I have a farm and I purchased a Harbor Freight 8500 watt generator about 15 years ago . I'm ashamed to say I've only changed the oil in it maybe twice and I've run it very many hours dealing with cows and power outages and usage for tools and it sits outside in my pickup truck bed uncovered and still works perfect after 15 years
I bought this wen in Feb when I caught it on sale for 699 on Amazon. Best move I ever made. I am 8 days into hurricane ida. I have been running this bad boy for 20 hrs a day. 12k window unit. Both fridges. 3 fans. Lamps and TV all on ECO at 50% load! 8 hrs of run time. This inverter is a beast of a machine. Anyone looking for a inverter I swear to god you will not be disappointed. Only draw back is it did come with a shit battery. No clue why. I went to batteries plus and got a better one. Update. Just got power back. Ran this guy for 18 days straight. No issues. Very very impressed
That’s awesome glad it’s working out for ya. And yea most just come with a generic battery. They are not gonna put a high quality in. But glad the gen is working for you during the hurricane and glad your safe… And thanks for watching 👍🏼😀
I own two of the predator 3500’s for my 5th wheel and power outages at home. They are outstanding generators and really quiet. My Yamaha 2000 is louder than my predators. I run non-ethanol gas w/ seafoam, synthetic mobile one oil, and an upgraded spark plug. I’ve also disconnected the kill switch so when I turn the knob to off it remains running until it burns all of the gas in the carb. I exercise them once a month for 30 minutes. They have never let me down and are very fuel efficient. My only complaint is that they weigh about 100lbs and are difficult to lift with an arthritic back.
I have six 3500's for my home and work and RV. The top of the Predator fuel filler neck is the terminus for a (hard to see but it's there) small tube that is connected to the carbon evap canister that is connected to the carburetor air intake. It's essential to never fill the Predator with fuel while it's running nor above the red level tab in the filler neck. If liquid gets sucked into the EVAP tube it'll ruin the carbon in the canister. Thus changing the fuel air mix at the carburetor. You may get away with it a couple times, but soon enough it'll ruin the canister and the generator won't come off idle because it'll starve for air.. No cure, no replacement part available. The TH-cam fixes are all bogus. It's the reason guys are drilling holes in the side of the housing to get more air in - but with time that fails and the generator pukes. th-cam.com/video/SvHRGMZSQQw/w-d-xo.html
I know this an older video, but I picked up the wen 3800, model 56380i, it is the quietest and easily runs my campers ac and microwave together. Just adding to the history.
This was a great test and comparison. I think if you're camping and noise is important, the Predator 3500 is the better choice. If using in situations where you can afford a bit more noise, the Wen 3800 offers amazing features and performance. Both greats at any price point, especially when comparing them with their "target"...Honda. I have owned a handful of Predator and a Wen unit and the behavior you described with the engine ramp up with new loads is spot on. I think that's how the Predator achieves much lower sound levels, they have their RPM strategy down to a science. The Wen tends to rev much higher for a second or so before settling. However, it must be said that could also contribute to the Wen's ability to maintain a higher voltage with the same loads. Thanks for your thorough review of both units! Can't go wrong with either.
I own the Predator 3500 and it's been a good generator. I've run my microwave and A/C at the same time. Also, Harbor Freight has a 20% off coupon every month which drops the price down to $780.
Lately they havent been excepting the coupon for the generators lately, so making it harder to get that great deal a year or 2 ago. Not sure if that has changed but one of the reasons people are buying other items, like a champion gen, which they have great warranty and customer service.
I know this is what made it such a great buy and now if you consider the price well other options really start to come to play. Predator is still a good gen for what ya get but now the super coupons not being able to be used kinda changes things up.
I got my predator 3500 used for $420 with 8 hours on it. I really like that thing. I plug 🔌 it into my house and it runs a ton of stuff as long as it is 110v - 125 v. Awesome generator. 👍🏼
My oldest Wen has almost 400 hours on it and still running strong, with my experience with their gens I have no doubt that 1,000 hours is doable without trouble. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Love my Wen! Powers my 21ft hybrid camper in Florida like a champ! $649 delivered on the Wen website. Gets some looks and questions about it when camping because it’s so quiet . Very very very fuel efficient
What do you think?? Does the Wen take the win....😅 or does predator still rule with its proven reliability and being real quiet or does wen take the win for its lower price and nice features....?? Vote it out.....!!
I'm one of those Honda guy's with two 2200i's that put out 30amps continuous for endless weeks but if I'd chose one I'd go with the Wen because it's an amazing deal for the power.
No, but as year's pass the chinese ones come with more features, better epa ratings and getting quieter. Trust me i love honda and yamaha gens. But they have priced them selves out of the majority market. I could buy one wen....say it last 10 years lets say 5 years actually......well the next one i get is super quiet....remote start on phone, running 50db real world and fuel efficiency is even higher......and that last say 7 years. Well the next one sips fuel and switches between battery and gas, talks to me, makes my frickin breakfast and runs my 13500 ac unit, and i still paid less then one honda. My honda is still running great but is now louder, less fuel efficient and still only running what it could when out of the box. Hondas are great....but they are missing the major market... Most of these generators people have them for years amd still running strong. . So that could be 21 years if each ran 7. And if a honda gets stolen verses a wen....wen then i wouldn't feel so bad. Pros and cons man.......
Love my predator 3500. I see them everywhere! The guys with food trucks and stands etc. all over the campgrounds. Can’t beat the price. The wen looks nice too
Yea it’s a good gen for the price. Would love to see a updated model with a couple extra small features, better handle and wheels, Rv plug wouldn’t be bad, and fuel drain on switch and better oil drain even though it’s not to bad.
@@johnnysweekends I have the predator 2000 and it has the same on/off/choke switch as the 3500. If you turn the switch just before the off mark it cuts off fuel and will run the carb dry after a few mins. I don’t get why HF didn’t put a little mark there to indicate that it cuts off the fuel in that position but it certainly does.
Very nice video. Excellent job @ staying unbiased as well as showcasing perks on each machine. I really like the handle that WEN incorporated in there machine vs the Predator's style. Wen seem to have a bit more options than the Predator. However, sound & noise is key especially when camping. The Decibel test was amazing how much quieter the Predator is. Choices, choices & choices!!! Nice Video....
Thank you so much. Yes features are nice but also that predator really is quite. And yea I give props where it’s due and don’t value one more then the other. It’s really Best Buy for the money if not buying Honda or Yamaha. Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😀
I'm here because I just received my Wen 56380i caught on sale at Amazon for $529.99. Wanted to use it on few things in the house during power outages. Haven't unboxed it yet but wanted to know what it could and could not do so thanks for a great review and video
Awesome that’s a great deal. And it’s still a popular choice! Make sure you unbox it and get it going and ready that way you are familiar with it and there are no issues. Don’t wait till that last moment and find your equipment is not ready.
Awesome it really is a great gen and honestly you can barely tell it’s louder when running at low speeds after they get going they are the same for the most part.
My grandfather has has 2 of the Powerhorse 3500(northern tool variant of Predator 3500) used it for 24/7 power when off grid for many months. Had 9951 hours on it before it quit. Only quit then because he didn't adjust the valves and it dropped a pushrod. Was still running fine though!! And that's almost 10,000 hours on just 3 oil changes. His 2nd one has around 7,000 hrs and no issues so far. These little generators seem to do pretty good for the cost.
Does he needs that much power all the time? Curious if he would be better served by solar + battery and inverter setup. Bringing that much gas to an off grid cabin alone sounds like a pain
@@TobyCostaRica he runs lights . 50 inch led TV. Full size Fridge and his pump for the water. He could get away with a 12kw setup I believe. He just hasn't done it yet. He really takes his time. Plus he doesn't like the up front cost. But either way he is paying🤦♂️
@@justsenditbro sounds like he can get by with a 6k inverter and 10kw of batteries. 48V system, 2 server rack batteries at $5k for 3 and solar 3kw of solar at $2-$3k
Regarding your reading for the Wren- Take this with a grain of salt, but using DAFX decibel meter I am getting readings of 63 decibels at 23' non eco, and 58 decibels in eco, exhaust facing away. At 23' facing the exhaust there is a difference of about 2 decibels. Having said this the meter you use seems to have a huge impact. For example using my phone for a meter gave me results of 58 up to 72db depending on which app I used. Ultimately I'm confident the meter I used was the most accurate. The generator seems to be within a few db of every other generator of the size and rating. Thankyou for the great work you do though! I very much appreciate it, however it seems odd our numbers are so far apart.
Yea I use a designated sound meter now and try to measure in the same spot. Which you could see in newer test videos. But I always measure on concrete which will be the loudest. By adding rocks or bushes and even grass can change the numbers a lot. But I did test all these units except the wen generator in a later video. But correct most all units I test except Honda read about 60-62 db in eco mode. And thank appreciate it 😀👍🏼
Would be nice if they updated the predator with just a couple items. Better handle, fuel shut off valve somewhere out side, better wheels and maybe a Rv plug but the other is good for housing if using it for that
@@johnnysweekends On my 3500 I added a switch to replace the 12V CB which runs to the electrical plug that shuts off the motor. Now my know is only a fuel shut off, and I have electrical shut off separate. I believe there are vids here showing what to do. Quite simple really once you figure out which wire plug is the shut off.
Yea adding all those options are not hard it’s more of if they wanted to update it for future buyers it would be a little more appealing. They could easily update it to 4000 watt or more and 28 amp ish rated. But for most people it does fine.
110v is actually perfectly fine. These Predator units continue to impress. As long as you are d dropping more than 10% of nominal you’re doing pretty good.
Yea when the over load light is flashing, I'm not sure how long it will run but it's a while, not that you should over load your generator like that. But ya the predator holds strong for sure
As stated in the manual it says to start with echo mode off. If i start them with echo mode on, someone else will say you know your not supposed to do that, it says start eco off.... So ya know....🤷♂️
Im here to give people options and choose what works for them. Not everyone wants to spend triple the price for something they may only need for rec use or a few times. I would recommend usa but our country is screwing up in alot of ways...so unfortunately nothing to recommend except getting the best for what ya can with your buck. You said your self.....honda sold out a while ago...and that will continue and they will continue to loose major sales until they drop prices a little. There is always someone who will find something to criticize every video if they so choose, verses just seeing what is really being presented.....which is options. Thanks again.
Not biased at all, and nothing is sponsored. These are bought with my own money and I give my own opinion on each. I like the wen and the features overall. The predator is quieter for sure and has a a good track record. If the wen can match the reliability factor then the only thing the predator is better at really is being a little quieter. So no bias here just facts and opinions. Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 😃👍
I currently have a Wen 4000 watt inverter generator. I have no problems with it. I had a Predator 3500 watt, It lasted 4 years and I didn't use it very much. When it died, the total hours was around 450 hours. Since it was no longer under warranty, I took the engine apart to see what made it quit running. Teeth on the cam gear were sheared off at almost 45 degrees. I checked the free play of all moving parts and could see why the cam gear teeth were gone.
