This may be a symptom of a carb that has been fed bad fuel. Then there is a high chance that you have your generator installed in a corner of your motorhome. (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. The Predator3500 has a lot going for it. This is not an overnight issue. One of the bigger problems is when you leave appliances or empty extension cords plugged in. What this does is monitor your fuel tank and when the fuel level gets too low, the motor is turned off. But you are overloading it and it will get hot and stop working till it cools. Propaneva.com. 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. However, you should also ensure that the generator is on a flat surface when you are checking the oil levels in the crankcase. Kind of goes like this (rev, idle, rev, idle, rev). Carlisle Radial Trail HD vs Goodyear Endurance: Which One? This helps you get most technical issues repaired when it is not your fault. This includes, if it's low on oil, out of gas, a clogged fuel valve, a dead battery, faulty low oil sensor etc. Even at peak capacity it remains 3,500 watts. Is it safe to keep it running a little above it's rating, but below its peak? 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! There you will find the air filter cover and you only have one screw to remove to get access to the air filter. All rights reserved. Predator used only 100% copper components in the guts of this generator, which last much longer than cut-rate alloys. Once youve tabulated that, you can then buy a generator that matches your home profile. It is a good idea to keep checking every time you go to start the generator. And this can become a bit annoying if a nearby fuel station is not open. Your device will be running a lot hotter than usual, and the incorporated cooling fans will be unable to keep up. The Predator 3500 is meant to be an ultra-quiet model suitable for use at outdoor parties without raising the ire of partiers. Once the device is back on, you reconnect your appliances one at a time while observing for signs of an overload. 1 4 comments Best Add a Comment MrFixemall 1 yr. ago The worst it will do is stop making power. Also, check your spark plug to make sure it is not fouled or damaged in any way. The Predator 3500 has all the basic safety features you could want. Why The Predator 3500 Eco Mode Is Not Working? As such, the moment its overloaded, the circuit breaker will trip, and your device will go off. It controls the voltage of the system and has the operation of the limit nearer to the steady state stability. To fix this problem, just hook it up to a 12-volt battery. If not, try plugging it into another outlet to see if this solves the issue. A utility transformer that is out of order may drop voltage and cause the generator to shut down. Make sure the main power source has stable voltage and frequency. The first thing we would want you to know about is the run time amount for each tank with enough fuel. The most common source for this problem is that the carb is clogged. For a reference, this puts the 3500 on the same noise level as a dishwasher or moderate rainfall. In a well-ventilated, area away from bystanders, use pressurized, Squeeze out excess water and allow it to dry, completely. The most obvious possible problem would be that there is something wrong with the switch itself. This should be somewhat enough for a regular weekend. We have tested the load for the various equipment she uses and it doesn't approach the 3000W continuous load limit. So, that horizontal bar over the outlet panel is your only option for picking it up. It is built to perform like its more expensive counterparts while not giving you a lot of work to do to keep it in shape. You need to replace the internal components such as the alternator and regulator every three years. Ever since then it hasnt cut on Ive tried everything honestly hopefully I will get some help here. The Predator seems to be a very good generator even though it is made in China. One of those safety features is a low fuel automatic shut-off system. However, if you dont have enough information by the time you buy the device, an overload can happen at any time. The only way to do this is to connect more appliances than your device can handle. Your email address will not be published. If this is the case, then you should manually start the inverter generator by pulling the starter cord. The warranty on this generator is only okay at best, though. A more important source would be the carburetor. Finally, the generator has a two-pin 12-volt DC outlet for charging batteries. In that case, any damage is your own responsibility. Predator 3500 Generator - surging problem fixed! So, is the Predator3500 as promising as the technical specifications and price would have you believe? Beyond that, the warranty only covers the engine and that warranty lasts just two years. The generator includes a pretty nice selection of outlets. That way, you wont have to disconnect some to keep the generator running. If the drain plug cant be tightened, then you would need to replace it. And maybe that ended up making you come across one very famous option, the Predator 3500-watt generator. Please support our sponsors and let them know you heard about their products on iRV2. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. In reality, though, users found that the runtime was far longer than what Predator advertises. There should be no confusion as to which switch, dial, or knob does what since all markings are very clear and under the appropriate spot. Another issue could be overheating, which is common with this generator. On page 15 of the manual, you will find the instructions on how to clean the air filter. Also you are losing almost 30% of the generator engine power at 7000 ft elevation. This is where information on how to fix an overloaded generator comes in because, without it, you cant get the device to run. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Simply switching off some of these devices should help you in fixing the problem. This inverter generator will not start if there is an insufficient amount of gas in the tank. The common problem for the sticking is gas varnish or the gas turns to gum when it is stored for long periods. Or perhaps there is no station close to your vacation spot. The recommended fuel type to be used by the generator is normally indicated on the user manual. If the Generator runs but doesnt have power, it could be an issue with the windings or circuits. This makes tracking a bit hard as you need to do it manually. The engine wants to run freely with no strain under reasonable load. The first thing that you should check in this case is your fuel tank. Ever since then it hasn't cut on I've tried everything honestly hopefully I will get some help here. Another oil-related source would be that you over-filled the oil tank and the engine is burning off the excess. Other frustrating moments of a generator that keeps shutting off is when you're camping, powering your RV, or . A start capacitor could help or something a little pricier like a Micro-Air Soft start module. All you have to do is turn the throttle knob to the start position and then flip it back to run when it has started. Circuit Globe 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. But there are two more serious sources. Then try again. 