If you guys have the smaller 2000W Predator generator, check this video, it will directly apply as the predator 2000 is a Ducar internal built gen! th-cam.com/video/oQcy6dLkK6s/w-d-xo.html
Just ran mine for 167 hours straight (with break for an oil change) due to hurricane Beryl. LOVE my P3500, it ran flawlessly and did everything I needed.
My predator would not keep running. Mission critical as I am off grid and it runs my well pump. Watched this video and am now pumping water again. Thank you so much!
This is one of the most thorough, in-depth descriptive videos I have ever watched. Great info for the newbie or old-time who needs more tricks. Thank you for taking the time to explain the procedures in such great detail including part numbers, etc., while explaining the reasons behind why these things are important. Bravo!!
This was by far the best video I have seen on the predator or any generator. You get to the point, no needless commentary, and extremely helpful. WELL DONE!!!!
I just sold my Honda EU2000 today and went right down and bout one one of these (rv on the way so needed more power). I am BLOWN away at the quality and how quiet it is. Hope it lasts because Im impressed.
Great video! I run both of mine 4-5 days a week for 8-10 hours each day to power my food truck. I have two Predator 3500s and just ordered the Firman 1201 Parallel kit so I can truly split the load between them. Now I know how to actually maintain them properly. Good job!
Got the battery connector yesterday and used snippers to cut trim of the Predator cousin, the Powerhorse. This is a fantastic modification. Got the unit at the home of the Predator. One issue I noted is that when the charger block is plugged into my covered patio outlet the outlet cover of the socket doesn’t fold back far enough to accommodate the charger base. I had to use a plug extension that I use for my Christmas lights (for the same reason, to allow for a timer) to allow for the charger base. I have the excess cabling attaching to the battery curled up and tucked between the battery and the outside wall of the generator. BTW, I stopped by the retailer for my Powerhorse and spoke to the service tech and he confirmed that the Powerhorse has only one drain tube from the carburetor and that he has to siphon fuel from the tank to drain the tank itself. I’m just going to stick with TruFuel and continue my monthly run for about 30”, only this time remembering to clean the spark arrestor. Since it stays on my patio at home it probably wouldn’t hurt to remove the spark arrestor if I wanted to avoid needing to clean it, even though it isn’t difficult to remove and brush.
@@MR_Garage thank you.. I put the wheel kit on mine getting to old to lift on back of truck..2 ramps goes up very nicely...Also nice for oil changes too.looks like a off road generator
@@TC-tw5zk I dig the wheel kits. I place my gen in my trailer when I travel and the wheel kit makes it too wide. Thinking of a custom platform someday for it.
I have 2553 hours on my 1 1/2 yo Predator 3500 from HF, and I'm thinking about changing the spark plug for the first time. It's starting to surge a little bit, but when it's warm out sometimes it just shuts down and refuses to start again for a few hours. Guess I'll clean up the spark arrestor, haven't done that yet either.I have never had a battery problem w it and I don't use a tender. We just sit out in the Arizona desert in our 35 foot RV year around! Gotta keep that air filter clean. Awesome machine for the $699 I paid for it. I bought 2 at the same time, sold 1 with about 1500 hrs just because I didn't need it that bad and he wanted it pretty badly.
Awesome stuff! At bare minimum, check and adjust valve clearance at those hours. If a gen is in use constantly like yours, you never will have battery issues, that is for long term storage, usually 30 days or greater to extend the life of the battery when a tender becomes a must.
Damn dude, I have watched a lot of how to videos on here and that is about as good sit gets. Thank you it was really helpful for an engine novice like myself.
When you pay $750 for something that others paid $3,000+ you definitely have something to smile about..... oh, THANK YOU for the battery tender suggestion ....
Best way to clean the spark arrestor on any small engine is a propane torch. Burns off all the carbon build up in seconds. Can also do the exhaust manifold as well. Great vid.
Great video. Great Tips. I just got one of these and am super happy with how easy it is to operate, maintain and how quiet it operates. (We're neighbors-I think.)
Close! I'm in Tempe. Headed to cooler country this weekend. Another thing that Predator has added to their operators manual regarding fuel-they insist on using fuel stabilizer-always.
In Tempe now, small world. And I agree with them, it goes in all my fuel canisters to ensure it is in every small engine of mine ALWAYS and in the carbs prior to storage.
This is a fantastic video. Thank you. Did want to mention that there was one thing I was curious about. I’ve let mine sit too long and want to drain the fuel but am not sure how to do it. I think if your video included that extra perk, it would be next level. Keep up the good work!
