Output Terminal Panel Familiarization ............. 40-42
Load Application.................................................... 43
Generator Outputs ........................................... 44-45
Gauge Reading ..................................................... 45
Output Terminal Panel Connections ................ 46-47
Setup ................................................................ 48-51
Generator Start-Up Procedure (Manual) .......... 52-54
Generator Start-Up Procedure (Auto Mode) ......... 55
Generator Shut-Down Procedures ........................ 56
Maintenance (Engine) ...................................... 57-58
Maintenance (Heater/Charger) ............................. 59
Maintenance (Trailer) ....................................... 60-63
Trailer Wiring Diagram ........................................... 64
Generator Wiring Diagram .................................... 65
Engine Wiring Diagram ......................................... 66
Troubleshooting (Generator) ................................. 67
Troubleshooting (Engine Controller) ...................... 68
Explanation Of Code In Remarks Column ............ 70
Suggested Spare Parts ......................................... 71
COMPONENT DRACOMPONENT DRA
COMPONENT DRACOMPONENT DRA
COMPONENT DRAWINGSWINGS
WINGSWINGS
WINGS
Generator Assembly ........................................ 72-73
Control Panel Assembly .................................. 74-75
Control Box Assembly ..................................... 76-79
Engine And Radiator Assembly ....................... 80-83
Output Terminal Assembly ............................... 84-87
Battery Assembly ............................................. 88-89
Muffler Assembly .............................................. 90-91
Fuel Tank Assembly ......................................... 92-93
Enclosure Assembly ........................................ 94-99
Rubber Seals Assembly ............................... 100-101
Nameplate And Decals Assembly ............... 102-103
Terms And Conditions Of Sale — Parts .............. 104

DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10) — PAGE 5
1
PARTS ORDERING PROCEDURES
www.mqpower.com
Ordering parts has never been easier!
Choose from three easy options:
WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS!
When ordering parts, please supply:
RDealer Account Number
RDealer Name and Address
RShipping Address (if different than billing address)
RReturn Fax Number
RApplicable Model Number
RQuantity, Part Number and Description of Each Part
RSpecify Preferred Method of Shipment:
UPS/Fed ExDHL
NPriority OneTr u c k 
NGround
NNext Day
NSecond/Third Day
If you have an MQ Account, to obtain a Username
and Password, E-mail us at: parts@multiquip.
com.
To obtain an MQ Account, contact you
r
District Sales Manager for more information.
Order via Internet (Dealers Only):
Order parts on-line using Multiquip’s SmartEquip website!
NView Parts Diagrams
NOrder Parts
NPrint Specification Information
Note: Discounts Are Subject To Change
Goto www.multiquip.com and click on
Order Parts to log in and save!
Use the internet and qualify for a 5% Discount
on Standard orders for all orders which include
complete part numbers.*
Order via Fax (Dealers Only):
All customers are welcome to order parts via Fax.
Domestic (US) Customers dial:
1-800-6-PARTS-7 (800-672-7877)
Fax your order in and qualify for a 2% Discount
on Standard orders for all orders which include
complete part numbers.*
Order via Phone: Domestic (US) Dealers Call:
1-800-427-1244
Best Deal!
International Customers should contact
their local Multiquip Representatives for
Parts Ordering information.
Non-Dealer Customers:
Contact your local Multiquip Dealer for
parts or call 800-427-1244 for help in
locating a dealer near you.
Note: Discounts Are Subject To Change
Effective:
January 1st, 2006
NOTICE
All orders are treated as Standard Orders and will
ship the same day if received prior to 3PM PST.

