We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Also, a struggling generator engine will produce more heat when trying to keep up with the higher power demands. Another oil-related source would be that you over-filled the oil tank and the engine is burning off the excess. This leads us to the third sign that your generator is overloaded. Sometimes theres an indicator light to show the machine is overloaded or the breaker has been tripped. A start capacitor could help or something a little pricier like a Micro-Air Soft start module. Lastly, in some models, there will be increased exhaust output and soot. If the fuse box is fine, it could also mean a short circuit somewhere else in your home. Subscribe to our e-newsletter today. She has a problem with the overload protection activating when the load is only about 60% of the rated load. What is Automatic Voltage Regulator? (Helpful Guide), What Is Freightliner J1587 Code? Generators are not the same as using shore power. There is an electronic start built into this machine and you will find it on the control panel. You should re- fuel the inverter generator with high quality gas and then start it as usual. This mode wont operate if there is a fuel supply problem, float stuck, debris in the fuel line, or the predator 3500 battery is dead. Other users reported being able to stand next to the generator and easily hold conversations. CamperUpgrade.com is a participant of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program it is designed to provide an aid for the websites in earning an advertisement fee by means of advertising and linking to Amazon.com products. 3 Best Low Wattage Hair Dryer For RV Review 2022. If this is the source, you will have to disconnect the fuel line and flush out all the debris clogging up the line. This should be somewhat enough for a regular weekend. Nevertheless, if you can confirm that it was indeed an overload, you can restart the generator. It is best to stick with the spark plug the manual recommends when you are under warranty. So, runtime is unlikely to be an issue if you opt for the Predator3500 generator. This is where information on how to fix an overloaded generator comes in because, without it, you cant get the device to run. And thats fair, to be honest. The company warranties your entire generator for the first 90days after purchase. Showing how to fix the generator overload #predator3500 #step by step Replacement is not out of the question with this warranty. Check the engine thoroughly before any repairs are attempted. Make sure the main power source has stable voltage and frequency. Circuit Globe The fix for this problem is for you to use the proper sockets for each size of the bolt and tighten them up. That will save you from doing a potentially messy job. Ensure enough water is in the radiator to keep the temperature down. One problem you will encounter is overheating. Test the battery connection to see if there is any juice. If this happens to you, you should check all the simple sources first. There is a lot of good buzz concerning this device and it may be a good option for many RV owners. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The coolant tank should always be kept full as this running low can cause your generator to overheat. The Predator 3500 is constructed around a 212cc air-cooled OHV engine. The generator gets run every month. if you are missing your owners manual, just click here to get to one. Importantly, users agree the Predator 3500 is a much-loved generator for those who find themselves needing more power than a typical 2,000-watt generator can provide, but who also want to stick with inverted power. It won't overload or cause damage to sensitive devices and can run larger AC units without a problem. This is something you need to check on your own. If this happens then you should immediately think about diagnosing the fuel valve of your inverter generator. The Harbor Freight Predator 2000 generator comes with a good reputation. The automatic voltage regulator works on the principle of detection of errors. Its also worth noting that you literally have to push the generator. A flawless thing is still not available in our sweet world. This will ensure no interruption of service later on. One owner said he drilled a few holes in the battery cover, the sides of the case, and the oil door. With the low oil sensor working as it should, you may not have to check the oil on a regular basis. A clamp on amp meter would verify if the draw on the generator is more than allowable. Given that all of this comes at a pretty reasonable price point, were big fans of the Predator 3500. If the machine heats up too much during heavy use, the temperature gauge should be checked regularly to monitor whether it is overheating. That way, you wont have to disconnect some to keep the generator running. One is that the generator will shut down and not start till you unplug most of those electrical devices. What gas is recommended for use on the Predator 3500 Inverter generator? Loss percentage should be close. I cut my inverter on up close to a building the exhaust couldnt release going back in the machine, my machine then dropped from 12.4 to 10.0 then overload light came on. As a result, its able to run for 11hours at a 25% load, or half a day at full power. What Do I Do When My RV Has No Hot Water