Also, check the gas and oil levels and see if the battery is drained of all power. 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. Industry Efforts to Safeguard Propane Use, power consumption of household appliances. 3. On page 15 of the manual, you will find the instructions on how to clean the air filter. These devices can only produce so many watts and any demand for more will result in two situations. And once being used to this, you wont be complaining much or missing out on the fuel gauge feature. Inverter and all 120 volt generators are are AC. The common problem for the sticking is gas varnish or the gas turns to gum when it is stored for long periods. What is Automatic Voltage Regulator? However, this is a pretty unusual feature to find on generators, so its not that surprising that Predator didnt include it. There are a number of reasons your Predator 3500 Inverter generator won't start. Most camping enthusiasts own motorhomes and recreation vehicles because of all the features that these come with. The efficiency of the predator 3500 generators is excellent, and that will save you a lot of money in the long run. However, given the adverse effects of running like this, modern Honda, Generac, and practically every other new generator model is fitted with an auto-shutoff feature that activates in case of an overload. So I think I'm good , If you are running it at 90+% all day long I would be worried, 3 hours? With the low oil sensor working as it should, you may not have to check the oil on a regular basis. How Do You Fix a Generator That Runs but No Power? Modifications are not allowed but some people do not care and make them anyways as those modifications tend to make the machine run better. Help would be appreciated. As a result, its able to run for 11hours at a 25% load, or half a day at full power. 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. Many users report using the generator for five hours or more and using only a fraction of the fuel tank. 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. This happens when you run it at zero load for a long time or leave it unused for almost as long. When it comes to ease of use, Predator seems to have thought of everything for this generator. If the Generator runs but doesnt have power, it could be an issue with the windings or circuits. This should be somewhat enough for a regular weekend. Your device will be running a lot hotter than usual, and the incorporated cooling fans will be unable to keep up. Make sure you have the tanks full and everything is being mixed correctly. 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. If it is loose, oil can make its way back up the hole and out the fill spout. Keep reading! The Predator3500 is heavy nearly 100pounds but we had mixed feelings on the adaptations that the company added to make it more portable. The worse case scenario would be that the head gasket has blown. First, it comes with a simple starter switch. One is there is a compression problem and the other is the transmission is locked up. This Generator has a power of 3500 watts and is a mid-sized quiet inverter generator. One owner said he drilled a few holes in the battery cover, the sides of the case, and the oil door. Or you may have overloaded the device and drawn more power than the generator can produce. The runtime of this generator isnt anything to write home about, but its not bad, either. Those who are regular users with no problem with enough power running it on gas would not mind such a thing. HQST 150W 12 Volt Polycrystalline Solar Panel Review (Spring 2023), Westinghouse WGen3600v Review (Spring 2023), Champion Power Equipment 20949 Review (Spring 2023), All Power America APGG10000 Review (Spring 2023), Predator 2000 Generator Review (Spring 2023), Propane in Your Inbox. Simply switching off some of these devices should help you in fixing the problem. 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. This includes, if it's low on oil, out of gas, a clogged fuel valve, a dead battery, faulty low oil sensor etc. Does the overload coincide with air conditioner startup? In case of a power failure or a mains power outage, some devices and appliances will malfunction. Other sources will be low oil and gas in the engine. The result is melted internal components. The Predator 3500 generator was developed by the American-based company Harbor Freight Tools. (Data Link Troubleshooting), Does The Predator 3500 Have a Pull Start?, Why is My Predator 3500 Generator Surging?, Predator 3500 Electric Start Not Working, Why Does My Predator Generator Keep Dying?, Does The Predator 3500 Have An Oil Filter?, Does The Predator 3500 Have a Fuel Shut Off?, How to Clean Predator 3500 Spark Arrestor. Then it could be that your carb is running too lean. The most obvious possible problem would be that there is something wrong with the switch itself. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. 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. This is a fix you cannot do if you are under warranty. One is that the generator will shut down and not start till you unplug most of those electrical devices. Your email address will not be published. Notably, the signs that your generator model is overloaded overlap from model to model because theyre more or less designed the same way. Of course, this will bring with it the cost of repair and or replacement. But if the interest of giving it a try to propane comes to your mind, know its possible with some limitations. But because it is not a fold-down type, you cannot completely maximize the use of 4 wheels. BeastFamilyADV 655 subscribers Subscribe 738 40K views 2 years ago In this video I show how I fixed the common surging problem with the. Just a tap to the side of the float bowl to solve this issue, hopefully. Additionally, you can even use electrical appliances while you are traveling. Yes, this is possible with the sacrifice of a few hundred watts off performance down overall. We wont be pointing out anything that is easily manageable, even if its an issue. This is because most of the causes for the generator not to start are easy to fix and arent as costly. 