Read the manual thoroughly and understand all of the instructions, cautions, and warnings before using this equipment. If any section of the manual is not understood, contact your nearest authorized dealer, or contact Generac Customer Service at 1-888-436-3722 (1-888-GENERAC), or www.generac.com with any questions or concerns. 

Mobile Link device installation for liquid cooled generators

This article includes

• Environment
• Can I install this myself?
• Important compatibility information
• Will I have coverage?
• Where can I purchase a Mobile Link accessory device?
• Preparation
• Wi-Fi/Ethernet, 4G/LTE and Cellular Connectivity Device installation
• Removing the control panel
• Connecting to a network
• Post-installation steps
• How do I change the Mobile Link device in my Mobile Link account?

 

Environment

• Liquid-cooled generators: The installation procedure in this article is unique and specific to liquid-cooled Generac backup generators.
• Cellular Connectivity Device, 4G/LTE aftermarket accessory, Wi-Fi/Ethernet aftermarket accessory: This article applies to these Mobile Link hardware devices. For more information see the Mobile Link Wi-Fi, Cellular, and LTE device compatibility guide

Discontinued Notice: The 4G/LTE and Wi-Fi/Ethernet aftermarket accessories have been discontinued. Upgrading to the Connectivity Cellular Accessory is recommended for users who wish to add connectivity to their generator or users experiencing ongoing connectivity issues. It is compatible with more generators and uses multiple carrier networks to offer greater coverage. Basic (free) and Premium cellular plans are available for users of this device. See here to upgrade: Connectivity Cellular Accessory.

Can I install this myself?

For safety reasons, the manufacturer requires that this equipment be initially installed by an IASD or other competent, qualified electrician or installation technician who is familiar with applicable codes, standards and regulations. The operator also must comply with all such codes, standards, and regulations. Repair generally requires simple replacement of the assembly with a new unit, which can usually be performed by a generator owner. 

If an end user is not comfortable installing the device, they can contact their local dealer to schedule a service visit.

• New Install: If the generator did not previously have an Mobile Link device, you will need to a drill a hole. Once you have everything installed you will want to create an account at https://app.mobilelinkgen.com. 
• Pre-installed (device swap): If you are simply swapping out the device there is no need to drill a hole, you will only need to follow the instructions below to remove the old harness and install a new harness (G0064780) and the Mobile Link device. With units that had an account created with the original device, you will need to either call 855-436-8439 or email support@mobilelinkgen.com with your serial number and new device information. We will in turn be able to swap this new device onto your account.

Important compatibility information

• Evo 1, Evo 2, Nexus, and PowerZone 410 controllers are all compatible with the Cellular Connectivity Device. The PowerZone 410 device is only compatible with the Cellular Connectivity Device: Mobile Link network device overview and compatibility information.
• PowerZone 410 controllers must be on Firmware version 1.10. 

Note: If you are an end user, this firmware update will need to be done by a local authorized service dealer via USB. This will entail a service charge.

• To install the 4G/LTE or Wi-Fi/Ethernet device on a liquid cooled generator, you will need to purchase the harness separately. The part number is G0064780. If you are using the Cellular Connectivity Device, it will come with the required harness components needed for installation. 

Will I have coverage?

• Connectivity Cellular Accessory: This device is dual sim card and can connect/flip between different carriers.
• 4G LTE (discontinued): The Mobile Link 4G LTE Device uses Verizon's cellular network. Service availability can be estimated using the coverage map on Verizon.com. 
• Wi-Fi/Ethernet (discontinued): This device requires a dedicated 2.4 GHz network. Theoretically, 50 FT or less for distance from router or extender, but keep in mind signal speeds and any signal blockers can reduce signal.

Where can I purchase a Mobile Link accessory device?

These devices can be purchased via an online retailer or local dealer.

• Generac Connectivity Cellular Device
• Liquid Cooled harness (part G0064780, must be purchased separately if installing the discontinued 4G/LTE or Wi-Fi/Ethernet accessories)
• Liquid cooled harness parts can vary by generator for the connectivity cellular accessory.  Reference article here for appropriate harness information.

Preparation

Installing the antenna

The antenna screws onto the Mobile Link device. With Wi-Fi/ethernet the only thing you will see from the outside of the generator is the portion where the antenna gets screwed on. You will want to make sure that the antenna is firmly screwed on (but be careful not to over-tighten).
 

