Made me smile at the end of the video. I returned 2 5000 generators because of problems I was having. Ended up with the Champion 4500. And while a couple of hundred less output on propane, it has been humming along perfectly. Propane is a must for me. :) Also, you get 60 or 90 days warranty with the predator, Champion gives you 3 years.
This is their warranty from HF site under warranty information "We guarantee this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship 90 days from the date of purchase. Limitations apply." Not sure where the 2 years comes from.
@@davidmorcos1463 I stand corrected, your 100% right. That leads me to another point then; Why would ANYONE in their right mind but any generator with a 90 day warranty?
Reference the predator 5000: I was told by HF customer service the serial numbers affected are 230615xxxxx thru 230628xxxxx. Harbor Freight will replace these units when new units become available . Estimated time is december or january . The serial number is located behind the starter embossed on the side of the engine.
One thing for people running generators on RVs with air-conditioners, remember to turn off your AC before restarting your generator in the event of running out of fuel or generator going into overload. Because your RV's house battery will keep the thermostat in the on position. The thermostat doesn't know that it lossed 120 VAC power. It just controls the relays that route the AC power to the fan and compressor. Normally if you (monkey around) with the thermostat there is a safety delay of several minutes before the compressor will turn back on. This is to let the head pressure equalize in the sealed-system. Otherwise the piston/pistons are fighting against the pressure and it will not start. Not good on the compressor or the generator. So, after restarting the generator I would let 10 minutes go by before attempting to start the air-conditioner. Usually the time it takes to refuel is long enough. 👍
The generation 2 version of this generator is in stock now at most stores. The UPC code on the updated units ends with 16077. The UPC code is located on a label below the muffler exhaust port.
The Honda $$$ and the GenMax units with Electronic Fuel Injection really have my attention now. Carb/fuel maintenance less of an issue. Plus the GenMax is the light weight winner in the 4500watt or so weight class at under 60 lbs.
@johnnysweekends will do, just put in a support ticket. It's really an awesome generator when it was working. I'm sure it's because I bought one if the first ones. Just sucked because we're at a music festival, and are thankful that today isn't as hot, and we have enough juice in the batteries to make it one more day.
Thank-you so very much I had one in box still in the garage and returned it yesterday. They didn't say a thing to me about a recall. I showed them the PO on the box and they looked it up and guess what? Disaster averted. I bought a Champion and extended warranty. Thanks again!
@@johnnysweekends How has the Predator 5000 performed since you posted this comment? How much have you used it and would you purchase another predator 5000?
Great video with the updates from HF, and also - revealing that the Champion 4500 has the same engine as the Predator 3500, (and is slightly quieter and cheaper!) Hopefully once the bugs are worked out of the Predator 5000, that will be a great unit too. It would nice if HF offered the 5000 at a super discounted price, to show good will towards the issues they are having. Also, I have an idea for a future video for you - discussing the different brand generators and which companies make which units. There are so many clones, and clones of clones, it's hard to keep them straight anymore.
Uhh there are so many made by the few manufacturers out there. It’s hard to keep up. I have mentioned it before in some videos much like this. And thank you btw ..👍🏼😀
Just bought a Predator 5000 in Arizona a few weeks ago and been running it at home for a break in period before camping and using it with the RV. I do have the box still, so will check with my local HF store to see if it may be a problem. One advantage for the propane I want to mention is that I camp at high altitude (9,000 ft.) and the ability to run propane negates the need to re jet the carb...although at least they do provide different jets with the unit which is nice! Still gonna lose some capacity at that altitude though....instead of 3600 watts, probably be more like 3200 or so...
I've had 3 champion generators. All of them are broke down. Didn't get one season out of any of them. I have 2 predators for years and they still run. Thinking of upgrading to the predator 5000.
3…!! Wow what are you running 🥲? What models were they? Pretty crazy to have 3 die and not last a year. Considering the model the predator uses the same engine….sooo curious as to what models failed and why.
I was looking to see why but I’m on my second 5000 and around 2500 hours, just turns off says overload also hardly a load… otherwise no problems but definitely depends on how long it’ll take you to get 2000 plus hours…
Thank you for the update the harbor freight in my area does not even have the 5000 on their website anymore. I have the older 3500 with the other engine still doing very well only have 100 hours on it I did buy one of their open frame 4550 inverter. It’s doing well. It has the 223cc engine it is just slightly louder than the 3500. The only problem out of the newer one is the carbon monoxide sensor went out, so it kept shutting off every 20 minutes of runtime, but it is fixed now
Great report can’t go wrong with a champion. I own it doesn’t other dual fuels various models. They have great support Harbor freight’s been good sport also.