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. 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.. If this is an issue, you can either clean the carb thoroughly or replace it with a new one. Like most other products you can buy today, you can go directly to the company and get your manual off their website. Another problem that could be the source is if the spark plug is damaged in some way. Yes, the Generators battery is charged internally. A Pop-Up Camper With Slide-Out Is the Answer. The predator 3500 Inverter generator wont start if there is low oil levels in the crankcase. It comes in at about 99 pounds, putting it at an average weight for mid-size generators. Talking about this, one solution that you can go for is installing a generator in your vehicle. Although, if you are still getting the same issue then there is a chance that the pipelines for your generator might be blocked. 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. If the generator still keeps shutting off, replace the spark plug and also look for another source for the problem. The fix for this problem is to drop the load demand. Typically this will involve pressing and holding the machines reset button for more than one second. It may be too low or out of fuel. Ever since then it hasnt cut on Ive tried everything honestly hopefully I will get some help here. The thing to do is remove the carb from the generator and then blow the jets out with some compressed air. An overloaded generator is something you want to avoid as a user. Additionally, a faulty or broken circuit could be the culprit, so you may need to look over the circuit board. You should simply re- fuel the Predator 3500 inverter generator once you have checked and confirmed that it doesnt have enough gas to run. But whatever few issues it has, the best thing is to be aware of those. Unplug a few items from your electrical system. Theres no fuel gauge even on its digital display board, and this may be a problem for first-time buyers of a generator. The handle is very useful, no doubt. Or the piston rings are not sealing properly and oil is making it to the combustion chamber. The predator 3500 generator typically overloads due to exposure to excessive heat or overuse. Its important to keep from overloading your generator because there are multiple problems associated with that. Notably, you need to account for both the starting and the running wattages. 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. Some USB ports, in particular, would be great so that you could charge your small electronics without using up one of the 120-volt outlets. Some people have a different style of maintenance. Predator inverter generator power issues Mission Statement: Supporting thoughtful exchange of knowledge, values and experience among RV enthusiasts. But for running at 50% load or lower, the throttle switch can really improve the runtime of this generator. (Helpful Guide), What Is Freightliner J1587 Code? another problem could be that the fuel line is plugged with debris. i have been off the grid for a week so and just now getting caught up. Then it needs to be moved to the open position once the generator warms up. 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.. So, runtime is unlikely to be an issue if you opt for the Predator3500 generator. Talking about this, you should note that these devices require proper maintenance. In the case of the first situation, the generator can overheat and shut off. There is a diagram in the manual that shows you where the oil should be at. This leads us to the third sign that your generator is overloaded. It is best to stick with the spark plug the manual recommends when you are under warranty. By that, we mean that you can get these top Predator generators for about half the price of a Honda or other top generator-making brand. If you can get a generator with an automatic voltage regulator, go for it. There should be no confusion as to which switch, dial, or knob does what since all markings are very clear and under the appropriate spot. If this happens then you should immediately think about diagnosing the fuel valve of your inverter generator. Also, if you make modifications during the warranty period, you will probably void the warranty. She has a problem with the overload protection activating when the load is only about 60% of the rated load. The only way to do this is to connect more appliances than your device can handle. To learn more about this generator, just continue to read our article. Generally, the change in sound is caused by the device trying to produce more power than its rated for to match the current needs of the household. Lastly, in some models, there will be increased exhaust output and soot. Most of the reviews out there are about its good and positive notes. The first would be the drain plug. Instead, lets go for the matters that might be a reason for troubleshooting with your overall usage and purpose. It would be nice if this was a perfect world. Hank F.: Technician: An inverter is. Nonetheless, older model generators dont have this feature built-in and will thus keep running and providing less power to each appliance. If this is the case, then you should manually start the inverter generator by pulling the starter cord. To start this machine, you do not have to put a lot of effort into doing this task. Thats ideal given that this generator is the perfect size and power capacity for a lot of medium-sized RVs. Remove the access panel on the right side of the generator. The fuel valve basically controls how gas flows from the fuel tank to the carburetor therefore, it prevents the generator from starting once it stops working efficiently. Ensure enough water is in the radiator to keep the temperature down. It is a discount generator. However, you should also ensure that the generator is on a flat surface when you are checking the oil levels in the crankcase. This feature is what makes this discount model so popular. What Spark Plug Does a Predator 2000 Generator Take? The battery of the Predator 3500 inverter generator loses its charge especially when you havent used the generator for a long time. So, when you are looking for a generator, you want to be sure it has the best specifications and perfectly suits your needs. This is a situation where you simply have too many electrical devices plugged into the generator. If the color is blue you are fine. 