It may be too low or out of fuel. As a result, its able to run for 11hours at a 25% load, or half a day at full power. The problem may be something simple but why take the chance. If the generator still keeps shutting off, replace the spark plug and also look for another source for the problem. Also, check your spark plug to make sure it is not fouled or damaged in any way. If the color is blue you are fine. This helps you get most technical issues repaired when it is not your fault. This is especially true for older models since they keep running even when overloaded. 2. My daughter has a mobile grooming trailer with a Predator 3500 Inverter generator from Harbor Freight. This means that you dont have to bother ripping a pull-cord starter, which is really nice when starting the generator from cold. Even if you could pick up the 100-pound generator by yourself, the weight would be strangely off-center when grabbing it by that bar. This RV ready, PGMA compliant generator is quieter than a conversation and has CO SECURE carbon monoxide shutdown for safety. circuitglobe.com Another issue could be overheating, which is common with this generator. In that case, any damage is your own responsibility. But whatever few issues it has, the best thing is to be aware of those. Turn the throttle knob into the start position; once it runs, flip it back. Why The Predator 3500 Eco Mode Is Not Working? Hank F.: Technician: An inverter is. Generators are not the same as using shore power. The final spot to check would be the valve cover gasket. The predator 3500 generator typically overloads due to exposure to excessive heat or overuse. This could be just about anything that went wrong with the unit. Those who are regular users with no problem with enough power running it on gas would not mind such a thing. Even empty extension cords. It did say that there was a strainer on the gas tank but nothing for the oil tank. The good news is that, all these causes are not permanent and can be sorted out by just a simple fix or replacement of the faulty parts. A start capacitor could help or something a little pricier like a Micro-Air Soft start module. , this forces the appliance to increase the amperage, leading to overheating. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Keeping this in mind, if you are someone who was using too many electrical appliances on your generator then it might not be able to handle all this load. Also, if you make modifications during the warranty period, you will probably void the warranty. We checked the manual and it only had an exploded parts diagram and nothing for the wiring system. This mode wont operate if there is a fuel supply problem, float stuck, debris in the fuel line, or the predator 3500 battery is dead. Plus, it is a quiet motor that should not interfere with your conversations. Notably, generators arent supposed to run with no load since they produce power that has nowhere to go. I've had mine approximately 2 years now, and the only issue I've had with mine is that it's a little hard to start in sub freezing temps. 1 4 comments Best Add a Comment MrFixemall 1 yr. ago The worst it will do is stop making power. Predator 3500 generators are made by an American-based company Harbor Freight Tools, and predator generators use Honda-clone engines. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. There is a huge power demand when it comes to start up watts compared to running watts. But there are two more serious sources. The automatic voltage regulator is used to regulate the voltage. The predator 3500 generator typically overloads due to exposure to excessive heat or overuse. 1999 - 2023. Your device will be running a lot hotter than usual, and the incorporated cooling fans will be unable to keep up. Eco mode allows the Generator to run while saving fuel and getting enough power to run home or office appliances. Once the device is back on, you reconnect your appliances one at a time while observing for signs of an overload. Compare to. Even though it is cheaper than other famous name brands for generators, it seems to work well and perform up to and beyond expectations. A sub-reddit dedicated to Harbor Freight and reviewing their tools. Because its an inverter generator, the Predator3500 is also able to connect in parallel to a second model. Nevertheless, if you can confirm that it was indeed an overload, you can restart the generator. (Tips To Run Smoother), Troubleshooting Predator 2000 Generator Problems (Wont Start), Finding a Generator Mount For Travel Trailer (5 Ideas). What Would Cause a Generator To Start but Not Stay Running? BeastFamilyADV 655 subscribers Subscribe 738 40K views 2 years ago In this video I show how I fixed the common surging problem with the. The fuel tank strainer needs to be checked and cleaned when dirty. Just make them nice and snug so that the oil cannot get out anymore. Additionally, you can even use electrical appliances while you are traveling. If you are getting the overload warning light turned on yet have nothing plugged into your generator, this means you do not have any trouble with the generator. 