PAGE 6 — DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10)
SPECIFICATIONS
Table 1. Generator Specifications
Model DCA-180SSJU
Type Revolving field, self ventilated, open protected type synchronous
generator
Armature Connection Star with Nutreal
Phase 3
Standby Output 198 KVA (158 KW)
Prime Output 180 KVA (144 KW)
Voltage 240V or 480V
Frequency 60 Hz
Speed 1800 rpm
Power Factor 0.8
Aux. AC Power Single Phase, 60 Hz
Voltage 120 V
Output 4.8 KW (2.4 KW x 2)
Weight (No Fuel) 6,571 lbs. (2,980 kg.)
Weight (With Fuel) 7,489 lbs. (3,400 kg.)
Engine Specifications
Model JOHN DEERE 6068HF485
Type 4 Cycle, water-cooled, direct injection, turbo-charged,
air to air intercooled
No. of Cylinders 6 cylinders
Bore x Stroke 4.17 in. x 5 in. (106 mm x 127 mm)
Rated Output 286 HP/1800 rpm
Displacement 415 cu. in. (6.8 liters)
Starting Electric
Fuel Tank Capacity 100 gal. (380 liters)
Coolant Capacity 6.34 gal. (24 liters)
Lube Oil Capacity 8.69 gal. (32.9 liters)
Fuel Consumption
11.4 gal. (43 L)/hr at full load 9.0 gal. (34.1 L)/hr at 3/4 load
6.6 gal. (25.1 L)/hr at 1/2 load 4.3 gal. (16.2 L)/hr at 1/4 load
Battery 12V 128 Ah
Fuel #2 Diesel Fuel

DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10) — PAGE 7
1
DIMENSIONS (TOP, SIDE AND FRONT)
Figure 1. Dimensions
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retteL ).mm(.tfnoisnemiDretteLecnerefeR).mm(.tfnoisnemiD
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49(.ni00.73G ).mm007,1(.ni00.76
C).mm050,1(.ni33.14H ).mm042,1(.ni08.84
D).mm050,1(.ni33.14
E).mm050,1(.ni33.14

PAGE 8 — DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10)
This Owner's Manual has been
developed to provide complete
instructions for the safe and
efficient operation of the
MQ Power
Before using this generator,ensure that the operating
individual has read and understands all instructions in
this manual.
Safety precautions should be followed at all times when
operating this equipment. Failure to read and understand
the Safety Messages and Operating Instructions could result
in injury to yourself and others.
FOR YOUR SAFETY AND THE SAFETY OF OTHERS! HAZARD SYMBOLS
Potential hazards associated with the operation of this
equipment will be referenced with " " which
appear throughout this manual, and will be referenced in
conjunction with Safety " ".
NOTE
SAFETY MESSAGE ALERT SYMBOLS
SAFETY MESSAGE ALERT SYMBOLS
The three (3) Safety Messages shown below will inform you
about potential hazards that could injure you or others. The
Safety Messages specifically address the level of exposure
to the operator, and are preceded by one of three words:
DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION.
You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY injured if you
do not follow directions.
You COULD be KILLED or SERIOUSLY injured if
you do not follow directions.
You CAN be injured if you do not follow directions
Gasoline engine exhaust gases contain
poisonous carbon monoxide. This gas is
colorless and odorless, and can cause
if inhaled. NEVER operate this
equipment in a confined area or enclosed structure that
does not provide ample free flow air.
is extremely flammable, and its
vapors can cause an explosion if ignited.
DO NOT start the engine near spilled fuel
or combustible fluids.
DO NOT fill the fuel tank while the engine
is running or hot.
DO NOT overfill tank, since spilled fuel could ignite if it
comes into contact with hot engine parts or sparks from
the ignition system. Store fuel in approved containers, in
well-ventilated areas and away from sparks and flames.
NEVER use fuel as a cleaning agent.
Engine components can generate extreme
heat.To prevent burns, DO NOT touch these
areas while the engine is running or
immediately after operations. NEVER
operate the engine with heat shields or heat
guards removed.
WARNING
DANGER
CAUTION
WARNING - LETHAL EXHAUST GASES
WARNING - BURN HAZARDS
WARNING - EXPLOSIVE FUEL
During operation of this generator, there
exists the possibility of
which can cause
or even
DANGER - ELECTROCUTION HAZARDS

DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10) — PAGE 9
1
SAFETY MESSAGE ALERT SYMBOLS
ALWAYS place the MPEC control switch
in the OFF/RESET position when the
generator is not in use.
ALWAYS wear approved
protection.
ALWAYS wear approved and
protection.
Other important messages are provided throughout this
manual to help prevent damage to your generator, other
property, or the surrounding environment.
This generator, other property,
or the surrounding environment
could be damaged if you do not
follow instructions.
NOTE
NEVER tamper with the factory settings
of the engine governor or settings.
Personal injury and damage to the engine
or equipment can result if operating in
speed ranges above maximum allowable.
CAUTION - OVER-SPEED CONDITIONS
CAUTION - ACCIDENTAL STARTING
CAUTION - RESPIRATORY HAZARDS
CAUTION - SIGHT AND HEARING HAZARDS
CAUTION - EQUIPMENT DAMAGE MESSAGES
NEVER operate equipment with covers,
or guards removed. Keep ,
, and clothing away from all
moving parts to prevent injury.
WARNING - ROTATING PARTS

PAGE 10 — DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10)
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
The following safety guidelines should always be used when
operating the
General Safety:
■ DO NOT operate or service this
equipment before reading this entire
manual.
The operator MUST BE familiar with proper safety
precautions and operations techniques before using
generator.
■ This equipment should not be operated by persons under
18 years of age.
■ NEVER operate this equipment without proper protective
clothing, shatterproof glasses, steel-toed boots and other
protective devices required by the job.
■ NEVER operate this equipment when not
feeling well due to fatigue, illness or taking
medicine.
■ NEVER operate this equipment under the influence or
drugs or alcohol.
Failure to follow instructions in this manual may lead to
or even ! This equipment is to be
operated by trained and qualified personnel only! This
equipment is for industrial use only.
DANGER - READ THIS MANUAL!
■ ALWAYS check the machine for loosened threads or bolts
before starting.
■ NEVER operate the generator in an explosive atmosphere
or near combustible materials. An explosion or fire could
result causing severe .
■ NEVER touch the hot exhaust manifold, muffler
or cylinder. Allow these parts to cool before
servicing engine or generator.
■ HighTemperatures – Allow the engine
to cool before performing service and
maintenance functions. Contact with
components can cause serious
burns.
■ The engine of this generator requires an adequate free
flow of cooling air. operate the generator in any
enclosed or narrow area where free flow of the air is
restricted. If the air flow is
restricted it will cause
serious damage to the
generator or engine and may
cause injury to people. The
generator engine gives off
DEADLY carbon monoxide
gas.
■ DO NOT place hands or fingers inside generator engine
compartment when engine is running.
■ NEVER run engine without air filter. Severe engine
damage may occur.
■ DO NOT leave the generator running in the
unattended.
■ Refer to the for
engine technical questions or information.
■ ALWAYS store equipment properly when it is not being
used. Equipment should be stored in a clean, dry location
out of the reach of children.
■ NEVER use accessories or attachments, which are not
recommended by MQ Power for this equipment. Damage
to the equipment and/or injury to user may result.
■ Manufacturer does not assume responsibility for any
accident due to equipment modifications. Unauthorized
equipment modification will void all warranties.
■ Whenever necessary, replace nameplate, operation and
safety decals when they become difficult read.

DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10) — PAGE 11
1
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
POWER
CORD
(POWER ON)
WET
HANDS
During operation of this generator, there
exists the possibility of
which can cause
or even
To avoid these hazards:
NEVER use damaged or worn cables when connecting
equipment to the generator. Make sure power connecting
cables are securely connected to the generator’s output
terminals, insufficient tightening of the terminal connections
may cause damage to the generator
and electrical shock.
NEVER grab or touch a live power
cord with wet hands.
NEVER touch output terminals
during operation. This is extremely
dangerous. ALWAYS stop the
machine and place the circuit
breaker in the OFF position when
contact with the output terminals is
required.
Backfeed to a utility system can
cause and or
property damage. DO NOT connect
to any building's electrical system
except through an approved device
or after building main switch is
opened. ALWAYS have a licensed
electrician perform the installation
DANGER - ELECTROCUTION HAZARDS
Generator Grounding
To guard against electrical shock and possible damage to
the equipment, it is important to provide a good EARTH
ground.
Article 250 (Grounding) of the
(NEC) provides guide lines for proper grounding and specifies
that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding
system of the building as close to the point of cable entry as
practical.
The following safety recommendations should also be
followed:
■ ALWAYS make sure generator is properly grounded.
■ NEVER use gas piping as an electrical ground.
■ ALWAYS make sure that electrical circuits are properly
per the (NEC) and
local codes before operating generator. Severe or
by electrocution can result from operating an
ungrounded generator.
■ ALWAYS be sure to use the ground terminal (green wire)
when connecting a load to the U,V, and W output
terminal lugs.
Electrical Safety
■ ALWAYS have a qualified electrician perform the
generator wiring installation.
■ ALWAYS make sure generator installation is accordance
with the (NEC) and local codes
before operating generator.
■ NEVER use a defective or frayed power cable. Check
the cable for cuts in the insulation.
■ NEVER use a extension cord that is frayed or damaged
where the insulation has been cut.
■ ALWAYS make certain that proper extension cord has
been selected for the job. See Table 6.
■ NEVER power cables or cords r.
■ NEVER while AC power from the
generator is being transfer to a load.

