I waited too long to test my generator, when I finally did it was past the return period. It was surging right out of the box...I thought I was out $850. Saw this video, drained the carb, adjusted the screw, poked out the jet. My genny is currently purring like a kitten, thank you!!!
This fixed my Predator 3500 watt generator! I had disassembled the carb and cleaned it completely but didn’t know that part had a whole in the bottom. I cleaned that hole and it runs like a top now! Thank you for making this video to help the rest of us out! Kudos man!
I have this same generator and had the same trouble with it surging. This worked like a charm. I was afraid I would have to spend a $100 or more to have it fixed. Thanks.
Thank you for the info!! I actually bought a tachometer on Amazon and calibrated it that way. Manual states 2600-3600 rpm. I let it warm up, put it eco mode, tuned it down to 2600 rpm, it took only a minute to tune. No more rough idle after cleaning that piece.
Thank you so much! The storms in California have been repeatedly knocked out my power in the last few weeks. My Predator sputtered and died last night, I thought it was a goner. This worked beautifully and as you had displayed it wasn't complicated. However, I would have had to bring it in for repair without your video. THANKS!
Thanks for the great video. I have changed the jet size, and had it running like a top, until today. Was running real rough and only when on full choke. Your vid reminded me of the tiny jet. Removed, cleaned it, and now it purrs like a kitten again.
I also went to a colder spark plug. Instead of a 7 it’s a 6 now NGK brand. I ordered it from Generator upgrade supply. Seems to run a lot better with the new plug too. Did you go with a smaller main jet? Mine runs super rich and was thinking about leaning it out. Lean and mean!
@@BeastFamilyADV I think you'll find that NGK heat ranges are the opposite of what you would think, a higher number is actually a colder plug. onlysparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/heat-range-image-for-website.jpg
@@louiswestfall9622 lol I knew I was getting it wrong lol thanks for the info! I ran the #8 plug (colder) this weekend and it ran great! Put just about 40 hrs on it and only had to refill it with 1 - 5 gallon jerry can. It was running a Dometic fridge, window shaker a/c and some led lights. Oh yea, a projection screen for camping movie night too (video coming soon) lol
Thanks for the video. Quick easy fix. I used a single strand of twisted copper wire and carb cleaner. Worked like a charm. Will put this on my maintenance list. You da man, thanks.
thank you so much ...you saved me ...i have this generator 4 years and work great until now . i did change oil probbably more often than recomended . once i have issue in the past was clogged exhaust ..it build up carbon so badly that there was barelly any flow and ofcourse didn't work right . i just removed the screan and after that was like day and night in performance .
Great video, thanks ! First one that showed up when I googled predator 3500 surging. I let mine sit with ethanol gas in it for about a year and when I started it surging was terrible. It didn't shut down but it was very annoying. I just put up with it, then Helene hit last Friday. We used it like it was for 4 days and power is still out. This morning 10/1/24, I shut it down and cleaned the orifice with a needle as suggested. Since it's really easy to do I went ahead and pulled the carb and checked all of the jets. They were clear but a tiny bit of varnish on them. I used a torch tip cleaner to clean as much as I could. Put it all back together and it works great! I probably didn't need to do the whole carb but I couldn't help myself. The small black orifice is tiny. When poking the needle through you can see the tip come through. Be careful because you wouldn't want it to break off in there. The idle adjust screw just provides a stop for the electronic throttle control so it doesn't do anything with fuel flow through the carb. It is a pain to get it back in without cross threading, but it's doable. They are saying power will be back on on October 3rd but I'm not holding out hopes for that. I've never seen such a devastating storm here in upstate SC. In the meantime, the Predator is running great! Thanks again!
Awesome! I’m glad to hear that it’s working for you and that we could help in some way. We are currently praying for everyone affected by the hurricane. We hope for a swift recovery. We got a direct hit from Ian that caused damage to our house. Took us about 1 1/2 years to fully recover. We really appreciate you reaching out to us. We enjoy hearing back from people that have watched our videos.
I drilled a hole with a step bit about 1/2". In that black plastic strip that blocks your straight shot to the idle screw. Now it's much easier to the screw off and started without cross threading it.
THanks for the Video, it was good. I am going to try that. I have my Predator for about 2 years now and from day one it was surging at idle & unless a lot of load is applied it just surges or hunts. I have tried vent the entire box, replaced the spark plug, replace the oil, replace with fresh if it sits too long and still doesn't run smooth. So I will try your fix & see what happens, thank you again.
Just purchased this same generator, and first day of use no issues, but the second day of use I got surging while under light load. I have an older, louder predator generator that was doing the same thing, and this idle jet cleaning worked for it too. I find it strange that after only one day of use this happened, but now I think I know why. I think the case ventilation tube running into the airbox is the primary issue. The tube enters directly adjacent to the idle-jet intake port, and I think oil is entering this hole and causing a blockage. I am going to plug the airbox hole and put a small filter on the valve cover port.
I drilled a hole with a step bit about 1/2". In that black plastic strip that blocks your straight shot to the idle screw. Now it's much easier to the screw off and started without cross threading it.
Good info, thanks. My Norton Pgi3500 has been surging since new. I'm suspecting the seller used shitty gas when testing before shipping. I also bought an inline fuel filter that I will install.
15F today and Predator 3500 decided to act up and die while charging batteries for the house. Between video, rounding up tools and moving generator to a better location to perform repairs (snow/gravel not a good place to loose parts)…took about 2 hours. I didn’t find anything visible in the plastic pieces, still sprayed a little carb cleaner inside the carb. It was still acting up. I looked into the tank and the fill screen filter had also dropped into bottom of tank and was covering up the pickup inside the tank. So it was starving for gas too. Thanks for sharing!
I have the same unit. I installed a conversion kit to run it on gas or propane. I lose a little power on propane but i can run it either way. It runs great.
Miracle...it worked....please tell people when cleaning the jet the needle does not go all the way thru your just cleaning out the brass piece....thought it went thru to the opening in the middle of the screw
Have had my 3500 for about 2 mos now and a week ago it started surging and shut off at 2 am lol. A friend got it going again a day or so later but he bored out the jet 400th bigger which I'm not sure if I was happy about but it seems to run a little rough, now that I've watched your video I wonder if he has the the idle set correctly. Makes sense.
Interesting, I haven’t heard many people making it more rich. Usually, people have been leaning it out which helps prevent spark plug issues and clogging the spark arrestor. As the saying goes, lean is mean lmao. I would get a jet kit and re bet the carb so you know exactly what you have in there and tune it that way.
Just went out and cleaned the jet and it is back purring like a kitten although putting the idle screw back in was a PITA. Never the less after I got it back in and set the idle speed was extremely happy with the way it is running.
I’m glad to hear it! I also put in a “hotter” plug and it seems to help. Went from a BPR7 to a 6. Seems to helps out. Also, others have stated that they are re-jetting the carb to run leaner.
I picked one up from a guy that had it listed on marketplace for $50. Said it just quit running. I got it home gave it a few pulls and it fired off for about 10 sec and died. It came with a new spark plug and air filter installed and all I did was replace a gasket and clean the fuel system. Runs great now.
Good info. Thanks. I just bought my brand new predator 3500 for my heat press machine 1500 watts. I sell T-shirts for festivals n shows. It runs great but once I get closer to the temperature I need for the machine it idols really high n the motor starts shaking. Do u think that’s my problem? IdolIng issue?