If you want to drain the tank too, set the gen to run and open the bowl drain screw. You will of course need a container for the old fuel to run into. You can see how to drain the bowl in my jetting video on the 3500. Only extra step is to set the gen to run (switch is also a fuel cut)
@@MR_Garage Thanks for the reply. I have since learned that there is a little screw on the side of the bowl that allows fuel to drain through a tube when the setting on run which makes it a little easier to catch. 👍
Overall the best & most complete maintenance video I've seen for the Predator 3500. Thank you! My only 2 critiques are when you say, "I know engines..." and my mind immediately says, then why do you intentionally overfill the crankcase with oil (which leads to unnecessary increased pressure and wear) & then say to your viewers not to worry about it? The other thing I am also guilty of, and that is leaving the generator sitting unused for a, "few months nap." My father was a master mechanic and always told me an engine - any and all - should be started at least 1x/mo minimum to keep everything lubricated including seals etc (and to ensure it will work in emergencies -given it's an emergency tool and all). But like I said, I too have been guilty of letting mine sit for months between uses or such starts too. But I hope to get better (and for critical systems, like my genie, I actually have a backup generator as well as 2 short term "solar battery" systems too).
Small engines like these are splash lubricated and without a PCV valve - direct vent. There is zero extra pressure. Just some extra oil in case they consume a little between runs. And your dad was right! Should start every few months at least, once a month even better. More for the carbs sake if not drained (should be drained of fuel with any nap) Oil and such is fully drained down rather quickly since there is no oil really in the head. Cam and crank are in the bottom of the engine (pushrod motor). Oil gets super hot in these so even 15w40 turns to water at high temps. Moment it shuts down - drains fast. Thanks for watching!
Well no Genny yet. I found out I could not use the coupon which would have saved me $160, bringing the price down to $640. So the best sale price I have seen was $699. So I will just wait till the next sale. Darn it. The money I am saving will be used to buy your kits. ;)
Excellent video! Subscribed. I just added all the pieces/parts to my Amazon cart. After this hunting season now I’ll know how to prep my Predator generator for storage thru the winter.
I use Schaeffer's Micron Moly 30wt oil in mine. Also the Neutra fuel additive. Mine will run 14 to 15 hours on a tank. Also do 150 hour oil changes. No problems.
Great video. Unit wouldn’t start with battery after a year of storage. Have it on battery minder now hoping it will condition and recharge it to a useful one. It looks like I will need to replace it and leave it on the minder. I like the upgrade suggestions and the handy tools that you mentioned. Will go and buy them this week for my unit. Thanks for all the tips.
Worst thing for a battery is to let it die over time. I would replace the battery. We have a video with the part number for the battery. After that, keep it on the battery tender / minder and it will give a really long service life!
Thank you! I have the exact generator and haven't started it in several months. I unfortunately, didn't put the Stabil-izer i the gas, and now it won't start. I just ordered the battery thing - hoping it will start up after that! When I charge up the battery, I'll add some stabil-izer to the gas and cross my fingers! LOL THEN, do an oil change!
If it helps anyone, the replacement battery model is YTX7L-BS892 and sells for about $25. It can be found just about anywhere online - I bought mine at Home Depot.
You may want to rethink drilling holes in the case. These things are air cooled with the engine powering a fan that draws cool air from the front of the case, across both the engine and inverter and expels the hot air out the back. By drilling the holes you've created a vacuum leak that will allow the fan to draw air through those holes rather than from the front of the case. Thus, the cooling air is bypassing the engine and inverter causing them to run much hotter. Just sayin.
Nope, a gentleman on the predator group did a before and after thermal scan of the inverter which is air cooled. A few holes in the case does nothing to affect cooling of the inverter. On the flip side to this, there is no need to drill the case or vent the door of the gen is jetted properly without the one size fits all jet it comes with. I have another video for that.
Jon doe is correct. I was curious how air gets into the generator so I removed the front cover. The air intake is to the left of the wheel locking lever on the bottom. Directly above the air intake is a large heat sink with fins and a baffle built in to the front cover for cooling the electronics. When the generator is running you can feel suction in this area. Adding cooling holes to the side panels bypasses the primary air intake so now your electronic components are getting less cooling air. Maybe this doesn’t make a significant difference if the electronics don’t get that hot and/or they don’t need much cooling, but it looks like a lot of design effort went into the flow of cooling air around the electronics, generator coil, and engine.
You do not bypass by drilling holes in the case. You can leave the oil access door totally off and still have enough flow to cool the inverter as the motor can move a substantial amount of air. As stated, thermal scans have proven this / there is plenty of flow. And per my previous comment "there is no need to drill the case or vent the door of the gen is jetted properly without the one size fits all jet it comes with". This fixes any rich running conditions without any other modification as long as you do not overfill the gas tank constantly which is a whole different issue and set of symptoms.
I stopped at a Harbor Freight today, and purchased this generator after watching you video. Unfortunately, after opening it the front end of it was smashed in like it was dropped during shipping. oddly the box was not damaged at all. I am hoping they have another generator in stock tomorrow when I return it. I've already purchased the mentioned items you listed (but using 5w40 instead) and I'm hoping this will be a reliable generator for my needs.