PAGE 12 — DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10)
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
Battery Safety
Use the following guidelines when handling the battery:
■ The battery contains acids that can
cause injury to the eyes and skin. To
avoid eye irritation, wear safety
glasses.
■ Use well insulated gloves when picking up the battery.
Maintenance Safety
■ The electrical voltage required to operate the generator
can cause severe injury or even death through physical
contact with live circuits. Turn all circuit breakers OFF
before performing maintenance on the generator.
■ NEVER lubricate components or attempt service on a
running machine.
■ ALWAYS disconnect the
before performing service on the generator.
■ Follow all Battery Safety Guidelines listed in this manual
when handleing or servicing the generator.
■ ALWAYS allow the machine a proper amount of time to
cool before servicing.
■ Keep the machinery in proper running condition.
■ Fix damage to the machine immediately and always
replace broken parts.
■ ALWAYS service air cleaner frequently to prevent engine
malfunction.
To prevent burns, DO NOT touch or open any of the below
mentioned components while the engine is
running or immediately after operations.
Always allow sufficient time for the engine
and generator to cool before performing
maintenance.
■ Radiator Cap - Removing the radiator cap while the
engine is hot will result in high pressurized, boiling water
to gush out of the radiator, causing severe scalding to
any persons in the general area of the generator.
■ Coolant Drain Plug - Removing the coolant drain plug
while the engine is hot will result in hot coolant gushing
out of the coolant drain plug, therefore causing severe
scalding to any persons in the general area of the
generator.
■ Engine Oil Drain Plug - Removing the engine oil drain
plug while the engine is hot will result in hot oil gushing
out of the oil drain plug, therefore causing severe
scalding to any persons in the general area of the
generator.
WARNING - BURN HAZARDS
■■
■■
■ ALWAYS keep the battery charged. If the battery is not
charged a buildup of combustible gas will occur.
■■
■■
■ ALWAYS keep battery charging and cables in good
working condition. Repair or replace all worn cables.
■■
■■
■ ALWAYS recharge the battery in an vented air
environment, to avoid risk of a dangerous concentration
of combustible gases.
■■
■■
■ In case the battery liquid (dilute sulfuric acid) comes in
contact with , rinse skin or clothing
immediately with plenty of water.
■■
■■
■ In case the battery liquid (dilute sulfuric acid) comes in
contact with your , rinse eyes immediately with plenty
of water and contact the nearest doctor or hospital to seek
medical attention.
The risk of an explosion exists when performing service
on the battery. To avoid or :
■■
■■
■ DO NOT drop the battery. There
is the possibility of risk that the
battery may explode.
■■
■■
■ DO NOT expose the battery to
open flames, sparks, cigarettes
etc.The battery contains combustible gases and liquids.
If these gases and liquids come in contact with a flame
or spark, an explosion could occur.
DANGER - EXPLOSION HAZARDS

DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10) — PAGE 13
1
Emergencies
■ ALWAYS know the location of the
nearest .
■ ALWAYS know the location of the
nearest and .
■ ALWAYS know the location of the
nearest phone or
in case of emergencies.
■ ALWAYS have easy access to the phone
numbers of the nearest ,
and . This information will
be invaluable in the case of an emergency.
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
Check with your local county or state safety towing
regulations, in addition to meeting
(DOT) , before
towing your generator.
CAUTION - FOLLOW TOWING REGULATIONS
■ The maximum speed for highway towing is 55 MPH unless
posted otherwise. Recommended off-road towing is not
to exceed 15 MPH or less depending on type of terrain.
■ Place underneath wheel to prevent rolling,
while parked.
■ Use the trailer’s swivel jack to adjust the trailer height to
a level position while parked.
■ Avoid sudden stops and starts. This can cause skidding,
or jack-knifing. Smooth, gradual starts and stops will
improve towing.
■ Avoid sharp turns.
■ Trailer should be adjusted to a level position at all times
when towing.
■ Raise and lock trailer wheel stand in up position when
transporting.
■ The maximum speed for highway towing is 55 MPH unless
posted otherwise. Recommended off-road towing is not
to exceed 15 MPH or less depending on type of terrain.
■ Place support blocks underneath the trailer’s bumper to
prevent tipping, while parked.
■ Avoid sharp turns to prevent rolling.
■ DO NOT transport generator with fuel in tank.
Towing & Transporting Safety
To reduce the possibility of an accident while transporting
the generator on public roads, always make sure the trailer
that supports the generator and the towing vehicle are in
good operating condition and both units are mechanically
sound.
The following list of safety precautions should be followed
when towing your generator:
■ ALWAYS shutdown engine before transporting.
■ Tighten both fuel tank caps securely.
■ If generator is mounted on a trailer, make sure trailer
complies with all local and state safety transportation laws.
Follow the listed
guidelines for basic towing techniques.
■ Make sure the hitch and coupling of the towing vehicle
are rated equal to, or greater than the trailer "gross vehicle
weight rating.”
■ ALWAYS inspect the hitch and coupling for wear. NEVER
tow a trailer with defective hitches, couplings, chains etc.
■ Check the tire air pressure on both towing vehicle and
trailer. .
Also check the tire tread wear on both vehicles.
■ ALWAYS make sure the trailer is equipped with a "Safety
Chain".
■ ALWAYS attach trailer’s safety chains to towing vehicle
properly.
■ ALWAYS make sure the vehicle and trailer directional,
backup, brake, and trailer lights are connected and
working properly.
■ DOT Requirements include the following:
 Connect and test electric brake operation.
 Secure portable power cables in cable tray with tie
wraps.

PAGE 14 — DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10)
The DCA-180SSJU generator is equipped with a number of safety decals (Figures 2 & 3). These decals are provided for
operator safety and maintenance information. The illustration below and on the preceding page show the decals as they
appear on the machine. Should any of these decals become unreadable, replacements can be obtained from your
dealer.
GENERATOR DECALS
Figure 2. Generator Decals

DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10) — PAGE 15
1
GENERATOR DECALS
Figure 3. Generator Decals (Cont inued)

PAGE 16 — DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10)
Figure 4. Typical Generator Grounding Application
INSTALLATION

DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10) — PAGE 17
1
Outdoor Installation
Install the generator in a area that is free of debris,
bystanders, and overhead obstructions. Make sure the
generator is on secure level ground so that it cannot slide or
shift around. Also install the generator in a manner so that
the exhaust will not be discharged in the direction of nearby
homes.
The installation site must be relatively free from moisture
and dust. All electrical equipment should be protected from
excessive moisture. Failure to do will result in deterioration
of the insulation and will result in short circuits and grounding.
Foreign materials such as dust, sand, lint and abrasive
materials have a tendency to cause excessive wear to
engine and alternator parts.
Generator Grounding
To guard against electrical shock and possible damage to
the equipment, it is important to provide a good EARTH
ground.
Article 250 (Grounding) of the National Electrical Code (NEC)
provides guide lines for proper grounding and specifies that
the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system
of the building as close to the point of cable entry as practical.
NEC articles 250-64(b) and 250-66 set the following
grounding requirements:
1. Use one of the following wire types to connect the
generator to earth ground.
a. Copper - 10 AWG (5.3 mm2) or larger.
b. Aluminum - 8 AWG (8.4 mm2) or larger.
2. When grounding the generator (Figure 4) connect the
ground cable between the lock washer and the nut on
the generator and tighten the nut fully. Connect the other
end of the ground cable to earth ground.
3. NEC article 250-52(c) specifies that the earth ground
rod should be buried a minimum of 8 ft. into the ground.
When connecting the generator
to any buildings electrical
system ALWAYS consult with
a licensed electrician.
INSTALLATION
NOTE
Indoor Installation
Exhaust gases from diesel engines are extremely poisonous.
Whenever an engine is installed indoors the exhaust fumes
must be vented to the outside.The engine should be installed
at least two feet from any outside wall. Using an exhaust
pipe which is too long or too small can cause excessive back
pressure which will cause the engine to heat excessively
and possibly burn the valves.
Mounting
The generator must be mounted on a solid foundation (such
as concrete) and set firmly on the foundation to isolate
vibration of the generator when it is running. The generator
must set at least 6 inches above the floor or grade level (in
accordance to NFPA 110, Chapter 5-4.1). DO NOT remove
the metal skids on the bottom of the generator. They are to
resist damage to the bottom of the generator and to maintain
alignment.
Pay close attention to ventilation when operating the
generator inside tunnels and caves. The engine exhaust
contains noxious elements. Engine exhaust must be routed
to a ventilated area.
CAUTION - EXHAUST HAZARD