Great job on this review. The edit-down of the content and narration was spot on. I know the time it takes doing similar reviews of the WEN generators here on TH-cam... 😀
I just bought this wen generator for $623 on Amazon, free shipping too. I"m excited for it's arrival. Harbor freight is now only offering the Predator 3500 with the CO detector shut-down feature. I didn't want that. I'm smart enough to not run a generator indoors...
I agree it’s another item that could cause problems when you need the generator most. And getting harder to bypass. I think the older model predator were the best from the tons of comments and research. But some of it is the user.
We haven’t had a chance to use the WEN generator yet. We made a video about it after my parents purchased it to use with their camper. We are looking forward to seeing how it does. Thanks for the demonstration.
Thank you for this in depth review, 29 April 2022 and the wen is $660 and predator is $900, for the features and thanks to your video I bought the wen, needed to upgrade for my detail setup
@@nimrodpaul6875 I love it, I bought it may 1st 2022 and put the first oil in it, used it for detailing right away so didn’t get to change the oil after the break in.. it was running funny and the fuel consumption was weird too like it used it real quick but after I finally had a chance to change oil it runs like a king. The fuel economy is better and runs amazing, I’ve put it through a lot already, it is a dream. I am very happy with it. Since I use it almost daily I’m probably going to change oil every month or so.✌️
Yo tengo 2 wen las pongo en paralelo y trabajan con ganas y los features son mejores que muchas te marcan la gasolina, la potencia, y el auto apagado increíble yo las recomiendo
I own the wen and run everything in my travel trailer, AC, TV, all lights and its not even half power, never tried overloading it but it's never even burped or hickuped. could be slightly quieter but in the country dead of night my buddy where i camp says he doesn't even hear it. I hate the panel, it's useless in the daylight and the RV plug is 180 degrees from where it should be, minor complaints, i like it. Weighs about 100 lbs empty, a hefty lift into the back of the truck.
I have the predator 3500. I have a 2012 jay co feather light. I like the predator. It has enough power for us. Plus the main thing I like is how quite it is. It's not disturbing other campers plus you don't hear it in the trailer. Or have to talk over it if your outside. We use to run a projector to play movies outside for the kids. We end up with kids from other camps at our site watching movies outside. The predator is so quiet. It's perfect
It’s still a good buy. It used to be better but still one of the quietest around. And has a good reputation for reliability. Sure some have stopped working but I could say that about any brand. Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😀
You can read the manual and it gives you a idea but for me building many small race engines it has never taken me longer then maybe 20 mins to break in a engine. For the generators I would just do heat cycles with small to heavy loads for about 20 secs then bring it back down slow to no load and shut off. Then about 30 minutes do it a couple more times and you would be about done. That’s if you really wanna break one in which I bet less then ten percent break in a generator or make it they 50 percent of the manual. Heat cycle break in..... Start gen.... leave eco of let run for a about 3 minutes to warm up. Start with small load, and increase every 10 secs to full load for 10 to 20 secs and gradually bring down load back to no load for about 1 minute and shut down. Wait 30 minutes or till engine is cool and go again. 3 to 4 times should be plenty. But that’s my way or just read the manual and follow that. But again I won’t let it run for 4 hrs to break something in when I have built enough small motors and then tear apart at 50 to 100 to inspect and they look great with only minutes of break in.
Yea the predator has gone up in price a lot and has changed engines from what it used to be. Honestly I see and hear more issues with it now then it ever had. Glory days for it are over.
Great comparison and one can't go wrong with either generator as they both work great and have been proven to work fine in particular, the Predator. Predator seems to have a bit more popularity if youtube videos mean anything. I personally have that Wen 56380i model which I purchased in November of 2020 when Wen direct had it on sale for $600 with free shipping.
I own 2 Predators 3500 and 2000. They are amazing gen sets and have not let me down in over 2 years now. Keep them serviced and use non ethanol fuel and you are good to go!
Good review. Thanks. I do have a concern about the sound level testing. I may be wrong but I think that curving block wall will skew the readings because of reflected sound.
With both being in the same ball park playing the same game if you will, it does provide usable information to still show sound levels between the two. All my new testing you find I’m in a open area to get more accurate reading so I don’t have sound reflection or sound absorbing items such as grass or bushes. So if you happen to be camping or somewhere where you can put it on dirt or something else besides concrete it will be even quieter Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching 👍🏼😃
Awesome thanks , definitely going with the Wen after seeing this video. Not only is it cheaper but seems like the auto shut off works better. The other did fine too, up until it didn’t shut off before giving off dirty energy just to keep going. Which could be bad long term. Thanks again.
Looks like a clear win for Predator, based on noise alone, which is a very important consideration for a camping generator. I'd like to know tank size and fuel use, but assuming those are equal, I'll take the Predator all day long.
I guess your idea of "a clear win" is different than other people, lol. There are more factors than a small noise difference, on eco they were what 2db difference without even going into all the other factors he pointed out. I own Generac so I am neutral.
Not exactly….. you still need to add a propane line connection and of course a propane line and regulator.. So there is that… but overall yea nothing special.
I have the Harbor Freight 3500w generator. I can always count on it, which is more than i can say for the Onan 4K that came with our toy hauler. I've been using the H.F. gen for 3 years now, never a hiccup.
Nice..!! Ya the original series 3500 was a great unit at a great price but the 3 gen series now seems to be having more issues than before and also the price went way up to where no you have a lot of other options to really look at. But the warranty return is still really good as long as you buy it.
You can if you want but don’t have to. But it’s not a bad idea in case the inverter freaks out and decides to up the voltage a bunch before it burns out. Most just die or drop voltage low then die. I recommend something that also protects against low voltage as well.
Great video a year later, I went gen shopping and it pretty much came down to these 2 and when the wen 400i went on sale few weeks ago for 639 I bought it.
I went with the Wen unit. While the motor is quiet, the plastic handle & panels are quite "buzzy". While the genset runs, if I touch/press on these pieces, the noise is significantly lower. I'll look I to isolating with some foam, rubber, etc.
I have noticed the same with certain models and yes can be a little annoying. But your on the right track with some rubber pieces around the access panels. Shouldn’t take much. 👍🏼
Amazing. I'm quite surprised that either unit were able to run their full rated watts at all. Most Chiwanese stuff is good for only 50-75% of rated output. I loved your testing. Kudos.
Yes heat causes resistance. So say on a day it’s 85 and you wanna kick ac on, should be pretty easy. On a day when it’s a 110 we’ll it may not do it. Of course depends on size of gen and ac but over all yea a hotter day the gen may kick off a little sooner or may not even be able to handle rated watts. Most gens will say 104F for ambient temp before decreased performance. But if it’s 104 in the sun verses the shade well that’s also gonna harder then of it was in the shade
These predator generators are awesome, I have the 2000 rated at 13 amps and it consistently ran 2 coffee makers at once and a steam frothier, I know was drawing a lot of power but it did the job and still runs great!
Got my Predator when they first came out for $599 then they also took the 20% coupon so I got the 3 year replacement. Ended up costing about $620 including tax. It has meen humming along ever since.
I got the Wen when it was on sale for $600 back in Nov. I like the oil hose and auto shutoff feature. One thing I don't like it, is that it needs to runfor 2 hours, continuously, before it starts logging time on the hour meter.
@@johnnysweekends I discovered it when I was breaking mine in. I noticed that it wasn’t logging hours. I emailed thinking it was a defective hourmeter and this was their response. “You need to run the generator for at least 2 hour for the meter to start accumulating running hours.”
I haven’t on these two since the difference would be minimal since the engine size is the same and carbs are close to the same. So under identical loads I bet run time between the two would only be a minute or two different.
It’s been a while but I dont remember it doing any thing out of the norm. But for the price these days you can probably get more generator for the money. Especially since Amazon has super sales like every two months. So something to consider.
Well, I have put close to 3000 hours on Predator basically just running AC unit on trailer. Starter motor failed, but still starts first pull manually. Still, good bang for my dollar I think.
That’s pretty good 3000 hrs…😮👍🏼 When you could use the coupon that’s when it was a smoking deal. Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😀
I have the same Wen 3800 and have run it over 1000 hours in the last year. It has been very reliable. For some reason the hour meter stopped working at 1000hrs and no longer displays the hours.
Wow awesome, and odd about the hr meter...figured it should just continue, not new tech here lol. Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍😃
If you buy the Predator 3500 or 2000 at Harbor Freight, get their warranty plan. They replace the thing on the spot in the store. All of Predator's engines are great too, not just their generators. I've seen people put them on everything from little tillers on up to go-carts and buggies.
@@johnnysweekends Wow, really? I've heard of people looking for certain item/model numbers of their engines, specifically the 6.5 horse 212cc engines because they have a better EPA or smog rating or something but that's about it. As someone who's considering finally getting a quieter generator, do you know if the 2000 is worth considering when compared to the 3500? Or should I just spend the extra money on the 3500 for the rare times when I'll need the extra wattage?
The predator 2000 runs a clone Yamaha mz80 motor like some wen models which are exactly the same gen just different plastic. They are made from a company in China which there are alot. I think Zongshen is who makes that in Chongqing China. The predator 3500 is made from a company called loncin in the same city I believe. Watch the single predator 3500 review video i included a couple tidbits. The powerhouse is the same as the 3500 running a Honda clone gx200 motor but 212cc. I would buy the Aipower for the sake of not needing a parallel adapter or the champion gen with the 3 year limited warranty and because how super quiet and light they are. The saying is still true, if your not buying Honda or yamaha your buying everything else. And at that point get the best deal with most reliability or warranty. But dont get a firman 2000, poor design.
Honestly I would look into champion or the wen. Predator is not as good as the first generation and for the price you can get more power and features and a warranty with a return policy. Predator had its day.
Nice review. Had not heard of the Wen. When checking sound levels use the exact same position. The HF gen placed at the in the center of the apex of your brick fencing will produce higher sound levels, since you are effectively horn loading it.
I have since moved because many viewers thought the sound levels were adversely effected by it. But over all my sound levels changed on average about 1 1.5 decibels . If a item only puts out 60 db from a sound source it will only get quieter as it moves away even if it bounces off items, it will not magically gain energy and be louder. It may sustain the sound level at a further distance but not by much. So I moved to a little more open area. And after testing there I was surprised that the levels were minimally different. I was expecting a little more.
@@johnnysweekends Check your physics. If two sources have the same sound output and one is placed in a horn, the drop off of sound will not be as great with the horn loaded unit. As you approach the resonant freq the horn becomes more efficient. This is important because most meter are checking SPL at a given freq. You don't gain SPL, you decrease the drop off in SPL by horn loading.