Here’s one for you: Bought the generator this week, and ran it with no load for 20 hours (on and off) and checked the oil at 8. She was still full, and clean as a whistle. I just started her up again, and connected my large chest freezer. I then added my full size refrigerator. And the display says she’s only drawing 1.2 amps and 148W. Is this possible!?
Mr. Garage It eventually went to 2.5 amps and 250 watts. I tried to monitor the display for compressors on/off, but this is the highest it drew. Turns out, this huge freezer (brand-new Frigidaire) only draws 1.2 amps, but the refrigerator’s label says 6! I don’t get it. And the 3500 didn’t miss a beat...didn’t power up, power down, stall...for even a split second. I think I want one or two of those little wattage meters that you plug your device into, to double check the 3500’s readout. Changed the oil yesterday to synthetic (broke it in with regular), and today, my spark plug and magnetic oil dip stick arrives. And here’s a question for you: Can you parallel this with the 2000?
Yessir, need to get it into the carb. I talk with many that think just dumping it in the tank is all that is needed. And as I mentioned - best to always put stabilizer in your storage tanks at home. So no matter what you fill - it will already be there.
Hello! The 30A twist lock L5-30R outlet is for larger loads and generally used for RV, Travel Trailer type use. Or anything needing more than 20A. The other two outlets are what they call a 5-20R. They support both 15A or 20A.
I have both a Yamaha inverter and was given a Predator 3500 for free. (Bad gas) The highest hour generator I ever saw was 18,000 hrs from a friend who "lives off the grid" it is a Yamaha.
Hey there I noticed in your video the spark plug you were using was a NGK BPR7EIX but the link you used was for the BR7EIX and didn’t know the difference between the two..I went out and bought the BPR7EIX but didn’t want to install it without checking. Great video thanks for the help.
Good catch Jay, oddly it was showing the correct link and even in the search bar when clicked, but displayed the wrong plug. I generated a new link to make sure the right plug would show.
similar set up on my snowblower.i just suck out oil through the dipstick hole with (syphon pump,one hose in oil bucket and one in snowblower,). less mess. i know i dont get all oil out but its not a car and i do it every other year..
I brought my predator 3500 generator at a pawn shop I didn't know exactly what I was buying at the time I knew it was a inverter and that's what I was looking for it had 14 hours on it when I bought it I actually stole it because I only paid $350 for it at the pawn shop it has a 160 hours on it right now and it runs flawlessly I have not did any mods to it except put the bigger wheels on it so I can get it around much easier
Have you had any surging issues? I fired mine up this week for it’s monthly run and found it to be surging real bad, and with esc on it almost dies. From what I can see, plug is good, gas is tested and fresh, spark arrestor is clean, air filter is clean. I’m kinda stumped. Nice to see another AZ RVer out there using the same setup! I find it powered everything we need as well.
Hey Jim, Not at all. Surging usually occurs when jet has a blockage. Does not take much to clog it up. Something in the gas, container or just old gas. I would take off the carb and clean. Also, does it run better with the oil door removed in this situation? If so, fuel tank was overfilled and charcoal emissions canister was soaked in fuel starving the gen of air.
Well, pulling the carb may be next then. As for over filing, it’s usually only got about 1 or so gallons when not in use but if it did get overfilled it would’ve been last summer sometime. I’d think it would be cleared up by now unless it gelled in there or something.
About the air filter - what did you say you put on the air filter when you put it back after you clean it off? Also did you mention that you clean it with water? Thanks
Odd, I could have sworn I responded to this, apologies! These days after I wash a filter (dawn dishsoap and hot water - then let dry) I just use a little gear oil. A little bit goes a long ways. I stopped using canned filter oil.
I love the video and thank you for being so thorough. I recently purchased one of these and have been breaking it in, but noticed some minor surging at idle. Following advice from another video, I pulled and cleaned the pilot jet and re-installed it, but do you think I was smart enough to count how many rotations the idle set screw was from the carb? No. How many turns do you usually set yours at to run smoothly?
I just want to say I know I love my generator I take very good care of it but the point is I picked it up at a pawn shop it had 25 hours on it I paid $400 for it at this current moment it has a 165 hours and I've had it for about coin on maybe 5 years now.
We just bought ours in February. We just unboxed it and have it in the back of our truck for use with our new Scamp 5th wheel. Instructions recommend grounding it first. Should we? Or Not? If so, how do you do that? My husband and I are the blind leading the blind. Neither one of us are electricians.
A good question. Likely not IMO. Only way to truly gauge is to see how it runs / check your plug after a bit of hard running to see if the gen is still running rich. Can't provide an exact answer as I modded my case so early in ownership and my jetting accounts for it. I do feel the case mod helps the gen breath a bit better especially at altitude. So if you are above 4K often, I would recommend it.