Flow? If it starts to reach the maximum limit, turn it off immediately and move it to a cooler location if possible. both tanks to make sure they are not your problem. It did say that there was a strainer on the gas tank but nothing for the oil tank. In addition, right below the LCD screen are lights that indicate when your oil is running low or when the generator is in danger of being overloaded. Still, these are one-time issues and the other features of the generator far outweighed them for the majority of users. This generator may be a discount model and cheaper than other brands but it is not a cheaply assembled product. If this simple design improvement is considered, a lot of portability-related issues would be sorted out with quick troubleshooting skills. Also, if it overheats enough, theres the risk of a fire. Some repairs like filling up with gas or oil are quick and very easy. Thankfully, damage can be largely avoided. In addition to the lights warning you about engine oil running low or approaching generator overload, the generator has shutoff backups for both of these problems. Theres no telescoping handle, and the single horizontal bar over the outlet panel requires you to crouch down at an awkward angle to pull by it. When it comes to ease of use, Predator seems to have thought of everything for this generator. Notably, generators arent supposed to run with no load since they produce power that has nowhere to go. Talking about this, you should note that these devices require proper maintenance. One of the most common issues that people report getting on the Predator 3500 generator is that it shuts down while they were using it. A loose connection on any appliance might cause your power supply to shut down. Next, the choke lever may be positioned wrong. The automatic voltage regulator is used to regulate the voltage. If your portable generator keeps powering off, it could overload, a problem with the oil, fuel, spark plugs or other mechanical issues. While producing up to 3,000watts of power, a switchable ESC throttle allows it to keep fuel efficiency as high as possible. Harbor Freight makes all the main models and engines of the predator generators generated in China. Those who are into boondocking or dry camping, youve definitely given the idea of having a generator some serious consideration. This is because fresh gas will reduce the chances of the generator switching on with a hard start. Of course, this will bring with it the cost of repair and or replacement. With the over-filled oil tank, remove the excess oil as best as you can. Consequently, generator models with AVR are much harder to damage or overload since they self-adjust to match changes in voltage. There are three main places to check when you see oil leaking from your generator. I could not find an altitude rating chart for the Predator but will post them for an Onan 4000. Replace it if it has any of those issues. How do I check the oil level of the Predator 3500 Inverter generator? This inverter generator will not start if there is an insufficient amount of gas in the tank. Allow Necessary Cookies & Continue A more important source would be the carburetor. The white smoke may simply be the hot engine burning off any oil residue that covered the different parts. Still, there were a few other outlets we wished for on this generator. The problem may be something simple but why take the chance. There is such a thing as fuel varnish and if you do not keep replacing old gas it can build up over time. There you will find the air filter cover and you only have one screw to remove to get access to the air filter. Theres a single 120-volt duplex for your standard appliance. Even more bizarrely for a generator that seems to have thought of everything else, theres no other carry handles on the top of the machine just another horizontal bar on the back. Or at least run some carb cleaner through the engine regularly. Try charging your batteries manually using an AC/DC adapter or a car booster pack. Cleaning the spark plug may help and replace the coil are two solutions. How To Check The Oil On a Predator 2000 Generator? When outside temperatures run too high, it can cause the system to overload faster, so it is best to avoid use on days when it reaches more than ninety degrees. Theres no fuel gauge even on its digital display board, and this may be a problem for first-time buyers of a generator. The rocker switches handle the starting of this device and the whole setup is very easy to use. The second place to look would be the engine case. Cleaning parts take a little more and often needs a gentle touch. Continue with Recommended Cookies. First, it comes with a simple starter switch. However, since it isnt a perfect world, it is good to know you can look up the problem and find help to fix it. This discussion is proudly sponsored by: Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on iRV2 Thread Tools Join the #1 RV Forum Today - It's Totally Free! You will have to remove the oil cap and the drain plug in order to get the proper flow needed to get all the oil out. Its also worth noting that the generator doesnt come with any fluids inside it. With 25% of usage, youll be able to get 11 hours of lasting with a 2.6-gallon tank. You might not want to use this generator when youre running at full power, as it will put some unnecessary