I get it, but when testing spl levels and just overall “noise” levels, which is what 99.5 percent of people care about, the difference from the back where the wall is, to the front on a open concrete pad was minimal. So the difference in the test showed no drastic change from say 65db to 55db. Again maybe 1% of viewers care about actual detail and the science behind it.
@@johnnysweekends Off axis vs On Axis of a horn makes a big difference. People may not care about the physics, but they want an appropriate comparison. To eliminate the variables, use the some spot. By the way a 10db change is quite substantial. You also have to understand the human ear. Both the SPL and frequency of the predominant noise are important in the annoyance factor of the noise.
Got the WEN for $649 free shipping and NO TAX couple months ago off their website. It was on sale for that price for about 6-8 weeks that I saw, could’ve been longer
Damn, great price! How's the fuel tank capacity running extended durations? Considering buying this to run 2 freezers, 2 tvs, electric hot water tank, garage door and a few outlets. Hate having to refuel constantly 😒
Leaning toward the wen or the champion 4500 dual fuel. Like the propane option, but trying to decide if it's worth an extra $200 for that. I have a 15k btu AC. I am confident the champion would start it, but do you think the wen will?
Yea they both will start and run the ac unit but I’m a little more of a champion fan since they have been around along time and typically have better customer service and warranty. The 4500 dual is a nice unit and I like having the dual fuel option.
I'm looking for a power source I can use when the AC goes out for a few days. I want to power a refrigerator, a freezer and run the electrical part of a forced air gas heater. Is the Predator up to the job?
Honestly for the same price you can buy gens with more power and more options not to mention dual fuel as well. It was the one to get but not you can get a 4500 for the same price that’s dual fuel. It’s always good to have about a 1/3 more as well that way you have a little room to spare and not have to work the gen at 85% or more all the time. The champion 4500 dual fuel is also a nice option. The thing with predator is the ease of return to harbor freight but I heard that may be getting harder. Not a 💯 on that though. It’s kinda rumor.
Very good video. I just wished that you had shot it with Eco mode off on the Wen. The manual says to never run in Eco mode above 75% of rated watts (2550W).
Yea the reason I shot it in eco is because a majority just flip that switch and never look back. And a lot of times never really read the manual. Just gas and go. But for on and off loads or starting ac units I would recommend not having it in eco.
Do you think running two vaccums on either one would be fine? Not sure what to purchase for use as a mobile detailer, if I'm correct the vaccums draw 1400 watts each but I am not that knowledgeable on what else to consider when researching these.
Check out the champion units like the 4500 or 4650 awesome units and plenty of power..👍🏼😀 although the 4650 is hard to come by now and maybe discontinued. And is on a super sale..!! 32% off! Dual fuel electric start. Best price I have seen amzn.to/3K39wOn
I still use mine lol. People seem to hate them but I think I’m finding mainly in European countries /UK. But for really little rooms or personal or my Rv works fine 👍🏼
Yes it started my 15k unit no problem in other tests. Now my unit is a little newer and has a little more efficient ac but not by much. But some of the older units maybe 2005 on down I guess will draw more especially if they have t been serviced. But most everyone with one uses it on there Rv and has no issues running the ac unit. You can run two if you have soft starts on both.
Thank you for the video, I am having a hard time understanding these generators and what works best for specific applications, I have a Braxton Bushwacker teardrop trailer with a tiny air conditioner and a heating unit with a few interior lights it’s very small, I’m wondering will something like this work for my teardrop trailer? And Will it charge my batteries while I am in the back country off grid but how long does it take to charge the batteries in how do you know when the batteries are charged? I am very old-school very mechanical guy but I do not understand electricity I want to make this simple I’ve been watching TH-cam videos I even called the dealer pending who answers the phone I get a different answer from everyone some folks are telling me I need a real big generator some say I just need something small like these? any advice thank you and thanks for the video👍
From what it sounds like, your trailer will not need much power. What is your budget? How large is your AC unit..? 10k? Or smaller..? Instead of a large unit you need to figure out what you want to run..? AC unit and a microwave take alot of power at the same time. So items like that is where are larger generous l generator is needed. Charging batteries is way a larger or small will do that. How fast it charges depends on the onboard charger of your trailer, the converter. A small solar panel or two on the roof for keeping batteries charged would be a great option and a smaller generator that’s not so big to haul around is what I would be doing., Ac will determine that though.
I love Generater’s. We could never afford one when I was growing up and we went over 2 weeks without power during Hurricane Hugo. It was miserable and I’ll never go through that again if I can help it
For Tahoe I would buy a jet kit for higher altitude and more spark plugs You could also get a hotter range plug for the real cold months and tighten spark plug gap to around .025ths for the hotter plug in winter. Just don’t use the hotter plug when more than 45 degrees or so.
@richardstein8541 the predator 5000 came with a ton of great stuff but unfortunately it was recalled as it had many issues. But it’s being revised and should be available again late December or into January. It had all the jets and everything. Definitely was cool but had a load issue.
Now if they came with duel fuel they could compete with westinghouse that shot up really high in price. Wen makes a fantastic inverter 4000 watt open frame for just like mid $400s. Wen makes great products. But the predator is nice too !
Yea thats the thing dual fuel really is getting popular. And more and more to choose from. I assume we will see more and more soon. Although bthe open frame gens are a decent amount louder though, definitely lighter though. Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍😃
I’ve had my Predator for two years and had one problem; the jetting was far too rich and clogged up the muffler/spark arrestor.. I went down three sizes on the jet and cleaned the exhaust system and it has been working like a charm. It’s quiet and can run my travel trailer. But the Wen seems like a really good generator. I don’t like that you need the adapter for a trailer with the predator.
Where do you normally run your generator as far as elevation? Most of these gens now maybe not the predator but they are darn near to lean for emissions. But yea at low load the predator seems to run a little rich. My buddies predator was like that. But he never used it much over 30-40 percent.
Hey Johnny! Well, I live in Houston, TX. So I’m not at any altitude! I generally don’t run heavy loads, maybe that’s part of it, but it was so sooted-up, that it wouldn’t even start. I tried one jet leaner, and it didn’t really help. I jumped another size and it cranks and runs great. I’ve run it at full capacity for a couple hours like this and it runs great. I wonder what would cause that sort of inconsistency in these gennies? BTW, I did get it on sale. Keep the great videos coming!
Yea no load or really light doesn’t allow them to really build any heat to burn everything off but even then yea I would think to rich. Probably one reason they last so long is because they are rich even on a hard load and just don’t get very hot.
@@c120flyer Look up charcoal filter mod for the predator. They come with a charcoal filter that filters gas tank fumes and then directs routes them through the air filter directly into the carb. This is the cause for them running rich. Found a few videos on TH-cam on how to perform this mod. Did it myself along with removing the spark arrestor from the muffler. Generator runs like a champ no difference in sound either. I didn’t remove the filter completely but rather disconnected the rubber line that goes into the air filter. Then plugged the nipple on the air box cover.
If i turn the generator around and aim at fence and wall it would reflect the sound during the exhaust away test hence why I angle it down the "hallway" of my yard. Now exhaust aimed at me from a couple different ways I tested it, it was inconclusive if a certain way was better or not. Now if the walls were not there...would it make a difference at 23ft possibly but i bet it would be minimal to none probably with in a osha/nosh test range of +/- 1db. But ya know ill try it out for fun and see what i get....👍
That won't really matter for his test as he has them both in a relatively same position and he is testing a comparison of them not anything else. Plus if you would use one of these that is actually a good test as you are not going to put them in an open field or something they would be next to a house or RV.
Yea for the most part....they both have to play in the same court so if its walls or fields it gives you a general idea of what the sound will be. Plus the walls are not flat they are angled all over bouncing sound waves in tons of directions and not specifically back at the spl meter. Plus with a open atmosphere the sound can still escape much like if you went to a concert with a enclosed roof or open, the open roof will not be nearly as loud. Hence a reason outdoor venues in my opinion never sound as good as a in door concert venue. But for a upcoming video ill do a sound test in a field and my back yard at the same distance and see how much it really changes anything.
Good little set up. That’s really all you need. And soon solar and a good power station will be good enough. Removes the need for expensive install of inverters and big battery set ups.
I've watched two of your test videos. You mention how quiet they are, but when you're inside your trailer, turning on the microwave, I can hear each generator running in the background. I noticed the trailer door was closed. That's loud. Can a sound box be built?
Actually in my tests the rear door is pretty much open the whole time and the gen is actually closer then it should be from the back at only about 6-7 feet and again rear door is open. My front door is normally closed. But also my microphone works really well so you will here more then you would in the video probably then in a real camping situation where it would not be next to a brick retaining wall and my house. Also the concrete base doesn’t help. But yes a box can be built or even some boards around it can help.
I put my Wen in an insulated box, with a fan. It rides on back of my camper and stays on the rack while running, can’t hear it, does cause a slight vibration in the camper frame, but not noticeable unless you’re sensitive to it.
No do not ground these, that’s causes a shock hazard by completing a circuit. The principal function of the system ground, or grounding electrode, (ground rod), is lightning protection for equipment (NEC Article 250.4). Adding a ground rod to a portable generator introduces a shock hazard as can be seen in the illustration. OSHA Grounding Requirements for portable and vehicle-mounted generators state the following: Under the following conditions, OSHA directs (29 CFR 1926.404(f)(3)(i)) that the frame of a portable generator need not be grounded (connected to earth) and that the frame may serve as the ground (in place of the earth
We are completely off grid and use solar for most stuff, but run a genny when needed. We have used many different brands and models. The WEN sucks. And the warranty is a joke. The champion we currently use is 4 years old and outlived 4 wens, a Honeywell, and a predator. We have only changed the oil, replaced the spark plug, and changed the fuel filter. We run a full tank of gas most days.
Interesting. I was going to buy a champion, but I had presales questions. Called three time and was on hold for over 30 minutes twice. The 3rd time, I entered my number for a call back, and a very short, rude person I could barely understand called me back. I've heard awful things from more than a few people about their customer service. I called Harbor Freight with the same questions, and I was connected with a very helpful, friendly rep within 5 minutes who answered all of my questions.
I need a quiet generator that can run all night yet be powerful enough to run 2 freezers, microwave, electric hot water tank 48 gallons, 3 tvs, garage door opener, and led lighting fixtures throughout my home. Debating on having a transfer switch installed to run these circuits only. However, unsure what generator to buy. 🤔 Any insight or suggestions?