Would be nice - the start switch acts as a fuel cut. Does not allow the bowl to drain from running, only if you loosen the bowl screw can you empty the bowl.
You can gap iridium plugs but you have to be extremely careful and only use an arm bending tool. A slide gapper destroys them. In this case, the plug I recommend is plug and play.
The main off / run / start switch is acts as a fuel cutoff. But does not let you run the carb empty. You can wire in a bypass for that if you like so it will keep running until it dies.
Great video. I have one question. When you shut it off for a long period, how do you keep fuel in the carb from going bad? I noticed that you have no fuel shut off so you can run it dry.... Is it a easy fix?
@@nyquil07na38 No. Non ethanol fuel has a long shelf life. However, run the generator once a month to operating temp. Sitting is bad for engines. Seals dry out.
The OFF switch is actually a multi-function switch that shuts it down and also has a fuel petcock on the back to shut off fuel. They do fail though. Just ordered a new one for mine (only $4) because between the failed petcock and bad needle valve, it kept feeding fuel and overflowing through the air filter. Once it's off, there is a small flathead screw on the bottom of the carb bowl to empty it out. Also a good idea to add a small inline fuel filter right below the tank behind the air box.
If you guys have the smaller 2000W Predator generator, check this video, it will directly apply as the predator 2000 is a Ducar internal built gen! th-cam.com/video/oQcy6dLkK6s/w-d-xo.html
Just ran mine for 167 hours straight (with break for an oil change) due to hurricane Beryl. LOVE my P3500, it ran flawlessly and did everything I needed.
My predator would not keep running. Mission critical as I am off grid and it runs my well pump. Watched this video and am now pumping water again. Thank you so much!
Awesome! So happy this helps, that is what it is all about :)
This is one of the most thorough, in-depth descriptive videos I have ever watched. Great info for the newbie or old-time who needs more tricks. Thank you for taking the time to explain the procedures in such great detail including part numbers, etc., while explaining the reasons behind why these things are important. Bravo!!
Much Appreciated! I enjoy working on this and helping others. TH-cam has made a good outlet for that.
Boom! One search and I found the BEST video on TH-cam for p3500 maintenance! Thanks Brother
Glad it helped!
This was by far the best video I have seen on the predator or any generator. You get to the point, no needless commentary, and extremely helpful. WELL DONE!!!!
Thanks Boss!
Who ever said this was the best video is absolutely "correct" he even hit little micro details from other videos and more !!
Good info. No BS. No unneeded commentary. Thank you.
I just sold my Honda EU2000 today and went right down and bout one one of these (rv on the way so needed more power). I am BLOWN away at the quality and how quiet it is. Hope it lasts because Im impressed.
Great video! I run both of mine 4-5 days a week for 8-10 hours each day to power my food truck. I have two Predator 3500s and just ordered the Firman 1201 Parallel kit so I can truly split the load between them. Now I know how to actually maintain them properly. Good job!
Appreciated - your food truck sounds awesome!
I will hire this guy to work on my equipment any day
Got the battery connector yesterday and used snippers to cut trim of the Predator cousin, the Powerhorse. This is a fantastic modification. Got the unit at the home of the Predator. One issue I noted is that when the charger block is plugged into my covered patio outlet the outlet cover of the socket doesn’t fold back far enough to accommodate the charger base. I had to use a plug extension that I use for my Christmas lights (for the same reason, to allow for a timer) to allow for the charger base. I have the excess cabling attaching to the battery curled up and tucked between the battery and the outside wall of the generator.
BTW, I stopped by the retailer for my Powerhorse and spoke to the service tech and he confirmed that the Powerhorse has only one drain tube from the carburetor and that he has to siphon fuel from the tank to drain the tank itself. I’m just going to stick with TruFuel and continue my monthly run for about 30”, only this time remembering to clean the spark arrestor. Since it stays on my patio at home it probably wouldn’t hurt to remove the spark arrestor if I wanted to avoid needing to clean it, even though it isn’t difficult to remove and brush.
I'm planning to get the Powerhorse 4500 which is almost identical to this Predator model. Glad I found this video which will help me maintain it!
Excellent video! Really appreciate it. Did all that to mine today.
Should be in good shape for the rolling blackouts this summer in Texas...
Those battery tenders work great. Going on 5 years on my yuasa. Generator battery and it fires right up. Highly recommend getting one.
Yes sir - only way to keep a battery is maintained... unless you enjoy replacing them often :)
@@MR_Garage thank you..
I put the wheel kit on mine getting to old to lift on back of truck..2 ramps goes up very nicely...Also nice for oil changes too.looks like a off road generator
@@TC-tw5zk I dig the wheel kits. I place my gen in my trailer when I travel and the wheel kit makes it too wide. Thinking of a custom platform someday for it.