Wi-Fi/Ethernet, 4G/LTE and Cellular Connectivity Device installation

Drilling the hole (for new installations):

1.Mark a hole 3.54 inch from the back face of unit and .98 inches from top service of roof

From Page 6 of manual:

2. Inspect area of inside of generator to ensure any wires and components are moved out of way to prevent damage during drilling

3. Center appropriate sized drill bit on the bark and drill a 1-1/16 inch hole. Debur the drilled hole as necessary.

 

Preparing the generator (old and new installations)

Proceed as follows to prepare generator for initial installation:

1. Unlock both locks and open generator lid.

2. Set generator MLCB (generator disconnect) to OFF (OPEN).

3. Turn utility MLCB in home’s electrical panel to OFF (OPEN).

Warning: Generac does NOT recommend end users attempt to modify or service internal generator wiring or attempt to service the transfer switch.  How Can I Find a Generac Service Dealer in My Area?

4. Remove generator controller 7.5A fuse.

Removing the control panel 

1.Remove these four screws.

2. Pull the control panel out. 

Installing the wiring harness

Note: If the harness wires are too long, wire tie a loop in the harness and ensure that it clears any components that may become hot.

1.Insert 6-pin connector of radio harness into controller harness. There is an audible click when the connection is made. Note: The connector will only fit one way. Do NOT force.

2. If generator does not have an Evolution 2.0 or Power Zone 410 controller: Insert male 8-pin connector of controller harness into female 8-pin connector on battery harness. There is an audible click when the connection is made.

3. Locate accessory port. Accessory port is an eight-pin connector on underside of controller. On models equipped with an external breaker box, lift controller to gain access to accessory plug location. On models equipped with an internal breaker mounted near the controller, accessory port is visible from battery compartment when end panel is removed.

Note: If there is a decal labeled “Port 1” or “Accessory Port 1,” remove decal to locate port.

4. Affix wire harness to generator controller wire harness. Wherever possible, bundle harness with other wire looms to provide additional support.

 

Installing the mounting plate

1. Place mounting plate in the prepared drilled hole in the panel. Use the bubble level and text on the mounting plate to correctly orient the mounting plate.
2. Use the mounting plate as a template and drill 3x holes into the end panel using a #3 drill bit.
3. Place three M5 bolts through the mounting plate and affix mounting plate using three M5 nuts. Tighten using a wrench and a drill.
4. Route the radio harness through the hole in the mounting plate, from the generator controller to the exterior.
5. Install T1 fuse in transfer switch.
6. Set utility MLCB to ON (CLOSED).

 

Attaching the radio harness to device

1. Align key in the radio harness with the slot in the device connection. Press connectors together.
2. Finger-tighten nut on the radio harness.
3. Attaching Device to Mounting Plate:
   1. Align arrow on the device with the arrow on the mounting plate.
   2. Press device flush with mounting plate.
   3. Turn device clockwise to attach to mounting plate until there is an audible click.

 

Verifying device functionality

• Green LED on device face will power on once the radio harness is fully connected.
• LED will slowly pulse while device attempts to connect to generator and to cellular network.
• LED will be solid when connected success-fully. If the device encounters and error, it will begin blinking rapidly. See trouble-shooting guide.

 

Installing generator enclosure panels

1. Install controller fascia using four screws.

2. Install rear panel. Insert and tighten mounting screws.

3. Install 7.5A fuse in generator controller. Close rubber cover.

4. Set generator MLCB (generator disconnect) to ON (CLOSED).

 

Returning the generator to service

The control panel will require the correct language, time, and date to be reset. Also, reset the exercise time, if applicable.

1. Follow on screen instructions to setup to Install Wizard. See generator installation manual for full details.

2. Select desired language using the arrow keys. Press ENTER key.

3. Press ENTER key to bypass setting time and date. These settings are updated automatically.

4. Set Exercise Time. Press ENTER key.

5. Press ESCAPE key when on the USB ONLY screen. Press ENTER key to exit the Install Wizard.

6. Press MANUAL key on controller. Verify generator starts and runs.

7. Set generator to AUTO mode.

8. Close lid, and lock if equipped.

The generator has been returned to service.

Connecting to a network

LTE – All 4 lights should begin to turn on. It can take up to 10 minutes for the lights (sometimes a bit longer if the signal is weak)

Connectivity Cellular Accessory:

Wi-Fi/Ethernet - Once you have connected the harness to the battery, this will begin a 30-minute countdown timer (not displayed on the controller). Please open up the Mobile Link App and click on the connect a device button and follow the prompts.

Note: After you click the “connect a device” option you will need to click the Wi-Fi/ethernet device (onboard is for air-cooled generators)

 

Post-installation steps

1. If this was a device swap for a generator that had a Mobile Link account created with the original device, you will need to either call 855-436-8439 or email support@mobilelinkgen.com with your serial number and new device information. We will in turn be able to swap this new device onto your account.

2. If you did not previously have a Mobile Link account, follow these instructions to set one up and enroll the generator: How Do I Set up a Mobile Link Account and Enroll Devices for Monitoring?

3. Subscribe to the applicable Mobile Link plan: What Are the Available Mobile Link Subscription Plans?