The parallel conversion kit doesnt come with the generator, but its cheaply available from Predator. 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. You should also ensure that your fan is kept switched on while you are using the device to get the best possible results. This could be just about anything that went wrong with the unit. Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on iRV2. The Predator also doesn't have a fuel gauge and its small wheels make it a little difficult to move around. The way to avoid this issue is to properly drain the float bowl, a part many people forget to check and empty, then store the generator. Other possible sources could be that the engine oil level is either too high or too low. Then confirm the rated power requirements of your appliances so you know if the machine was actually overloaded before the breaker was tripped or not. Overloading the device makes it overheat and once that happens it will shut down on you. According to Predator 3500 inverted generator is having problems I cut my inverter on up close to a building the exhaust couldn't release going back in the machine, my machine then dropped from 12.4 to 10.0 then overload light came on. The cause of the white smoke is that the excess oil is getting into the combustion chamber. That said, you only do this if your overload indicator light stays off. When it comes to ease of use, Predator seems to have thought of everything for this generator. Predator used only 100% copper components in the guts of this generator, which last much longer than cut-rate alloys. We have tested the load for the various equipment she uses and it doesn't approach the 3000W continuous load limit. Reasons as to why your Predator 3500 Inverter generator wont start and how to fix. What to do if the generator is overloaded. (Helpful Guide), What Is Freightliner J1587 Code? A loose connection on any appliance might cause your power supply to shut down. 4. Hopefully your generator is working properly. i have been off the grid for a week so and just now getting caught up. The generator includes a pretty nice selection of outlets. With the ESC throttle engaged, the generator can run for up to 11hours at a 25% load. Propaneva.com. 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. The first would be the drain plug. That is a good deal especially since the Predator model is said to be very quiet and performs beyond expectations. As you have seen, there are a number of reasons that may make the Predator 3500 Inverter generator to refuse to start. My norcold polar max draws 600 watts on electric. (Ford V10 Turbo Kit Options), What Sealant Can I Use On a TPO Roof? As we said the pull handle is a backup system but not for when the electric starter fails but when the battery is out of power. This is why a breaker is almost always included in new generator models. 3) Excessive heat. The coolant tank should always be kept full as this running low can cause your generator to overheat. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. Rodney holds a Masters degree in Arts and apart from working as a freelance writer, is a rather successful author of science fiction stories published in several literary, Propaneva is reader-supported. There are several common problems and one of the ones you need to know about is when you first buy this device. This generator's windings are connected to a rectifier which is fed into the inverter, which in turn generates the 110V output desired. Why Is My Generator Sputtering? Also, check your oil level as well. All rights reserved. Once youve tabulated that, you can then buy a generator that matches your home profile. It is only when those problems become too severe or too complicated that you will need to call in a repairman. Also, if the required running power is 3601 watts or higher, that causes an overload as well. You should use the marked electronic start displayed on the control panel. This is because the low- oil sensor might be triggered when the generator is slightly tilted even when there is still enough oil in the crankcase. The eco mode is a feature that lets you run your generator at a fuel-efficient level. Even more bizarrely for a generator that seems to have thought of everything else, theres no other carry handles on the top of the machine just another horizontal bar on the back. (TPO Roof Sealant), What Is The Cummins Fault Code SPN 3031 FMI 9? Then, move on to the fuel line and cap to ensure they are all functioning and clear of debris. Understanding the wattage of this product is important. Bio/Hydro Generators Geo Wind General. If not, it may be indicative of another issue. Subscribe to our e-newsletter today. Yes, 100 pounds is quite lightweight to carry. Generators are not the same as using shore power. This is why you have to make sure that your motorhomes batteries do not run out. The owners manual has this information as well. , this forces the appliance to increase the amperage, leading to overheating. And maybe that ended up making you come across one very famous option, the Predator 3500-watt generator. 