I have 2553 hours on my 1 1/2 yo Predator 3500 from HF, and I'm thinking about changing the spark plug for the first time. It's starting to surge a little bit, but when it's warm out sometimes it just shuts down and refuses to start again for a few hours. Guess I'll clean up the spark arrestor, haven't done that yet either.I have never had a battery problem w it and I don't use a tender. We just sit out in the Arizona desert in our 35 foot RV year around! Gotta keep that air filter clean. Awesome machine for the $699 I paid for it. I bought 2 at the same time, sold 1 with about 1500 hrs just because I didn't need it that bad and he wanted it pretty badly.
Awesome stuff! At bare minimum, check and adjust valve clearance at those hours. If a gen is in use constantly like yours, you never will have battery issues, that is for long term storage, usually 30 days or greater to extend the life of the battery when a tender becomes a must.
This is one of the best instructional videos I have ever seen! Excellent job! Thank you for taking the time to make and post it!
Glad it was helpful!
Nice hack with the ramps! Well played sir....Thanks for such a well articulated intersectional video!
I use the Battery Tender on my ATV battery. It's 8 years old and always works
My uncle just changed the battery in his 2005 Suzuki Eiger for the 1st time this year... Has it on a tender anytime he isn't riding it
We just purchased the 3500 watt generator. Love your tips, and we purchased the spark plug, grease and the dip stick, and also an hour meter.
Damn dude, I have watched a lot of how to videos on here and that is about as good sit gets. Thank you it was really helpful for an engine novice like myself.
When you pay $750 for something that others paid $3,000+ you definitely have something to smile about..... oh, THANK YOU for the battery tender suggestion
....
yes...that tender recommendation is awesome. I need to get one of those for my atv too.
Best way to clean the spark arrestor on any small engine is a propane torch. Burns off all the carbon build up in seconds. Can also do the exhaust manifold as well. Great vid.
Thanks for the propane tip. Never will clean it again with parts cleaner.
Thank you
Great video. Great Tips. I just got one of these and am super happy with how easy it is to operate, maintain and how quiet it operates. (We're neighbors-I think.)
Right on! Very good gen. And we could be - I am in Laveen. Several TT owners in our community.
Close! I'm in Tempe. Headed to cooler country this weekend. Another thing that Predator has added to their operators manual regarding fuel-they insist on using fuel stabilizer-always.
In Tempe now, small world. And I agree with them, it goes in all my fuel canisters to ensure it is in every small engine of mine ALWAYS and in the carbs prior to storage.
This is a fantastic video. Thank you. Did want to mention that there was one thing I was curious about. I’ve let mine sit too long and want to drain the fuel but am not sure how to do it. I think if your video included that extra perk, it would be next level.
Keep up the good work!
If you want to drain the tank too, set the gen to run and open the bowl drain screw. You will of course need a container for the old fuel to run into. You can see how to drain the bowl in my jetting video on the 3500. Only extra step is to set the gen to run (switch is also a fuel cut)
@@MR_Garage Thanks for the reply. I have since learned that there is a little screw on the side of the bowl that allows fuel to drain through a tube when the setting on run which makes it a little easier to catch. 👍
Thanks for this video 👍💯 we just picked up the 4550 yesterday for mobile detailing/home backup. Your maintenance list should help us out a lot! 👍😎
All I can really say is ... outstanding. Thanks for a great video.
Thank you very much!
Overall the best & most complete maintenance video I've seen for the Predator 3500. Thank you! My only 2 critiques are when you say, "I know engines..." and my mind immediately says, then why do you intentionally overfill the crankcase with oil (which leads to unnecessary increased pressure and wear) & then say to your viewers not to worry about it? The other thing I am also guilty of, and that is leaving the generator sitting unused for a, "few months nap." My father was a master mechanic and always told me an engine - any and all - should be started at least 1x/mo minimum to keep everything lubricated including seals etc (and to ensure it will work in emergencies -given it's an emergency tool and all). But like I said, I too have been guilty of letting mine sit for months between uses or such starts too. But I hope to get better (and for critical systems, like my genie, I actually have a backup generator as well as 2 short term "solar battery" systems too).
Small engines like these are splash lubricated and without a PCV valve - direct vent. There is zero extra pressure. Just some extra oil in case they consume a little between runs.
And your dad was right! Should start every few months at least, once a month even better. More for the carbs sake if not drained (should be drained of fuel with any nap) Oil and such is fully drained down rather quickly since there is no oil really in the head. Cam and crank are in the bottom of the engine (pushrod motor). Oil gets super hot in these so even 15w40 turns to water at high temps. Moment it shuts down - drains fast.
Thanks for watching!
@@MR_Garage Thanks for the clarifying info! Awesome!
Outstanding. Going to buy one tonight for my camper. Thank you
Well no Genny yet. I found out I could not use the coupon which would have saved me $160, bringing the price down to $640. So the best sale price I have seen was $699. So I will just wait till the next sale. Darn it.