Thanks for the comment! To answer your question, i would first find how many watts and amps your pulling when the machine gets to the temperature you need. Remember, the generator has a limit of 20amps. When your reach long max output of the generator, the rpms will be high and may result in “shaking”.
I bought a new machine with less then 1-hour on it at a estate sale. Had some gas in it, but had not been touched in about 18 months. When I looked at the machine, the switch on the right side was in the run position. What I have found out this controls the gas, choke and ignition. I charged the battery and got it to start, but it will not run in the RUN position, need to leave it in start position, which is the choke. So I drained all the gas, took the bowl of the bottom of the carb, got fresh 89 octane gas and added some Sea Foam to the gas. Still will not run in the RUN position. I was looking on here and saw your video and though it would give it a try. Thanks for the info, it was helpful, but it did not fix my problem. I'm wonder now if the problem is in the device that off, run start switch is attached to. Has to be starving for fuel.
That’s a good possibility but I haven’t seen or heard of that one really failing or being the problem. Have you checked the spark arrestor? A friend of ours, while primitive camping with us, couldn’t get theirs to stay running. It would just die out, I checked the spark arrestor and it was completely clogged choking the engine out. We cleaned removed it and it fired right up and ran like a champ. We cleaned the spark arrestor by soaking it in gas and replaced it several hours later. They had no issues the rest of the weekend.
These engines usually run rich and most of the times need to be leaned out. The Predator 5000 (which was just pulled from the shelves) actually came with several size jets for the carb to tune it depending on your location. This may be “safe” for the engine and keep it cool but fouls plugs and clogs any muffler or spark arrestor.
@@johnniles7939 if your pulling it out, I would change the jets and lean it out a bit more depending on your altitude to sea level. Here is FL, they run very rich.
New subscriber. Great video. My issue is just the opposite of yours. Mine surges at idle and runs great under load. Would you suggest cleaning the jet would resolve my issue as well?
I went through all this exactly and I had no luck. I got it so it would idle down and stay even until you put any kind of load on it and it's all over the place. Generator has very low hours and started this almost immediately after I got it (should have returned it..). Replaced the plug (old one looked fine), air filter is spotless. I even sprayed some light oil on the governor mechanism thinking it might be sticky. No luck. Love the generator but this drives me absolutely nuts and I don't really trust a shop to work on it - I paid one $80 and all they did was swish out the carb, no change. I don't think many places know how to work on these things.
Hmmmm, did you get the warranty? I would just swap it out for a different one. I also changed the plug. I went to generatorupgradesupply.com and bought one of their spark plugs ( different heat rating) and it runs better. Nonetheless, these generators notoriously run extremely rich, many people solve a lot of problems changing the jets in the carb to remove some fuel. However, if it is still under the harbor freight replacement warranty, I’d exchange it.
@@BeastFamilyADV I tried the procedure this morning. there seemed to be an obstruction but cant swear to it. the wire fit the hole snuggly anyway. put it back together, cleaned the spark arrestor, loosened the screw in the stem on the bowl and drained about a cup of gas out. starts fine with switch in start position and will run fine. when I switch to run it surges and shakes and will die if I pull the trigger on my belt sander. I repeated the process with same results. It has been a while since it was run, maybe 7-8 months, no problem then but only ran it for 2 hours. Your thoughts would be appreciated.
@@jimwilliams8229 it’s sounds like your carb is out of adjustment. Turn the screw on the side to the right until it’s in all the way. Then, back it out 2 full turns. This will get you somewhere in the ball park. Make sure “eco” is turned off. Start the engine, let it get to operating temp. Turn the screw back to the right until the engine RPM begins to increase by itself. Then, back it off until is settles to idle. If that doesn’t work, so the same but turn the screw to the left. Once you get the rpm to increase back the screw slowly until it goes back to idle. If the engine stalls or bogs, the screw is being turned the wrong way. After I did this, I turned eco on and fined tuned the adjustment. Hope this helps! Let me know if it does!
I love my 3500 and have had it for about 4 plus years so far. I am having a problem right now with mine. When I go to turn it off it keeps wanting to run and chug and like it's dying but just won't shut off. Any advice?
Hmmmm, that’s the first time I heard about this issue. Might be an issue with the carb or the choke. Anyone else run into this issue? I know we got a bunch of Predator owners here
@@BeastFamilyADV I was just checking out the carburetor, and seems like the choke cable has undue slop in it. I wonder if could that be causing the issue? Gonna try pulling the carb tomorrow and clean it.
@@mrgreenbudz37 a clean carb is always good. I don’t know if the loose choke cable is the issue though. It sounds like the machine is not properly turning off ignition and or allowing too much fuel (once turned off) to enter the combustion chamber. I’m sure it has something to do with the black dial for the on / choke switch. Something behind it must be off or out of adjustment some how. Just curious, how is your spark arrestor in your exhaust? I know these cause various issues if not properly cleaned. I’m in the process of cleaning my for this weekend. They get dirty and clogged quickly.
Question, my 3500 predator is running fine until the camper AC cuts on then after 10 minutes or so, the generator overloads. Start it back up it runs fine plug the camper back in it’s fine then the AC does it again. Problem is, it should be running the single AC unit no problem. Is this similar to what you’re talking about yours doing?
Hmmm, I’m sure it can’t help. That espresso machine is well within its power range. Just posted a video of me powering my 30 amp trailer pumping more than 25 amps and more than 3,000 watts. So I would give this a try and see if it works. For me, this always seemed to happen at 2 am after drinking in south Florida. So I had to keep getting up to re start it for the a/c lol uggghh so glad I don’t have to deal with it anymore. Plus, I plan on getting the 5,000 and testing that out.
Can anyone tell me if this will help the surching that makes it stall out? If this little piece is cleaned will it stop doing that surging and stalling? And my eco switch when pressed does nothing ..what dies that mean? The electric start does not work as well ok plmk if anyone can help ..thx
It fixed my surging and stalling issue. Your throttle adjustments sound like they are off chasing the eco setting not to work (don’t quote me tho). Not an expert here lol
You have to clean the idle and main jets in the carb . There is no shortcut. It's a short coming of all carburetor engines. You can pop the fuel bowl off and spray up thru the main jet, but the best way is to pop the carb off. I start my 3500 every 2 weeks for 15 minutes. Or drain the fuel from the carb. Fuel stabilizer is a must.
Modern Fuel blends are terrible. No amount of fuel additive will completely prevent this. The best thing you can do is run your genset once a month until it is completely warmed. This also gets rid of any moisture in the engine if you live in humid climate. Eventually the tip shown in this video will come to help!
QUESTION...before doing any of this, if my generator is bone stock, would it be wise to count the number of turns for my idle screw turn if I screwed it in all the way so I'd know how many turns to back it out ? Good luck with your fund raising. Also, you might want to invest in a tripod so you don't have to display those fancy one handed skills...lol
can you just stick a pin in there while the jet is still set in the motor, any room for this? I'd mark the idle screw and count the turns to tighten to a light set then back it out all the way if you end up taking it out then you have a reference point: screw the jet all the way in to a light set then back it out the couned turns, like the 1.5 of a Holley carb.
No there’s not room, you have to pull it completely out. That’s a good idea about the idle screw, it will give you some idea of where to set it during reassemble. Since these things come from China and prolly sent all over the world, they have a general setting. I adjusted mine to my liking for south Florida weather. Obviously jetting it would make a bigger difference and I’ve seen other people on RUclips change the jets out.