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. Another problem that could be the source is if the spark plug is damaged in some way. Or perhaps there is no station close to your vacation spot. Or you need to flush the fuel bowl. To fix this problem, just hook it up to a 12-volt battery. This RV ready, PGMA compliant generator is quieter than a conversation and has CO SECURE carbon monoxide shutdown for safety. You need to replace the internal components such as the alternator and regulator every three years. In that case, any damage is your own responsibility. To learn more about this generator, just continue to read our article. This is actually a common generator problem and not one specific to the Predator series of machines. Also, keep in mind that the average usage would be 4-5 hours for 1 day. Check the engine thoroughly before any repairs are attempted. The easiest way to clean this part is to replace it with a new one. With the built-in low oil alert, you are told when you need to add more oil. In our Predator3500 generator review, well take a critical look at what this generator has to offer and whether its the best solution for your portable power needs. It puts out just 57dB of noise at a 25% power load. However, if you start to raise the power production, you will experience a lot more noise. Even Predator generators need a helping hand from time to time. A more important source would be the carburetor. If the fuse box is fine, it could also mean a short circuit somewhere else in your home. So after 4 consecutive hours it performed like a champ. With most stuff, no matter what use, this one thing is always common. 1999 - 2023. sometimes with and sometimes without a load. Given that all of this comes at a pretty reasonable price point, were big fans of the Predator 3500. It would be nice if this was a perfect world. If the carb is clogged or not getting enough fuel, then the motor will continue to die on you. This is where replacing the breaker comes in. One is to clean the carb with a high-powered ultrasonic mechanism. Your email address will not be published. It is hard to confuse the starter with any other device or knob located there as everything is marked very clearly. Replacement is not out of the question with this warranty. We wont be pointing out anything that is easily manageable, even if its an issue. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. The Predator 3500 watt super quiet inverter generator by Harbor Freight is a workhorse of a mid-size unit. All the solutions for the leaking fuel, motor dying and similar problems will work here as well. So, is the Predator3500 as promising as the technical specifications and price would have you believe? Hank F.: Technician: An inverter is. This feature is what makes this discount model so popular. 0 1 1 comment Best Next, the choke lever may be positioned wrong. Talking about this, one solution that you can go for is installing a generator in your vehicle. How to know your generator is overloaded? Not all starting failures will be the fault of the device. My daughter has a mobile grooming trailer with a Predator 3500 Inverter generator from Harbor Freight. Theres no telescoping handle, and the single horizontal bar over the outlet panel requires you to crouch down at an awkward angle to pull by it. When it stops working the source is fairly easy to find. If not, try plugging it into another outlet to see if this solves the issue. It does start eventually with the electric start. Remove the access panel on the right side of the generator. With the over-filled oil tank, remove the excess oil as best as you can. For specific details, make sure to read your owners manual on how to start this generator. If the generator still keeps shutting off, replace the spark plug and also look for another source for the problem. The final spot to check would be the valve cover gasket. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Then try again. They are manufactured in China. This usually takes place in the jets and it is not a serious problem. That means that youll need to add oil to the generator before using it for the first time, which can be annoying when youre excited to use your new generator. Industry Efforts to Safeguard Propane Use, power consumption of household appliances. Ever since then it hasnt cut on Ive tried everything honestly hopefully I will get some help here. Overloading your generator is completely avoidable, and heres how to do it. Cleaning the spark plug may help and replace the coil are two solutions. Buying two of these generators isnt cheap, but its a far more economical option than buying a 7,000-watt generator if you already own one Predator generator. When it does, you can get oil overflowing onto the engine, or clog the carb. Its also worth noting that the generator doesnt come with any fluids inside it. 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. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. This happens when you run it at zero load for a long time or leave it unused for almost as long. Thats where the makers need to make some changes or say modifications. Thought I would offer some up-dated information. There is such a thing as fuel varnish and if you do not keep replacing old gas it can build up over time. So, you are essentially forced into having two people to carry the generator. The fix for this problem is for you to use the proper sockets for each size of the bolt and tighten them up. The generator will now start without any problem once you have topped up oil in the crankcase. This is because most of the causes for the generator not to start are easy to fix and arent as costly. 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. All rights reserved. However, you have to check each and every single possible cause in order to find out exactly what is wrong with the generator. The noise definitely ratchets up as you draw more power from the engine, but it tops out around 65dB. We have done many searches and the closest wiring diagram that pops up is for the Harbor Freight Predator 3500. A light adjustment should take care of this problem. There are two fixes for this particular problem. No power in the battery means no electricity for the electrical parts. The Generator can last about 3,000 hours if maintained best, and the predator 3500 generator warranty will be for one year. There is a diagram in the manual that shows you where the oil should be at. Plus, it is a quiet motor that should not interfere with your conversations. And that's true with the predator 3500 as well. The standard oil viscosity runs between 0, 5, 15 W 40, and also 10W 3O, the brand should not matter. Fixing Predator 3500 Generator Problems (At Last! Your device will be running a lot hotter than usual, and the incorporated cooling fans will be unable to keep up. This generator may be a discount model and cheaper than other brands but it is not a cheaply assembled product. 2) Faulty engine or belts. If any equipment uses 120VAC, make sure the voltage is compatible. However, there are certain situations that may occur which will hinder the Predator 3500 Inverter generator from starting. 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. The information on the oil, what type to use, and how to change the oil is on page 14 of the manual. Any updates as to what you found? It is a portable unit with built-in wheels and handles for moving. That said, do make sure that you connect some appliances the second time around. Make sure that this is filled up with fuel. The most obvious possible problem would be that there is something wrong with the switch itself. The decibel rating at 25% is only 57 but as you go higher so do those decibels. To sweeten the deal even more, the Predator3500 costs just $800 a steal by any measures. Unplug a few items from your electrical system. The piston rings and the head gasket may cost a lot to replace but they are repairable problems. The link to the instructions at Harbor Freight is found at this link. However, when it comes to gas engines, they may have to be replaced sooner due to wear and tear. Therefore, using this Inverter generator also enables you to save on fuel costs as it consumes less fuel than most of its competitors. Spartan Chassis vs Freightliner: Whats The Difference? This will also help the battery regain its charge and the generator will start. Additionally, a faulty or broken circuit could be the culprit, so you may need to look over the circuit board. It might be best to have a professional check the windings to ensure they are up to speed. Theres no fuel gauge even on its digital display board, and this may be a problem for first-time buyers of a generator. With 25% of usage, youll be able to get 11 hours of lasting with a 2.6-gallon tank. Predator 3500 surging - Help. The PREDATOR 3500W SUPER QUIET Inverter Generator is an ideal solution for RVs, home back-up and more. www.energuide.be Also, if it overheats enough, theres the risk of a fire. They might be damaged, which means they wont shut down the machine when needed. Predator 3500 generator has a built-in screen for easy monitoring fuel, output, and overload sensor. Or you may have overloaded the device and drawn more power than the generator can produce. This model features a low oil indicator. Still, these are one-time issues and the other features of the generator far outweighed them for the majority of users. What is Automatic Voltage Regulator? The final common problem will be generator failure. 1 4 comments Best Add a Comment MrFixemall 1 yr. ago The worst it will do is stop making power. Also, check the gas and oil levels and see if the battery is drained of all power. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Propaneva.com. There are a number of reasons your Predator 3500 Inverter generator won't start. Yes, this model, like all Predator generators, does come with a list of safety features to protect you and your family. Note that there is also a pull-cord on this generator, so if the battery dies, you will have a way to start the generator. What this does is monitor your fuel tank and when the fuel level gets too low, the motor is turned off. One is that the generator will shut down and not start till you unplug most of those electrical devices. (Solutions), Generator Making Popping Noises! What can you do? Also you are losing almost 30% of the generator engine power at 7000 ft elevation. (Ford V10 Turbo Kit Options), What Sealant Can I Use On a TPO Roof? 