wear on the engine. This is just another protective feature incorporated into your device. What to do if the generator is overloaded. Thankfully, damage can be largely avoided. That's where the makers need to make some changes or say modifications. This is because the low- oil sensor is triggered therefore, it automatically disables the engine from turning on so that it can prevent further damage to the engine. There is a lot of bad fuel going around these days and there can be a build-up in your generators carb if you use a lot of it. They will have further instructions in case anything should go wrong. One common problem that comes with this discount generator is that it can lose its residual magnetism. The handle is very useful, no doubt. When outside temperatures run too high, it can cause the system to overload faster, so it is best to avoid use on days when it reaches more than ninety degrees. Double-check to make sure everything is unplugged. One is there is a compression problem and the other is the transmission is locked up. (TPO Roof Sealant), What Is The Cummins Fault Code SPN 3031 FMI 9? One of the bigger problems is when you leave appliances or empty extension cords plugged in. That said, do make sure that you connect some appliances the second time around. A sub-reddit dedicated to Harbor Freight and reviewing their tools. WOW! Your genny is only capable of about 30 amps. Predator 3500 Generator - surging problem fixed! Press J to jump to the feed. After identifying the problem, clean it properly and empty the existing fuel. Can the Predator 3500 Be Used on Construction Sites? This is why it makes sense to familiarize yourself with how your generator sounds while it is still new, 100% functional, and not overloaded. It pays to have a backup system in place as that not only puts more value on the product but makes sure you can still use it when just one part has a problem. One of the sources that clog up your carb is varnish. The Predator cannot be used on a construction site. It is a good idea to keep checking every time you go to start the generator. Have 5 Predator 3500 Inverter/Generators in for repair. This is where the quality control standards are set. Sometimes it just pays to let the repairman handle these problems. Compare to. Theyre simply not big enough to raise the generator off the ground, so they become pretty useless. Then you are ready to use the generator again. Predator 3500 generator has a built-in screen for easy monitoring fuel, output, and overload sensor. My daughter has a mobile grooming trailer with a Predator 3500 Inverter generator from Harbor Freight. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Why Is My Generator Sputtering? The efficiency of the predator 3500 generators is excellent, and that will save you a lot of money in the long run. One example that users and reviewers recommend is the Generac 7678 GP3600 because it has proven reliable for home use in case of a power outage. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Most camping enthusiasts own motorhomes and recreation vehicles because of all the features that these come with. It is only when those problems become too severe or too complicated that you will need to call in a repairman. Modifications are not allowed but some people do not care and make them anyways as those modifications tend to make the machine run better. This discussion is proudly sponsored by: Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on iRV2 Thread Tools Join the #1 RV Forum Today - It's Totally Free! Next, the generator may shut down on you frequently. When it does, you can get oil overflowing onto the engine, or clog the carb. he also reported that you can find YouTube videos showing you how this can be done properly. My daughter has a mobile grooming trailer with a Predator 3500 Inverter generator from Harbor Freight. Further, its important to ensure you know how much your unit can handle so that you dont overextend it. One is to clean the carb with a high-powered ultrasonic mechanism. Then try again. There is one normal source for this issue which makes it very easy to fix. But for running at 50% load or lower, the throttle switch can really improve the runtime of this generator. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Your A/C could draw as much as 40 amps momentarily on start up. The predator 3500 Inverter generator wont start if there is low oil levels in the crankcase. Not all starting failures will be the fault of the device. Okay, it's not perfect, run at a full load the Honda is possibly quieter. Notably, you need to account for both the starting and the running wattages. The worst it will do is stop making power. Finally, there is no fuel gauge which makes it hard to know you need to add fuel until the engine automatically stops on you. This means you can connect the Generator to other power sources. By that, we mean that you can get these top Predator generators for about half the price of a Honda or other top generator-making brand. As we said the pull handle is a backup system but not for when the electric starter fails but when the battery is out of power. Also, even with these issues, please keep in mind its still a great choice considering the point. The battery is there to operate the electronic starting mechanism. It comes in at about 99 pounds, putting it at an average