I just bought this generator. The first time I started it with the eco turned off I let it run for a while and then turned the eco on and it started surging. This was right out of the box. What's up with that?
I’m not sure, I’m no generator mechanic lol however, it’s not beyond reason that the carb can get clogged by the packaging. Make sure the spark arrestor is clear from obstruction too. I also only use REC 90 (non-ethanol). Nonetheless, since your within the warranty period, I would just exchange it. I’m sure this Chinese stuff doesn’t have the greatest quality control. Nonetheless, I have more than 400 hrs on mine and still love it. I’ve had people reach out to me approaching 1,600 hrs who still love them too!
That ideal screw is only supposed to have 2 threads coming out the other side is only there to keep the pilot jet in. Throttle is controlled by the solenoid.
Mine is a week old and when I set it to start it turns on... but soon as I switch it to "run" says overload and it dies . Even though nothing is connected to it. It only runs if I leave it on start and just slightly turn left towards run. .what could be the issue ?
I am not a mechanic but it sounds like a bigger issue than mine. Id refer to a trained mechanic or some of the other commenters who obviously know more than me lol
You are supposed to leave it on "start" until the blinking green light turns solid green, and as soon as you see it turn solid green then switch it to "run." If that doesn't fix it I would also remove the spark arrestor and see if it somehow got clogged with carbon yet. It's slightly possible you fouled your spark plug already too. The stock spark plug is a POS. Buy yourself a BRP6ES or similar spark plug.
I have the same problem. InsaAllah gonna return it tomorrow:) this is the 2 time I’m gonna exchange it 🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️ Can not running with 10 gallon air compressor, it says overload
You bought a P-3500 for $699???? Lucky you! Today they want $899 for the same generator! I don't think their common 20% discount will apply to these, either! Mine runs about half RPM these days after being stored for about 8 months. I failed to put Stabil in the gas tank, and there was a bunch of little pepper grains (looks like pepper!) in the gas that I think clogged the lines, jets, carb, bowl, etc. I drained it all out and bought some 91 octane ($3.77 / gallon these days here in Las Vegas!) and will add stabil from now on. I hope that solves my problems. I wish they had a method to remove that stupid black plastic strap/frame thing that blocks access to the carburetor! I'm ready to CUT it at the top and bottom to remove it and re-attach with some aluminum straps for something! Now... "Mr. Garage" here on You tube, has a much longer video to explain how to swap the #76 jet with something like a #68, but... he shows a brass jet thing that he unscrews from the BOTTOM of the carburetor bowl along with the 'emulsion tube'. You found a plastic one from the top! Which one is really the jet? I need to clean them both out, but ... that stupid black plastic frame thing is in the way! Oh... I have that exact same Craftsman tool box set that you have, but I think i bought mine in 1976 and I see will need a nice skate-board with tiny model car on it to complete my workshop! Cape Coral Elks Lodge? Is that what I heard? I was ready to toss my P-3500 generator in my truck and ask you for help until I heard that! You're a LONG drive from Las Vegas!
Lmao yea just a little drive lmao yea I heard they went up in price! I forget the technical name for the plastic one I showed but usually the main jets are in the bottom / float. As I said, I’m no mechanic lmao just a guy that enjoys camping and found a solution to the generator I use lol.
That’s the idle jet I have one of these generators and have researched and learned a lot about the Predator 3500 inverter generator and have done a few modifications such as the NGK bpr7eix iridium spark plug replace the carburetor main jet with a number 68 jet added a magnetic dipstick and removed the charcoal canister and hoses then capped off the two holes with vacuum caps these modifications I recommend but please never drill any holes in the case because this is a forced air cooling system and you will burn up the inverter FYI I’m from Las Vegas Nevada too but now live in Farmington New Mexico so please use a thicker oil in the summer months at least a 10w40
@@BeastFamilyADV I paid the full price of $849 and I love it I live in my 1967 GM city bus full time in the high desert of New Mexico and use my generator every day to stay alive so thank God for the stimulus checks or I might not be alive right now I really wish there will be a forth check so I can replace my door and some windows and my batteries keep up the good work and stay safe
Question, when I'm hooked up to the camper should you turn the eco throttle off? Or do you always leave it on when hooked up. Thanks for the video. Mines been surging for a while. Going to try this.
So, I tend to always leave the Eco on. Another thing I do is to keep the cap to the gas tank loose, especially during extended run times and temperature changes. If the cap malfunctions and does allow venting, the tank may create a vacuum and starve the engine from fuel (since it’s gravity fed). One more thing is make sure there is sufficient venting underneath the generator. I noticed during beach camping, the wheels sunk into the sand and the generator rested on the bottom of the unit. When I got home, there was a lot of sand inside the unit.
@@BeastFamilyADV, this comment literally saved my night. We are day 3 of a power outage and haven’t had any issues. About an hour ago I topped the tank off for the night and 5 minutes later it started loping on me. Watched 3 videos, but just didn’t think it was a carburetor due to the timing and the fact that it had been running fine. I had screwed the cap on tight. Backed off half of a turn and we are back in business. Thank you!!!!!
@@sstrongman1667 thanks for the comment!glad it worked out for ya! I also noticed sometimes if you have the generator running and you lift one end or like push the to a new location it may begin to surge too. It may be from the sloshing of the gas back and forth in the tank allowing air into the fuel line. I had to turn off the unit wait a few minutes and crank it back up. Than it was fine.
Oh wow, honestly your the first person I know that did that! Lol you may want to call Harbor freight to see if you can get a replacement, they may only sell you the whole carb. You can also get in touch with Generatorupgradesupply.com, I have bought several things from them and they always come with a personalized note/letter thanking you for your business. I would check with them to see what they say.
Are you referring to the price I paid for the whole unit? I bought it several years ago now. They have since “updated” it and increased the price. From what I can see, they added a fuel gauge on top of the generator (which is nice) but not for the money increase. I’d still buy it even at this price. I have been thinking about getting the 9500 for my house.
Any truth to the rumor that California forces a too-lean pilot jetting to get CARB approval? Mine has always surged and cleaning the carb did nothing. I've been living with it for years.
Now I know some people have been rejeting the carb to lean it out for better efficiency. But as far as California requiring a too-lean situation? Lol it wouldn’t put it past me with California lol however, I have not heard anything about it
Idle screw is the famous SOFT black plastic !!!! While reinstalling I messed up the threads (forced in) Jet clogged but also need to dump the old fuel from carburetor
I have the same generator. when I hook up my travel trailer with 3,500 A/C and turn A/C on, the fan runs then the generator overloads and idles high when compressor tries to turn on. then runs normal and just runs fan, then a minute later same thing. could this be the problem?
@@BeastFamilyADV Ok...I'm a little confused on all of the different versions that they seem to have! I just purchased one with the battery tray on the right and oil fill opposite the recoil start with gauge.
@@hdrvman yea for some reason they have several different versions. Some have the locking wheel on the left side while others on the right side. I haven’t heard anyone saying one is better than the other but if you go to generatorupgradesupply.com some upgrade kits are model specific so you have to be careful when ordering upgrades. Other than that, it don’t make any difference.
I have a pizza trailer I ran a upright cooler chest freezer led lights and exhaust fan after about 3 hours it shut off and said overload first time this happened I may have about 18 hours on it!! What do you think it is? Do you have an email I can communicate with you? Thanks!