The money I am saving will be used to buy your kits. ;)
My kits? Amp gear? :D
Awesome video! Thanks for such a thorough maintenance video. Had to buy this for a recent power outage and for future use with our TT and I love it!
Very welcome!
I just want to say: "I just love your channel. " Great stuff and very informative on the generator info.👍👋
I appreciate that!
excellent video, well explained and the part number was a great addition.
thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for the video! Love my predator. I’m definitely not a engine guy but find this generator very easy to maintain.
Indeed ! Easy to work on for sure. Has been a great gen for us.
Mr. Garage yes love mine!
I use this generator for detailing. Thank you so much for this video!!
Excellent video! Subscribed. I just added all the pieces/parts to my Amazon cart. After this hunting season now I’ll know how to prep my Predator generator for storage thru the winter.
Glad it helped you out! Good stuff man :)
Thank you, finally someone that knows what they're doing.
Try putting a little grease inside the socket and that will help it release. Great video! Thank you for all the info!
Great site just found you. My predator had the same problem with fuel thanks for the tip on where to buy leaner jets.
Great, informative video. Just bought this today and looking forward to your tips and tricks. Thanks!
Thanks Man. Mine wound only run with choke(start) on. I cleaned the exhaust screens like you said and it is good to go.
Right on!
Great video! New Subscriber... Please keep the good maintenance videos coming...
Thanks! Will do!
I use Schaeffer's Micron Moly 30wt oil in mine. Also the Neutra fuel additive. Mine will run 14 to 15 hours on a tank. Also do 150 hour oil changes. No problems.
Great video. Unit wouldn’t start with battery after a year of storage. Have it on battery minder now hoping it will condition and recharge it to a useful one. It looks like I will need to replace it and leave it on the minder. I like the upgrade suggestions and the handy tools that you mentioned. Will go and buy them this week for my unit. Thanks for all the tips.
Worst thing for a battery is to let it die over time. I would replace the battery. We have a video with the part number for the battery. After that, keep it on the battery tender / minder and it will give a really long service life!
Enjoyed this very much! Thanks for all of the info!
Put 350 hours on it in 3.5 weeks. And it still works.
Thank you video is the most insuring trust worthy I've seen
Should fuel be drained after use to store away
Awesome video! God bless from Colorado
Thanks for watching!
Put a Drainzit HON1010 oil drain tube in place of the factory drain plug and it makes oil changes easy as pie, with no messes or leaks.
Great video,love my 3500.
Excellent video. Thanks !
EXCELLENT VIDEO!!! One question, every how many hours of use does this service have to be done?
I go way overkill and change oil about every 10 hours of use.
thank you for this, my man!
You bet!
Thank you! I have the exact generator and haven't started it in several months. I unfortunately, didn't put the Stabil-izer i the gas, and now it won't start. I just ordered the battery thing - hoping it will start up after that! When I charge up the battery, I'll add some stabil-izer to the gas and cross my fingers! LOL THEN, do an oil change!
If it helps anyone, the replacement battery model is YTX7L-BS892 and sells for about $25. It can be found just about anywhere online - I bought mine at Home Depot.
Yessir :) th-cam.com/video/BsR8ql6a1-o/w-d-xo.html
I love my Predator 3500!
Predator 3500s out there with 3000-5000 hrs on them. Might be the best thing HF sells.
Thank you very well done. I was looking at buying this generator. Thank you.
You may want to rethink drilling holes in the case. These things are air cooled with the engine powering a fan that draws cool air from the front of the case, across both the engine and inverter and expels the hot air out the back. By drilling the holes you've created a vacuum leak that will allow the fan to draw air through those holes rather than from the front of the case. Thus, the cooling air is bypassing the engine and inverter causing them to run much hotter. Just sayin.
Nope, a gentleman on the predator group did a before and after thermal scan of the inverter which is air cooled. A few holes in the case does nothing to affect cooling of the inverter. On the flip side to this, there is no need to drill the case or vent the door of the gen is jetted properly without the one size fits all jet it comes with. I have another video for that.
Jon doe is correct. I was curious how air gets into the generator so I removed the front cover. The air intake is to the left of the wheel locking lever on the bottom. Directly above the air intake is a large heat sink with fins and a baffle built in to the front cover for cooling the electronics. When the generator is running you can feel suction in this area. Adding cooling holes to the side panels bypasses the primary air intake so now your electronic components are getting less cooling air. Maybe this doesn’t make a significant difference if the electronics don’t get that hot and/or they don’t need much cooling, but it looks like a lot of design effort went into the flow of cooling air around the electronics, generator coil, and engine.
You do not bypass by drilling holes in the case. You can leave the oil access door totally off and still have enough flow to cool the inverter as the motor can move a substantial amount of air. As stated, thermal scans have proven this / there is plenty of flow. And per my previous comment "there is no need to drill the case or vent the door of the gen is jetted properly without the one size fits all jet it comes with". This fixes any rich running conditions without any other modification as long as you do not overfill the gas tank constantly which is a whole different issue and set of symptoms.
