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. Once done, you have to ensure that these are all removed properly before you refill the tank with fuel. Make sure you have the tanks full and everything is being mixed correctly. 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. If neither of these solutions work, check the oil because if the level is too low, it triggers the sensor and shuts the unit off. However, there are certain situations that may occur which will hinder the Predator 3500 Inverter generator from starting. The automatic voltage regulator is used to regulate the voltage. Energuide Also, if you make modifications during the warranty period, you will probably void the warranty. Overloading the device makes it overheat and once that happens it will shut down on you. Generators are not the same as using shore power. The most obvious possible problem would be that there is something wrong with the switch itself. A start capacitor could help or something a little pricier like a Micro-Air Soft start module. We checked the owners manual and there was no mention of this generator having an oil filter. The PREDATOR 3500W SUPER QUIET Inverter Generator is an ideal solution for RVs, home back-up and more. It may take a while to diagnose the real source but once it is done, the fix is easy. Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on iRV2. You should re- fuel the inverter generator with high quality gas and then start it as usual. On top of that, noise isnt a problem with the Predator3500 its one of the quietest 3,000-watt generators weve come across. But that is not the main source for starting this unit. Aside from this, the second thing that you will have to look out for is your generator being overloaded. (Solutions), Generator Making Popping Noises! To fix this problem, just hook it up to a 12-volt battery. We have tested the load for the various equipment she uses and it doesn't approach the 3000W continuous load limit. This is good if youre on flat ground, since the front wheels essentially allow you to steer the generator as you push it around. This generator is one of the most popular inverter generators in the market as it guarantees you top notch performance throughout. What Do I Do When My RV Has No Hot Water Flow? Importantly, the Predator3500 features an ESC throttle switch that increases fuel efficiency. This may be a symptom of a carb that has been fed bad fuel. Or you need to flush the fuel bowl. 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. If it turns back on after the reset, it means your generator has issues, and you need a professionals help to fix them. 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. The reason for the multiple oil changes is that there are metal shavings inside that need to be removed before they cause any damage. Then there is the inability to use all 4 wheels all the time. The eco mode is a feature that lets you run your generator at a fuel-efficient level. I'm gonna need to run something for 3 hours that pulls 27 amps. Another thing to look at is the max amps the plug is on the gen. There is a lot of good buzz concerning this device and it may be a good option for many RV owners. This will get to all the hidden parts built into the carb. 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. We will deal with the generator wont start issues in a few minutes. A sub-reddit dedicated to Harbor Freight and reviewing their tools. there is nothing you can do about this issue either. You need to replace the internal components such as the alternator and regulator every three years. This won't show up on a clamp on ammeter. In addition to this, the Predator 3500 is also quieter and produces lower emissions than the conventional generators. According to The noise definitely ratchets up as you draw more power from the engine, but it tops out around 65dB. Then, move on to the fuel line and cap to ensure they are all functioning and clear of debris. No power in the battery means no electricity for the electrical parts. Thanks to its oil door is ready for refilling. My daughter has a mobile grooming trailer with a Predator 3500 Inverter generator from Harbor Freight. We won't send you spam. What Would Cause a Generator To Start but Not Stay Running? Most camping enthusiasts own motorhomes and recreation vehicles because of all the features that these come with. This includes, if its low on oil, out of gas, a clogged fuel valve, a dead battery, faulty low oil sensor etc. Kind of surprised by the lack of response here. If it is loose, oil can make its way back up the hole and out the fill spout. Predator used only 100% copper components in the guts of this generator, which last much longer than cut-rate alloys. Another oil-related source would be that you over-filled the oil tank and the engine is burning off the excess. Or perhaps there is no station close to your vacation spot. In a well-ventilated, area away from bystanders, use pressurized, Squeeze out excess water and allow it to dry, completely. They might be damaged, which means they wont shut down the machine when needed. Required fields are marked *. It won't overload or cause damage to sensitive devices and can run larger AC units without a problem. Also, a struggling generator engine will produce more heat when trying to keep up with the higher power demands. 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. My 3500 seems to surge idle with eco mode, where the governor catches itself and the hole things surges up in rpm every couple seconds. Predator 3500 Generator - surging problem fixed! And thats fair, to be honest. This is where replacing the breaker comes in. If a belt fails, the whole system stops. This could be just about anything that went wrong with the unit. Then it could be that your carb is running too lean. This is where the quality control standards are set. 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 first thing we would want you to know about is the run time amount for each tank with enough fuel. I can change the spark plug-a quick and easy job. 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. The generator wont start in these two situations. It is possible that through constant use, the nuts and bolts on the engine case have worked themselves loose. That problem may be that the cylinder was scored and oil is getting through to the combustion chamber. Unplug a few items from your electrical system. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); OutdoorTag is reader-supported. Other frustrating moments of a generator that keeps shutting off is when you're camping, powering your RV, or . It takes the fluctuates voltage and changes them into a constant voltage. This inverter generator will not start if there is an insufficient amount of gas in the 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. The generator is also backed by a limited 2-year warranty. 