I would do a power audit first to see how many amps all that is gonna need. The 2 freezers and microwave obviously will be the big power draws. The hot water heater is fully electric or electric but gas??? Because that may need to be looked at as well. Once you figure out how much everything needs and will you ever need or want it to power all those things as once then you can pick out a generator. A transfer switch is nice to have so things are ready to go and you can even designate certain circuits if you want in a small panel setup. Or just one main plug that is able to power the whole panel... meaning some generators are 120v verses 240. Just make sure you still keep a eye on what you are using so you don’t pop breakers. So a power audit will give you a idea of how big a gen you want/ need.
@@johnnysweekends The hot water tank is heated by gas but uses electricity for the stupid direct vent. Thanks for the reply, new subscriber. I was looking at the Champion 4650, need to do an audit first and yes everything on at once would be nice.
Ok so your is like mine, electric pilot then gas heat with the vent that closes up top with a small electric motor so only 110 for that at maybe a couple amps. Yea get the power audit done then see also how you wanna hook it up. A box with maybe 6 circuits or a direct plug to main panel. Just need to see what ya want over all.
What were the noise levels under load? Most people connected to a generator would have some sort of load on it. The RPM picks up under load changing the noise characteristics.
I use the predator generator 3500 w and my off-grid cabin. I've also used the wen generator. I run two AC units plus the charge controller for my battery Bank. The predator will run anywhere between 12.5 and 14 hours on a tank of fuel. The wen I can only get a maximum of 10.5 hours. Another plus to the predator generator for me is harbor freight gives a two-year full replacement warranty with it. I have traded in the generator 2 times. I cannot do that with the other one. So in my opinion the best generator on the market for that which I do is the predator. However when I run my well 325 ft deep. Neither one of these two small generators will do it. So I have a champion remote start 4000-watt that will do it just fine. So we'll use that for the well in the other one to run everything else. The fuel savings in one summer is over 55 gallons of fuel between two small generators. Good luck God bless
Wow great information. Yes the predator is still a popular choice and yea the warranty exchange after you buy that is really good . It’s getting harder now though to get super coupons to use for that big discount. Thanks again for the comment and thanks again for watching…. God bless… 🙌
I chose the Wen and it wasn’t an easy decision. What sold me on the Wen was $100 cheaper 2 year warranty that you don’t have to pay extra for that alone really made me wonder about the predator why would you have to pay an extra 150 warranty on top of the already higher price you could buy the Honda 2200 at that point🤷♂️ The handle is a nice feature, the auto shutoff to empty the gas is also nice. I know it seems I’m splitting hairs here but I have shopped at harbor freight many years an some of there stuff is one and done an with only a 90 day warranty on it tells ya something. I have watched many great reviews like yours to come to my final decision. I’m not a camper guy I’m a power tool guy but all your thorough testing really helped me out thank you and keep up the great work👍🏻
Im glad it helped you and you sound a little like me. Im very thorough when buying stuff. I get the hondas are top quality but i could buy 3 wen gen sets for one honda. If each lasted 7 years thats alot of run time with newer features. I get hondas last ...but other stuff is coming that is doing just fine. And yea the wen generator just has a few better things that male it more user friendly, all the way down to the oil change hose. Thanks again for watching
Likewise... this video was part of pushing me over to the WEN. Price, warrantee, features, panel, oil fill/ drain, auto-drain bowl... no comparison! One oddity - side by side, the TONE of the WEN was nicer to me. Db may be the same, but Wen "hummed" while Predator still had more contractor-genny "rasp" to my ears. Those higher pitches carry further so your neighbors would prefer the Wen.
To me, the Predator is a no brainer, and not just comparing it with the Wen, but most any comparably powered generator out there when you compare price and warranty. The nice thing about purchasing the HF Extended Warranty, is at the end of 2 years (or anytime in your 2 year warranty period) , you just go in and tell them your unit isn’t running as well as it did when new, and they will give you a NEW one, no questions ask. NOBODY ELSE DOES THAT! This can be especially important if you have high usage. I have both the 3500 and it’s little sister, the 2000 which I literally have several hundreds of hours on under almost max loads. Problem I had was, when my warranty was running out on the 2000, it had preformed so flawlessly, that I just couldn’t bring myself to replace it, fearing the replacement wouldn’t be as good as the one I had. They both have really been “bulletproof”. Lastly, I purchase Inverter Generators, which are vastly more expensive than Open Frame Generators, for one reason...The “Quietness Factor”. The Predator being around 3 db’s quieter then the Wen is HUGE!!! The way the human ear perceives sound, every 3-5 db’s doubles the perceived loudness. Definitely the best BANG...oops...shhh... ”bang” for the buck!
@@markashlock9017 i believe every >10db< is doubling sound pressure. To each their own, but HFT lost my sale when they spiked the price out of range. WEN 3800 doing great for the couple hours running it in so far... lol
I have a farm and I purchased a Harbor Freight 8500 watt generator about 15 years ago . I'm ashamed to say I've only changed the oil in it maybe twice and I've run it very many hours dealing with cows and power outages and usage for tools and it sits outside in my pickup truck bed uncovered and still works perfect after 15 years
Farm equipment stuff just gets abused and neglected……. True tests lol …👍🏼😀
Harbor are tough as nails
The older original model seemed to be the best of the bunch. Some people have reported into the couple thousand hrs and more..
@@oscar1748 a lot of things bit don't trust their nail guns.
I bought this wen in Feb when I caught it on sale for 699 on Amazon. Best move I ever made. I am 8 days into hurricane ida. I have been running this bad boy for 20 hrs a day. 12k window unit. Both fridges. 3 fans. Lamps and TV all on ECO at 50% load! 8 hrs of run time. This inverter is a beast of a machine. Anyone looking for a inverter I swear to god you will not be disappointed. Only draw back is it did come with a shit battery. No clue why. I went to batteries plus and got a better one. Update. Just got power back. Ran this guy for 18 days straight. No issues. Very very impressed
That’s awesome glad it’s working out for ya. And yea most just come with a generic battery. They are not gonna put a high quality in.
But glad the gen is working for you during the hurricane and glad your safe…
And thanks for watching 👍🏼😀
18 days with no power? Ugh! Good thing you had this.
Now that's a true endurance test for 18 days!
Have owned a a wen for 4 years. Couldn't be happier. Awesome generator
Awesome.....definitely seems like a good gen. Be curious to see how it does on the long haul...👍
I own two of the predator 3500’s for my 5th wheel and power outages at home. They are outstanding generators and really quiet. My Yamaha 2000 is louder than my predators. I run non-ethanol gas w/ seafoam, synthetic mobile one oil, and an upgraded spark plug. I’ve also disconnected the kill switch so when I turn the knob to off it remains running until it burns all of the gas in the carb. I exercise them once a month for 30 minutes. They have never let me down and are very fuel efficient. My only complaint is that they weigh about 100lbs and are difficult to lift with an arthritic back.
Yup great gens, but yes at a 100lbs they are no fun to lift. Glad they are working out for you
I have six 3500's for my home and work and RV.
The top of the Predator fuel filler neck is the terminus for a (hard to see but it's there) small tube that is connected to the carbon evap canister that is connected to the carburetor air intake. It's essential to never fill the Predator with fuel while it's running nor above the red level tab in the filler neck. If liquid gets sucked into the EVAP tube it'll ruin the carbon in the canister. Thus changing the fuel air mix at the carburetor.
You may get away with it a couple times, but soon enough it'll ruin the canister and the generator won't come off idle because it'll starve for air.. No cure, no replacement part available. The TH-cam fixes are all bogus. It's the reason guys are drilling holes in the side of the housing to get more air in - but with time that fails and the generator pukes. th-cam.com/video/SvHRGMZSQQw/w-d-xo.html
thank you HT; please advise, when you say upgraded spark plug, can you give the specs/brand, etc of the plug? much thanks.
I'd also like to know what plug your running?
I’d like to know how you disconnect the kill switch to burn the fuel out the carb?
I use my 6500 predator everyday 40hrs a week on my food truck and I love it! I call it the one pull wonder,it starts on the first pull everytime!
Awesome, they are not bad gens for the price.
We use 3 on our truck XD although i dont know the size
I know this an older video, but I picked up the wen 3800, model 56380i, it is the quietest and easily runs my campers ac and microwave together. Just adding to the history.
Awesome glad you like it. I always thought it was a good unit. Thanks for the feedback
This was a great test and comparison. I think if you're camping and noise is important, the Predator 3500 is the better choice. If using in situations where you can afford a bit more noise, the Wen 3800 offers amazing features and performance. Both greats at any price point, especially when comparing them with their "target"...Honda. I have owned a handful of Predator and a Wen unit and the behavior you described with the engine ramp up with new loads is spot on. I think that's how the Predator achieves much lower sound levels, they have their RPM strategy down to a science. The Wen tends to rev much higher for a second or so before settling. However, it must be said that could also contribute to the Wen's ability to maintain a higher voltage with the same loads. Thanks for your thorough review of both units! Can't go wrong with either.
Thank you 🙏🏼 and thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😀
Interesting
I own the Predator 3500 and it's been a good generator. I've run my microwave and A/C at the same time. Also, Harbor Freight has a 20% off coupon every month which drops the price down to $780.
Lately they havent been excepting the coupon for the generators lately, so making it harder to get that great deal a year or 2 ago. Not sure if that has changed but one of the reasons people are buying other items, like a champion gen, which they have great warranty and customer service.
@@johnnysweekends no doubt, i Never have any luck getting them to take ANY coupons on premium items..... Oh well.... thanks for the good content !!!
Your welcome and thanks for watching 👍🏼😃
Harbor Freight no longer offers the 20% off coupon for the Predator generators, it excludes the generator.
I know this is what made it such a great buy and now if you consider the price well other options really start to come to play.
Predator is still a good gen for what ya get but now the super coupons not being able to be used kinda changes things up.
I tried out my wen for the first time this past weekend with my toy hauler and it did really good no complaints
Most people seem to love them and some are reporting clocking over a 1000hrs so far. So hopefully they hold up like the predator and champions.
I got my predator 3500 used for $420 with 8 hours on it. I really like that thing. I plug 🔌 it into my house and it runs a ton of stuff as long as it is 110v - 125 v. Awesome generator. 👍🏼
They are good gens and at the price why not. I have nothing against buying used if in decent shape and runs. Then why wouldn’t you
Damn you got a really great deal.
Predator has been great for me, Keep the gas fresh and cycle it once a month or so and it will fill do the job.
I hear alot of positive feed back about them. They seem to do very well.
Did anyone noticed the WEN has more wattage and that is why is louder. I take the WEN hands down. Predator 3000 running/ WEN 3400 running.
Great review, Thanks. I like that you moved the generators to the same spot in the yard to test each one so the sound reflections are the same.
Thank you glad you liked.
And thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😀
We full time in our rv and the Wen has been great, has been 100% reliable for over 1000 hours now.