So far so good! No more issues. Have give or take 400 hrs on it and it’s been on the beach and in the dirt. More than enough power for anything I throw at it during camping. Pretty happy with it for the cost.
@@BeastFamilyADV My Machine starts sometimes . I have to turn it to start take gas cap off then it starts . Then when I’m doing a detail for about a hour the overload light comes on . I plug one item at a time . I never run more than one I only have 7 hours on the unit . I changed the Oil ETC. I have no warranty so I’m going to buy another brand and figure out what to do with this Predator Is so unreliable is very nerve-racking and unprofessional when you have to ask the customer to use their power and you have a brand new generator
Hmmmmm, that’s weird! I have seen other channels where they have well over 1,000 hrs on theirs with no problems. As far as the gas cap, sounds like there is an issue with a ventilation line. It’s gravity fed so if the tank is sealed, it may create suction and not allow the gas to flow. Have you contacted customer service about it? You can do the famous, buy a new one, bring it home, then return the broken one! They probably won’t know the difference since yours is brand new
Lol. A microwave doesn't "heat up" Anyway, I got over 8,000 hours on one of 2 of my P3500 I.G.'s. It will surge when the oil gets low or the air filter is dirty.......it sits in the Arizona desert most of the time and 120 degree days don't phase it at all. I've never gone thru the effort you have. After 8 thousand hours it should be all worn out. The issue now is the electronic speed control has seemingly lost the ability to regulate to the energy save rpm and runs like the economy switch is off. I look forward to taking it apart and checking into a rebuild, for grins n giggles.
Holy Crap! 8,000 hrs!!!!!! that's gotta be a record! Good to know that it will last that long! I will def check the oil level (due to change it anyways). I will also replace the filter, hopefully that keeps it from surging. The only reason I did what I did was because I saw another video on it and it worked for them. So, I figured i'd try.
@@BeastFamilyADV I'm impressed as well. I put it thru hell, being a full time RV'er that immensely dislikes the greed behind $50 plus a night for a park I'm pretty much required to run 'em a lot or die of heat stroke. I never changed the air filter, just washed it out with a bit of gas and kept going. This thing even fell off a bumper rack when i was changing parking spots and the frame broke at one handle, which I repaired with a propane torch and alumaweld rods. It of course looks like it is a work horse. For a Harbor Freight product it is amazingly well built. Even more interesting by comparison is my onboard 4kv blew a head gasket at a bit over 5,000 hrs.
Mine was fine for 1 week. Then My AMP demand went past 14AMPs and the the genie coughs and dies off. Could that be the issue...I am okay running at 3-5 AMPS...Pls advise Thank you
These things are rated for 20 amps so unless your doing more than that it shouldn't be cutting off. I wonder if when you draw more power and it revs up that its either getting choked out or not enough fuel that is causing it to die out. If your mechanically savvy, clean the carbonator jets in the float and make sure that the air filter is not clogged.
Can't over emphasise the importance of keeping the spark arrestor basket clean. If it guns up fast turn your mixture screw it to reduce fuel flow and thus carbon build up.
YESSSSSS!!!! OMG!!!! I just checked mine since I saw a couple comments including your about it. WOW, mine was all gunked up. I pulled it off and carbon just fell out onto the floor. A little warm soapy water and all clean again. All predator owners should do this. Mine was pretty much clogged.
I waited too long to test my generator, when I finally did it was past the return period. It was surging right out of the box...I thought I was out $850. Saw this video, drained the carb, adjusted the screw, poked out the jet. My genny is currently purring like a kitten, thank you!!!
Glad to hear it! Thanks for the comment!
This fixed my Predator 3500 watt generator! I had disassembled the carb and cleaned it completely but didn’t know that part had a whole in the bottom. I cleaned that hole and it runs like a top now! Thank you for making this video to help the rest of us out! Kudos man!
So glad to hear this! Thanks for letting us know!
@ thanks for posting the fix!
My predator with 746 hours lives on thanks to your video! I also evacuated old gas and drained carburetor bowl and now it's running like new!
Awesome! Glad to help! Thanks for the comment!
That worked beautifully - I thank you for putting this video out there for the rest of us to benefit from your expertise.
Lol I appreciate the kind words but I am no expert lol just a guy that found a solution and wants to spread the love lol
I have this same generator and had the same trouble with it surging. This worked like a charm. I was afraid I would have to spend a $100 or more to have it fixed. Thanks.
Glad to hear you had success!
Thank you for the info!! I actually bought a tachometer on Amazon and calibrated it that way. Manual states 2600-3600 rpm. I let it warm up, put it eco mode, tuned it down to 2600 rpm, it took only a minute to tune. No more rough idle after cleaning that piece.
Oh wow! Awesome idea with the tachometer! Thanx for the info!
Which tach did you buy?
Thank you so much! The storms in California have been repeatedly knocked out my power in the last few weeks. My Predator sputtered and died last night, I thought it was a goner. This worked beautifully and as you had displayed it wasn't complicated. However, I would have had to bring it in for repair without your video. THANKS!
Your very welcome!!! I’m glad I was able to help! Sorry to hear about your power issues I’ve there
Thanks for the great video. I have changed the jet size, and had it running like a top, until today. Was running real rough and only when on full choke. Your vid reminded me of the tiny jet. Removed, cleaned it, and now it purrs like a kitten again.
I also went to a colder spark plug. Instead of a 7 it’s a 6 now NGK brand. I ordered it from Generator upgrade supply. Seems to run a lot better with the new plug too. Did you go with a smaller main jet? Mine runs super rich and was thinking about leaning it out. Lean and mean!
@@BeastFamilyADV yes but I do not recall what size jet it was. Was ordered from a link at one of these videos.
@@BeastFamilyADV I think you'll find that NGK heat ranges are the opposite of what you would think, a higher number is actually a colder plug. onlysparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/heat-range-image-for-website.jpg
@@louiswestfall9622 lol I knew I was getting it wrong lol thanks for the info! I ran the #8 plug (colder) this weekend and it ran great! Put just about 40 hrs on it and only had to refill it with 1 - 5 gallon jerry can. It was running a Dometic fridge, window shaker a/c and some led lights. Oh yea, a projection screen for camping movie night too (video coming soon) lol
Thanks for the video. Quick easy fix. I used a single strand of twisted copper wire and carb cleaner. Worked like a charm. Will put this on my maintenance list. You da man, thanks.
Awesome to hear! Glad it worked for you!
Been running 3 months almost non stop. Loping then died. Makes sense. Appreciate it
Thanks it fixed my problem with the generator did exactly what you did and it’s much better now after almost 2 years of storage
I’m really glad to hear it!
Paid 350 dollars for mine, bought it at an Estate sale. Had less than 10hrs on it. Love it.
Oh man! What a deal! I’m coming out with a new video on the update with the 5000 we just bought
Great video...very informative...& thank you for leaving the " error" in the video it helps us know what to expect.
thank you so much ...you saved me ...i have this generator 4 years and work great until now .
i did change oil probbably more often than recomended .
once i have issue in the past was clogged exhaust ..it build up carbon so badly that there was barelly any flow and ofcourse didn't work right .
i just removed the screan and after that was like day and night in performance .
Glad to hear I could help!
Thanks for this tip. I have been working on my predator and was not sure how to get that adjusted. Will be doing that for sure. Great video!
Great video, thanks ! First one that showed up when I googled predator 3500 surging.
I let mine sit with ethanol gas in it for about a year and when I started it surging was terrible.