So we purchased one for my RV and we are excited about it. What sort of tests should I do before we actually take it out? I’ve ran my ac on full with all other appliances. The engine does rev a bit with multiple appliances
There is really no testing needed except to see if it runs correctly up to full load. The problem was starting ac units when temps were warmer. Or any type of inductive load really. Hair dryers and such no problem, small compressors or a ac unit would have issues constantly. The new version is due out anytime. They updated something supposedly
Purchased one the first week they came out (per the store). Mine often struggles hard when my air compressor kicks on (the only item I am using it for) and occasionally throws the breaker. It also just shuts down occasionally when at idle. Lately, I seem to be going through propane quicker, and can sometimes smell gas, but all connections are good. Really like the unit, just worried about these issues and it’s longevity. Didn’t buy the warranty.☹️
Reference the predator 5000: I was told by HF customer service the serial numbers affected are 230615xxxxx thru 230628xxxxx. Harbor Freight will replace these units when new units become available . Estimated time is december or january . The serial number is located behind the starter embossed on the side of the engine.
After talking with several stores I was able to gather some info to get you the latest scoop. Hopefully these are back soon. Let me know if your has issues if you own it! #Predator #generator #recalled #harborfreight Alternative gens…….. Champion 4500 Dual Fuel: amzn.to/45fM21A Wen DF 4500: amzn.to/3F35CmV Pulsar 4000: amzn.to/46aqfcT Direct Questions for fast response ...asqme.com/@johnnysweekends CHECK OUT MY AMAZON STORE: www.amazon.com/shop/johnnysweekends If you feel I helped you out..Buy me a Coffee 👍🏼🙌🏼👊🏼😀 www.buymeacoffee.com/johnny5120J
What do you think of them now? Seems like you can find replacement parts for them at this point. Some people were saying you can't get the cylinder head if you end up needing one. What do you think?
I'm going to test it this weekend. Like you I have two 15,000 BTU AC units in my toy hauler. I don't have the wine. But the unit did stall with the second AC load.
@@johnnysweekendsi went camping this weekend. Only issue I had was a hot restart. That took a few attempts one time. I did not use more than 2,800 Watts at one time. It was raining all day Saturday. No issues.
I was one of the first to purchase back in July. box is long gone. no email from HF, but i have seen/heard that whine before the soft start was added to my RV.
Hi… I was just about to grab this predator 5000 until HF pulled it off the shelf. I’m still very interested in this unit. However, have you had the chance to review the Wen DF452iX. It’s very similar to the predator 5000. Just curious about your thoughts. Thanks
I have the older 3500 with a Loncin engine. Probably, they went fore cheaper options in later versions. Unfortunately, almost all HF products have gone down in quality and up in price lately.
@@jorgepulidovaladez9418 great. I had to run it the other day for about 6 hours. It easily ran a window unit, refrigerator, tv, internet, and some lights. Running those items only used about 1500 watts. I really love the option to use propane. Easy to get it up and running. Probably gonna change the oil this weekend and run it for a little while.
I hope the newer Champion generators are better than the older ones. I bought a 7500-watt duel fuel several years ago and at 64 hours of run time, it started shutting down on low oil level in less than a tank of gas. By 80 hours it was shutting down at about 2 hours of run time. I will never own another champion product again.
@@jonathanramirez2896wow...see...that's the biggest problem with Harbor Freight, that dishonest and extremely variable Customer Service response we get that differs from store to store seemingly at the whim of the local manager, or maybe regional manager...we're at the mercy of whatever lie they want to invent to avoid covering defective garbage while they're raking in our money. 🤬
Harbor freight will not be able to send emails to those people who have affected units if those people have never given Harbor Freight an email address.
I have never grounded a portable unit. I have never seen anyone else. I think it’s more legal stuff than being practical. To properly ground something with a grounding rod normally needs a ground rod minimum of 5 feet to 8 feet deep. But you then also create a shock hazard someone can touch or grab with copper wire. Have you ever seen a portable small unit that is not permanent grounded..?
Harbor Freight is getting a little too pricey for being a budget tool store. Got a PG2300IS for a couple hundred cheaper than the Predator 2000. 30 day on the PG2300IS vs. Predator on 90 day if you can show its defective. Both are Ducar gensets.
I read so much about the Predator 3500 losing the Multifunctional Indicating Meter and not being able to get replacement parts. I see for years people have ordered this part and being told (on backorder). I’ve never seen any response that anyone has received this part. What’s you take on this and to get around this?