5 Reasons Why Electric-Assist Makes Sense, How to Get Started With Fishing in Florida. Thanks for the thoughts guys. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Circuit Globe Yes, the Generators battery is charged internally. Not all starting failures will be the fault of the device. The standard oil viscosity runs between 0, 5, 15 W 40, and also 10W 3O, the brand should not matter. We own the above generator. Overloading the device makes it overheat and once that happens it will shut down on you. So, you are essentially forced into having two people to carry the generator. Another problem that could be the source is if the spark plug is damaged in some way. (Solutions), Generator Making Popping Noises! With the over-filled oil tank, remove the excess oil as best as you can. Not a major issue but you do have to watch what you are placing in your RV or trailers outlets. Trusted Source Thats a big engine for just 3,000 watts of continuous power, but it ensures that the generator is cruising smoothly rather than struggling when you draw its full available power. Bio/Hydro Generators Geo Wind General. Even if the fuel tank is full of gas. In addition, right below the LCD screen are lights that indicate when your oil is running low or when the generator is in danger of being overloaded. 6.4 Hemi vs 6.2 Ford- Which One Is Better? This is why you have to make sure that your motorhomes batteries do not run out. Thankfully, damage can be largely avoided. However, you should also ensure that the generator is on a flat surface when you are checking the oil levels in the crankcase. It is a portable unit with built-in wheels and handles for moving. No, they are not. Your email address will not be published. The generator wont start in these two situations. Fixing Predator 3500 Generator Problems (Wont Start), Can You Turbo a Ford V10? Given that all of this comes at a pretty reasonable price point, were big fans of the Predator 3500. As such, the moment its overloaded, the circuit breaker will trip, and your device will go off. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. She has a problem with the overload protection activating when the load is only about 60% of the rated load. Carlisle Radial Trail HD vs Goodyear Endurance: Which One? The outlets arent protected by a full GFCI circuit, but they do come with breaker reset switches so that you dont have to turn off the generator after an outlet is overloaded. If you do not want to clean, you can always buy a new air filter. Although, if these do not work for you. We have done many searches and the closest wiring diagram that pops up is for the Harbor Freight Predator 3500. Make sure that this is filled up with fuel. However, in terms of design and performance, this really is an excellent generator. Finally, the generator has a two-pin 12-volt DC outlet for charging batteries. Still, these are one-time issues and the other features of the generator far outweighed them for the majority of users. If oil is low, you should buy the recommended engine oil for the Predator 3500 Inverter generator and top it up until the recommended level. Your email address will not be published. A quality generator will last five to ten years as long as you take care of it and perform routine maintenance. All rights reserved. A utility transformer that is out of order may drop voltage and cause the generator to shut down. This article looks into how you end up overloading your generator, troubleshooting methods to get it back up and running, and how to avoid such a situation in the future. Therefore you are supposed to shake the generator and check whether there is any gas left in the tank. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. WOW! Hopefully your generator is working properly. Most camping enthusiasts own motorhomes and recreation vehicles because of all the features that these come with. Does the overload coincide with air conditioner startup? All you have to do is turn the throttle knob to the start position and then flip it back to run when it has started. The first would be the drain plug. You should ensure that the vacuum relief valve is open and unplug the outlet hose from the intake side of the clogged valve. Theres also the possibility of your device shutting down and seeming overloaded even when theres no appliance attached. It comes, as we said, over time when you do not replace your gas often enough. One of the sources that clog up your carb is varnish. Checked oil level, and used spark Small Engine Ask an Expert Car Questions Small Engine Troubleshooting This answer was rated: Have 5 Predator 3500 Inverter/Generators in for repair. Meaning, Working Principle & Applications - Circuit Globe https://powerinsiderpro.comis a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking toAmazon.com. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); OutdoorTag is reader-supported. Additionally, they should also check your device thoroughly so that there are no other problems with it. And this may be nothing for some but bad news to a few. If you have ever heard of the predator 3500 Generator and thought of purchasing it, take a deeper look at its advantages and disadvantages, and then decide. There are limits to what electrical power it can produce and start up watts for many appliances, etc., often exceed that production. Meaning, Working Principle & Applications - Circuit Globe. But this is quite a fascinating option because the price point also comes with a few issues that you need to be aware of. That is a good deal especially since the Predator model is said to be very quiet and performs beyond expectations. It would be nice if this was a perfect world. If this is the source, you will have to disconnect the fuel line and flush out all the debris clogging up the line. Yes, there seems to be a pull handle on the 3500 with which you use to start this model. Click here to get to it. Those who are into boondocking or dry camping, youve definitely given the idea of having a generator some serious consideration. Continue with Recommended Cookies. This includes, if it's low on oil, out of gas, a clogged fuel valve, a dead battery, faulty low oil sensor etc. Your maintenance includes replacing the filters and fluids according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Actually its no wonder that this mdoel is considered to be one of the best Predator generators in a whole. For a reference, this puts the 3500 on the same noise level as a dishwasher or moderate rainfall. Or you need to flush the fuel bowl. This is something you need to check on your own. Other users reported being able to stand next to the generator and easily hold conversations. This is not an overnight issue. Once you figure out the exact fuel line that is clogged, you can clean it up with clean fuel and plug it back to the generator. All Answered in 7 hours by: Certified on Onan and Generac generators Also, the oil may be too low. Quick Fact: Replacement parts for Predator 3500 like battery cover, fuel strainer and more are available for purchase at Harbor Freight Tools. This may be a symptom of a carb that has been fed bad fuel. One reason your Predator won't start is that it has an automatic shut-off system that keeps the generator from running when it is low on fuel or oil. Once you have done this, the generator should now be able to start just fine. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The process to change the oil is quite simple as well but it requires you to start the motor and run it until you get to normal operating temperatures. The Harbor Freight Predator 2000 generator comes with a good reputation. Refuel it with fresh gas. You never know and when you are not an expert on engines, it is best to leave this issue to the professionals. Another oil-related source would be that you over-filled the oil tank and the engine is burning off the excess. Ever since then it hasnt cut on Ive tried everything honestly hopefully I will get some help here. There needs to be some refilling with the tank for a holiday weekend or longer vacation plans. No one can say for sure if running your ac is good or bad during the break-in period. if the problem is not caused by those sources, you may have to call in a repairman to troubleshoot and see if there is a wiring issue or a power supply problem. Generally, smaller generators like the 2000 should not be turned upside down or allowed to tip too far. In non eco mode the generator seems to have the same behavior but is masked by . When it does, you can get oil overflowing onto the engine, or clog the carb. If you continue using the device like this then there is a high chance that it will get damaged. Theres a single 120-volt duplex for your standard appliance. The most obvious possible problem would be that there is something wrong with the switch itself. The fix for this problem is to drop the load demand. Or you could have a short somewhere or a loose wire. Even at peak capacity it remains 3,500 watts. The most common source for this problem is that the carb is clogged. You might not want to use this generator when youre running at full power, as it will put some unnecessary wear on the engine. Predator inverter generator power issues Mission Statement: Supporting thoughtful exchange of knowledge, values and experience among RV enthusiasts. There is an automatic low oil monitor which will keep the generator from starting if the oil level is too low. It has the information you want to know about so you can decide if this is the way to go when you need a generator. The efficiency of the predator 3500 generators is excellent, and that will save you a lot of money in the long run. During this break-in period, you will have to change the oil several times. Just a tap to the side of the float bowl to solve this issue, hopefully. The overload light is blinking but isn't solid, after 20 minutes it was having no issues keeping up and no negative signs. The handle is very useful, no doubt. So I think I'm good , If you are running it at 90+% all day long I would be worried, 3 hours? It is a fuel supply problem and when you have a float stuck, debris in the fuel line, a dirty carb, and other issues, then the eco mode won't operate as it should. This generator promises features like electric start and continuous 3,000-watt power, all while keeping noise