After cleaning, just reverse your steps and put everything back the way you found it. 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 generator needs to be broken in before it is sent to do regular duty. Those who are into boondocking or dry camping, youve definitely given the idea of having a generator some serious consideration. No power in the battery means no electricity for the electrical parts. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); OutdoorTag is reader-supported. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. This is a fix you cannot do if you are under warranty. That is only a backup when you forgot to keep power in the battery. Related Post: how to make portable generator power clean. There are different reasons why this issue rises in your Predator generator. If so, you will have a hard time starting the generator. If this is an issue, you can either clean the carb thoroughly or replace it with a new one. There are limits to what electrical power it can produce and start up watts for many appliances, etc., often exceed that production. Subscribe to our e-newsletter today. This is because it electronically control the throttle of the engine depending on the amount of power required by the plugged in appliances. Follow the manufacturers guidance on how much the machine can safely power. Thankfully, damage can be largely avoided. Other frustrating moments of a generator that keeps shutting off is when you're camping, powering your RV, or . As a result of its slick engineering, the generator runs at a 57-decibel noise level. This is a low-maintenance generator. Unsubscribe at any time. 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. In fact, the low noise production was one of the features that users pointed to as the single most important reason to get this generator. Both would need an experienced repairman to handle those problems. Then remove the outlet hose from the intake side of the clogged fuel valve and see whether fuel is flowing through the hose. This problem is not much of a performance issue. Remove the access panel on the right side of the generator. 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. Energuide Keep in mind that these devices require you to install these in a ventilated area. If the fuse box is fine, it could also mean a short circuit somewhere else in your home. Of course, before figuring out how to fix an overloaded Generac generator or some other model, you need to know what causes the overload. This generator is one of the most popular inverter generators in the market as it guarantees you top notch performance throughout. 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. i have been off the grid for a week so and just now getting caught up. This is not an overnight issue. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. This build-up will hinder the flow of fuel and make it run rough. 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. (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. Bio/Hydro Generators Geo Wind General. A sub-reddit dedicated to Harbor Freight and reviewing their tools. Once youve tabulated that, you can then buy a generator that matches your home profile. 1999 - 2023. If this simple design improvement is considered, a lot of portability-related issues would be sorted out with quick troubleshooting skills. 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. One of those safety features is a low fuel automatic shut-off system. 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. In that case, any damage is your own responsibility. The automatic voltage regulator is used to regulate the voltage. Also, a struggling generator engine will produce more heat when trying to keep up with the higher power demands. The parallel conversion kit doesnt come with the generator, but its cheaply available from Predator. 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. However, if you do not get a spark, then there is a problem with the engine coil. The white smoke may simply be the hot engine burning off any oil residue that covered the different parts. Predator 3500 generators are made by an American-based company Harbor Freight Tools, and predator generators use Honda-clone engines. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. This is something you need to check on your own. This should be somewhat enough for a regular weekend. It puts out just 57dB of noise at a 25% power load. In the case of the first situation, the generator can overheat and shut off. Therefore, using this Inverter generator also enables you to save on fuel costs as it consumes less fuel than most of its competitors. The link to the instructions at Harbor Freight is found at this link. Some people have a different style of maintenance. The Predator3500 has a lot going for it. So, is the Predator3500 as promising as the technical specifications and price would have you believe? How do I protect my appliances against power failures or power outages? Also you are losing almost 30% of the generator engine power at 7000 ft elevation. This problem is due to the fact that you are trying to draw too much power from the generator. The Predator generator comes with a 3- or 11 liters fuel tank, meaning a full tank will last you around 11 hours or more. $89999. There is an electronic start built into this machine and you will find it on the control panel. Because its an inverter generator, the Predator3500 is also able to connect in parallel to a second model. To fix this problem, just hook it up to a 12-volt battery. 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 advantage with this new tech is that the engine speed will not alter the phase of the generated power, the disadvantage is that now there is added complexity. Information sub on all types of generators: home standby, Commercial, portable, RV, marine, etc. That is a good deal especially since the Predator model is said to be very quiet and performs beyond expectations. This means you can connect the Generator to other power sources. Overloading your generator is completely avoidable, and heres how to do it. What Spark Plug Does a Predator 2000 Generator Take? 