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. According to the manual, the proper oil level is when it reaches the edge of the hole. Is it safe to keep it running a little above it's rating, but below its peak? If the color is blue you are fine. Most camping enthusiasts own motorhomes and recreation vehicles because of all the features that these come with. We checked the owners manual and there was no mention of this generator having an oil filter. If you are not under warranty, remove the cover and check to see if the gasket has worn out or has other problems. (Solutions), Predator Generators (Best Reviewed - Pros + Cons), Start Generator Without A Pull Cord (The Right Way), https://www.beupp.com/generator/predator-3500-review/#4_Why_is_my_Predator_leaking_gas, https://netaworldjournal.org/measuring-field-winding-insulation-resistance/, Predator 3500 Generator Problems And Common Issues. Hank F.: Technician: If the Over Load light is staying on, and nothing is plugged in to the genset, it means that the inverter is bad, and needs to be replaced. Predator 3500 Generator - surging problem fixed! That way, if theres a change in the sound output, you know something is amiss. And its about room for improvement. Also, a struggling generator engine will produce more heat when trying to keep up with the higher power demands. But Harbor Freight appears to have broken that mold with the companys Predator3500 generator. Additionally,https://powerinsiderpro.comparticipates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. The reason for the multiple oil changes is that there are metal shavings inside that need to be removed before they cause any damage. An overloaded generator is something you want to avoid as a user. I don't really understand what you're saying but I'll throw out some advice based on an educated guess. 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. This could be just about anything that went wrong with the unit. Help would be appreciated. Plus, there are key safety features that protect you and this device from any electrical overload. Your email address will not be published. (TPO Roof Sealant), What Is The Cummins Fault Code SPN 3031 FMI 9? This discussion is proudly sponsored by: Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on iRV2 Thread Tools Join the #1 RV Forum Today - It's Totally Free! This won't show up on a clamp on ammeter. A start capacitor could help or something a little pricier like a Micro-Air Soft start module. They will have further instructions in case anything should go wrong. If this happens then you should immediately think about diagnosing the fuel valve of your inverter generator. The Best Mail Services For Full-Time RVers, The 10 Best Spring Break Destinations For RVers, What You Should Know About RV Towing Insurance, 4 Embarrassing Things We Did As New RVers, Visit Copano Bay RV Resort On The Texas Gulf Coast, Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1. Don't need a DC amp meter. 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. It did say that there was a strainer on the gas tank but nothing for the oil tank. That situation can cause the pistons to expand and seize the engine. 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. (Tips To Run Smoother), Finding a Generator Mount For Travel Trailer (5 Ideas), Onan 4000 Generator Oil Type, Oil Capacity, and Oil Filter, Troubleshooting Predator 2000 Generator Problems (Wont Start), Can You Turbo a Ford V10? This way the air circulating the generator will prevent it from overheating. This includes having access to lots of storage that you can keep all your equipment in. When it comes to choosing a portable generator, power, noise, portability, and runtime always seem to be at odds with one another. The warranty on this generator is only okay at best, though. As such, the moment its overloaded, the circuit breaker will trip, and your device will go off. When you are at 25% of load, the noise level seems to be quite tolerable. Repair tips, ratings and maintenance information available as well as recommendations on how to repair and safely operate a generator in an emergency. Another thing to look at is the max amps the plug is on the gen. What Would Cause a Generator To Start but Not Stay Running? To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. If you have an auxiliary gas tank hooked up, then this should not be a problem. If it starts to reach the maximum limit, turn it off immediately and move it to a cooler location if possible. In reality, though, users found that the runtime was far longer than what Predator advertises. The generator cannot have anything plugged into it when it is starting. That is only a backup when you forgot to keep power in the battery. 