It didn't shut down but it was very annoying. I just put up with it, then Helene hit last Friday.
We used it like it was for 4 days and power is still out. This morning 10/1/24, I shut it down and cleaned the orifice with a needle as suggested.
Since it's really easy to do I went ahead and pulled the carb and checked all of the jets. They were clear but a tiny bit of varnish on them.
I used a torch tip cleaner to clean as much as I could.
Put it all back together and it works great!
I probably didn't need to do the whole carb but I couldn't help myself.
The small black orifice is tiny. When poking the needle through you can see the tip come through. Be careful because you wouldn't want it to break off in there.
The idle adjust screw just provides a stop for the electronic throttle control so it doesn't do anything with fuel flow through the carb. It is a pain to get it back in without cross threading, but it's doable.
They are saying power will be back on on October 3rd but I'm not holding out hopes for that. I've never seen such a devastating storm here in upstate SC.
In the meantime, the Predator is running great! Thanks again!
Awesome! I’m glad to hear that it’s working for you and that we could help in some way. We are currently praying for everyone affected by the hurricane. We hope for a swift recovery. We got a direct hit from Ian that caused damage to our house. Took us about 1 1/2 years to fully recover.
We really appreciate you reaching out to us. We enjoy hearing back from people that have watched our videos.
I drilled a hole with a step bit about 1/2". In that black plastic strip that blocks your straight shot to the idle screw. Now it's much easier to the screw off and started without cross threading it.
Great job. My generator is doing the exact same thing. I need to adjust this also.
Thanks!
Glad it helped
This worked for me on my 8750 Predator generator. Thank you so much. I used a needle, carb cleaner and a compressor to clean out the blockage.
Nice! Glad it helped! Thanks for the comment!
Mine is brand new and surging at idle, was going to take it back but I will try your method first, thanks great video.
If it’s still within the timeframe I suggest just exchange it! If your outside warranty, then give it a try.
Great job... you explained the issue great ...
Keep going. I'll be following you
Hey! I appreciate !
Thanks!!!!! you just saved me from freezing to death in Kentucky!
oh wow!!!! Im glad to help! Stay warm!
Perfect explanation. Works like a champ. Go elk dudes! All good, thanks.
Thanks for the video, in California there is a cap on the screw that prevents adjustment. It must be removed to fix the generator.
Interesting, thanks for the info!
Thank you brother.
Exactly the problem I had.
Exactly the solution I needed
Exactly the problem fixed.
You da man !
Glad to hear it! I’m happy that so many people were helped with my vid.
THanks for the Video, it was good. I am going to try that. I have my Predator for about 2 years now and from day one it was surging at idle & unless a lot of load is applied it just surges or hunts. I have tried vent the entire box, replaced the spark plug, replace the oil, replace with fresh if it sits too long and still doesn't run smooth. So I will try your fix & see what happens, thank you again.
I’m going to be coming out with an update video with some upgrades soon
Also, make sure you clean your spark arrester! My was clogged bad
Just purchased this same generator, and first day of use no issues, but the second day of use I got surging while under light load. I have an older, louder predator generator that was doing the same thing, and this idle jet cleaning worked for it too. I find it strange that after only one day of use this happened, but now I think I know why. I think the case ventilation tube running into the airbox is the primary issue. The tube enters directly adjacent to the idle-jet intake port, and I think oil is entering this hole and causing a blockage. I am going to plug the airbox hole and put a small filter on the valve cover port.
Ohhhh I never considered that! Thanks for the info!
This fixed mine. Thank you to the creator.
Glad it help!
I drilled a hole with a step bit about 1/2". In that black plastic strip that blocks your straight shot to the idle screw. Now it's much easier to the screw off and started without cross threading it.
Thanks for the tip!
Very clear and concise. Thank you!
I am about to get a predator generator. The video was informative ...
You won’t be disappointed for the money
@@BeastFamilyADV the predator 3500 is very nice, but it is a little heavy, so the 2000 maybe the one for me .
@@geraldjefferson7306 yea, the 3500 does have some weight but the 2000 is extremely nice too! I have several friends with it
thanks. This just happened to me. Surging after a long period of not starting it up.
Great vid !!! Thank you for sharing.
Thank you! Thanks for stopping by the channel!
Good info, thanks. My Norton Pgi3500 has been surging since new. I'm suspecting the seller used shitty gas when testing before shipping. I also bought an inline fuel filter that I will install.
Can’t go wrong with a fuel filter! I only use REC90 or no ethanol fuel.
15F today and Predator 3500 decided to act up and die while charging batteries for the house.
Between video, rounding up tools and moving generator to a better location to perform repairs (snow/gravel not a good place to loose parts)…took about 2 hours.
I didn’t find anything visible in the plastic pieces, still sprayed a little carb cleaner inside the carb.
It was still acting up.
I looked into the tank and the fill screen filter had also dropped into bottom of tank and was covering up the pickup inside the tank.
So it was starving for gas too.
Thanks for sharing!
Great job keep up the good work and please stay safe so you can keep us safe
Thank you! And I will
I have the same unit. I installed a conversion kit to run it on gas or propane. I lose a little power on propane but i can run it either way. It runs great.
I was thinking of doing the same thing but the kit was back ordered. Then the 5,000 came out and just decided to buy it.
The innernet is full of specialists. Amazing.
Lmao oh, I’m no specialist trust me. Just an average joe
Thank you, My predator is now purring like a kitten.
Glad to hear it!
This worked great, thank you!
Glad we could help! Thanx for letting us know!
I love this Man.Thank you Sir!!It worked.
Glad to hear it bud!
Miracle...it worked....please tell people when cleaning the jet the needle does not go all the way thru your just cleaning out the brass piece....thought it went thru to the opening in the middle of the screw
Thanks for the comment and info!
Have had my 3500 for about 2 mos now and a week ago it started surging and shut off at 2 am lol. A friend got it going again a day or so later but he bored out the jet 400th bigger which I'm not sure if I was happy about but it seems to run a little rough, now that I've watched your video I wonder if he has the the idle set correctly. Makes sense.
Interesting, I haven’t heard many people making it more rich. Usually, people have been leaning it out which helps prevent spark plug issues and clogging the spark arrestor. As the saying goes, lean is mean lmao. I would get a jet kit and re bet the carb so you know exactly what you have in there and tune it that way.
Just went out and cleaned the jet and it is back purring like a kitten although putting the idle screw back in was a PITA. Never the less after I got it back in and set the idle speed was extremely happy with the way it is running.
I’m glad to hear it! I also put in a “hotter” plug and it seems to help. Went from a BPR7 to a 6. Seems to helps out. Also, others have stated that they are re-jetting the carb to run leaner.
I picked one up from a guy that had it listed on marketplace for $50. Said it just quit running. I got it home gave it a few pulls and it fired off for about 10 sec and died. It came with a new spark plug and air filter installed and all I did was replace a gasket and clean the fuel system. Runs great now.
Wow! You stole that thing!!!! Nice!!
This is very helpful. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Good info. Thanks. I just bought my brand new predator 3500 for my heat press machine 1500 watts. I sell T-shirts for festivals n shows. It runs great but once I get closer to the temperature I need for the machine it idols really high n the motor starts shaking. Do u think that’s my problem? IdolIng issue?
Thanks for the comment! To answer your question, i would first find how many watts and amps your pulling when the machine gets to the temperature you need. Remember, the generator has a limit of 20amps. When your reach long max output of the generator, the rpms will be high and may result in “shaking”.