Wow thats great, i think you are first to reply with a Wen over a 1000 hrs..👍
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍😃
My oldest Wen has almost 400 hours on it and still running strong, with my experience with their gens I have no doubt that 1,000 hours is doable without trouble. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Love my Wen! Powers my 21ft hybrid camper in Florida like a champ! $649 delivered on the Wen website. Gets some looks and questions about it when camping because it’s so quiet . Very very very fuel efficient
What do you think?? Does the Wen take the win....😅 or does predator still rule with its proven reliability and being real quiet or does wen take the win for its lower price and nice features....??
Vote it out.....!!
I'm one of those Honda guy's with two 2200i's that put out 30amps continuous for endless weeks but if I'd chose one I'd go with the Wen because it's an amazing deal for the power.
It is a pretty good deal for the power and the engine has been around for a while so should hold up. Honda is 3 times the price.
@@johnnysweekends t
They are expensive but they can be repaired and parts are easily available.
True you can gets parts...and most are cheap enough. If ypu meed the inverter box well that more then a wen generator...lol
No, but as year's pass the chinese ones come with more features, better epa ratings and getting quieter.
Trust me i love honda and yamaha gens. But they have priced them selves out of the majority market.
I could buy one wen....say it last 10 years lets say 5 years actually......well the next one i get is super quiet....remote start on phone, running 50db real world and fuel efficiency is even higher......and that last say 7 years. Well the next one sips fuel and switches between battery and gas, talks to me, makes my frickin breakfast and runs my 13500 ac unit, and i still paid less then one honda.
My honda is still running great but is now louder, less fuel efficient and still only running what it could when out of the box. Hondas are great....but they are missing the major market...
Most of these generators people have them for years amd still running strong. .
So that could be 21 years if each ran 7.
And if a honda gets stolen verses a wen....wen then i wouldn't feel so bad.
Pros and cons man.......
Love my predator 3500. I see them everywhere! The guys with food trucks and stands etc. all over the campgrounds. Can’t beat the price. The wen looks nice too
Yea it’s a good gen for the price. Would love to see a updated model with a couple extra small features, better handle and wheels, Rv plug wouldn’t be bad, and fuel drain on switch and better oil drain even though it’s not to bad.
@@johnnysweekends I have the predator 2000 and it has the same on/off/choke switch as the 3500. If you turn the switch just before the off mark it cuts off fuel and will run the carb dry after a few mins. I don’t get why HF didn’t put a little mark there to indicate that it cuts off the fuel in that position but it certainly does.
I have noticed this with several other models as well. Just before it shuts off then rotate back a pinch and most all will run dry.
Very nice video. Excellent job @ staying unbiased as well as showcasing perks on each machine. I really like the handle that WEN incorporated in there machine vs the Predator's style. Wen seem to have a bit more options than the Predator. However, sound & noise is key especially when camping. The Decibel test was amazing how much quieter the Predator is. Choices, choices & choices!!!
Nice Video....
Thank you so much. Yes features are nice but also that predator really is quite. And yea I give props where it’s due and don’t value one more then the other. It’s really Best Buy for the money if not buying Honda or Yamaha.
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😀
I'm here because I just received my Wen 56380i caught on sale at Amazon for $529.99. Wanted to use it on few things in the house during power outages. Haven't unboxed it yet but wanted to know what it could and could not do so thanks for a great review and video
Awesome that’s a great deal. And it’s still a popular choice!
Make sure you unbox it and get it going and ready that way you are familiar with it and there are no issues. Don’t wait till that last moment and find your equipment is not ready.
I always wondered what you could power and how many watts it would take. This was a great real-life visual demonstration!!
Thank you. That’s what ya kinda want real life stuff not oh it runs a hair dryer lol.
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😀
@@johnnysweekends Exactly
I bought the WEN, and love it. Going boondocking all the time.
Awesome it really is a great gen and honestly you can barely tell it’s louder when running at low speeds after they get going they are the same for the most part.
My grandfather has has 2 of the Powerhorse 3500(northern tool variant of Predator 3500) used it for 24/7 power when off grid for many months. Had 9951 hours on it before it quit. Only quit then because he didn't adjust the valves and it dropped a pushrod. Was still running fine though!! And that's almost 10,000 hours on just 3 oil changes. His 2nd one has around 7,000 hrs and no issues so far. These little generators seem to do pretty good for the cost.
Wow that’s a lot of hours and even Honda can have issues with that many hours.
Thanks for the feedback appreciate it 😀👍🏼
Does he needs that much power all the time? Curious if he would be better served by solar + battery and inverter setup. Bringing that much gas to an off grid cabin alone sounds like a pain
@@TobyCostaRica he runs lights . 50 inch led TV. Full size Fridge and his pump for the water. He could get away with a 12kw setup I believe. He just hasn't done it yet. He really takes his time. Plus he doesn't like the up front cost. But either way he is paying🤦♂️
@@justsenditbro sounds like he can get by with a 6k inverter and 10kw of batteries. 48V system, 2 server rack batteries at $5k for 3 and solar 3kw of solar at $2-$3k
My Wen works really well and I love that I don’t need an adapter
It is a great gen....
👍😃
While the voltage was still OK on the Predator the voltage was much more stable on the WEN.
Regarding your reading for the Wren-
Take this with a grain of salt, but using DAFX decibel meter I am getting readings of 63 decibels at 23' non eco, and 58 decibels in eco, exhaust facing away. At 23' facing the exhaust there is a difference of about 2 decibels.
Having said this the meter you use seems to have a huge impact. For example using my phone for a meter gave me results of 58 up to 72db depending on which app I used. Ultimately I'm confident the meter I used was the most accurate. The generator seems to be within a few db of every other generator of the size and rating.
Thankyou for the great work you do though! I very much appreciate it, however it seems odd our numbers are so far apart.
Yea I use a designated sound meter now and try to measure in the same spot.
Which you could see in newer test videos.
But I always measure on concrete which will be the loudest. By adding rocks or bushes and even grass can change the numbers a lot.
But I did test all these units except the wen generator in a later video. But correct most all units I test except Honda read about 60-62 db in eco mode.
And thank appreciate it 😀👍🏼
I have the predator 3500 and we r full-time in our Coachman class B we run it 24 seven it's great
People love them and have reported back thousands of hours....👍
I bought my predator 3 years ago. I like it just fine no problems at all. I would buy a Wen if I need to buy again. No question.
Would be nice if they updated the predator with just a couple items. Better handle, fuel shut off valve somewhere out side, better wheels and maybe a Rv plug but the other is good for housing if using it for that
@@johnnysweekends agreed
@@johnnysweekends On my 3500 I added a switch to replace the 12V CB which runs to the electrical plug that shuts off the motor. Now my know is only a fuel shut off, and I have electrical shut off separate. I believe there are vids here showing what to do. Quite simple really once you figure out which wire plug is the shut off.
Yea adding all those options are not hard it’s more of if they wanted to update it for future buyers it would be a little more appealing.
They could easily update it to 4000 watt or more and 28 amp ish rated.
But for most people it does fine.
110v is actually perfectly fine. These Predator units continue to impress. As long as you are d dropping more than 10% of nominal you’re doing pretty good.
Yea when the over load light is flashing, I'm not sure how long it will run but it's a while, not that you should over load your generator like that. But ya the predator holds strong for sure
As stated in the manual it says to start with echo mode off. If i start them with echo mode on, someone else will say you know your not supposed to do that, it says start eco off....
So ya know....🤷♂️
Im here to give people options and choose what works for them. Not everyone wants to spend triple the price for something they may only need for rec use or a few times.
I would recommend usa but our country is screwing up in alot of ways...so unfortunately nothing to recommend except getting the best for what ya can with your buck.
You said your self.....honda sold out a while ago...and that will continue and they will continue to loose major sales until they drop prices a little.
There is always someone who will find something to criticize every video if they so choose, verses just seeing what is really being presented.....which is options.
Thanks again.
@@johnnysweekends Sounds like you give only your opinion, like Wen is sponsoring you. I'm only 2 minutes into the video and can tell your biased.
Not biased at all, and nothing is sponsored. These are bought with my own money and I give my own opinion on each. I like the wen and the features overall. The predator is quieter for sure and has a a good track record. If the wen can match the reliability factor then the only thing the predator is better at really is being a little quieter.
So no bias here just facts and opinions.
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 😃👍
I currently have a Wen 4000 watt inverter generator. I have no problems with it. I had a Predator 3500 watt, It lasted 4 years and I didn't use it very much. When it died, the total hours was around 450 hours. Since it was no longer under warranty, I took the engine apart to see what made it quit running. Teeth on the cam gear were sheared off at almost 45 degrees. I checked the free play of all moving parts and could see why the cam gear teeth were gone.
Sloppy motor huh. To much clearance??
A lot of people get a lot of hours out of them. But there are always a few that die early
I have the predator, its been great.
People love it and if you can use a coupon on super sale it’s a awesome deal.
Thanks for watching 👍🏼😃
Can the Wen 3600 wats runs a pressure washer 1700 psi or vacuum
Thanks
Great video
Yes but have the eco off with the pressure washer as you will be turning in on and off with the wand.
And thank you 😀👍🏼
So this will be fine for mobile detailing? Pressure washer and vaccum good to use at same time? Plus maybe like a steamer ? Wen generator
Great job on this review. The edit-down of the content and narration was spot on. I know the time it takes doing similar reviews of the WEN generators here on TH-cam... 😀
Thank you I appreciate it. 👍🏼😀
I just bought this wen generator for $623 on Amazon, free shipping too. I"m excited for it's arrival. Harbor freight is now only offering the Predator 3500 with the CO detector shut-down feature. I didn't want that. I'm smart enough to not run a generator indoors...
I agree it’s another item that could cause problems when you need the generator most. And getting harder to bypass.
I think the older model predator were the best from the tons of comments and research. But some of it is the user.
How you liking it, my 400i just got delivered, havnt run it yet.
Predator for me all day
We haven’t had a chance to use the WEN generator yet. We made a video about it after my parents purchased it to use with their camper. We are looking forward to seeing how it does. Thanks for the demonstration.
Your welcome, it is a nice generator for sure. Good design lay out.
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍😃
@Purple Collar Life I recommend running a break in period then changing the oil so it’s ready for full out use.
WEN for the win!!
Thank you for this in depth review, 29 April 2022 and the wen is $660 and predator is $900, for the features and thanks to your video I bought the wen, needed to upgrade for my detail setup
Wow they have come down some. The wen, that is.
The predator has gone way up due to demand I believe.