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. So, no hard feelings, just a bit of deep digging to be more aware of the purchase. Or perhaps there is no station close to your vacation spot. It is best to stick with the spark plug the manual recommends when you are under warranty. Keep reading! Or at least run some carb cleaner through the engine regularly. 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. On top of that, noise isnt a problem with the Predator3500 its one of the quietest 3,000-watt generators weve come across. With the built-in low oil alert, you are told when you need to add more oil. Nothing would break down, nothing would need repairing and you could go about your day trouble-free. This won't show up on a clamp on ammeter. On page 15 of the manual, you will find the instructions on how to clean the air filter. Once you have pulled the starter cord severally, the battery will regain some of its charge and the generator will start. Although, keep in mind that some problems can be found on this device. 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 automatic shut-off lets you know when you need to add more fuel. If not, turn everything off and disconnect the generator from all power sources. How do You Clean The Air Filter On a Predator 2000 Generator? 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. Turn the throttle knob into the start position; once it runs, flip it back. If it starts to reach the maximum limit, turn it off immediately and move it to a cooler location if possible. If you have an auxiliary gas tank hooked up, then this should not be a problem. However, this is not something you should do on your own. I would really expect this to be smooth idle. (Solutions), Generator Making Popping Noises! Given how solidly this engine seems to be built, we expected a slightly longer and more comprehensive warranty policy from Harbor Freight. Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on iRV2. I need to check the AMP rating on the plugs and will report back on that. However, you shouldnt panic when you wake up one morning and the generator refuses to start. 1 4 comments Best Add a Comment MrFixemall 1 yr. ago The worst it will do is stop making power. Or the piston rings are not sealing properly and oil is making it to the combustion chamber. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Replace it if it has any of those issues. One possibility is that your battery charger isnt functioning correctly. The Predator seems to be a very good generator even though it is made in China. The reason for the multiple oil changes is that there are metal shavings inside that need to be removed before they cause any damage. It won't overload or cause damage to sensitive devices and can run larger AC units without a problem. Then it could be that your carb is running too lean. There is one normal source for this issue which makes it very easy to fix. Hank F.: Technician: An inverter is. The runtime of this generator isnt anything to write home about, but its not bad, either. (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. Kind of surprised by the lack of response here. 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. This Generator has a power of 3500 watts and is a mid-sized quiet inverter generator. The second place to look would be the engine case. We have tested the load for the various equipment she uses and it doesn't approach the 3000W continuous load limit. The worst it will do is stop making power. When you are at 25% of load, the noise level seems to be quite tolerable. Thanks to its oil door is ready for refilling. Soak the filter in lightweight oil. 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.. Once the panel is removed, look to the lower middle area of the inside of the generator. It is possible that through constant use, the nuts and bolts on the engine case have worked themselves loose. Thanks for the thoughts guys. These devices can only produce so many watts and any demand for more will result in two situations. A more important source would be the carburetor. Dont press too hard though as you do not want to damage the part. The fix for this problem is to drop the load demand. You should check the fuses as well before calling your service provider. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. If that is your problem, then check the fuel tank. if you are missing your owners manual, just click here to get to one. Simply switching off some of these devices should help you in fixing the problem. Therefore you are supposed to shake the generator and check whether there is any gas left in the tank. 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. This generator may be a discount model and cheaper than other brands but it is not a cheaply assembled product. The scored cylinder source means you will need a new generator. In non eco mode the generator seems to have the same behavior but is masked by . If it is loose, oil can make its way back up the hole and out the fill spout. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Balancing pros and cons will make you more competent in making a value-providing decision by the end. You can get pretty close to a full days work in with the generator running at 50%, although youll need to stop and refuel partway through the day if you run the generator at full power. This will involve calculating the power needs of your appliances so you can keep your generator running under the limit. Meaning, Working Principle & Applications - Circuit Globe Nonetheless, older model generators dont have this feature built-in and will thus keep running and providing less power to each appliance. Your device will be running a lot hotter than usual, and the incorporated cooling fans will be unable to keep up. 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 problem is the float in the carb or float bowl is stuck and not moving to shut the gas feed off. This generator's windings are connected to a rectifier which is fed into the inverter, which in turn generates the 110V output desired. There is a diagram in the manual that shows you where the oil should be at. And its about room for improvement. Notably, the signs that your generator model is overloaded overlap from model to model because theyre more or less designed the same way. (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? Unplug a few items from your electrical system. Other than that, it is a standard oil changing process that you do on any other machine. This makes tracking a bit hard as you need to do it manually. You should also ensure that your fan is kept switched on while you are using the device to get the best possible results. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Thought I would offer some up-dated information. There is a lot of good buzz concerning this device and it may be a good option for many RV owners. 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. There is a huge power demand when it comes to start up watts compared to running watts. 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. There you will find the air filter cover and you only have one screw to remove to get access to the air filter. This is where information on how to fix an overloaded generator comes in because, without it, you cant get the device to run. 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. Inverter and all 120 volt generators are are AC. You can easily do this by looking at the oil level on the dipstick of the generator. Just keep in mind that its maximum wattage output is 2000 watts. The predator 3500 Inverter generator wont start if there is low oil levels in the crankcase. Consequently, generator models with AVR are much harder to damage or overload since they self-adjust to match changes in voltage. The company warranties your entire generator for the first 90days after purchase. However, you have to check each and every single possible cause in order to find out exactly what is wrong with the generator. Theyre simply not big enough to raise the generator off the ground, so they become pretty useless. The generator cannot have anything plugged into it when it is starting. 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. What to do if the generator is overloaded. Check with Harbor Freight to see if there are other acceptable models you can use if you cant find these options in your area. Ever since then it hasnt cut on Ive tried everything honestly hopefully I will get some help here. Showing how to fix the generator overload #predator3500 #step by step The fuel tank strainer needs to be checked and cleaned when dirty. If this happens to you, you should check all the simple sources first. This is because most of the causes for the generator not to start are easy to fix and arent as costly. I do not own a clamp on AMP gauge, but have an electrician buddy that does-just not sure he has one for DC. The first thing that you should check in this case is your fuel tank. If you are not under warranty, remove the cover and check to see if the gasket has worn out or has other problems. This is why it makes sense to familiarize yourself with how your generator sounds while it is still new, 100% functional, and not overloaded. The Predator 3500 watt super quiet inverter generator by Harbor Freight is a workhorse of a mid-size unit. But because it is not a fold-down type, you cannot completely maximize the use of 4 wheels. Many users report using the generator for five hours or more and using only a fraction of the fuel tank. Generator is overloaded with nothing plugged in. We checked the owners manual and there was no mention of this generator having an oil filter. With 25% of usage, youll be able to get 11 hours of lasting with a 2.6-gallon tank. You should manually start the generator by pulling the starter cord. In this situation, the inverter has failed and will need replacing. If any equipment uses 120VAC, make sure the voltage is compatible. Energuide. It pays to have a backup system in place as that not only puts more value on the product but makes sure you can still use it when just one part has a problem. But Harbor Freight appears to have broken that mold with the companys Predator3500 generator. This is why a breaker is almost always included in new generator models. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. 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. Understanding the wattage of this product is important. Notably, you need to account for both the starting and the running wattages. This will get to all the hidden parts built into the carb. Another thing to look at is the max amps the plug is on the gen. In case of a power failure or a mains power outage, some devices and appliances will malfunction. This means that you dont have to bother ripping a pull-cord starter, which is really nice when starting the generator from cold. Regular checks will help you avoid that frustrating feeling when the generator doesn't start. Ethanol is not good fuel to use in a generator. Of course, this will bring with it the cost of repair and or replacement. Make sure that this is filled up with fuel. If you cant only connect the appliances that you know the device can handle. How Do You Fix a Generator That Runs but No Power? If not, it may be indicative of another issue. 1999 - 2023. However, if you start to raise the power production, you will experience a lot more noise. But there are two more serious sources. While producing up to 3,000watts of power, a switchable ESC throttle allows it to keep fuel efficiency as high as possible. Just like when a cars head gasket blows, the oil seeps into the combustion chamber and is burned up with the gas. This includes having access to lots of storage that you can keep all your equipment in. Even Predator generators need a helping hand from time to time. This is actually a common generator problem and not one specific to the Predator series of machines. 2) Faulty engine or belts. It has the information you need to know about in order to fix your generator and get it started without calling the repairman. The generator gets run every month. You will have to remove the oil cap and the drain plug in order to get the proper flow needed to get all the oil out. Many compared it to generators produced by Honda, which cost more than twice as much as this model. Once youve tabulated that, it may be indicative of another issue through constant use, the nuts bolts. Links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission it will do is making! A very good generator even though it is a diagram in the battery issue you! Is to drop the load demand youll be able to connect in parallel a. 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