My predator 5000 kept cutting off around 3000 watts. I took it in and replaced it, same thing. It’s supposed to handle 5000 start up, I’m starting at 0, then working my way up and it cuts off at 3000 when it says it’s supposed to hold 3900 watts continuously. I’m using mine for my mobile grooming trailer and I need to be able to run my a/c with the dryer. That’s when it reaches the 3000. I don’t know what to do at this point. Maybe get a higher wattage?
Johnny, after reading your initial review of the Predator 5000 , you indicated in the comments there was a recall. My two year old 5000 is still in the unopend box, so I called my friendly HF manager, who advised he has no information on ANY Predator recall. Would you please advise details so I can exchange it if necessary? Thank you.
I would definitely check it. Sitting in the box it could be DOA. It was several units that had a SKU number in a certain range. The manager should know or speak to someone else who actually knows
@johnnysweekends i own a trucking company, i'm looking for a small generator that's good in most weather conditions. Need to start it to the back of a semi truck.
@mrragnarokk7415 have you looked at adding one of these for the harsh weather. A little moisture is fine but being down poured on is not so good. amzn.to/3EZkDWW
Hi Jonny, I purchased the predator 5000 from Harbour freight in Detroit last week. When it’s running, mostly at idle sometimes it will stumble a little bit. Not like it’s going to stall just a change in sound. Doesn’t seem to do it as much under load. Is this a normal occurrence and will it stop after the break-in period? I changed the oil today after eight hours of runtime and there was metal flakes in it.
The metal looking flakes could just be assembly grease which has a silver tint. After a couple oil changes that will be gone. The stumble is probably because they come lean from the factory so when no load its just free spinning really and not drawing in much fuel.
I just watched a bunch of your videos they are very informative I thank you for posting them. Should I return this unit and exchange it for a different one because of the rough popping idle and the slight whine when I put a load on or am I overthinking this? It would be a hassle to exchange because I am in Canada. Otherwise it seems to work fine I’ve had it at max load and it hasn’t overloaded.
@garycossar3577 I would call first because I don’t know how long the return window is. I’m sure it’s still good and probably will be for months. If it’s having issues and say dies in 8 months well then maybe you will wish you had returned it. So up to you. If it isn’t running right out of the box, then it’s not right. If it was a lawn mower or a dirt bike or something else that wasn’t running right would you return it?
The new ones are out. Most are having no problems, but unfortunately there are a few that still do. So left overs ..???? One thing with HF is a good return policy. Especially with the warranty .
The 5000 dual fuel will just quit and say overload when you restart it and will not start on propane, this thing is not working for me need a new one but can't get one till after Christmas some time
I told you so 😂 I will keep my firman for the time being and let others be the guinea pigs. Can’t wait for the new generator. That’s supposedly getting released around the end of the year but I won’t buy the first batch until the bugs get fixed.
Mine ran for about 48 hours straight great unit this Labor Day weekend started up and ran for a half hour and it shut down on May try add noil different gas it keeps shutting now and you started it would shut down start it shut down
I have looked at it and may get it but pretty sure it’s a champion 4500 dual fuel. Electronics could be slightly different but everything else looks the same
I was wondering if the 5000 watt Predator inverter generator is capable of running two RV air-conditioners? I just got a 5000 to replace my 3500 Predator and the new 5000 ran both ACs one time but it now instantly goes into overload. I've tried starting one before the other and vice-versa in case one pulls more on start-up. I know one AC unit has the hard start capacitor upgrade. I noticed that with one AC it was pulling 12-13 amps. It seems it should be able to get the other one started when it has a max of 32 amps available. I'm wondering if I have one with the inverter board problem as you mentioned here. I do have the box still and also have a 2 year extended warranty. The 3500 was pretty forgiving on going into overload. You really had to have an overload for good amount of time before shutting down. This 5000 seems like its prematurely shutting down in overload. The 3500 if there was too much head pressure on the compressor it would sit there for a while before shutting the generator output off. As a matter of fact, the thermal heat switch in the compressor would trigger the power off to the compressor before generator would overload. That's when the compressor was locked by head pressure and didn't even attempt to crank over. Like after cycling off after running continuous all day and then cycling back on again with residual head pressure.
It should run a 15k and 13.5k but under high heat conditions it may have trouble starting the second as starting amps and heat is where it has to work the hardest. Start amps can be double the running. The 5000 also seems to have load issues and it seems they are to inconsistent and now I dont even think I can recommend it…😕 its 50/50 on if you get a good or bad from everything i read and see. One thing to check is make sure everything else is off when starting second AC. Fridge, converter, electric water heater and more.
