Portable Diesel Generators

A portable diesel generator gives you diesel's fuel economy and long run times in a unit you can move around the farm, the worksite or the back of the property. Our portable and small diesel generators include silenced, open-frame, hire-pack and welder models from Maxwatt, Pramac, Kubota, Gentech and Crommelins, with electric start across the range. Use the Power Calculator to work out your size, or call 1300 622 436.

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Why choose a portable diesel

A diesel uses less fuel than a petrol generator of the same output, runs longer between services and copes with heavy, continuous loads. It costs more upfront and pays it back in fuel and engine life. That makes a small diesel the better choice for multi-day outages, farm work and jobs that run all week. For light or occasional use, a petrol generator is the cheaper option.

Silenced, open-frame and hire-pack models

Silenced diesels, like the Pramac P6000, the Kubota lowboy range and the Maxwatt DSE range, enclose the engine in a sound-attenuated canopy for homes, events and neighbours. Open-frame and hire-pack models are built for site work, with steel frames, wheels and RCD-protected outlets. Each model lists its noise rating in dB(A) in the specifications. See our quiet and silent generators for the lowest-noise models.

Air-cooled and water-cooled

Air-cooled diesels, such as the Maxwatt DSE range, are lighter and simpler to look after. Water-cooled diesels, such as the Kubota lowboy range and the Pramac P9000, use a radiator, so they run cooler and quieter over long hours. The engine details are in each model's specifications.

Auto start for solar and standby

Several models have 2-wire auto start, including the Kubota lowboy and Maxwatt DAS and DSE ranges, so the generator can start by itself to back up an off-grid solar system. Pramac AMF models start automatically when mains power fails.

Welder and workstation generators

Gentech diesel welder generators combine a welder with 240V power outlets, and the Gentech workstation adds an air compressor and battery charger in the same frame. They suit farm repairs and mobile trades.

Single-phase and three-phase

Most portable diesels are single-phase 240V. A few models also have a three-phase 415V outlet for site equipment, so check the voltage in the specifications. For larger three-phase sets, see three-phase generators up to 35kVA.

Sizing a small diesel generator

Add up the running watts of everything you want on at once, then allow for start-up surges from motors, pumps and compressors. Each model lists its rated and maximum output. Browse by size: 4 to 6kVA, 6 to 8kVA, 10kVA. For enclosed industrial sets, see Diesel Generators.

Why buy from Macfarlane Generators

We've sold and serviced generators since 1949, with branches in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth. Collect free from any branch or have it delivered Australia-wide. Add pre-delivery setup for $150 and we'll unpack it, add oil and fuel, start it and test it before it ships.

Portable Diesel Generators FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Portable Diesel Generators

Petrol costs less upfront and suits occasional use, camping and lighter loads. Diesel suits long run times, heavy or continuous loads and backup power, because it uses less fuel for the same output and lasts longer between services.

No. Generators produce carbon monoxide, which can be fatal in enclosed spaces. Always run them outdoors, well away from doors and windows.

Yes. Add pre-delivery generator setup for $150. We unpack it, add oil and fuel, start it and test it before dispatch. Available on new and pre-owned portable generators.

Yes. Our portable diesel range includes silenced, open-frame, hire-pack and welder models from Maxwatt, Pramac, Kubota, Gentech and Crommelins, with electric start. They cost more upfront than petrol but use less fuel and suit long run times.

It depends on the fuel tank size and how much load you’re running. Each model lists its fuel tank capacity and, where the manufacturer supplies it, the run time at a stated load. Diesels generally run longer on a tank than petrol generators of the same output.

Air-cooled diesels are lighter and simpler to look after. Water-cooled diesels use a radiator, so they run cooler and quieter over long hours. The engine details are listed in each model’s specifications.

Australia’s trusted generator supplier

75+ Years Experience

Australia's longest-running generator specialists. We've powered businesses and homes since 1949.

Australian Owned

100% Australian owned and operated. Your purchase supports local workers and the national economy.

Ready-to-Use Delivery

Every generator is pre-tested and set up so you can start using it the moment it arrives.

Trusted by Thousands

Join thousands of satisfied customers across Australia who rely on our generators daily.

How to find what power generator you need

The Macfarlane Generators Power Calculator helps you estimate the generator size required for your application by calculating power demand, motor starting loads, and electrical conversions such as kVA, kW, amps, and horsepower. Designed for homeowners, tradies, and industrial operators, it provides practical tools and power consumption guides to help you select the right generator with confidence. Whether you're planning backup power, construction site equipment, or large-scale operations, the calculator simplifies generator sizing and power planning.

Power Calculator Questions? Call us on 1300 622 436