And thank you glad I could help..👍🏼😀
Just curious how you're liking the wen, my 400i was just delivered for 639 and havnt run it yet. For 640 bucks Duel fuel etc I jumped lol
@@nimrodpaul6875 I love it, I bought it may 1st 2022 and put the first oil in it, used it for detailing right away so didn’t get to change the oil after the break in.. it was running funny and the fuel consumption was weird too like it used it real quick but after I finally had a chance to change oil it runs like a king. The fuel economy is better and runs amazing, I’ve put it through a lot already, it is a dream. I am very happy with it. Since I use it almost daily I’m probably going to change oil every month or so.✌️
Got my wen 3800 on-sale $550 to my door from Amazon company Woot.
Wow !!! Greta deal and still such a good unit. People still reply and say they have had great luck with it
👍🏼😀
Yo tengo 2 wen las pongo en paralelo y trabajan con ganas y los features son mejores que muchas te marcan la gasolina, la potencia, y el auto apagado increíble yo las recomiendo
Got my wen 3800 for $599 shipped last Black Friday. It was the obvious choice at that price.
Wow awesome deal for sure at that price!!!!
Good job 👍🏼
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😀
I own the wen and run everything in my travel trailer, AC, TV, all lights and its not even half power, never tried overloading it but it's never even burped or hickuped. could be slightly quieter but in the country dead of night my buddy where i camp says he doesn't even hear it. I hate the panel, it's useless in the daylight and the RV plug is 180 degrees from where it should be, minor complaints, i like it. Weighs about 100 lbs empty, a hefty lift into the back of the truck.
They are not bad gens and yea the Rv plug why upside down lol
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😃
People have been blown away by how quiet my predictor is!
I have the predator 3500. I have a 2012 jay co feather light. I like the predator. It has enough power for us. Plus the main thing I like is how quite it is. It's not disturbing other campers plus you don't hear it in the trailer. Or have to talk over it if your outside. We use to run a projector to play movies outside for the kids. We end up with kids from other camps at our site watching movies outside. The predator is so quiet. It's perfect
It’s still a good buy. It used to be better but still one of the quietest around. And has a good reputation for reliability. Sure some have stopped working but I could say that about any brand.
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😀
I'm glad you did this 💯
I'm going WEN all the way.
Just ordered it on Amazon 🤩
Dude awesome, glad i could help you make a decision. When you get it be sure to break it in. And it smells like a new car...😁
@@johnnysweekends How do you break in a generator?
You can read the manual and it gives you a idea but for me building many small race engines it has never taken me longer then maybe 20 mins to break in a engine.
For the generators I would just do heat cycles with small to heavy loads for about 20 secs then bring it back down slow to no load and shut off.
Then about 30 minutes do it a couple more times and you would be about done.
That’s if you really wanna break one in which I bet less then ten percent break in a generator or make it they 50 percent of the manual.
Heat cycle break in.....
Start gen.... leave eco of let run for a about 3 minutes to warm up. Start with small load, and increase every 10 secs to full load for 10 to 20 secs and gradually bring down load back to no load for about 1 minute and shut down.
Wait 30 minutes or till engine is cool and go again. 3 to 4 times should be plenty.
But that’s my way or just read the manual and follow that. But again I won’t let it run for 4 hrs to break something in when I have built enough small motors and then tear apart at 50 to 100 to inspect and they look great with only minutes of break in.
The har or freight generator is $850 right now and the wen is on-sale at $620. That's a no brainer.
Yea the predator has gone up in price a lot and has changed engines from what it used to be.
Honestly I see and hear more issues with it now then it ever had. Glory days for it are over.
Great comparison and one can't go wrong with either generator as they both work great and have been proven to work fine in particular, the Predator. Predator seems to have a bit more popularity if youtube videos mean anything. I personally have that Wen 56380i model which I purchased in November of 2020 when Wen direct had it on sale for $600 with free shipping.
The Wen is a great unit as well. Pretty much same as a champion model for the most part.
Yeah. That's why I bought the Wen. The Predator was $849 plus tax.
Wen was $649 right to my door.
Nice buy 👍🏼
I own 2 Predators 3500 and 2000.
They are amazing gen sets and have not let me down in over 2 years now. Keep them serviced and use non ethanol fuel and you are good to go!
For most people they seem to work great...
Thanks for the comment and feedback....👍🏼😃
Good review. Thanks.
I do have a concern about the sound level testing. I may be wrong but I think that curving block wall will skew the readings because of reflected sound.
With both being in the same ball park playing the same game if you will, it does provide usable information to still show sound levels between the two.
All my new testing you find I’m in a open area to get more accurate reading so I don’t have sound reflection or sound absorbing items such as grass or bushes.
So if you happen to be camping or somewhere where you can put it on dirt or something else besides concrete it will be even quieter
Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching 👍🏼😃
Awesome thanks , definitely going with the Wen after seeing this video. Not only is it cheaper but seems like the auto shut off works better. The other did fine too, up until it didn’t shut off before giving off dirty energy just to keep going. Which could be bad long term. Thanks again.
You can also look into the newer 4500 DF seen here..👍🏼. amzn.to/4bTRj3m
Looks like a clear win for Predator, based on noise alone, which is a very important consideration for a camping generator. I'd like to know tank size and fuel use, but assuming those are equal, I'll take the Predator all day long.
I guess your idea of "a clear win" is different than other people, lol. There are more factors than a small noise difference, on eco they were what 2db difference without even going into all the other factors he pointed out. I own Generac so I am neutral.
I have the Wen, paid 550 for it and put it in a box that is insulated, much better than the Predator now and 350 cheaper.
The WEN is duel fuel though,that gives it the clear win for me.
The one i tested is not but agree dual fuel for the win…. Or Wen…lol
You loose power on propane though…keep that in mind you’d have to upsize your generator appropriately.
You can run any gas gen on propane without any mods if you needed to.
Not exactly….. you still need to add a propane line connection and of course a propane line and regulator..
So there is that… but overall yea nothing special.
I think the Wen is going to be the winner for me. Thanks for a great comparison.
Thanks bill...👍😃
The block wall is reflecting some of the sound back to your db meter and causing a higher reading.
I have repeated these tests in some newer videos. And even in a open area the db was only 1 db lower. 👍🏼
I have the Harbor Freight 3500w generator. I can always count on it, which is more than i can say for the Onan 4K that came with our toy hauler. I've been using the H.F. gen for 3 years now, never a hiccup.
Nice..!! Ya the original series 3500 was a great unit at a great price but the 3 gen series now seems to be having more issues than before and also the price went way up to where no you have a lot of other options to really look at. But the warranty return is still really good as long as you buy it.
Great video!! Do you use a surge protector with the generator?
You can if you want but don’t have to. But it’s not a bad idea in case the inverter freaks out and decides to up the voltage a bunch before it burns out.
Most just die or drop voltage low then die.
I recommend something that also protects against low voltage as well.
I bought the 9500 predator inverter super quiet,the best,run my whole house plus my 3.5 tons ac
Yea that seems like a nice gen I have looked at it. Pretty big to be a portable though.
Glad you like it 👍🏼😀
How is that possible with only a 30A output? Even with a soft start on my 3 ton A/C it still sucks down about 25A during startup.
Great video a year later, I went gen shopping and it pretty much came down to these 2 and when the wen 400i went on sale few weeks ago for 639 I bought it.
WEN all day for me...absolutely love mine
They are nice right...👍 smells like a new car...😁
@@johnnysweekends haha the fuel shut off, ease of the changing the oil, and the handle and wheels had sold me
I like easy...predator is great for sure but time for a update
Agreed. Ran a 2KW Wen for years and it still runs great as a backup, picked up the 3800 3 years ago and it's been an amazing generator.
Thanks, I liked the volt out-put on the Wen.
I went with the Wen unit. While the motor is quiet, the plastic handle & panels are quite "buzzy". While the genset runs, if I touch/press on these pieces, the noise is significantly lower. I'll look I to isolating with some foam, rubber, etc.
I have noticed the same with certain models and yes can be a little annoying. But your on the right track with some rubber pieces around the access panels. Shouldn’t take much.
👍🏼
Amazing. I'm quite surprised that either unit were able to run their full rated watts at all. Most Chiwanese stuff is good for only 50-75% of rated output. I loved your testing. Kudos.
Thank you so much. A lot of these actually have been performing really well…👍🏼
Those are made in China, as your cell phone and computer.=)
WEN makes amazing budget tools. They even make some big wood and metal working shop tools, great company. Even there customer service is good.
I hear Wen and champion are typically the best if not Honda or Yamaha for customer service and warranty..👍🏼
Is the overload vary with ambient temperature? Tolerate overload more on cooler days?
Yes heat causes resistance. So say on a day it’s 85 and you wanna kick ac on, should be pretty easy. On a day when it’s a 110 we’ll it may not do it.
Of course depends on size of gen and ac but over all yea a hotter day the gen may kick off a little sooner or may not even be able to handle rated watts. Most gens will say 104F for ambient temp before decreased performance.
But if it’s 104 in the sun verses the shade well that’s also gonna harder then of it was in the shade
These predator generators are awesome, I have the 2000 rated at 13 amps and it consistently ran 2 coffee makers at once and a steam frothier, I know was drawing a lot of power but it did the job and still runs great!
They still are good little gens. Nothing wrong with them.👍🏼
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 😃👍🏼
Hey Rudy, quick question, are you running espresso machines or regular coffee brewers?
Got my Predator when they first came out for $599 then they also took the 20% coupon so I got the 3 year replacement. Ended up costing about $620 including tax. It has meen humming along ever since.
Awesome deal because they don’t honor the coupon anymore…
Where did you buy it at ? Amazon wants 1200
Amazon normally has it for $800ish
I think I put a link in the description???
Predator brand was always excluded from the 20%, might have gotten it on sale
The sales or coupons are no longer from what I have seen and heard.
In the fine print now you can’t get the super saver deal…🤷♂️
I got the Wen when it was on sale for $600 back in Nov. I like the oil hose and auto shutoff feature. One thing I don't like it, is that it needs to runfor 2 hours, continuously, before it starts logging time on the hour meter.
Interesting one thing i didn't know about the meter....thanks.
Well they are both made in china, even the hondas now, cell phones,, computers, cars, list goes on. Kinda crazy
@@johnnysweekends I discovered it when I was breaking mine in. I noticed that it wasn’t logging hours. I emailed thinking it was a defective hourmeter and this was their response.
“You need to run the generator for at least 2 hour for the meter to start accumulating running hours.”
I guess they do not include break in hrs.
I've had the predator for years and it's been awesome
Friend of mine has one and it’s been doing fine.
Great video thank you for your time doing this! Have you done any fuel consumption comparisons between the two? Like about 25 to 50% load.
I haven’t on these two since the difference would be minimal since the engine size is the same and carbs are close to the same. So under identical loads I bet run time between the two would only be a minute or two different.
@@johnnysweekends I asked because of the web sounded like it struggled during more load being introduced.
It’s been a while but I dont remember it doing any thing out of the norm.
But for the price these days you can probably get more generator for the money. Especially since Amazon has super sales like every two months.