Ok thanks
Thanks fixed the problem.
I bought a new machine with less then 1-hour on it at a estate sale. Had some gas in it, but had not been touched in about 18 months. When I looked at the machine, the switch on the right side was in the run position. What I have found out this controls the gas, choke and ignition. I charged the battery and got it to start, but it will not run in the RUN position, need to leave it in start position, which is the choke. So I drained all the gas, took the bowl of the bottom of the carb, got fresh 89 octane gas and added some Sea Foam to the gas. Still will not run in the RUN position. I was looking on here and saw your video and though it would give it a try. Thanks for the info, it was helpful, but it did not fix my problem. I'm wonder now if the problem is in the device that off, run start switch is attached to. Has to be starving for fuel.
That’s a good possibility but I haven’t seen or heard of that one really failing or being the problem. Have you checked the spark arrestor? A friend of ours, while primitive camping with us, couldn’t get theirs to stay running. It would just die out, I checked the spark arrestor and it was completely clogged choking the engine out. We cleaned removed it and it fired right up and ran like a champ. We cleaned the spark arrestor by soaking it in gas and replaced it several hours later. They had no issues the rest of the weekend.
These engines usually run rich and most of the times need to be leaned out. The Predator 5000 (which was just pulled from the shelves) actually came with several size jets for the carb to tune it depending on your location. This may be “safe” for the engine and keep it cool but fouls plugs and clogs any muffler or spark arrestor.
I’m thinking of pulling the carb next and clean it.
@@johnniles7939 if your pulling it out, I would change the jets and lean it out a bit more depending on your altitude to sea level. Here is FL, they run very rich.
New subscriber. Great video. My issue is just the opposite of yours. Mine surges at idle and runs great under load. Would you suggest cleaning the jet would resolve my issue as well?
Hmmmm, well my issue was always when it was on eco and not under a strong load. I wonder if you do the same thing if it would fix your problem.
I went through all this exactly and I had no luck. I got it so it would idle down and stay even until you put any kind of load on it and it's all over the place. Generator has very low hours and started this almost immediately after I got it (should have returned it..). Replaced the plug (old one looked fine), air filter is spotless. I even sprayed some light oil on the governor mechanism thinking it might be sticky. No luck. Love the generator but this drives me absolutely nuts and I don't really trust a shop to work on it - I paid one $80 and all they did was swish out the carb, no change. I don't think many places know how to work on these things.
Hmmmm, did you get the warranty? I would just swap it out for a different one. I also changed the plug. I went to generatorupgradesupply.com and bought one of their spark plugs ( different heat rating) and it runs better. Nonetheless, these generators notoriously run extremely rich, many people solve a lot of problems changing the jets in the carb to remove some fuel. However, if it is still under the harbor freight replacement warranty, I’d exchange it.
You can use a strand from a BBQ brush to clear jets also👍
Good idea! Thanks!
Thank you. Very informative
No prob! Thanks!
Thank you for this video. I'll try it.
No prob! Good luck!
@@BeastFamilyADV I tried the procedure this morning. there seemed to be an obstruction but cant swear to it. the wire fit the hole snuggly anyway. put it back together, cleaned the spark arrestor, loosened the screw in the stem on the bowl and drained about a cup of gas out. starts fine with switch in start position and will run fine. when I switch to run it surges and shakes and will die if I pull the trigger on my belt sander. I repeated the process with same results. It has been a while since it was run, maybe 7-8 months, no problem then but only ran it for 2 hours. Your thoughts would be appreciated.
@@jimwilliams8229 it’s sounds like your carb is out of adjustment. Turn the screw on the side to the right until it’s in all the way. Then, back it out 2 full turns. This will get you somewhere in the ball park. Make sure “eco” is turned off. Start the engine, let it get to operating temp. Turn the screw back to the right until the engine RPM begins to increase by itself. Then, back it off until is settles to idle. If that doesn’t work, so the same but turn the screw to the left. Once you get the rpm to increase back the screw slowly until it goes back to idle. If the engine stalls or bogs, the screw is being turned the wrong way.
After I did this, I turned eco on and fined tuned the adjustment.
Hope this helps! Let me know if it does!
I love my 3500 and have had it for about 4 plus years so far. I am having a problem right now with mine. When I go to turn it off it keeps wanting to run and chug and like it's dying but just won't shut off. Any advice?
Hmmmm, that’s the first time I heard about this issue. Might be an issue with the carb or the choke. Anyone else run into this issue? I know we got a bunch of Predator owners here
@@BeastFamilyADV I was just checking out the carburetor, and seems like the choke cable has undue slop in it. I wonder if could that be causing the issue? Gonna try pulling the carb tomorrow and clean it.
@@mrgreenbudz37 a clean carb is always good. I don’t know if the loose choke cable is the issue though. It sounds like the machine is not properly turning off ignition and or allowing too much fuel (once turned off) to enter the combustion chamber. I’m sure it has something to do with the black dial for the on / choke switch. Something behind it must be off or out of adjustment some how.
Just curious, how is your spark arrestor in your exhaust? I know these cause various issues if not properly cleaned. I’m in the process of cleaning my for this weekend. They get dirty and clogged quickly.
if ya poke too big of a hole in the jet can u easily find a replacement one?
Hmmmm, not too sure. Carburetors aren’t too expensive
Does the needle need to clear a hole. Tried sucking and blow. No flow either way. ?
I would suggest to clear the hole and use a needle or pin. It is a extremely small hole and just sucking or blowing prolly won’t do it.
Are you suppose to be able to push needle all the way in
Ummm I mean I shouldn’t be flush if that’s what your askin g
Question, my 3500 predator is running fine until the camper AC cuts on then after 10 minutes or so, the generator overloads. Start it back up it runs fine plug the camper back in it’s fine then the AC does it again. Problem is, it should be running the single AC unit no problem. Is this similar to what you’re talking about yours doing?
How many BTUs is your A/C unit? It sounds like your A/C is drawing too many Amps. The 3500 can only handle 20 amps.
Does you gen drip fuel?
No, I can’t say that it does. Have you found where the drip is coming from?
Mine only does this when I have my espresso machine plugged in. And it's only 1600 watts! Will this help??
Hmmm, I’m sure it can’t help. That espresso machine is well within its power range. Just posted a video of me powering my 30 amp trailer pumping more than 25 amps and more than 3,000 watts. So I would give this a try and see if it works. For me, this always seemed to happen at 2 am after drinking in south Florida. So I had to keep getting up to re start it for the a/c lol uggghh so glad I don’t have to deal with it anymore. Plus, I plan on getting the 5,000 and testing that out.
Can anyone tell me if this will help the surching that makes it stall out? If this little piece is cleaned will it stop doing that surging and stalling? And my eco switch when pressed does nothing ..what dies that mean? The electric start does not work as well ok plmk if anyone can help ..thx
It fixed my surging and stalling issue. Your throttle adjustments sound like they are off chasing the eco setting not to work (don’t quote me tho). Not an expert here lol
My generator says 5566 code what does that mean?
Great description 👆👍
Why do you have to remove the idle screw?
If I remember correctly, you have to remove it to get the other one out.
You have to clean the idle and main jets in the carb . There is no shortcut. It's a short coming of all carburetor engines. You can pop the fuel bowl off and spray up thru the main jet, but the best way is to pop the carb off. I start my 3500 every 2 weeks for 15 minutes. Or drain the fuel from the carb. Fuel stabilizer is a must.