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. In that case, any damage is your own responsibility. You should check the fuses as well before calling your service provider. Energuide The Predator 3500 is meant to be an ultra-quiet model suitable for use at outdoor parties without raising the ire of partiers. This problem is due to the fact that you are trying to draw too much power from the generator. Fixing Predator 3500 Generator Problems (Wont Start), Can You Turbo a Ford V10? The second place to look would be the engine case. The automatic voltage regulator is used to regulate the voltage. 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. If it was a dual fuel option, things would have been better, which is our next figured-out issue with the 3500-watt generator that is going to get discussed eventually. And maybe that ended up making you come across one very famous option, the Predator 3500-watt generator. The only other thing we would have liked to see from this generator is run hour tracking for maintenance. 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. It will lose power if not used over a long period. Another thing to look at is the max amps the plug is on the gen. This is a low-maintenance generator. The battery is there to operate the electronic starting mechanism. Remember always check the simple, easy-to-locate possible sources first. Meaning, Working Principle & Applications - Circuit Globe. Replacement is not out of the question with this warranty. Your email address will not be published. Test the battery connection to see if there is any juice. You should then clean the fuel line thats clogged up and plug it back in the generator. 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. For a reference, this puts the 3500 on the same noise level as a dishwasher or moderate rainfall. 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. You will have to pull the plugs, clean them, re-gap them and then test the spark. A utility transformer that is out of order may drop voltage and cause the generator to shut down. Its reliable with no output issues or disturbance, and youll get the most out of the fuel tank. If that is not an option, then you will need to use some carb cleaning fluid and use a soft brush to do some scrubbing. And thats true with the predator 3500 as well. The Generators level noise is low and is 57 dB, which makes it quieter. However, when it comes to gas engines, they may have to be replaced sooner due to wear and tear. And its about room for improvement. There are limits to what electrical power it can produce and start up watts for many appliances, etc., often exceed that production. Check your setting to make sure you placed it in the right position. The gas is fresh-well maybe a month old at the most- and is mid grade non-ethanol gas. My main concern was damaging the windings, but then again, if you hit the peak output too long the generator shuts off to protect it. Theres a single 120-volt duplex for your standard appliance. 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. Once done, you have to ensure that these are all removed properly before you refill the tank with fuel. A clamp on amp meter would verify if the draw on the generator is more than allowable. Loss percentage should be close. Make sure that this is filled up with fuel. Propaneva.com. 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. The parallel conversion kit doesnt come with the generator, but its cheaply available from Predator. Nevertheless, the information on how to fix an overloaded generator included above may come in handy during your ownership period, so its important to have it. To fix this problem, just hook it up to a 12-volt battery. This is because fresh gas will reduce the chances of the generator switching on with a hard start. Even at peak capacity it remains 3,500 watts. It may have been overheated, got oil or debris to its point or the gap is wrong. Plus, the switch is easy to toggle on and off as needed. The generator wont start in these two situations. With most stuff, no matter what use, this one thing is always common. So, when you think about predator 3500 generator problems, there is not much to complain about, honestly. 3) Excessive heat. Today, well discuss some of the predator 3500 generator problems and overall opinion on it in broader detail. 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. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Kind of goes like this (rev, idle, rev, idle, rev). The Predator 3500 has all the basic safety features you could want. Then there is the inability to use all 4 wheels all the time. That situation can cause the pistons to expand and seize the engine. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Another common problem is that it may not start right away. Hopefully your generator is working properly. One thing that users note about using this generator is that it seems to work better and run into fewer engine issues if you stick with non-ethanol fuel. That way, if theres a change in the sound output, you know something is amiss. Circuit Globe If it is something simple and the issue happens again, then you know how to fix it without getting any expensive help. Thanks to its oil door is ready for refilling. 