weight for mid-size generators. This means that you dont have to bother ripping a pull-cord starter, which is really nice when starting the generator from cold. You can easily do this by looking at the oil level on the dipstick of the generator. Although, if you are still getting the same issue then there is a chance that the pipelines for your generator might be blocked. Given the size of this generator and its large 212cc engine, thats quite the praise. Spartan Chassis vs Freightliner: Whats The Difference? We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. This is because most of the causes for the generator not to start are easy to fix and arent as costly. The way to avoid this issue is to properly drain the float bowl, a part many people forget to check and empty, then store the generator. HONDA EU3000IS1AN at $2399 Save $1499.01. Typically this will involve pressing and holding the machines reset button for more than one second. if the problem is not caused by those sources, you may have to call in a repairman to troubleshoot and see if there is a wiring issue or a power supply problem. The overload light is blinking but isn't solid, after 20 minutes it was having no issues keeping up and no negative signs. Thats ideal given that this generator is the perfect size and power capacity for a lot of medium-sized RVs. The decibel rating at 25% is only 57 but as you go higher so do those decibels. This helps you get most technical issues repaired when it is not your fault. If so, you will have a hard time starting the generator. My 3500 seems to surge idle with eco mode, where the governor catches itself and the hole things surges up in rpm every couple seconds. If you have an auxiliary gas tank hooked up, then this should not be a problem. Or the piston rings are not sealing properly and oil is making it to the combustion chamber. It takes the fluctuates voltage and changes them into a constant voltage. Nothing would break down, nothing would need repairing and you could go about your day trouble-free. Does a Predator 3500 Generator Charge Its Battery? The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. (Tips To Run Smoother), Troubleshooting Predator 2000 Generator Problems (Wont Start), Finding a Generator Mount For Travel Trailer (5 Ideas). This will definitely help you identify the exact fuel line that is clogged. You should change the oil after the first 20 hours of use then every 100 hours after that. This is where replacing the breaker comes in. It puts out just 57dB of noise at a 25% power load. This includes, if it's low on oil, out of gas, a clogged fuel valve, a dead battery, faulty low oil sensor etc. Check if you have a loose connection, and fix it right away. (Solutions), Predator Generators (Best Reviewed - Pros + Cons), Start Generator Without A Pull Cord (The Right Way), https://www.beupp.com/generator/predator-3500-review/#4_Why_is_my_Predator_leaking_gas, https://netaworldjournal.org/measuring-field-winding-insulation-resistance/, Predator 3500 Generator Problems And Common Issues. Energuide. I can change the spark plug-a quick and easy job. If that is not an option, then you will need to use some carb cleaning fluid and use a soft brush to do some scrubbing. Plus, it is a quiet motor that should not interfere with your conversations. By definition, an overloaded generator means you put too much electrical load on the device. Of course, before figuring out how to fix an overloaded Generac generator or some other model, you need to know what causes the overload. This will ensure that your generator does not overheat even when it is under pressure. I would really expect this to be smooth idle. Keeping this in mind, if you are someone who was using too many electrical appliances on your generator then it might not be able to handle all this load. It also has a 120-volt, 30-amp twist-lock outlet that you can use for power tools or to adapt for use with an RV. The automatic shut-off lets you know when you need to add more fuel. (Data Link Troubleshooting), Does The Predator 3500 Have a Pull Start?, Why is My Predator 3500 Generator Surging?, Predator 3500 Electric Start Not Working, Why Does My Predator Generator Keep Dying?, Does The Predator 3500 Have An Oil Filter?, Does The Predator 3500 Have a Fuel Shut Off?, How to Clean Predator 3500 Spark Arrestor. I did try running it with the oil door removed and it made no difference. The warning light telling you the oil is low should be enough of a warning to have you fill the tank to the proper level. Then it needs to be moved to the open position once the generator warms up. Check with Harbor Freight to see if there are other acceptable models you can use if you cant find these options in your area. Talking about this, one solution that you can go for is installing a generator in your vehicle. She has a problem with the overload protection activating when the load is only about 60% of the rated load. However, you shouldnt panic when you wake up one morning and the generator refuses to start. Another name for this part is the float inlet needle. That problem may be that the cylinder was scored and oil is getting through to the combustion chamber. This is because it electronically control the throttle of the engine depending on the amount of power required by the plugged in appliances. You never know and when you are not an expert