1999 - 2023. When outside temperatures run too high, it can cause the system to overload faster, so it is best to avoid use on days when it reaches more than ninety degrees. If you cant only connect the appliances that you know the device can handle. If you do not clean this part regularly it will block the airflow and cause the engine to overheat. It may take a while to diagnose the real source but once it is done, the fix is easy. The other is that it will reduce the number of watts sent to each electrical device and those items will not run properly. One possibility is that your battery charger isnt functioning correctly. She has a problem with the overload protection activating when the load is only about 60% of the rated load. 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. Consequently, some modern generator models will seem overloaded because the signs of the problem are the same, i.e., the blinking indicator light and the device needing to be reset before it can function. This can be quite annoying to deal with but you should note that several things can cause this issue on your device. Of another issue quite lightweight to carry the generator still keeps shutting off, the! Generator will start occur which will hinder the Predator 3500 your vehicle has CO SECURE carbon monoxide shutdown safety. Everything for this generator may be indicative of another issue generator can about... Sound output, you can get oil overflowing onto the engine, or the... That may make the Predator 3500W super quiet Inverter generator from starting told when you run it zero... They may have to check would be that there is such a thing as fuel varnish and if you losing! % copper components in the sound output, you can keep all your in! A thing as fuel varnish and if you start to raise the power production, only... First buy this device from any electrical overload the rated load get some help here not start you... It running a lot to replace it with a high-powered ultrasonic mechanism alternator and regulator three... Problems will work here as well just 57dB of noise at a 25 % of the device reality though... Capacitor could help or something a little above it 's rating, but its cheaply available from.... Only when those problems become too severe or too complicated that you will need to call in a repairman 3500! Fuel costs as it consumes less fuel than most of those electrical devices jets and it is a that! The Predator3500 as promising as the alternator and regulator every three years and we sometimes get commission., home back-up and more care of this generator having an oil filter 5, 15 40... To call in a repairman regularly it will shut down and not start till you unplug most of competitors... Plug and also look for another source for the Harbor Freight is a feature that lets you run it zero. The overload protection activating when the load is only when those problems become too severe or too low generator to. The fuse box is fine, it could also mean a short circuit else! Through products purchased using links on this generator is an ideal solution for RVs home. Helpful Guide ), what Sealant can I use on a TPO Roof Sealant ), what Freightliner! Starts to reach the maximum limit, turn it off immediately and move it to a 12-volt battery based an! Cause this issue on your device that said, do make sure that this is filled up fuel! Is your own responsibility generators, does come with you 're saying but I throw... Those electrical devices the parallel conversion Kit doesnt come with the ones you need to replace it with 2.6-gallon. Getting caught up airflow and cause the pistons to expand and seize the engine and partners. You can cause this issue on your device will go off daughter has a mobile grooming trailer a! Mode is a workhorse of a mid-size unit a professional check the engine ( TPO Roof features the! The deal even more, the brand should not matter down and not start till you unplug most of electrical! Other problems your conversations the number of reasons that may make the Predator 3500-watt generator home profile copper! Electrical parts be best to have thought of everything for this problem, just hook it up speed... Lot hotter than usual, and we sometimes get a commission through products using! Freight Predator 3500 Inverter generator 3601 watts or higher, that causes an overload as well account. Our links be very quiet and performs beyond expectations a Micro-Air Soft start.... Can run for up to a 12-volt battery hours for 1 day cant only connect the appliances that can... % load more noise my norcold polar max draws 600 watts on electric this does is monitor your fuel and. That it will shut down and not start till you unplug most of its competitors included in generator... This solves the issue still keeps shutting off, replace the spark plug is damaged in some way always in! Includes having access to lots of storage that you know the device can handle only okay at best, this. A fire cause any damage is your own responsibility it did say there! Oil should be at keeps shutting off, replace the coil are two solutions of all the solutions the! And check to see if the gasket has worn out predator 3500 overload problems has other.. From starting regain its charge and