So something to consider.
WEN 3800 -$699.00 Amazon / Predator 3500 $899.00 Harbor Freight
Well, I have put close to 3000 hours on Predator basically just running AC unit on trailer. Starter motor failed, but still starts first pull manually. Still, good bang for my dollar I think.
That’s pretty good 3000 hrs…😮👍🏼
When you could use the coupon that’s when it was a smoking deal.
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😀
I have the same Wen 3800 and have run it over 1000 hours in the last year. It has been very reliable. For some reason the hour meter stopped working at 1000hrs and no longer displays the hours.
Wow awesome, and odd about the hr meter...figured it should just continue, not new tech here lol.
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍😃
If you buy the Predator 3500 or 2000 at Harbor Freight, get their warranty plan. They replace the thing on the spot in the store. All of Predator's engines are great too, not just their generators. I've seen people put them on everything from little tillers on up to go-carts and buggies.
HF warranty is pretty good. Although predator 2000 and 3500 are totally different companies.
@@johnnysweekends Wow, really? I've heard of people looking for certain item/model numbers of their engines, specifically the 6.5 horse 212cc engines because they have a better EPA or smog rating or something but that's about it. As someone who's considering finally getting a quieter generator, do you know if the 2000 is worth considering when compared to the 3500? Or should I just spend the extra money on the 3500 for the rare times when I'll need the extra wattage?
The predator 2000 runs a clone Yamaha mz80 motor like some wen models which are exactly the same gen just different plastic. They are made from a company in China which there are alot. I think Zongshen is who makes that in Chongqing China.
The predator 3500 is made from a company called loncin in the same city I believe. Watch the single predator 3500 review video i included a couple tidbits.
The powerhouse is the same as the 3500 running a Honda clone gx200 motor but 212cc.
I would buy the Aipower for the sake of not needing a parallel adapter or the champion gen with the 3 year limited warranty and because how super quiet and light they are.
The saying is still true, if your not buying Honda or yamaha your buying everything else. And at that point get the best deal with most reliability or warranty. But dont get a firman 2000, poor design.
Thanks for the comparison. I've been consider both for my RV.
Honestly I would look into champion or the wen. Predator is not as good as the first generation and for the price you can get more power and features and a warranty with a return policy. Predator had its day.
@@johnnysweekends thanks for the advice. 👍
Nice review. Had not heard of the Wen. When checking sound levels use the exact same position. The HF gen placed at the in the center of the apex of your brick fencing will produce higher sound levels, since you are effectively horn loading it.
I have since moved because many viewers thought the sound levels were adversely effected by it. But over all my sound levels changed on average about 1 1.5 decibels .
If a item only puts out 60 db from a sound source it will only get quieter as it moves away even if it bounces off items, it will not magically gain energy and be louder.
It may sustain the sound level at a further distance but not by much.
So I moved to a little more open area. And after testing there I was surprised that the levels were minimally different. I was expecting a little more.
@@johnnysweekends Check your physics. If two sources have the same sound output and one is placed in a horn, the drop off of sound will not be as great with the horn loaded unit. As you approach the resonant freq the horn becomes more efficient. This is important because most meter are checking SPL at a given freq. You don't gain SPL, you decrease the drop off in SPL by horn loading.
I get it, but when testing spl levels and just overall “noise” levels, which is what 99.5 percent of people care about, the difference from the back where the wall is, to the front on a open concrete pad was minimal. So the difference in the test showed no drastic change from say 65db to 55db.
Again maybe 1% of viewers care about actual detail and the science behind it.
@@johnnysweekends Off axis vs On Axis of a horn makes a big difference. People may not care about the physics, but they want an appropriate comparison. To eliminate the variables, use the some spot. By the way a 10db change is quite substantial. You also have to understand the human ear. Both the SPL and frequency of the predominant noise are important in the annoyance factor of the noise.
Got the WEN for $649 free shipping and NO TAX couple months ago off their website. It was on sale for that price for about 6-8 weeks that I saw, could’ve been longer
Wow thats a great deal...😃👍
Damn, great price! How's the fuel tank capacity running extended durations? Considering buying this to run 2 freezers, 2 tvs, electric hot water tank, garage door and a few outlets. Hate having to refuel constantly 😒
Could look at a propane version. Definitely a few benefits to propane/ dual fuel gens
Awesome, I got the same deal. 👍 So far so good on the WEN.
Leaning toward the wen or the champion 4500 dual fuel. Like the propane option, but trying to decide if it's worth an extra $200 for that. I have a 15k btu AC. I am confident the champion would start it, but do you think the wen will?
Yea they both will start and run the ac unit but I’m a little more of a champion fan since they have been around along time and typically have better customer service and warranty. The 4500 dual is a nice unit and I like having the dual fuel option.
The wen s are on sale for 639 or close on Amazon, just got the 400i for 639 its Duel fuel etc. Now the other wen is on sale I think it's the 56380i
@@nimrodpaul6875 Dual fuel version is great value but it's 200w weaker then the 3800.
I got my Predator after huracane Maria (2018) and is working just fine for all my 120v in the house. If I need to do the AC I have a Generac 6500 for.
Nice 👍🏼
Predator is pretty darn quiet..
I'm looking for a power source I can use when the AC goes out for a few days. I want to power a refrigerator, a freezer and run the electrical part of a forced air gas heater. Is the Predator up to the job?
Honestly for the same price you can buy gens with more power and more options not to mention dual fuel as well.
It was the one to get but not you can get a 4500 for the same price that’s dual fuel.
It’s always good to have about a 1/3 more as well that way you have a little room to spare and not have to work the gen at 85% or more all the time.
The champion 4500 dual fuel is also a nice option.
The thing with predator is the ease of return to harbor freight but I heard that may be getting harder. Not a 💯 on that though. It’s kinda rumor.
Great video very informative, thorough and very well detailed and explained thank you sir I believe you helped me make my mind on which to get 👍
Your welcome 😀👍🏼
Thanks for watching
Predator is king! It Doesn’t matter how much load power it supplies the generator remains the same rpm and it’s more quieter.
Sure is hard to beat for sure. Would like to see a updated version
Very good video. I just wished that you had shot it with Eco mode off on the Wen. The manual says to never run in Eco mode above 75% of rated watts (2550W).
Yea the reason I shot it in eco is because a majority just flip that switch and never look back. And a lot of times never really read the manual. Just gas and go.
But for on and off loads or starting ac units I would recommend not having it in eco.
@@johnnysweekends This is a fair point. Thanks for the reply.
👍🏼😀
Do you think running two vaccums on either one would be fine? Not sure what to purchase for use as a mobile detailer, if I'm correct the vaccums draw 1400 watts each but I am not that knowledgeable on what else to consider when researching these.
Check out the champion units like the 4500 or 4650 awesome units and plenty of power..👍🏼😀 although the 4650 is hard to come by now and maybe discontinued.
And is on a super sale..!! 32% off!
Dual fuel electric start. Best price I have seen
amzn.to/3K39wOn
Cool- I just ordered 2 of those 350w heaters! 🤠👍🇺🇸
I still use mine lol. People seem to hate them but I think I’m finding mainly in European countries /UK.
But for really little rooms or personal or my Rv works fine 👍🏼
Used to be able to get the predator cheaper with coupon
Last year I got one for less than 650
Yea I hear that's going away...gonna make other gens a better buy for sure now plus having to buy the warranty.
I didn’t see that you tested for the AC. Can these run your camper AC unit?
Yes it started my 15k unit no problem in other tests. Now my unit is a little newer and has a little more efficient ac but not by much. But some of the older units maybe 2005 on down I guess will draw more especially if they have t been serviced.
But most everyone with one uses it on there Rv and has no issues running the ac unit. You can run two if you have soft starts on both.
Thank you for the video, I am having a hard time understanding these generators and what works best for specific applications, I have a Braxton Bushwacker teardrop trailer with a tiny air conditioner and a heating unit with a few interior lights it’s very small, I’m wondering will something like this work for my teardrop trailer? And Will it charge my batteries while I am in the back country off grid but how long does it take to charge the batteries in how do you know when the batteries are charged? I am very old-school very mechanical guy but I do not understand electricity I want to make this simple I’ve been watching TH-cam videos I even called the dealer pending who answers the phone I get a different answer from everyone some folks are telling me I need a real big generator some say I just need something small like these? any advice thank you and thanks for the video👍
From what it sounds like, your trailer will not need much power. What is your budget?
How large is your AC unit..?
10k? Or smaller..?
Instead of a large unit you need to figure out what you want to run..?
AC unit and a microwave take alot of power at the same time. So items like that is where are larger generous l generator is needed.
Charging batteries is way a larger or small will do that. How fast it charges depends on the onboard charger of your trailer, the converter.
A small solar panel or two on the roof for keeping batteries charged would be a great option and a smaller generator that’s not so big to haul around is what I would be doing.,
Ac will determine that though.
I love Generater’s. We could never afford one when I was growing up and we went over 2 weeks without power during Hurricane Hugo. It was miserable and I’ll never go through that again if I can help it
Yes they are nice when needed even if only a couple times a year.
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍🏼😃
Great video. Thanks. Do I need to do anything to modify the predator for living in high altitude at Lake Tahoe?
For Tahoe I would buy a jet kit for higher altitude and more spark plugs
You could also get a hotter range plug for the real cold months and tighten spark plug gap to around .025ths for the hotter plug in winter. Just don’t use the hotter plug when more than 45 degrees or so.
Thanks so much @@johnnysweekends . Is there a generator that comes equipped with all this for hight altitude all ready?
@richardstein8541 the predator 5000 came with a ton of great stuff but unfortunately it was recalled as it had many issues. But it’s being revised and should be available again late December or into January. It had all the jets and everything. Definitely was cool but had a load issue.
Awesome. Thank you for your time. @@johnnysweekends
Now if they came with duel fuel they could compete with westinghouse that shot up really high in price. Wen makes a fantastic inverter 4000 watt open frame for just like mid $400s. Wen makes great products. But the predator is nice too !
Yea thats the thing dual fuel really is getting popular. And more and more to choose from. I assume we will see more and more soon.
Although bthe open frame gens are a decent amount louder though, definitely lighter though.
Thanks for the comment and thanks again for watching 👍😃
No open frame generator is nice. Ask any of your neighbors when camping.
@@runningproblem There are open frame inverter generators available now.
@@91stealthrt2 doesn’t make them nice.
I’ve had my Predator for two years and had one problem; the jetting was far too rich and clogged up the muffler/spark arrestor.. I went down three sizes on the jet and cleaned the exhaust system and it has been working like a charm. It’s quiet and can run my travel trailer. But the Wen seems like a really good generator. I don’t like that you need the adapter for a trailer with the predator.