Great video! thanks for the tips
Great video just what I needed
Glad I could help
I stopped at a Harbor Freight today, and purchased this generator after watching you video. Unfortunately, after opening it the front end of it was smashed in like it was dropped during shipping. oddly the box was not damaged at all. I am hoping they have another generator in stock tomorrow when I return it. I've already purchased the mentioned items you listed (but using 5w40 instead) and I'm hoping this will be a reliable generator for my needs.
Bummer boss! Best of luck on your next unit
@@MR_Garage what are your thoughts on the PJ1 Aerosol foam filter oil? Instead of using engine oil/gear oil?
@@JonathanCarl It will work fine. You can also use Maxima Fab1
Great thanks for your recommendations, MARANATHA 👍
Welcome!
Here’s one for you:
Bought the generator this week, and ran it with no load for 20 hours (on and off) and checked the oil at 8. She was still full, and clean as a whistle.
I just started her up again, and connected my large chest freezer. I then added my full size refrigerator. And the display says she’s only drawing 1.2 amps and 148W.
Is this possible!?
Does not sound normal at all unless the compressors on both were not on at the time.
Mr. Garage It eventually went to 2.5 amps and 250 watts. I tried to monitor the display for compressors on/off, but this is the highest it drew.
Turns out, this huge freezer (brand-new Frigidaire) only draws 1.2 amps, but the refrigerator’s label says 6! I don’t get it. And the 3500 didn’t miss a beat...didn’t power up, power down, stall...for even a split second.
I think I want one or two of those little wattage meters that you plug your device into, to double check the 3500’s readout.
Changed the oil yesterday to synthetic (broke it in with regular), and today, my spark plug and magnetic oil dip stick arrives. And here’s a question for you:
Can you parallel this with the 2000?
@@Ira88881 That is amazingly efficient - good to know on the freezer!
@@Ira88881 I believe you can parallel with any generator. I've connected a 3500 to the predetor 2000 and they worked great together.
Run the engine with the stabilizer. Why did I not think about that. So obvious now that I think about it. This guy is smartt with 2 t's.
Yessir, need to get it into the carb. I talk with many that think just dumping it in the tank is all that is needed. And as I mentioned - best to always put stabilizer in your storage tanks at home. So no matter what you fill - it will already be there.
You are amazing! Thanks for such a great tutorial.
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you that's an excellent video you are on point Thank you again
Thank you. Great video
Thanks for the great video. Can you explain the difference between the power outlets. Is there any particular usage difference ?
Hello! The 30A twist lock L5-30R outlet is for larger loads and generally used for RV, Travel Trailer type use. Or anything needing more than 20A. The other two outlets are what they call a 5-20R. They support both 15A or 20A.
I have both a Yamaha inverter and was given a Predator 3500 for free. (Bad gas)
The highest hour generator I ever saw was 18,000 hrs from a friend who "lives off the grid"
it is a Yamaha.
Thank you so much best one I've seen, this helps will do every step 😃
Hey there I noticed in your video the spark plug you were using was a NGK BPR7EIX but the link you used was for the BR7EIX and didn’t know the difference between the two..I went out and bought the BPR7EIX but didn’t want to install it without checking.
Great video thanks for the help.
Good catch Jay, oddly it was showing the correct link and even in the search bar when clicked, but displayed the wrong plug. I generated a new link to make sure the right plug would show.
Would it possible to remove and attach better wheels than the cheap stock ones ?
They make large tire kits for this generator if you already have one.
Do you have to use ethanol free gas?
You do not, but I recommend it if you can get it!
Great video!
What is the correct spark plug gap?
similar set up on my snowblower.i just suck out oil through the dipstick hole with (syphon pump,one hose in oil bucket and one in snowblower,). less mess. i know i dont get all oil out but its not a car and i do it every other year..
The smart guys get it :) And even with a car, you end up leaving 1/2qt or more in the engine when you do a change.
I brought my predator 3500 generator at a pawn shop I didn't know exactly what I was buying at the time I knew it was a inverter and that's what I was looking for it had 14 hours on it when I bought it I actually stole it because I only paid $350 for it at the pawn shop it has a 160 hours on it right now and it runs flawlessly I have not did any mods to it except put the bigger wheels on it so I can get it around much easier
Thanks for the video, only question I have is do you gap the plug or run it out of the box?
Run it out of the box - no need to gap it. And if you do try, do NOT use a slide gaping tool! Arm bending tool and feeler gauge set only.
Did you have to gap the new plug or was it pregaped?
No need to gap, good to go as-is. With NGK plugs, unless there is a -11 at the end of the part number (-11 means .044), the gap is .032.