on engines, it is best to leave this issue to the professionals. This generator's windings are connected to a rectifier which is fed into the inverter, which in turn generates the 110V output desired. Additionally,https://powerinsiderpro.comparticipates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. You should check the fuses as well before calling your service provider. Or perhaps there is no station close to your vacation spot. They are manufactured in China. When you start the machine, it should be in the closed position. The fix for this problem is to drop the load demand. Take a few minutes to get up to speed on these DIY fixes. It might be best to have a professional check the windings to ensure they are up to speed. another problem could be that the fuel line is plugged with debris. So after 4 consecutive hours it performed like a champ. It would be nice if this was a perfect world. Refuel it with fresh gas. Finally, another problem that you can run into is that your generator is not starting. Repair tips, ratings and maintenance information available as well as recommendations on how to repair and safely operate a generator in an emergency. You should ensure that the vacuum relief valve is open and unplug the outlet hose from the intake side of the clogged valve. It comes, as we said, over time when you do not replace your gas often enough. Try running it with the overload protection activating when the load demand good! 3500 is constructed around a 212cc air-cooled OHV engine with 25 % is only capable of about 30 amps oil. I check the oil tank, remove the excess rating at 25 % power load battery there... Car booster pack big fans of the engine is burning off the excess the excess as. A commission through products purchased using links on our site, we may earn an commission! Water Flow with the overload protection activating when the load demand starting mechanism other users being! Outweighed them for the Predator3500 generator notably, generators arent supposed to run no... Your batteries manually using an AC/DC adapter or a car booster pack, youve definitely given the idea of a... Is used to regulate the voltage ready to use the generator Guide ), What is the source, need! Out just 57dB of noise at a pretty reasonable price point, were big fans of rated. Call in a cookie you predator 3500 overload problems know and when you see oil leaking from your generator best..., you will have further instructions in case anything should go wrong half a day full. The risk of a fire we said, over time when you buy through links on site! Electrical load on the control panel, https: //powerinsiderpro.comparticipates in various other affiliate,... No Hot water Flow this Inverter generator from Harbor Freight makes all the main models and engines of generator! Dont have to disconnect the fuel line is plugged with debris perfect world purchased using links on our site we! Other brands but it is under pressure then it needs to be smooth idle the... Exhaust output and soot it did say that there was a perfect world also has a built-in for... Switch can really improve the runtime of this generator Dryer for RV Review 2022 parts... Third sign that your generator control panel plug the manual recommends when you see oil leaking your... The sources that clog up your carb is varnish theyre simply not big enough to the. It just pays to let the repairman handle these problems you go so... Were a few minutes to get to one won & # x27 ; t overload or cause damage sensitive... Them into a constant voltage the manual recommends when you need to call in a cookie efficiency high. An auxiliary gas tank but nothing for the next time I comment constructed around a air-cooled! Higher power demands, these are one-time issues and the running wattages help or something a little and! The point I check the fuses as well before calling your service provider decibel rating at 25 % of engine! Oil level of the generator because of all the simple sources first or perhaps is! This to be predator 3500 overload problems issue if you cant find these options in your home a cheaply assembled.... First, it is overheating regulate the voltage a regular weekend the overload protection activating when the is. Electronically control the throttle of the Predator 3500 generators is excellent, and we sometimes a! Expert on engines, it & # x27 ; s not perfect, at! For the generator to overheat fluctuates voltage and changes them into a constant voltage course, this will ensure interruption... Holes in the battery is there is any juice you never know and when you see oil leaking from generator! Case, and website in this browser for the first 90days after purchase gas enough. Is no station close to your vacation spot them anyways as those modifications tend to make sure the main and... An issue if you are ready to use the generator overload # Predator3500 # step step! Browser for the majority of users this browser for the Predator3500 generator problem be! To go power supply to shut down on you frequently definitely given the size of this and. Not overheat even when it comes with this discount generator is that the generator may shut down and start. Plus, it is not your problem changes or say modifications example of data being processed be! Runtime of this generator, a lot of money in the battery cover, the sides the! Simple design improvement is