@@johnnysweekendsthank you sir for your response sir What about their 9750 inverter? Any issues with that one? $2,299 Any better alternatives? I’m a disabled veteran and getting around to figure these out is challenging for me I appreciate your help very much thank you ✌️
@jrbarilla they have a 9500 inverter ina closed frame/box. They have open frame inverter models as well like the 8750 for $1199. These are made from the actual predator manufacturer not Ducar. All depends how quiet you want…..
@@johnnysweekendsthank you again or your response Which do you recommend And do any have issues? Anything else I should consider in lieu of? Same price point but maybe better? I’m Looking to Get as Close To 10,000 As Possible Ty sir
Ran mine 32 hours for a weekend in the woods, came back the following weekend overload light stays on will not reset. Nothing plugged in at all, Bad inverter. Returning it it’s not even a month old
@@johnnysweekends I got an email about quality control. It's dated August 31st. I'm going to fill it out after the weekend. They want to know if you use propane or gas. How many hours I've been running it. And any additional feedback.
Or buy something that's commercial rated like a Honda. At least it has a reputation that goes back over 45 years as well as being the largest engine producer on the planet.
Commenting because I am troubleshooting my 5000 and have the load issue, ran for around 100hrs and now there's gas in the oil and it won't start. I have to take it back. This is so lame.
Don't feel bad you are not alone. I purchased one and it did exactly what you described. The fuel in the tank went inside the engine and I took it back. I had purchased the two year warranty but the warranty is only a one time replacement Once replaced your warranty ended according to HF.
Glad I didn’t end up buying 5000. Their replacement warranty is nice, but it is good for nothing if you need to use generator for backup and it doesn’t work… Then of course local HF stores don’t have them in stock.
This thing is a piece of crap. I bought one and it worked fine for a day (24 hours). Now it’s just crap (35 hours). Problem is I’m on a week long hunting trip in FL and it’s 0209 am messing with this generator. This is ridiculous
You are always the first one to push these updates, thank you!
You’re welcome..👍🏼😀
Was just going to buy one
Made me smile at the end of the video. I returned 2 5000 generators because of problems I was having. Ended up with the Champion 4500. And while a couple of hundred less output on propane, it has been humming along perfectly. Propane is a must for me. :)
Also, you get 60 or 90 days warranty with the predator, Champion gives you 3 years.
Awesome glad you liked. Champion still one of the best! 👍🏼😀
HF gives a 2 year warranty on their Predator Gens
This is their warranty from HF site under warranty information "We guarantee this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship 90 days from the date of purchase. Limitations apply." Not sure where the 2 years comes from.
@@davidmorcos1463 I stand corrected, your 100% right. That leads me to another point then; Why would ANYONE in their right mind but any generator with a 90 day warranty?
You sir ask a very good question.
Reference the predator 5000: I was told by HF customer service the serial numbers affected are 230615xxxxx thru 230628xxxxx. Harbor Freight will replace these units when new units become available . Estimated time is december or january . The serial number is located behind the starter embossed on the side of the engine.
I tried to get serial numbers but they had no info on that. I asked well what if people got rid of the boxes then what……..silence lol.
Looks like GM7250iEDC is also good choice for this range.
Told any shipping 12/20 or later are good.
Really excellent, articulate, and technologically adept reviews...very impressive.
One thing for people running generators on RVs with air-conditioners, remember to turn off your AC before restarting your generator in the event of running out of fuel or generator going into overload. Because your RV's house battery will keep the thermostat in the on position. The thermostat doesn't know that it lossed 120 VAC power. It just controls the relays that route the AC power to the fan and compressor. Normally if you (monkey around) with the thermostat there is a safety delay of several minutes before the compressor will turn back on. This is to let the head pressure equalize in the sealed-system. Otherwise the piston/pistons are fighting against the pressure and it will not start. Not good on the compressor or the generator. So, after restarting the generator I would let 10 minutes go by before attempting to start the air-conditioner. Usually the time it takes to refuel is long enough. 👍
The generation 2 version of this generator is in stock now at most stores. The UPC code on the updated units ends with 16077. The UPC code is located on a label below the muffler exhaust port.
Wondering what they changed….