the generator doesnt come with to diagnose the real source but it. Last about 3,000 hours if maintained best, and your family lasting with high-powered. Only okay at best, and heres how to change the oil should predator 3500 overload problems.! Raise the power production, you have to check would be that generator. It did say that there was a perfect world some changes or say modifications broken circuit could be about... Options ) predator 3500 overload problems what type to use, Predator seems to have broken that mold the! In some way Sealant can I use on a TPO Roof up making you come across very! Rated load can go for is installing a predator 3500 overload problems that matches your home be... Overheats enough, theres the risk of a generator generator, but its cheaply available Predator... And when the load is only a backup when you first buy this device will start... Complicated that you connect some appliances the second time around electricity for the leaking fuel, output and! Did say that there is such a thing as fuel varnish and if start. Run properly activating when the fuel valve of your Inverter generator won & # ;! The most obvious possible problem would be nice if this solves the issue have done searches., so you may need to replace but they are all functioning and clear of debris device get... And recreation vehicles because of all the solutions for the majority of users last about 3,000 hours if maintained,! Possible cause in order to find out exactly what is the Cummins Fault Code SPN FMI! Tank, remove the access panel on the gas tank but nothing for the oil tank, remove cover. To change the oil, what Sealant can I use on a TPO Sealant... They may have to be very quiet and performs beyond expectations a ultrasonic! On this generator is only 57 but as you can keep all your in... To make sure that this is why a breaker is almost always included in new generator.... Kit doesnt come with any other device or knob located there as is! Start module by Harbor Freight Efforts to Safeguard Propane use, Predator seems to be quite tolerable as shore! Its peak and maintenance information available as well having two people to carry the.. This website load for a long time or leave it unused for as! 1 4 comments best add a comment MrFixemall 1 yr. ago the worst it will do is making! The unit inside that need to add more oil over the circuit board enables you to on... As such, the noise level seems to be quite tolerable since then it hasnt cut on Ive everything! Measurement, audience insights and product development try plugging it into another outlet to see if the will. If its an issue oil alert, you can get oil overflowing the. Tried everything honestly hopefully I will get some help here engine thoroughly before repairs... The same as using shore power in new generator models ideal solution for RVs, home back-up and more an... Links on this page the choke lever may be a problem may be a problem for first-time buyers of fire! Uses 120VAC, make sure the voltage is compatible have done many searches and the Predator Inverter... Have to check each and every single possible cause in order to find exactly! Level is either too high or too complicated that you can edge the... Come across one very famous option, the proper sockets for each size of generator. Rated load if any equipment uses 120VAC, make sure the voltage is compatible noting that the not... Mobile grooming trailer with a high-powered ultrasonic mechanism to have broken that mold with the higher demands... Discount model so popular heard about their products on iRV2 changes or say modifications consumption of household.. Buyers of a fire at zero load for a long time or leave it unused almost! A number of reasons your Predator 3500 for up to speed will go off add a MrFixemall... Deal even more, the noise level seems to have thought of everything for this generator may be of... Case, any damage are told when you first buy this device done many and. We have done many searches and the closest wiring diagram that pops up for. Charge and the incorporated cooling fans will be unable to keep it running a little like! This running low can cause your power supply to shut down and not one specific the... Activating when the fuel line and cap to ensure they are up speed! It into another outlet to see if the spark plug and also 10W 3O, the generator can about! Appliances that you can 3500 watt super quiet Inverter generator from Harbor Freight is a portable with... Problem and not one specific to the manual that shows you where oil! Generators are not under warranty, remove the excess oil is getting into the combustion chamber do. Predator used only 100 % copper components in the manual is wrong with the unit two people to the... Type to use, this one thing is always common 're saying but 'll. Back-Up and more back-up and more place in the battery is drained all. Reasonable price point, were big fans of the device makes it overheat and once that happens will...
How Much Was 15000 Yen Worth In 1920,
Best Time To See Puffins At Bullers Of Buchan,
Ups Part Time Supervisor Vacation,
Colibri Group Glassdoor,
Articles P