HomeEnginesMitsubishi MVL3E

Mitsubishi MVL3E Engine Engine

The Mitsubishi MVL3E is a 0.95 L diesel, liquid cooled, 4-stroke engine rated at 1800 rpm. It powers generator sets from Generac, including the MLT4060.

Also known as: Mitsubishi MVL3E

0.95 L
Displacement
1800 rpm
Rated speed

Engine specifications

Displacement0.95 L
AspirationDiesel, liquid cooled, 4-stroke
Rated speed1800 rpm

Generator sets powered by this engine

1

Common problems

15
  • Water Sedimenter - Drain Water
    Fix: Drain Water From Water Sediment Separator
  • Unit cranks, but will not start
    Cause: Fuel level low
    Fix: Check fuel level in tank. Verify fuel pump operation.
  • Restricted air filter
    Fix: Inspect air filter for blockage. Refer to OEM engine operator’s manual for additional information.
  • Overspeed or Underspeed Shutdown
    Cause: Frequency setting incorrect
    Fix: Disconnect all loads and restart unit. Read frequency (Hz) in the LCD window on controller. Frequency should read 60 Hz. If frequency is above 60 Hz, engine speed will need to be adjusted. Refer to the engine operator’s manual for throttle adjustment information.
  • Oil pressure switch failure
    Fix: Refer to OEM engine operator’s manual to identify corrective action.
  • Oil leaking from engine
    Fix: Visually inspect the engine for leaks.
  • Mast lights ON, low light output
    Cause: Fixture and/or lens is dirty Lamp worn due to normal use Damaged or loose electrical connections Generator output incorrect Low transformer output
    Fix: Clean reflective surface inside fixture and both inside and outside surface of glass lens. Use mild soap and water to clean lens. Other chemicals may have an adverse effect on the glass. Replace lamp. Check the mast coil cord, mast junction box and mast light connections. Check the incoming voltage to the ballast. Incoming voltage should be 120V ±5V. If the voltage is incorrect, the engine speed may need to be adjusted or the generator may require service. The voltage from the transformer should read approximately 400VAC as the light “strikes” (induces an arc), then drop and slowly rise back up to stabilize at 240-260VAC. On hard wired models, remove the mast junction box cover and insert the wire probes into the connector blocks for the light and ground. If proper voltage is not achieved, perform capacitor check to determine if the capacitor or coil needs to be replaced.
  • Mast Lights On But the Light Output is Low
    Cause: Fixture and/or lens is dirty
    Fix: Clean reflective surface inside fixture and both inside and outside surface of glass lens. Use mild soap and water to clean lens. Other chemicals may have an adverse effect on the glass.
  • Mast Lights Off, but Ballast Indicators on Control Panel are On
    Cause: Light fixture is too hot
    Fix: Allow light to cool 10-15 minutes before restarting.
  • Mast lights OFF, ballast indicators ON
    Cause: Light fixture is too hot Faulty lamp connection Lamp broken Loose lighting connections Damaged or loose electrical cord
    Fix: Allow light to cool 10-15 minutes before restarting. Check that the lamp is tight in the socket. Check for broken arc tube or outer lamp jacket, broken or loose components in lamp envelope, or blackening/deposits inside tube. Check the connections inside the mast junction box and each mast light housing/socket. Check the mast electrical cord for damage and check the cord connections inside the control box.
  • Mast lights OFF, ballast indicators OFF
    Cause: Loose lighting connections Generator output incorrect Low transformer output
    Fix: Check the connections inside the control box and inside each ballast box. Check the incoming voltage to the ballast by checking the available voltage on the GFCI receptacle. Incoming voltage should be 120V ±5V. If voltage is incorrect, the engine speed may need to be adjusted or generator may require service. The voltage from the transformer should read approximately 400VAC as the light “strikes” (induces an arc), then drop and slowly rise back up to stabilize at 240-260VAC. On hard wired models, remove the mast junction box cover and insert the wire probes into the connector blocks for the light and ground. If proper voltage is not achieved, perform capacitor check to determine if the capacitor or coil needs to be replaced.
  • Mast Lights Off, and Ballast Indicators on the Control Panel are Off
    Cause: Generator output incorrect. Low transformer output.
    Fix: Check the connections inside the control box and inside each ballast box. Check the incoming voltage to the ballast by checking the available voltage on the GFCI receptacle. Incoming voltage should be 120V +/- 5V. If voltage is incorrect, the engine speed may need to be adjusted or generator may require service.
  • Low oil pressure shutdown
    Cause: Low oil level
    Fix: Verify oil level on dipstick. Add oil, if needed.
  • Leakage in coolant hoses, engine block, or water pump
    Fix: Inspect for visible leaks. Verify tension of water pump serpentine drive belt.
  • High coolant temperature shutdown
    Cause: Low coolant level
    Fix: Add coolant if needed. Allow engine to cool, then check coolant level in radiator. Restart engine and check coolant temperature. Stop engine immediately if coolant temperature is 210°F (99°C) or more.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Mitsubishi MVL3E.

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filter find
Fuel filter250 hr find
Oil filter find
Belt find
Coolant
Oil50 hr

Pooled from every document that names this exact engine — confirm the interval and part number against your unit's serial number.

Aftermarket parts that fit this engine

3

Parts listed by aftermarket suppliers as fitting this engine — leads compiled from supplier catalogs; verify the exact part for your serial number.

Common questions

What is the displacement of the Mitsubishi MVL3E?

The Mitsubishi MVL3E has a displacement of 0.95 liters.

Which generators use the Mitsubishi MVL3E engine?

The Mitsubishi MVL3E powers 1 generator set(s), including Generac MLT4060.

How often should you change the oil in the Mitsubishi MVL3E?

The Mitsubishi MVL3E oil change interval is every 50 hours.

What is a common problem with the Mitsubishi MVL3E engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Mitsubishi MVL3E is: Water Sedimenter - Drain Water. Fix: Drain Water From Water Sediment Separator.