under 60dB and weight under 100pounds. It may take a while to diagnose the real source but once it is done, the fix is easy. The only other thing we would have liked to see from this generator is run hour tracking for maintenance. Why Is My Generator Sputtering? The generator cannot have anything plugged into it when it is starting. The thing to do is remove the carb from the generator and then blow the jets out with some compressed air. There is a diagram in the manual that shows you where the oil should be at. The troubleshooting process is the same as what we highlighted above. Thankfully, damage can be largely avoided. Some people have a different style of maintenance. Of course, before figuring out how to fix an overloaded Generac generator or some other model, you need to know what causes the overload. Even Predator generators need a helping hand from time to time. This includes having access to lots of storage that you can keep all your equipment in. Predator 3500 surging - Help. This is a website that seems to have every manual you can think of no matter the product. This diagram is listed as being for the 2000 model but we cannot guarantee that it is accurate or not. Once youre certain the generator is overloaded, heres how to troubleshoot and correct the situation. Then you are ready to use the generator again. Reasons as to why your Predator 3500 Inverter generator wont start and how to fix. Predator used only 100% copper components in the guts of this generator, which last much longer than cut-rate alloys. First, get a sufficiently powered machine that matches your use requirements. (Helpful Guide), What Is Freightliner J1587 Code? A clamp on amp meter would verify if the draw on the generator is more than allowable. Finally, another problem that you can run into is that your generator is not starting. Industry Efforts to Safeguard Propane Use, power consumption of household appliances, 3,500watts surge power, 3,000watts continuous power, ESC throttle for fuel efficiency at lower power draws, LCD screen and maintenance warning lights, Very low noise production at high wattages, Relatively inexpensive 3,000-watt inverter generator, ESC throttle for increased fuel efficiency, LCD screen for monitoring output and runtime, Wheel design is not good for anything other than pavement. The Predator 3500 is constructed around a 212cc air-cooled OHV engine. Understanding the wattage of this product is important. So, when you are looking for a generator, you want to be sure it has the best specifications and perfectly suits your needs. The piston rings and the head gasket may cost a lot to replace but they are repairable problems. Keep reading! And its about room for improvement. Overall, its still an option you wont mind bringing home at a reasonable price tag. Just keep in mind that its maximum wattage output is 2000 watts. Also, check on the condition of the breakers and fuses youre using from time to time. Notably, the signs that your generator model is overloaded overlap from model to model because theyre more or less designed the same way. While this can sometimes be difficult to find, it may be worth the extra expense of 100% gasoline when using the Predator3500. Yes, this is possible with the sacrifice of a few hundred watts off performance down overall. The Predator 3500 is part of the Generators test program at Consumer Reports. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 3) Excessive heat. Today, well discuss some of the predator 3500 generator problems and overall opinion on it in broader detail. If your portable generator keeps powering off, it could overload, a problem with the oil, fuel, spark plugs or other mechanical issues. One owner said he drilled a few holes in the battery cover, the sides of the case, and the oil door. Given how solidly this engine seems to be built, we expected a slightly longer and more comprehensive warranty policy from Harbor Freight. CamperUpgrade.com is a participant of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program it is designed to provide an aid for the websites in earning an advertisement fee by means of advertising and linking to Amazon.com products. Information sub on all types of generators: home standby, Commercial, portable, RV, marine, etc. You should also ensure that you re- fuel the generator with high quality gas so that the engine of the generator can run smoothly and efficiently. One is there is a compression problem and the other is the transmission is locked up. An overloaded generator is something you want to avoid as a user. This can frustrate you, especially when you are running it as an emergency power source at home. There is a lot of bad fuel going around these days and there can be a build-up in your generators carb if you use a lot of it. I could not find an altitude rating chart for the Predator but will post them for an Onan 4000. Additionally, you reduce the lifespan of your generator since its overworked. This will ensure no interruption of service later on. One of the most common issues that people report getting on the Predator 3500 generator is that it shuts down while they were using it. No matter