How to Set Up a Generac V-20 Lighting Tower: A Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you’re lighting a construction site, outdoor event, mining operation, or emergency work zone, the Generac V-20 lighting tower is one of the most reliable portable lighting solutions available for hire in Australia. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get your light tower up and running safely and efficiently.
What Is the Generac V-20 Lighting Tower?
The Generac V-20 is a self-contained, diesel-powered portable lighting tower designed for heavy-duty commercial and industrial use. Commonly hired for construction sites, roadworks, civil projects, events, and emergency response, the V-20 delivers powerful, wide-area illumination with a straightforward setup process — even for first-time operators.
Before You Begin: Site Preparation
Getting the placement right before you do anything else will save you time and keep your team safe.
- Choose a stable, flat surface. The mast will not rise unless the handbrake is applied, so ensure the unit is parked and secured before starting.
- Apply the handbrake before attempting any setup steps.
- Use the built-in stabilisers and site levels to square up the tower if the ground isn’t perfectly flat. All four stabilisers must be fully extended and taking weight off the corners of the unit before you proceed.
Proper site setup is the most important step for safe operation of any portable lighting tower.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Step 1 — Complete Your Pre-Start Check
Before powering anything on, run through the pre-start checklist as outlined in the operator’s manual. This includes checking fluid levels, general condition of the unit, and ensuring no damage occurred during transport.
Step 2 — Check the Emergency Stop
Confirm the emergency stop button is not engaged. An active emergency stop will prevent the engine from starting.
Step 3 — Turn On the Isolator
Open the right-hand side (RHS) door and turn the isolator key to the ON position.
Step 4 — Power Up the Control Panel
On the rear panel, rotate the knob from the “0” position to the “G” position to power up the light tower’s control system.
Step 5 — Start the Engine
Press the power button located in the top right-hand corner of the control panel. This initiates the automatic start sequence — the engine will fire up after a short pre-heat period. No manual choke or priming is required.
Step 6 — Raise the Mast
Once the engine is running, use the mast raise/lower buttons located adjacent to the control panel to extend the mast. Depending on your unit’s light head configuration, there may also be a tilt button to angle the heads.
Important: Once the red line on the mast becomes visible, lower the mast approximately 50mm back below the red line. Do not operate at the absolute maximum extension.
Step 7 — Activate the Light Heads
Turn on the four light heads one at a time, starting from the left. Switching them on sequentially reduces load spike on the system.
Optional: Auto-Start Mode (Light Sensor)
The Generac V-20 includes a built-in ambient light sensor for hands-free automatic operation — ideal for long-term site deployments where the tower needs to switch on at dusk and off at dawn.
To activate:
- Press the button next to the hand icon on the control panel.
- The display will change to a moon icon, confirming auto-start mode is active.
- The tower will now turn on and off automatically based on available light.
This feature is perfect for unattended site lighting, reducing the need for manual intervention overnight.
Shutting Down the Generac V-20
When your work is done, follow this shutdown sequence:
- Press the power button on the control panel to initiate the auto-stop sequence — do not use the emergency stop button for routine shutdown.
- Allow the unit to complete its cool-down and shutdown cycle automatically.
- Once the engine has stopped, engage the isolator to conserve battery charge when the tower is not in use.
Hiring a Lighting Tower in Australia?
PremiAir Hire offers a wide range of portable lighting towers for hire across Australia, including the Generac V-20 and other leading models suited to construction, civil, events, and emergency response applications.
Our team provides all hires with equipment guides and full operator support. For more information or to arrange a hire, call us on 1300 WE HIRE or visit premiairhire.com.au.
For full safety instructions including towing and maintenance procedures, always refer to the operator’s manual supplied with the unit.