That is the best way to clean it but many people don’t have that level of skill to be honest. Thanks for you comment and the good information!
Modern Fuel blends are terrible. No amount of fuel additive will completely prevent this. The best thing you can do is run your genset once a month until it is completely warmed. This also gets rid of any moisture in the engine if you live in humid climate. Eventually the tip shown in this video will come to help!
Thanx for the info!!! I Only run non-ethanol fuel and make sure I start it once a month or so
QUESTION...before doing any of this, if my generator is bone stock, would it be wise to count the number of turns for my idle screw turn if I screwed it in all the way so I'd know how many turns to back it out ?
Good luck with your fund raising.
Also, you might want to invest in a tripod so you don't have to display those fancy one handed skills...lol
Lmao I do have a tripod, just too lazy to set it up lmao. That is a good idea either way the idle screw to make sure you set it back correctly.
can you just stick a pin in there while the jet is still set in the motor, any room for this? I'd mark the idle screw and count the turns to tighten to a light set then back it out all the way if you end up taking it out then you have a reference point: screw the jet all the way in to a light set then back it out the couned turns, like the 1.5 of a Holley carb.
No there’s not room, you have to pull it completely out. That’s a good idea about the idle screw, it will give you some idea of where to set it during reassemble. Since these things come from China and prolly sent all over the world, they have a general setting. I adjusted mine to my liking for south Florida weather. Obviously jetting it would make a bigger difference and I’ve seen other people on RUclips change the jets out.
Cleaned her and started working again. Mixed results on the idle fix
I just bought this generator. The first time I started it with the eco turned off I let it run for a while and then turned the eco on and it started surging. This was right out of the box. What's up with that?
I’m not sure, I’m no generator mechanic lol however, it’s not beyond reason that the carb can get clogged by the packaging. Make sure the spark arrestor is clear from obstruction too. I also only use REC 90 (non-ethanol). Nonetheless, since your within the warranty period, I would just exchange it. I’m sure this Chinese stuff doesn’t have the greatest quality control. Nonetheless, I have more than 400 hrs on mine and still love it. I’ve had people reach out to me approaching 1,600 hrs who still love them too!
That ideal screw is only supposed to have 2 threads coming out the other side is only there to keep the pilot jet in. Throttle is controlled by the solenoid.
Thanks for the info
Thanks, gonna try that. Some say, the spark arrestor could be plugged as well. I'm also switching the fuel to ethanol free.
yes, if possible, always run ethanol free. These carbs are small and jets are even smaller so ethanol can easily clog these and cause issues.
Great video!!!
Thanks for the video, Great learning experience for my self and others.
Glad you enjoyed it
Good day why predator 3500 spark plug no spark
Great advice. Gonna try this out tomorrow.
Nice plug on the Instagram link
Thanks!
Your rack did you buy that or did it come on your trailer already that looks perfect for the generator
The rack came with the trailer. It’s part of the black out edition.
thank you so much for your guidance
Wondering why it says overload and cuts off please help
I noticed that too when mine was doing it. I believe it’s having trouble throttling up to compensate for any amount of load.
Mine is a week old and when I set it to start it turns on... but soon as I switch it to "run" says overload and it dies . Even though nothing is connected to it. It only runs if I leave it on start and just slightly turn left towards run. .what could be the issue ?
I am not a mechanic but it sounds like a bigger issue than mine. Id refer to a trained mechanic or some of the other commenters who obviously know more than me lol
You are supposed to leave it on "start" until the blinking green light turns solid green, and as soon as you see it turn solid green then switch it to "run." If that doesn't fix it I would also remove the spark arrestor and see if it somehow got clogged with carbon yet. It's slightly possible you fouled your spark plug already too. The stock spark plug is a POS. Buy yourself a BRP6ES or similar spark plug.
Thanks for the info!
I have the same problem. InsaAllah gonna return it tomorrow:) this is the 2 time I’m gonna exchange it 🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️
Can not running with 10 gallon air compressor, it says overload
You bought a P-3500 for $699???? Lucky you! Today they want $899 for the same generator! I don't think their common 20% discount will apply to these, either!
Mine runs about half RPM these days after being stored for about 8 months. I failed to put Stabil in the gas tank, and there was a bunch of little pepper grains (looks like pepper!) in the gas that I think clogged the lines, jets, carb, bowl, etc. I drained it all out and bought some 91 octane ($3.77 / gallon these days here in Las Vegas!) and will add stabil from now on. I hope that solves my problems. I wish they had a method to remove that stupid black plastic strap/frame thing that blocks access to the carburetor! I'm ready to CUT it at the top and bottom to remove it and re-attach with some aluminum straps for something! Now... "Mr. Garage" here on You tube, has a much longer video to explain how to swap the #76 jet with something like a #68, but... he shows a brass jet thing that he unscrews from the BOTTOM of the carburetor bowl along with the 'emulsion tube'. You found a plastic one from the top! Which one is really the jet? I need to clean them both out, but ... that stupid black plastic frame thing is in the way! Oh... I have that exact same Craftsman tool box set that you have, but I think i bought mine in 1976 and I see will need a nice skate-board with tiny model car on it to complete my workshop!
Cape Coral Elks Lodge? Is that what I heard? I was ready to toss my P-3500 generator in my truck and ask you for help until I heard that! You're a LONG drive from Las Vegas!
Lmao yea just a little drive lmao yea I heard they went up in price! I forget the technical name for the plastic one I showed but usually the main jets are in the bottom / float. As I said, I’m no mechanic lmao just a guy that enjoys camping and found a solution to the generator I use lol.
That’s the idle jet I have one of these generators and have researched and learned a lot about the Predator 3500 inverter generator and have done a few modifications such as the NGK bpr7eix iridium spark plug replace the carburetor main jet with a number 68 jet added a magnetic dipstick and removed the charcoal canister and hoses then capped off the two holes with vacuum caps these modifications I recommend but please never drill any holes in the case because this is a forced air cooling system and you will burn up the inverter FYI I’m from Las Vegas Nevada too but now live in Farmington New Mexico so please use a thicker oil in the summer months at least a 10w40
@@jamesmason7124 thanks for the info! So far how do you like it? Do you think it was worth the money?
@@BeastFamilyADV I paid the full price of $849 and I love it I live in my 1967 GM city bus full time in the high desert of New Mexico and use my generator every day to stay alive so thank God for the stimulus checks or I might not be alive right now I really wish there will be a forth check so I can replace my door and some windows and my batteries keep up the good work and stay safe
Question, when I'm hooked up to the camper should you turn the eco throttle off? Or do you always leave it on when hooked up. Thanks for the video. Mines been surging for a while. Going to try this.
So, I tend to always leave the Eco on. Another thing I do is to keep the cap to the gas tank loose, especially during extended run times and temperature changes. If the cap malfunctions and does allow venting, the tank may create a vacuum and starve the engine from fuel (since it’s gravity fed). One more thing is make sure there is sufficient venting underneath the generator. I noticed during beach camping, the wheels sunk into the sand and the generator rested on the bottom of the unit. When I got home, there was a lot of sand inside the unit.
@@BeastFamilyADV, this comment literally saved my night. We are day 3 of a power outage and haven’t had any issues. About an hour ago I topped the tank off for the night and 5 minutes later it started loping on me. Watched 3 videos, but just didn’t think it was a carburetor due to the timing and the fact that it had been running fine. I had screwed the cap on tight. Backed off half of a turn and we are back in business. Thank you!!!!!