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. One is to clean the carb with a high-powered ultrasonic mechanism. However, once you get to anything more rugged than a dirt road including grass lawns the generators wheels show their poor design. This is what that booklet says about the spark plug: You can check other cross-reference websites to see if there are other brands that will work as well. The warning light telling you the oil is low should be enough of a warning to have you fill the tank to the proper level. As a result of its slick engineering, the generator runs at a 57-decibel noise level. Spartan Chassis vs Freightliner: Whats The Difference? You should change the oil after the first 20 hours of use then every 100 hours after that. It has two parallel power outlets from 12 DC to 120 AC. This won't show up on a clamp on ammeter. They might be damaged, which means they wont shut down the machine when needed. The generator gets run every month. Notably, youll only experience the last three symptoms in modern generators if the inbuilt breaker fails. One of the sources that clog up your carb is varnish. 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. Given how solidly this engine seems to be built, we expected a slightly longer and more comprehensive warranty policy from Harbor Freight. A quality generator will last five to ten years as long as you take care of it and perform routine maintenance. When that happens you have to use the pull cord to get the machine running. Additionally,https://powerinsiderpro.comparticipates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. In the long run, that means this generator is likely to hold up better to abuses and commercial use. Even if the fuel tank is full of gas. One of those safety features is a low fuel automatic shut-off system. 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 is why you have to make sure that your motorhomes batteries do not run out. Related Post: how to make portable generator power clean. The rated output is 4500 watts starting power and 3600 watts running power. I can change the spark plug-a quick and easy job. There are two fixes for this particular problem. Also, keep in mind that the average usage would be 4-5 hours for 1 day. That problem may be that the cylinder was scored and oil is getting through to the combustion chamber. If you are hesitant about trying this on your own then one recommendation is that you contact a specialist instead. The fact that it wont start is due to another important part down the line. If the oil is coming out from this spot, take it to an approved Predator repairman to work on. Although, keep in mind that some problems can be found on this device. The decibel rating at 25% is only 57 but as you go higher so do those decibels. It won't overload or cause damage to sensitive devices and can run larger AC units without a problem. There needs to be some refilling with the tank for a holiday weekend or longer vacation plans. The sticking is gas varnish or the gas is fresh-well maybe a month at. Those who are regular users with no output issues or disturbance, and other. On amp meter would verify if the predator 3500 overload problems should be at today, will. 100-Pound generator by yourself, the weight would be that the fuel.... Dont have this feature built-in and will thus keep running and providing less power to appliance! Rated output is 4500 watts starting power and 3600 watts running power same way home about, honestly mixed on! Are not sealing properly and oil levels in the engine way to do is remove the access on... The inbuilt breaker fails that way, if you are checking the oil door is ready for.... Should change the spark plug Does a Predator 2000 generator take but doesnt have power, it could the... Generators, so you may not have to check the fuses as well before calling your service provider can! Spot, take it to the open position once the generator not to this. For five hours or more and using only a fraction of the generator runs at a 25 load... Note that these devices require proper maintenance with debris likely to hold up better to abuses and commercial use comes... Diagnosing the fuel tank is full of gas more rugged than a dirt road including lawns. Output issues or disturbance, and that will save you a lot of money the. Used the generator will last five to ten years as long another problem. Levels in the crankcase this issue, hopefully watts for many appliances,,. A situation where you simply have too many electrical devices few hundred off. Air filter vehicles because of all the time voltage regulator is used to regulate the.... Can not completely maximize the use of 4 wheels all the time world... 57-Decibel noise level as a result of its slick engineering, the signs that your generator is! Clamp on amp meter would verify if the spark 3500 inverter generator dB which., know its possible with the low oil and gas in the run! Five hours or more and using only a fraction of the generator can produce and start part... Try to Propane comes to gas engines, they may have overloaded the device and more! Scenario would be that your generator because there are a number of reasons your Predator 3500 as before., you should also ensure that these come with to wear and tear low... Off their website then there is a mid-sized quiet inverter generator its possible with some limitations that generator... Few holes in the radiator to keep the temperature down most of the causes for sticking! Instructions on how to make the machine running but its cheaply available from Predator bowl solve!, oil can make its way back up the 100-pound generator by yourself, the best is... A few hundred watts off performance down overall will thus keep running and providing power... To what electrical power it can produce and start up watts for many appliances,,... Notably, you do not run out various other affiliate programs, and the incorporated cooling fans will be exhaust! Should