@@MR_Garage
Thank you ..I did put the one in you recommended...made a big difference..alot
Smoother
@@TC-tw5zk Good stuff!
@@MR_Garage What is the iridium plug part number to replace?
@@jakeholshuh1886 Bpr7eix
20 oz. Is the factory recommended oil amount.
Great job!
Thanks!
Great job thinking of bying one thx
Very informative and much appreciated...
Glad it was helpful!
Have you had any surging issues? I fired mine up this week for it’s monthly run and found it to be surging real bad, and with esc on it almost dies. From what I can see, plug is good, gas is tested and fresh, spark arrestor is clean, air filter is clean. I’m kinda stumped.
Nice to see another AZ RVer out there using the same setup! I find it powered everything we need as well.
Hey Jim, Not at all. Surging usually occurs when jet has a blockage. Does not take much to clog it up. Something in the gas, container or just old gas. I would take off the carb and clean.
Also, does it run better with the oil door removed in this situation? If so, fuel tank was overfilled and charcoal emissions canister was soaked in fuel starving the gen of air.
Well, pulling the carb may be next then.
As for over filing, it’s usually only got about 1 or so gallons when not in use but if it did get overfilled it would’ve been last summer sometime. I’d think it would be cleared up by now unless it gelled in there or something.
@@jimwarden6419 One thing to check before pulling the carb, remove the idle screw. Blast some carb cleaner into it to flush it. See if it runs better.
Great video! Thanks
About the air filter - what did you say you put on the air filter when you put it back after you clean it off? Also did you mention that you clean it with water? Thanks
Odd, I could have sworn I responded to this, apologies! These days after I wash a filter (dawn dishsoap and hot water - then let dry) I just use a little gear oil. A little bit goes a long ways. I stopped using canned filter oil.
Great info!!! Thank You.
What type of fuel filter does this gen use?
I love the video and thank you for being so thorough. I recently purchased one of these and have been breaking it in, but noticed some minor surging at idle. Following advice from another video, I pulled and cleaned the pilot jet and re-installed it, but do you think I was smart enough to count how many rotations the idle set screw was from the carb? No. How many turns do you usually set yours at to run smoothly?
I set by RPM and use a little inductive hour meter / tach to monitor RPM or you can do it by ear.
do these inverter types have fans to move the air around that enclosed case?
I just want to say I know I love my generator I take very good care of it but the point is I picked it up at a pawn shop it had 25 hours on it I paid $400 for it at this current moment it has a 165 hours and I've had it for about coin on maybe 5 years now.
Great generator!
We just bought ours in February. We just unboxed it and have it in the back of our truck for use with our new Scamp 5th wheel. Instructions recommend grounding it first. Should we? Or Not? If so, how do you do that? My husband and I are the blind leading the blind. Neither one of us are electricians.
I have never ground a gen for mobile use. Never had a need.
Great video thanks
so u think the holes in case are needed if you rejet the carb?
A good question. Likely not IMO. Only way to truly gauge is to see how it runs / check your plug after a bit of hard running to see if the gen is still running rich. Can't provide an exact answer as I modded my case so early in ownership and my jetting accounts for it. I do feel the case mod helps the gen breath a bit better especially at altitude. So if you are above 4K often, I would recommend it.
Awesome video. Thank You.
You are welcome!
great video... is there a fuel petcock?
Would be nice - the start switch acts as a fuel cut. Does not allow the bowl to drain from running, only if you loosen the bowl screw can you empty the bowl.
Great video! Wondering if you need to gap the NGK plugs?
You can gap iridium plugs but you have to be extremely careful and only use an arm bending tool. A slide gapper destroys them. In this case, the plug I recommend is plug and play.
Nice video. Do these have a fuel shut off valve?
The main off / run / start switch is acts as a fuel cutoff. But does not let you run the carb empty. You can wire in a bypass for that if you like so it will keep running until it dies.
Great video. I have one question. When you shut it off for a long period, how do you keep fuel in the carb from going bad? I noticed that you have no fuel shut off so you can run it dry.... Is it a easy fix?
Use fuel stabilizer and start once every 30 days, let it warm up.
If you use ethanol free gas do you still need the stabilizer?
@@nyquil07na38 Only if you are storing for long periods of time. I would still use it if storing for over 3 months.
@@nyquil07na38 No. Non ethanol fuel has a long shelf life. However, run the generator once a month to operating temp. Sitting is bad for engines. Seals dry out.
The OFF switch is actually a multi-function switch that shuts it down and also has a fuel petcock on the back to shut off fuel. They do fail though. Just ordered a new one for mine (only $4) because between the failed petcock and bad needle valve, it kept feeding fuel and overflowing through the air filter. Once it's off, there is a small flathead screw on the bottom of the carb bowl to empty it out. Also a good idea to add a small inline fuel filter right below the tank behind the air box.
Which spark plug do you recommend for the predator 9500?
Also, what battery would you recommend for it also?