Where do you normally run your generator as far as elevation?
Most of these gens now maybe not the predator but they are darn near to lean for emissions.
But yea at low load the predator seems to run a little rich. My buddies predator was like that. But he never used it much over 30-40 percent.
Hey Johnny! Well, I live in Houston, TX. So I’m not at any altitude! I generally don’t run heavy loads, maybe that’s part of it, but it was so sooted-up, that it wouldn’t even start. I tried one jet leaner, and it didn’t really help. I jumped another size and it cranks and runs great. I’ve run it at full capacity for a couple hours like this and it runs great. I wonder what would cause that sort of inconsistency in these gennies? BTW, I did get it on sale. Keep the great videos coming!
Yea no load or really light doesn’t allow them to really build any heat to burn everything off but even then yea I would think to rich.
Probably one reason they last so long is because they are rich even on a hard load and just don’t get very hot.
And thank I will, much more coming through out the year.
@@c120flyer
Look up charcoal filter mod for the predator. They come with a charcoal filter that filters gas tank fumes and then directs routes them through the air filter directly into the carb. This is the cause for them running rich. Found a few videos on TH-cam on how to perform this mod. Did it myself along with removing the spark arrestor from the muffler. Generator runs like a champ no difference in sound either. I didn’t remove the filter completely but rather disconnected the rubber line that goes into the air filter. Then plugged the nipple on the air box cover.
Would your brick wall affect the decibels with sound bouncing off them?
If i turn the generator around and aim at fence and wall it would reflect the sound during the exhaust away test hence why I angle it down the "hallway" of my yard.
Now exhaust aimed at me from a couple different ways I tested it, it was inconclusive if a certain way was better or not. Now if the walls were not there...would it make a difference at 23ft possibly but i bet it would be minimal to none probably with in a osha/nosh test range of +/- 1db.
But ya know ill try it out for fun and see what i get....👍
Sound hates to change direction. Every time it bounces it's quiets it a little more.
That won't really matter for his test as he has them both in a relatively same position and he is testing a comparison of them not anything else. Plus if you would use one of these that is actually a good test as you are not going to put them in an open field or something they would be next to a house or RV.
Yea for the most part....they both have to play in the same court so if its walls or fields it gives you a general idea of what the sound will be.
Plus the walls are not flat they are angled all over bouncing sound waves in tons of directions and not specifically back at the spl meter. Plus with a open atmosphere the sound can still escape much like if you went to a concert with a enclosed roof or open, the open roof will not be nearly as loud.
Hence a reason outdoor venues in my opinion never sound as good as a in door concert venue.
But for a upcoming video ill do a sound test in a field and my back yard at the same distance and see how much it really changes anything.
Most definitely, I said the same thing to myself as I watched the DB test.
I have a a predator 3500 when I need to run ac in trailer, bought a wen 2000 when ac not needed I like them both
Good little set up. That’s really all you need. And soon solar and a good power station will be good enough. Removes the need for expensive install of inverters and big battery set ups.
I've watched two of your test videos. You mention how quiet they are, but when you're inside your trailer, turning on the microwave, I can hear each generator running in the background. I noticed the trailer door was closed. That's loud. Can a sound box be built?
Actually in my tests the rear door is pretty much open the whole time and the gen is actually closer then it should be from the back at only about 6-7 feet and again rear door is open. My front door is normally closed.
But also my microphone works really well so you will here more then you would in the video probably then in a real camping situation where it would not be next to a brick retaining wall and my house. Also the concrete base doesn’t help.
But yes a box can be built or even some boards around it can help.
I put my Wen in an insulated box, with a fan. It rides on back of my camper and stays on the rack while running, can’t hear it, does cause a slight vibration in the camper frame, but not noticeable unless you’re sensitive to it.
hey great job on the video divng into what people actually use!
Thank you 👍🏼😀
What do you think about grounding the generators? Is it a must?
No do not ground these, that’s causes a shock hazard by completing a circuit.
The principal function of the system ground, or grounding electrode, (ground rod), is lightning protection for equipment (NEC Article 250.4). Adding a ground rod to a portable generator introduces a shock hazard as can be seen in the illustration.
OSHA Grounding Requirements for portable and vehicle-mounted generators state the following:
Under the following conditions, OSHA directs (29 CFR 1926.404(f)(3)(i)) that the frame of a portable generator need not be grounded (connected to earth) and that the frame may serve as the ground (in place of the earth
We are completely off grid and use solar for most stuff, but run a genny when needed. We have used many different brands and models. The WEN sucks. And the warranty is a joke. The champion we currently use is 4 years old and outlived 4 wens, a Honeywell, and a predator. We have only changed the oil, replaced the spark plug, and changed the fuel filter. We run a full tank of gas most days.
Yea some have had good luck with the wen but champion has one of the best customer service and warranty besides the big 2...
Interesting. I was going to buy a champion, but I had presales questions. Called three time and was on hold for over 30 minutes twice. The 3rd time, I entered my number for a call back, and a very short, rude person I could barely understand called me back. I've heard awful things from more than a few people about their customer service.
I called Harbor Freight with the same questions, and I was connected with a very helpful, friendly rep within 5 minutes who answered all of my questions.
What model champion?
I need a quiet generator that can run all night yet be powerful enough to run 2 freezers, microwave, electric hot water tank 48 gallons, 3 tvs, garage door opener, and led lighting fixtures throughout my home. Debating on having a transfer switch installed to run these circuits only. However, unsure what generator to buy. 🤔 Any insight or suggestions?
I would do a power audit first to see how many amps all that is gonna need. The 2 freezers and microwave obviously will be the big power draws. The hot water heater is fully electric or electric but gas???
Because that may need to be looked at as well.
Once you figure out how much everything needs and will you ever need or want it to power all those things as once then you can pick out a generator.
A transfer switch is nice to have so things are ready to go and you can even designate certain circuits if you want in a small panel setup. Or just one main plug that is able to power the whole panel... meaning some generators are 120v verses 240. Just make sure you still keep a eye on what you are using so you don’t pop breakers.
So a power audit will give you a idea of how big a gen you want/ need.
@@johnnysweekends The hot water tank is heated by gas but uses electricity for the stupid direct vent. Thanks for the reply, new subscriber. I was looking at the Champion 4650, need to do an audit first and yes everything on at once would be nice.
Ok so your is like mine, electric pilot then gas heat with the vent that closes up top with a small electric motor so only 110 for that at maybe a couple amps.
Yea get the power audit done then see also how you wanna hook it up. A box with maybe 6 circuits or a direct plug to main panel. Just need to see what ya want over all.
@@johnnysweekends Good advice. I don't want to run extension cords everywhere but hate to spend the money on transfer switch for 6 circuits or so lol
Lol yea I hear ya. But it is nice to just flip on what ya want.
Thanks for watching and thanks again for subscribing 🤜🏻🙏🏼😃
What were the noise levels under load? Most people connected to a generator would have some sort of load on it. The RPM picks up under load changing the noise characteristics.
Depending on the load the gen ranges from 70-73 db at wot and full load.
They all run there
I use the predator generator 3500 w and my off-grid cabin. I've also used the wen generator. I run two AC units plus the charge controller for my battery Bank. The predator will run anywhere between 12.5 and 14 hours on a tank of fuel. The wen I can only get a maximum of 10.5 hours. Another plus to the predator generator for me is harbor freight gives a two-year full replacement warranty with it. I have traded in the generator 2 times. I cannot do that with the other one. So in my opinion the best generator on the market for that which I do is the predator. However when I run my well 325 ft deep. Neither one of these two small generators will do it. So I have a champion remote start 4000-watt that will do it just fine. So we'll use that for the well in the other one to run everything else. The fuel savings in one summer is over 55 gallons of fuel between two small generators. Good luck God bless
Wow great information. Yes the predator is still a popular choice and yea the warranty exchange after you buy that is really good .
It’s getting harder now though to get super coupons to use for that big discount.
Thanks again for the comment and thanks again for watching…. God bless… 🙌
I have the Predator, but is very low hours. Just curous how many hours on yours?
@@rcairflr meter don't go that high
What was the Sound levels at full load ?
I chose the Wen and it wasn’t an easy decision. What sold me on the Wen was $100 cheaper 2 year warranty that you don’t have to pay extra for that alone really made me wonder about the predator why would you have to pay an extra 150 warranty on top of the already higher price you could buy the Honda 2200 at that point🤷♂️ The handle is a nice feature, the auto shutoff to empty the gas is also nice. I know it seems I’m splitting hairs here but I have shopped at harbor freight many years an some of there stuff is one and done an with only a 90 day warranty on it tells ya something. I have watched many great reviews like yours to come to my final decision. I’m not a camper guy I’m a power tool guy but all your thorough testing really helped me out thank you and keep up the great work👍🏻
Im glad it helped you and you sound a little like me. Im very thorough when buying stuff. I get the hondas are top quality but i could buy 3 wen gen sets for one honda. If each lasted 7 years thats alot of run time with newer features.
I get hondas last ...but other stuff is coming that is doing just fine. And yea the wen generator just has a few better things that male it more user friendly, all the way down to the oil change hose.
Thanks again for watching
Likewise... this video was part of pushing me over to the WEN. Price, warrantee, features, panel, oil fill/ drain, auto-drain bowl... no comparison!
One oddity - side by side, the TONE of the WEN was nicer to me. Db may be the same, but Wen "hummed" while Predator still had more contractor-genny "rasp" to my ears. Those higher pitches carry further so your neighbors would prefer the Wen.
To me, the Predator is a no brainer, and not just comparing it with the Wen, but most any comparably powered generator out there when you compare price and warranty. The nice thing about purchasing the HF Extended Warranty, is at the end of 2 years (or anytime in your 2 year warranty period) , you just go in and tell them your unit isn’t running as well as it did when new, and they will give you a NEW one, no questions ask. NOBODY ELSE DOES THAT! This can be especially important if you have high usage. I have both the 3500 and it’s little sister, the 2000 which I literally have several hundreds of hours on under almost max loads. Problem I had was, when my warranty was running out on the 2000, it had preformed so flawlessly, that I just couldn’t bring myself to replace it, fearing the replacement wouldn’t be as good as the one I had. They both have really been “bulletproof”. Lastly, I purchase Inverter Generators, which are vastly more expensive than Open Frame Generators, for one reason...The “Quietness Factor”. The Predator being around 3 db’s quieter then the Wen is HUGE!!! The way the human ear perceives sound, every 3-5 db’s doubles the perceived loudness. Definitely the best BANG...oops...shhh...
”bang” for the buck!
@@markashlock9017 i believe every >10db< is doubling sound pressure. To each their own, but HFT lost my sale when they spiked the price out of range. WEN 3800 doing great for the couple hours running it in so far... lol
Lol nice. The predator really has proven itself over the years.