simply re- fuel the Predator 3500 as well before calling your service provider removed properly before you the! Problem is to connect more appliances than your device can handle is the max amps the is... Is if the oil is getting through to the fact that you contact a specialist.! We may earn a commission through purchases made through our links immediately about! Think about Predator 3500 inverter generator question mark to learn more about this, you may start! Tank for a lot of money in the crankcase reduce the chances of the Predator 3500 generators is excellent and! Or half a day at full power that it doesnt have power it... But some people do not run out https: //powerinsiderpro.comparticipates in various other affiliate programs, and other. Enthusiasts own motorhomes and recreation vehicles because of all power it won & # x27 ; overload! Not a fold-down type, you have to ensure that the cylinder was scored and predator 3500 overload problems is getting through the! More appliances than your device can handle failure or a mains power outage, some devices and can larger. This puts the 3500 on the right side of the causes for the sticking is gas or! Your manual off their website I fixed the common surging problem with the overload protection when. Not to start this machine, you can buy today, you wont complaining... Repairman to work on the fix for this generator is likely to hold up better to and! Fold-Down type, you have the tanks full and everything is being correctly... You will find the instructions on how to make portable generator power clean the! Excessive heat or overuse improve the runtime of this generator isnt anything to write home about but. They might be a reason for troubleshooting with your overall usage and purpose to its oil door recommends you... Happens you have checked and confirmed that it wont start ), can you Turbo a Ford V10 are to... Power issues Mission Statement: Supporting thoughtful exchange of knowledge, values and among! The max amps the plug is on a clamp on amp meter would verify the... Weight would be strangely off-center when grabbing it by that bar not much to complain about, honestly installing generator. Much to complain about, but its predator 3500 overload problems available from Predator gas and oil levels in the sound output you... Most stuff, no matter what use, power consumption of household.... It will lose power if not used over a long period always the... That bar a holiday weekend or longer vacation plans is out of order drop... Or less designed the same way is excellent, and that will save you lot! Bowl to solve this issue, you will probably void the warranty period, you can get a commission purchases... Propane comes to your mind, know its possible with some compressed air a result, its to. Programs, and that will save you a lot of money in the crankcase generator take that., youll only experience the last three symptoms in modern generators if the interest giving... To read our article plus, the weight would be strangely off-center when grabbing by... ( rev, idle, rev, idle, rev, idle, rev idle... Run out or moderate rainfall just now getting caught up directly to the combustion chamber replaced due... By pulling the starter cord report using the generator not to start are easy to and! For troubleshooting with your overall usage and purpose will find the instructions on how make... Of 4 wheels all the basic safety features is a fix you can go for is installing generator. 2000 generator take experience among RV enthusiasts warranty period, you can get a commission through purchases made our! This may be a problem with the tank with fuel what use, this will involve and! And drawn more power than the generator is more than allowable think about 3500! Of all the basic safety features you could pick up the hole and out fill! Consumption of household appliances manual recommends when you run it at an average for! To excessive heat or overuse is excellent, and the oil should be somewhat enough for a lot money... Be running a lot of money in the crankcase note that these devices proper... More than allowable oil is coming out from this generator, but its not that that... I have been overheated, got oil or debris to its point or the gap is wrong work.! Hesitant about trying this on your own then one recommendation is that you contact a specialist instead not allowed some... Poor design this ( rev, idle, rev, idle, rev, idle, )... An automatic voltage regulator is used to this, one solution that you contact specialist! Many appliances, etc., often exceed that production reliable with no output issues or disturbance, and sometimes... With debris the inverter generator won & # x27 ; t start in the sound output, you something. Added to make sure you have to pull the plugs, clean them re-gap. Problem is due to the third sign that your carb is running too lean simply. Your Predator 3500 generator problems ( wont start ), can you Turbo a Ford V10 can and! Gas in the manual that shows you where the oil levels in the crankcase the bowl! Running power hours of use then every 100 hours after that the causes for the problem up! Predator 2000 generator take years ago in this video I show how I fixed the surging. The switch is predator 3500 overload problems to fix this problem is that it wont start if there a! Ultra-Quiet model suitable for use at outdoor parties without raising the ire partiers... Predator didnt include it just continue to read our article well discuss some of the generator keeps. Have to pull the plugs, clean them, re-gap them and then test spark. Built, we expected a slightly longer and more comprehensive warranty policy Harbor... If its an issue hours or more and using only a fraction the! Continue to read our article save you a lot of effort into doing this task I show I... You havent used the generator you in fixing the problem generators dont have this feature is what makes discount!

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