@@sstrongman1667 thanks for the comment!glad it worked out for ya! I also noticed sometimes if you have the generator running and you lift one end or like push the to a new location it may begin to surge too. It may be from the sloshing of the gas back and forth in the tank allowing air into the fuel line. I had to turn off the unit wait a few minutes and crank it back up. Than it was fine.
So I totally broke the idle screw where do I get a new one
Oh wow, honestly your the first person I know that did that! Lol you may want to call Harbor freight to see if you can get a replacement, they may only sell you the whole carb. You can also get in touch with Generatorupgradesupply.com, I have bought several things from them and they always come with a personalized note/letter thanking you for your business. I would check with them to see what they say.
@@BeastFamilyADV so my husband did the exact same thing and broke the screw! Any luck on a replacement for it?
What did you do to fix it? Husband did the same thing
@@Leighfoundit eeek, I’m not sure, I’d check with harbor freight first. They may make you buy a new carburetor
Thank you thought I was going to have to pull the carb
No, not yet lol. I have also change the spark plug and cleaned out the spark arrestor that was clogged. These seem to help too!
Thanks for the vid
Thank You. Great help
How did you get that price ?
Are you referring to the price I paid for the whole unit? I bought it several years ago now. They have since “updated” it and increased the price. From what I can see, they added a fuel gauge on top of the generator (which is nice) but not for the money increase. I’d still buy it even at this price. I have been thinking about getting the 9500 for my house.
Mine serged all I did was spray gunk out in the carb by removing the drain plug for the fuel and spraying it in there. It's that simple and way easier
Thanks for the info! There are always two ways to skin a cat. As long as it works! It sounds like you had more of a float issue than mine.
Great information
Nicely done!
Thanks!
Any truth to the rumor that California forces a too-lean pilot jetting to get CARB approval? Mine has always surged and cleaning the carb did nothing. I've been living with it for years.
Now I know some people have been rejeting the carb to lean it out for better efficiency. But as far as California requiring a too-lean situation? Lol it wouldn’t put it past me with California lol however, I have not heard anything about it
Idle screw is the famous SOFT black plastic !!!! While reinstalling I messed up the threads (forced in)
Jet clogged but also need to dump the old fuel from carburetor
Thanks for the info! Sux that you messed up the threads but it can’t be that expensive to replace
Problem is nobody carries Predator parts
Harbor Freight sells generator parts.
Good video
Thanx
I have the same generator. when I hook up my travel trailer with 3,500 A/C and turn A/C on, the fan runs then the generator overloads and idles high when compressor tries to turn on. then runs normal and just runs fan, then a minute later same thing. could this be the problem?
It really depends on the Power needs of your A/C. I found that if the A/c requires too much initial draw, the fan will only run and won’t cool
No fuel gauge ???
No, not on the old model. The new one they are selling has them.
@@BeastFamilyADV Ok...I'm a little confused on all of the different versions that they seem to have! I just purchased one with the battery tray on the right and oil fill opposite the recoil start with gauge.
@@hdrvman yea for some reason they have several different versions. Some have the locking wheel on the left side while others on the right side. I haven’t heard anyone saying one is better than the other but if you go to generatorupgradesupply.com some upgrade kits are model specific so you have to be careful when ordering upgrades. Other than that, it don’t make any difference.
@@BeastFamilyADV Ok...thank you for the clarification. Happy New Year !
@@hdrvman thank you! Happy New Year!!!
I have a pizza trailer I ran a upright cooler chest freezer led lights and exhaust fan after about 3 hours it shut off and said overload first time this happened I may have about 18 hours on it!! What do you think it is? Do you have an email I can communicate with you? Thanks!
excellent! Thank You!
How is the Predator holding up
So far so good! No more issues. Have give or take 400 hrs on it and it’s been on the beach and in the dirt. More than enough power for anything I throw at it during camping. Pretty happy with it for the cost.
@@BeastFamilyADV My Machine starts sometimes . I have to turn it to start take gas cap off then it starts . Then when I’m doing a detail for about a hour the overload light comes on . I plug one item at a time . I never run more than one I only have 7 hours on the unit . I changed the Oil ETC. I have no warranty so I’m going to buy another brand and figure out what to do with this Predator Is so unreliable is very nerve-racking and unprofessional when you have to ask the customer to use their power and you have a brand new generator
Hmmmmm, that’s weird! I have seen other channels where they have well over 1,000 hrs on theirs with no problems. As far as the gas cap, sounds like there is an issue with a ventilation line. It’s gravity fed so if the tank is sealed, it may create suction and not allow the gas to flow. Have you contacted customer service about it? You can do the famous, buy a new one, bring it home, then return the broken one! They probably won’t know the difference since yours is brand new
@@BeastFamilyADV Thank you I’m just telling the facts that’s all
lol it’s all good! I appreciate the info! I heard WEN is really good for the price! Some aspects even beat the Predator
Lol. A microwave doesn't "heat up"
Anyway, I got over 8,000 hours on one of 2 of my P3500 I.G.'s. It will surge when the oil gets low or the air filter is dirty.......it sits in the Arizona desert most of the time and 120 degree days don't phase it at all. I've never gone thru the effort you have. After 8 thousand hours it should be all worn out. The issue now is the electronic speed control has seemingly lost the ability to regulate to the energy save rpm and runs like the economy switch is off. I look forward to taking it apart and checking into a rebuild, for grins n giggles.
Holy Crap! 8,000 hrs!!!!!! that's gotta be a record! Good to know that it will last that long! I will def check the oil level (due to change it anyways). I will also replace the filter, hopefully that keeps it from surging. The only reason I did what I did was because I saw another video on it and it worked for them. So, I figured i'd try.
@@BeastFamilyADV I'm impressed as well. I put it thru hell, being a full time RV'er that immensely dislikes the greed behind $50 plus a night for a park I'm pretty much required to run 'em a lot or die of heat stroke. I never changed the air filter, just washed it out with a bit of gas and kept going. This thing even fell off a bumper rack when i was changing parking spots and the frame broke at one handle, which I repaired with a propane torch and alumaweld rods. It of course looks like it is a work horse. For a Harbor Freight product it is amazingly well built. Even more interesting by comparison is my onboard 4kv blew a head gasket at a bit over 5,000 hrs.
@@thercrv8202 wow! Yea I bet! I’m glad it’s working out for you though! I have sold these things to so many people including a Honda Mechanic! Lmao
@@BeastFamilyADV Hahahaha, yeah man, even Honda can't compete.
Mine was fine for 1 week. Then My AMP demand went past 14AMPs and the the genie coughs and dies off. Could that be the issue...I am okay running at 3-5 AMPS...Pls advise Thank you
These things are rated for 20 amps so unless your doing more than that it shouldn't be cutting off. I wonder if when you draw more power and it revs up that its either getting choked out or not enough fuel that is causing it to die out. If your mechanically savvy, clean the carbonator jets in the float and make sure that the air filter is not clogged.
Can't over emphasise the importance of keeping the spark arrestor basket clean. If it guns up fast turn your mixture screw it to reduce fuel flow and thus carbon build up.
YESSSSSS!!!! OMG!!!! I just checked mine since I saw a couple comments including your about it. WOW, mine was all gunked up. I pulled it off and carbon just fell out onto the floor. A little warm soapy water and all clean again. All predator owners should do this. Mine was pretty much clogged.