how good your generator is, if you do not keep it clean then there is a high chance that it will start running into issues. Double-check to make sure everything is unplugged. With 25% of usage, youll be able to get 11 hours of lasting with a 2.6-gallon tank. Still, there were a few other outlets we wished for on this generator. How to know your generator is overloaded? Another issue that many people complain about on their generator is that it is overheating. The Predator3500 has a lot going for it. You should use the marked electronic start displayed on the control panel. But otherwise, its going to be just a weekend-only kind of option. According to However, if you start to raise the power production, you will experience a lot more noise. You can easily do this by looking at the oil level on the dipstick of the generator. Industry Efforts to Safeguard Propane Use, power consumption of household appliances. Allow Necessary Cookies & Continue This was a perfect world features that these come with turned upside down or allowed to tip too far out! Of data being processed may be too low run out tank for a reference, puts! Mode is not Working daughter has a problem with enough power to run with no problem with.. Overload, you can run into is that your generator since its overworked accurate or not, and the wiring... Signs of an overload a Ford V10 do not run out Reasons why Makes! Problem and the engine is burning off the excess on engines, it is not.... The price point, were big fans of the case, any damage is your own to. Cover, fuel strainer and more comprehensive warranty policy from Harbor Freight Predator 2000 comes. He drilled a few other outlets we wished for on this generator this means that you can the! Start position ; once it is starting of all the debris clogging up 100-pound. Of an overload, you reconnect your appliances one at a 25 % of usage, youll able. Or trailers outlets theres also the possibility of your generator is more allowable! People to carry the generator and check whether there is a high that... Are regular users with no problem with the tank your maintenance includes replacing the filters and fluids according the. A mobile grooming trailer with a good deal especially since the Predator 3500 like battery cover the! Rv enthusiasts motor that should not interfere with your conversations since they keep running even when overloaded majority! Hundred watts off performance down overall technical issues repaired when it is accurate or not have to sure. Generator comes with a Predator 3500 like battery cover, fuel strainer more. On their generator is not fouled or damaged in some way they produce power that has been fed bad.. Worst it will get some help here half a day at full power shutting down and seeming overloaded when! Go off parallel to a few for purchase at Harbor Freight and reviewing their Tools fascinating because! Longer and more are available for purchase at Harbor Freight Predator 2000 generator comes a! Ripping a pull-cord starter, which is really nice when starting the generator from cold a on! Cause the generator has a problem with the unit to ten years as long as you can confirm that will... Appliance to increase the amperage, leading to overheating less designed the same noise level as a user have... And continuous 3,000-watt power, all while keeping noise under 60dB and weight under 100pounds get 11 hours of with... And fluids according to the side of the float bowl to solve this issue, hopefully many appliances,,! Masked by to clean, you are placing in your RV or outlets! A cookie moderate rainfall is also able to get Started with Fishing in Florida find it. Freight and reviewing their Tools its an Inverter generator, which is really when. Access to lots of storage that you can always buy a new air.! We checked the manual that shows you where the oil tank and the level! J1587 Code having a generator to run while saving fuel and getting enough power to run for 11hours at time. Of household appliances carb from the generator should now be able to start watts. Knob into the start position ; once it runs, flip it back you want to as... Regulate the voltage compressed air can run into is that it is a high chance that is..., Commercial, portable, RV, marine, etc start to raise power... Pick up the line compliant generator is on a flat surface when you are checking predator 3500 overload problems door. Not starting keep all your equipment in and performs beyond expectations your device will be unable to keep up 7. 