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. What Do I Do When My RV Has No Hot Water Flow? Its important to keep from overloading your generator because there are multiple problems associated with that. Importantly, the Predator3500 features an ESC throttle switch that increases fuel efficiency. A sub-reddit dedicated to Harbor Freight and reviewing their tools. That should clear the clog and get the generator running as it should. It takes the fluctuates voltage and changes them into a constant voltage. Dont press too hard though as you do not want to damage the part. If these solutions do not do the trick for you, you can call in a repairman and see what they find out. It does start eventually with the electric start. Balancing pros and cons will make you more competent in making a value-providing decision by the end. No matter which way you approach it, moving this generator around on the wheels feels awkward. However, given the adverse effects of running like this, modern Honda, Generac, and practically every other new generator model is fitted with an auto-shutoff feature that activates in case of an overload. Thought I would offer some up-dated information. Predator 3500 surging - Help. This happens when you run it at zero load for a long time or leave it unused for almost as long. 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. Yes, this model, like all Predator generators, does come with a list of safety features to protect you and your family. When it stops working the source is fairly easy to find. If it is loose, oil can make its way back up the hole and out the fill spout. Another thing to look at is the max amps the plug is on the gen. Theres a single 120-volt duplex for your standard appliance. Trusted Source In case of a power failure or a mains power outage, some devices and appliances will malfunction. You save on fuel and still get enough power to run certain appliances. This will also help the battery regain its charge and the generator will start. But this is quite a fascinating option because the price point also comes with a few issues that you need to be aware of. The fault lies in the handle design and that limits the use of those 4 wheels. You do not have to over-tighten as that can strip the threads if you are not careful. This is actually a common generator problem and not one specific to the Predator series of machines. It will lose power if not used over a long period. In my opinion, the Predator 3500 is an excellent generator for the price. (Helpful Guide), What Is Freightliner J1587 Code? The handle is very useful, no doubt. Keep in mind that these devices require you to install these in a ventilated area. On top of that, noise isnt a problem with the Predator3500 its one of the quietest 3,000-watt generators weve come across. 3. I do not own a clamp on AMP gauge, but have an electrician buddy that does-just not sure he has one for DC. Required fields are marked *. Continue with Recommended Cookies. In fact, the low noise production was one of the features that users pointed to as the single most important reason to get this generator. Also, the oil may be too low. (Tips To Run Smoother), Troubleshooting Predator 2000 Generator Problems (Wont Start), Finding a Generator Mount For Travel Trailer (5 Ideas). My main concern was damaging the windings, but then again, if you hit the peak output too long the generator shuts off to protect it. Additionally, they should also check your device thoroughly so that there are no other problems with it. Inverter and all 120 volt generators are are AC. Even though it is cheaper than other famous name brands for generators, it seems to work well and perform up to and beyond expectations. She has a problem with the overload protection activating when the load is only about 60% of the rated load. The Generators level noise is low and is 57 dB, which makes it quieter. There is one normal source for this issue which makes it very easy to fix. Typically this will involve pressing and holding the machines reset button for more than one second. This is something you need to check on your own. But that is not the main source for starting this unit. Spartan Chassis vs Freightliner: Whats The Difference? Nevertheless, if you can confirm that it was indeed an overload, you can restart the generator. Once there remove it and if dirty follow these instructions: heavy-duty work gloves. i have been off the grid for a week so and just now getting caught up. Manage Settings Notably, the signs that your generator model is overloaded overlap from model to model because theyre more or less designed the same way. These devices can only produce so many watts and any demand for more will result in two situations. Talking about this, you should note that these devices require proper maintenance. If the color is blue you are fine. I'm not sure I could pull start it if I had to when it gets below mid teens. The thing to do is remove the carb from the generator and then blow the jets out with some compressed air. It may have been overheated, got oil or debris to its point or the gap is wrong. Make sure you have the tanks full and everything is being mixed correctly. Just a tap to the side of the float bowl to solve this issue, hopefully. So, no hard feelings, just a bit of deep digging to be more aware of the purchase. 3) Excessive heat. If this is the case, you should ensure that the vacuum relief valve of the generator is open. This could be just about anything that went wrong with the unit. With the ESC throttle engaged, the generator can run for up to 11hours at a 25% load. So I think I'm good , If you are running it at 90+% all day long I would be worried, 3 hours? Once you figure out the exact fuel line that is clogged, you can clean it up with clean fuel and plug it back to 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. The final spot to check would be the valve cover gasket. If neither of these solutions work, check the oil because if the level is too low, it triggers the sensor and shuts the unit off. A part may fail, there may be a leak somewhere, or there is a blockage somewhere in the system. Your email address will not be published. We won't send you spam. (Helpful Guide), What Is Freightliner J1587 Code? Notably, generators arent supposed to run with no load since they produce power that has nowhere to go. We will deal with the generator wont start issues in a few minutes. If this happens then you should immediately think about diagnosing the fuel valve of your inverter generator. The engines of the conventional generators on the other hand, normally run full time at the same speed regardless of the number of appliances plugged to the generator. Below you will find a detailed description of the product, emphasizing the problems and helping with a guide to fix them. Then remove the outlet hose from the intake side of the clogged fuel valve and see whether fuel is flowing through the hose. One is there is a compression problem and the other is the transmission is locked up. Once you have pulled the starter cord severally, the battery will regain some of its charge and the generator will start. Fixing Predator 3500 Generator Problems (Wont Start), Can You Turbo a Ford V10? 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