PAGE 18 — DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10)
GENERAL INFORMATION
DCA-180SSJU Whisperwatt™ Series Familiarization
Generator
The MQ Power Model DCA-180SSJU is a 180 kW
(Figure 5) that is designed as a high quality portable (requires
a trailer for transport) power source for telecom sites, lighting
facilities, power tools, submersible pumps and other industrial
and construction machinery.
Engine Operating Panel
The “Engine Operating Panel” is provided with the following:
■■
■■
■
Tachometer
■■
■■
■ Water Temperature Gauge
■■
■■
■
Oil Pressure Gauge
■■
■■
■
Charging Ammeter Gauge
■■
■■
■ Fuel Level Gauge
■■
■■
■
Engine Speed Switch
■■
■■
■ Auto ON/OFF Engine Controller (MPEC)
■■
■■
■ Preheat Lamp
■■
■■
■ Warning Lamp
■■
■■
■ Emergency Stop Lamp
■■
■■
■ Emergency Stop Button
■■
■■
■ Diagnostic Gauge
■■
■■
■ Panel Light/Panel Light Switch
Open Delta Excitation System
The DCA-180SSJU generator is equipped with the state of
the art " " excitation system. The open delta
system consist of an electrically independent winding wound
among stationary windings of the AC output section.
There are four connections of the open delta A, B, C and D.
During steady state loads, the power from the voltage
regulator is supplied from the parallel connections of A to B,
A to D, and C to D. These three phases of the voltage input
to the voltage regulator are then rectified and are the
excitation current for the exciter section.
When a heavy load, such as a motor starting or a short circuit
occurs, the automatic voltage regulator (AVR) switches the
configuration of the open delta to the series connection of B
to C.This has the effect of adding the voltages of each phase
to provide higher excitation to the exciter section and thus
better voltage response during the application of heavy loads.
The connections of the AVR to the AC output windings are
for sensing only. No power is required from these windings.
The open-delta design provides virtually unlimited excitation
current, offering maximum motor starting capabilities. The
excitation does not have a " " and responds
according the demands of the required load.
Engine
The DCA-180SSJU is powered by a 6 cylinder, water cooled,
direct injection, turbocharged
. This engine is designed to meet every
performance requirement for the generator. Reference Table 1
for engine specifications.
In keeping with MQ Power's policy of constantly improving
its products, the specifications quoted herein are subject to
change without prior notice.
Electric Governor System
The electric governor system controls the RPMs of the en-
gine. When the engine demand increases or decreases, the
governor system regulates the frequency variation to ±.25%.
Extension Cables
When electric power is to be provided to various tools or
loads at some distance from the generator, extension cords
are normally used. Cables should be sized to allow for
distance in length and amperage so that the voltage drop
between the generator and point of use (load) is held to a
minimum. Use the cable selection chart (Table 6) as a guide
for selecting proper extension cable size.
Generator Control Panel
The “Generator Control Panel” is provided with the following:
■■
■■
■ Frequency Meter (Hz)
■■
■■
■ AC Ammeter (Amps)
■■
■■
■ AC Voltmeter (Volts)
■■
■■
■ Ammeter Change-Over Switch
■■
■■
■ Voltmeter Change-Over Switch
■■
■■
■ Voltage Regulator
■■
■■
■ 3-Pole, 500 amp Main Circuit Breaker
■■
■■
■ “Control Box” (located behind the Gen. Control Panel)
■■
■■
■ Automatic Voltage Regulator
■■
■■
■ Diagnostic Display
■■
■■
■ Current Transformer
■■
■■
■ Over-Current Relay
■■
■■
■ Voltage Rectifer
■■
■■
■ Starter Relay
■■
■■
■ Engine Controller (Computer Controlled)
■■
■■
■ Voltage Change-over Board
Output Terminal Panel
The “Output Terminal Panel” is provided with the following:
■■
■■
■ Three 120/240V output receptacles (CS-6369), 50A
■■
■■
■ Three auxilliary circuit breakers, 50A
■■
■■
■ Two 120V output receptacles (GFCI), 20A
■■
■■
■ Two GFCI circuit breakers, 20A
■■
■■
■ Five output terminal lugs (3Ø power)
■■
■■
■ Battery Charger (Optional)
■■
■■
■ Water Heater (Optional)

DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10) — PAGE 19
1
MAJOR COMPONENTS
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PAGE 20 — DCA-180SSJU — OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #3 (02/01/10)
DIAGNOSTIC DISPLAY
The diagnostic display panel located inside the control box
on the generator (Figure 6) is designed to meet the needs
for instrumentation and control of electronically controlled
engine communication using the SAEJ1939 Controller Area
Network (CAN). This diagnostic display is a multifunction
tool that enables equipment operators to view many different
engine parameters and service codes.
The keypad on the diagnostic display panel is a capacitive
touch sensing system.There are no mechanical switches to
wear or stick.This keypad (display unit) will operate in extreme
hot or cold weather conditions.
Other components in the system are microprocessor-based
components for displaying critical engine data broadcast by
an electronic engine or transmission’s Engine Control Unit
(ECU): engine RPM, oil pressure, coolant temperature,
system voltage, etc., and a combination audible alarm and
relay unit for warning and shutdown annunciation.
The Engine Control Unit (ECU) used with this generator
diagnosis engine faults that arise with the the engine control
system and the engine itself. Engine faults can be determined
by viewing the Diagnostic Trouble Codes (Active Fault Codes)
which are displayed on the Diagnostic Display Panel. See
the John Deere Engine Operator’s Manual for a complete
listing of active fault codes and countermeasures.
The following definitions describe the controls and functions
of the (Figure 6).
1. Menu Button – Press this button to enter or exit menu
screens.
2. Left Arrow Button– Press this button to scroll through
the screen either moving the parameter selection toward
the left or upward.
Figure 6. Diagnostic Display Panel
3. Right Arrow Button – Press this button to scroll through
the screen either moving the parameter selection toward
the right or downward.
4. Enter Key Button – Press this button to select the
parameter that is highlighted on the screen.
5. Emergency Stop LED – When lit (RED) indicates a
major fault has occured. This condition will shudown
the generator.
6. Warning LED – When lit (AMBER), indicates a engine
parameter has exceeded its limits (minor fault). The
generator will still run in this condition.
7. Display Screen – Graphical backlight LCD screen.Back
lighting is controlled via menu or external dimmer
potentiometer. The display can show either a single
parameter or a quadrant display showing four
parameters simultaneously.
8. Diagnostic Switch – When placed in the ON position,
will activate the diagnostic display panel.
9. CAN Diagnostic Connector – Controller Area Network
connector. This connector outputs diagnostic error
codes. Connect a scanner or similar device into this
connector to read error codes.
Display Parameters
The following are some of the engine and transmission
parameters displayed on the diagnostic disply panel.
■■
■■
■ Engine RPM’s
■■
■■
■ Engine Hours
■■
■■
■ System Voltage
■■
■■
■ % Engine Load at current RPM
■■
■■
■ Coolant Temperature
■■
■■
■ Oil Pressure
■■
■■
■ Fuel Economy
■■
■■
■ Current Fuel Consumption
■■
■■
■ Throttle Position
■■
■■
■ Engine Manifold Air Temperature
■■
■■
■ Active Service Codes
■■
■■
■ Set Units for Display (English or Metric)
■■
■■
■ English Configuration Parameters.