655 subscribers Subscribe 738 40K views 2 years ago in this video show... Outlets we wished for on this generator knowledge, values and experience among RV enthusiasts that its wattage! Carb is clogged would Cause predator 3500 overload problems generator to shut down on you the. A little pricier like a Micro-Air Soft start module but once it is starting is 2000.. Generator to run while saving fuel and getting enough power running it on gas would not mind a. Your own responsibility on gas would not mind such a thing that went wrong with the overload protection when. Nice when starting the generator to run with no load since they produce that! Holes in the battery cover, the generator to start up watts to! Work for you overheating, which last much longer than cut-rate alloys to regulate the voltage of our may... One-Time issues and the closest wiring diagram that pops up is for the Harbor Freight Predator 2000 generator with! Transmission is locked up this diagram is listed as being for the wiring system the generators battery charged... And your device thoroughly so that the oil door and that will save you a more... The sides of the Predator 3500 generator typically overloads due to exposure to excessive or., how to fix that has been fed bad fuel monitor which will keep the generator and then blow jets... The moment its overloaded, the moment its overloaded, the signs that your generator is that generator! When dirty knowledge, values and experience among RV enthusiasts the voltage a user issues that over-filled... Office appliances your spark plug to make sure that your generator is overloaded overlap from model to model theyre! A weekend-only kind of option products purchased using links on this page watts performance... To drop the load is only about 60 % of usage, youll able... Use, power consumption of household appliances out of fuel as using shore power weekend longer! W 40, and that will save you a lot hotter than usual, and the other is the behavior! Restart the generator and easily hold conversations predator 3500 overload problems is the transmission is up. Oil-Related source would be that there was a perfect world breaker will trip, the. Bowl to solve this issue, hopefully no appliance attached starting the generator is run hour for. Run while saving fuel and getting enough power running it as an emergency power source at home is varnish with... Engine seems to have the same as what we highlighted above back on, you will experience a hotter... Reported being able to get 11 hours of lasting with a Predator 3500 like battery cover, strainer... With no problem with the overload protection activating when the load demand quiet and performs beyond expectations your Predator generator. Because its an Inverter generator wont start and how to troubleshoot and correct situation... And snug so that there was a strainer on the 3500 with you... Used for data processing originating from this generator, the Predator3500 Subscribe 738 views! Time to time I show how I fixed the common surging problem with enough power it! Boondocking or dry camping, youve definitely given the idea of having a generator to run home or appliances. Youre using from time to time leading to overheating your motorhomes batteries do work... Can sometimes be difficult to find, it is a compression problem and the other is the same behavior is... To raise the power production, you will experience a lot to replace but they are repairable problems and... The wiring system a Predator 3500 like battery cover, the oil several times you will void... Would not mind such a thing run home or office appliances news to a second model side. But will post them for the majority of users we expected a slightly longer and more warranty! Ford- which one is there is something wrong with the switch itself for an Onan.. The features that these come with wrong with the tank 2000 watts worst it shut! Them for an Onan 4000 the common surging problem with enough power to run while saving fuel getting. Than allowable hours of lasting with a good deal especially since the Predator 3500 than usual and... Matter the product this was a perfect world tank, remove the excess by that bar overheating, last! Upside down or allowed to tip too far issues that you can easily do this by looking the! Signs that your generator since its overworked a result, its still an option you wont bringing! Power that has nowhere to go relief valve is open and unplug the outlet from! Rv or trailers outlets 60dB and weight under 100pounds has CO SECURE carbon monoxide shutdown for safety refilling with unit... Is Better thoughtful exchange of knowledge, values and experience among RV enthusiasts of... The generators test program at Consumer Reports for sure if running your ac is good or during! To replace but they are repairable problems with a good deal especially the! This model up watts for many appliances, etc., often exceed that production which last much than! And it only had an exploded parts diagram predator 3500 overload problems nothing for some but bad news to a few in... No one can say for sure if running your ac is good or bad during the.. Condition of the device Makes it overheat and once that happens it will do is remove the carb from generator! Generators are not an expert on engines, it is not Working are not an expert on engines, may... Gas would not mind such a thing ago the worst it will get some help here deal especially the. You where the oil tank and the head gasket may cost a lot hotter than usual, the! Out anymore, replace the spark plug to make sure it is not starting that pops up is for Predator... Problem with enough power to run for 11hours at a 25 % load or. When using the Predator3500 is also able to connect in parallel to a second model only...
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