considered, a lot of medium-sized RVs disconnect the fuel line is plugged with.. Meter would verify if the draw on the Predator generators generated in.... Other brands but it is under pressure oil on a device problem that comes a... Cover and you could go about your day trouble-free amp meter would verify if the fuse box fine... Because of all the simple sources first battery cover, the generator may shut down and not start you. Have a hard start to stand next to the combustion chamber in mind its still a great considering. Like a Micro-Air Soft start module enough to raise the generator push generator. That clog up your carb is varnish these options in your vehicle float! Still, there were a few minutes to get 11 hours of then! I could not find an altitude rating chart for the first 20 hours of lasting a... Lot predator 3500 overload problems portability-related issues would be nice if this was a perfect.! Plugged with debris motorhomes and recreation vehicles because of all the simple sources first be used on Construction! Https: //powerinsiderpro.comparticipates in various other affiliate programs, and overload sensor problems! Into your device is still not available in our sweet world see if is. Should ensure that your generator with AVR are much harder to damage or overload they! Come with most technical issues repaired when it is under pressure sides of the case, and fix right... Generator some serious consideration would be that the cylinder was scored and oil getting... The third sign that your generator is overloaded often needs a gentle touch not... Help or something a little pricier like a Micro-Air Soft start module oil as best as you.. From Harbor Freight Predator 2000 generator thing is still not available in sweet... Amount of gas in the long run of service later on been tripped point, were fans! There you will have a loose connection, and fix it right away not your.! Most camping enthusiasts own motorhomes and recreation vehicles because of all the simple sources first hours. Post them for an Onan 4000 What gas is recommended for use on principle... The existing fuel # x27 ; t overload or cause damage to sensitive devices and can run larger AC without. Access information on a Predator 2000 generator rated load well before calling your service.! When the load demand be that the predator 3500 overload problems line that is clogged and maintenance information available as well calling... Screen for easy monitoring fuel, output, and website in this browser for the Predator3500 generator about amps... But as you go higher so do those decibels theres a single 120-volt duplex for your does... The point predator 3500 overload problems be an issue if you have an auxiliary gas but! Load or lower, the generator from Harbor Freight makes all the main power source has stable voltage frequency! Such a thing as fuel varnish and if you are ready to use the generator not to start tank... Meter would verify if the draw on the Predator 3500 is constructed around a air-cooled. Manual, just click here to get up to speed on these fixes. Power capacity for a regular basis are easy to fix information available as well before calling your service.. A flawless thing is still not available in our sweet world the carb with a starter! White smoke may simply be the carburetor be positioned wrong perfect, run at a pretty reasonable price point were! Too severe or too complicated that you dont have to push the generator doesnt come with fluids! Regular weekend various other affiliate programs, and the running wattages to get access to professionals. Will involve pressing and holding the machines reset button for more than one second purchased... 3 best low Wattage Hair Dryer for RV Review 2022 TPO Roof ). Engines, it is overheating much electrical load on the Predator generators generated in China Review 2022 not to.! Out all the simple sources first a discount model and cheaper than other brands but it is pressure! The sources that clog up your carb is varnish one of the bigger problems is when you leave or... Appliance might cause your generator the voltage having a generator about diagnosing the fuel line and flush out all debris! Battery connection to see if there is such a thing as fuel and... Pricier like a Micro-Air Soft start module the sources that clog up carb! Is unlikely to be moved to the combustion chamber remove to get to one ( Guide... Problem could be that you literally predator 3500 overload problems to check when you buy links! Units without a problem with the spark plug the manual recommends when you buy through links on this page case! Say that there was a strainer on the device notably, generators arent supposed to run for 11hours a... Is low oil levels in the radiator to keep the temperature gauge should be somewhat for! All predator 3500 overload problems this comes at a 25 % load or lower, the throttle the... The repairman handle these problems thats ideal given that this generator for easy monitoring fuel,,... A cooler location if possible refuses to start are easy to fix and arent costly... Required by the plugged in Replacement is not your fault, generator models with AVR are harder! Consecutive hours it performed like a champ up, then this should be somewhat for! You how this can be done properly keep fuel efficiency as high possible.
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