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. The troubleshooting process is the same as what we highlighted above. They will have further instructions in case anything should go wrong. $89999. If so, you will have a hard time starting the generator. If you cant only connect the appliances that you know the device can handle. Also, the oil may be too low. You should check the fuses as well before calling your service provider. So, that horizontal bar over the outlet panel is your only option for picking it up. If you do not see any oil there, then you may need to add some before it gets too low. 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! The parallel conversion kit doesnt come with the generator, but its cheaply available from Predator. This generator promises features like electric start and continuous 3,000-watt power, all while keeping noise under 60dB and weight under 100pounds. That said, you only do this if your overload indicator light stays off. If it starts to reach the maximum limit, turn it off immediately and move it to a cooler location if possible. If not, it may be indicative of another issue. One of the main jets may be clogged stopping the engine from receiving enough fuel. Refuel it with fresh gas. You should ensure that the vacuum relief valve is open and unplug the outlet hose from the intake side of the clogged valve. Take a few minutes to get up to speed on these DIY fixes. In our lab tests, Inverter Generators models like the 3500 are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below . Trusted Source 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. Balancing pros and cons will make you more competent in making a value-providing decision by the end. The link to the instructions at Harbor Freight is found at this link. And so, they may want to convert it into a propane runnable option. Oil can be like water and follow the easiest trail out of the engine. Try charging your batteries manually using an AC/DC adapter or a car booster pack. 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. The information on the oil, what type to use, and how to change the oil is on page 14 of the manual. The gas is fresh-well maybe a month old at the most- and is mid grade non-ethanol gas. When you start the machine, it should be in the closed position. This will cut off the fuel supply and cause your generator to surge. 3) Excessive heat. Plus, there are key safety features that protect you and this device from any electrical overload. Energuide Recently while camped in the desert at 7000' on a day with the outside temps running in the 90's,our gen went into overload mode and I am looking for reasons why. There are four small wheels on the bottom of the generator, rather than two large wheels. However, when it comes to gas engines, they may have to be replaced sooner due to wear and tear. This leads us to the third sign that your generator is overloaded. The Predator 3500 generator was developed by the American-based company Harbor Freight Tools. The fix for this problem is to drop the load demand. Start by disconnecting all electrical appliances connected to the generator. Additionally, a faulty or broken circuit could be the culprit, so you may need to look over the circuit board. Generally, smaller generators like the 2000 should not be turned upside down or allowed to tip too far. Also, check on the condition of the breakers and fuses youre using from time to time. A wire got loose, shorted our or disconnected and you may have to tighten the wires or replace the switch if it has worn out. As a result, its able to run for 11hours at a 25% load, or half a day at full power. The fix for this problem is to drop the load demand. Ever since then it hasn't cut on I've tried everything honestly hopefully I will get some help here. 4. There are a number of reasons your Predator 3500 Inverter generator wont start. Users report that the Predator3500 is one of the most durable generators theyve used, which isnt by accident. Any updates as to what you found? Don't need a DC amp meter. Simply switching off some of these devices should help you in fixing the problem. There is one normal source for this issue which makes it very easy to fix. You should change the oil after the first 20 hours of use then every 100 hours after that. , these regulators change fluctuate voltage into constant voltage since the former can damage a power system. This includes, if it's low on oil, out of gas, a clogged fuel valve, a dead battery, faulty low oil sensor etc. An overloaded generator is something you want to avoid as a user. Theres no fuel gauge even on its digital display board, and this may be a problem for first-time buyers of a generator. The solution is to clean the float bowl, the carb and make sure to get all the varnish, etc., out of the engine. It is a discount generator. There is such a thing as fuel varnish and if you do not keep replacing old gas it can build up over time. Circuit Globe If the carb is clogged or not getting enough fuel, then the motor will continue to die on you. Many users report using the generator for five hours or more and using only a fraction of the fuel tank. The runtime of this generator isnt anything to write home about, but its not bad, either. Why The Predator 3500 Eco Mode Is Not Working? Even at peak capacity it remains 3,500 watts. Meaning, Working Principle & Applications - Circuit Globe That situation can cause the pistons to expand and seize the engine. 0 1 1 comment Best This will also help the battery regain its charge and the generator will start. 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 other is that it will reduce the number of watts sent to each electrical device and those items will not run properly. Ensure enough water is in the radiator to keep the temperature down. 5 Common Flexsteel Recliner Problems (Troubleshooting), Want More Room? Yes, this is possible with the sacrifice of a few hundred watts off performance down overall. 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. The common problem for the sticking is gas varnish or the gas turns to gum when it is stored for long periods. Consequently, generator models with AVR are much harder to damage or overload since they self-adjust to match changes in voltage. If it is too low, make sure to add some in. Your genny is only capable of about 30 amps. For some reason, some of the key parts do not get enough airflow and the engine can overheat, stopping the motor from running. Allow Necessary Cookies & Continue This way the air circulating the generator will prevent it from overheating. Okay, it's not perfect, run at a full load the Honda is possibly quieter. You do not need to use the pull handle to get the generator running. Fortunately, we give in-depth details of how to troubleshoot and fix the problem below. HF Predator 3500 Owners Please Mission Statement: Supporting thoughtful exchange of knowledge, values and experience among RV enthusiasts. Another issue that many people complain about on their generator is that it is overheating. How To Check The Oil On a Predator 2000 Generator? If these solutions do not do the trick for you, you can call in a repairman and see what they find out. The key one will be the start-up battery. You do not have to over-tighten as that can strip the threads if you are not careful. 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