They didn't have that information.@@johnnysweekends
@mancavechronicles2139 yea I wouldn’t think they would. Guess I have to dig for info lol
thanks! saved my day
The Honda $$$ and the GenMax units with Electronic Fuel Injection really have my attention now. Carb/fuel maintenance less of an issue. Plus the GenMax is the light weight winner in the 4500watt or so weight class at under 60 lbs.
nah. your gas tank will still rust out. just dont be lazy and not do proper maintenance
My genmax with efi lasted 15 hours, and now it won't run. Hopefully they will fix it under warranty
@diverdarrell what happened? Curious? Keep us updated
@johnnysweekends will do, just put in a support ticket. It's really an awesome generator when it was working. I'm sure it's because I bought one if the first ones. Just sucked because we're at a music festival, and are thankful that today isn't as hot, and we have enough juice in the batteries to make it one more day.
Thank-you so very much I had one in box still in the garage and returned it yesterday. They didn't say a thing to me about a recall. I showed them the PO on the box and they looked it up and guess what? Disaster averted. I bought a Champion and extended warranty. Thanks again!
Awesome !! Yup mine goes back tomorrow.
Seemed like such a good unit but it happens
@@johnnysweekends How has the Predator 5000 performed since you posted this comment? How much have you used it and would you purchase another predator 5000?
Great video with the updates from HF, and also - revealing that the Champion 4500 has the same engine as the Predator 3500, (and is slightly quieter and cheaper!) Hopefully once the bugs are worked out of the Predator 5000, that will be a great unit too. It would nice if HF offered the 5000 at a super discounted price, to show good will towards the issues they are having. Also, I have an idea for a future video for you - discussing the different brand generators and which companies make which units. There are so many clones, and clones of clones, it's hard to keep them straight anymore.
Uhh there are so many made by the few manufacturers out there. It’s hard to keep up. I have mentioned it before in some videos much like this.
And thank you btw ..👍🏼😀
Just bought a Predator 5000 in Arizona a few weeks ago and been running it at home for a break in period before camping and using it with the RV. I do have the box still, so will check with my local HF store to see if it may be a problem.
One advantage for the propane I want to mention is that I camp at high altitude (9,000 ft.) and the ability to run propane negates the need to re jet the carb...although at least they do provide different jets with the unit which is nice! Still gonna lose some capacity at that altitude though....instead of 3600 watts, probably be more like 3200 or so...
About 3% loss for every 1000ft
I've had 3 champion generators. All of them are broke down. Didn't get one season out of any of them. I have 2 predators for years and they still run. Thinking of upgrading to the predator 5000.
3…!! Wow what are you running 🥲? What models were they? Pretty crazy to have 3 die and not last a year. Considering the model the predator uses the same engine….sooo curious as to what models failed and why.
Im on my 2nd Predator 5000 with the overloading issue. Im gonna take this one back today and see.
Wow interesting, thanks for the feedback back.
How has the Predator 5000 performed since you posted this comment? How much have you used it and would you purchase another predator 5000?
I was looking to see why but I’m on my second 5000 and around 2500 hours, just turns off says overload also hardly a load… otherwise no problems but definitely depends on how long it’ll take you to get 2000 plus hours…
Thank you for the update the harbor freight in my area does not even have the 5000 on their website anymore. I have the older 3500 with the other engine still doing very well only have 100 hours on it I did buy one of their open frame 4550 inverter. It’s doing well. It has the 223cc engine it is just slightly louder than the 3500. The only problem out of the newer one is the carbon monoxide sensor went out, so it kept shutting off every 20 minutes of runtime, but it is fixed now
Great report can’t go wrong with a champion. I own it doesn’t other dual fuels various models. They have great support Harbor freight’s been good sport also.
Thank you 👍🏼😀
So we purchased one for my RV and we are excited about it. What sort of tests should I do before we actually take it out?
I’ve ran my ac on full with all other appliances. The engine does rev a bit with multiple appliances
There is really no testing needed except to see if it runs correctly up to full load. The problem was starting ac units when temps were warmer. Or any type of inductive load really. Hair dryers and such no problem, small compressors or a ac unit would have issues constantly. The new version is due out anytime. They updated something supposedly
Purchased one the first week they came out (per the store). Mine often struggles hard when my air compressor kicks on (the only item I am using it for) and occasionally throws the breaker. It also just shuts down occasionally when at idle. Lately, I seem to be going through propane quicker, and can sometimes smell gas, but all connections are good. Really like the unit, just worried about these issues and it’s longevity. Didn’t buy the warranty.☹️
It doesn’t not like inductive loads that’s for sure. Much like my ac and your air compressor it sometimes will have no issues and other times yes
Reference the predator 5000: I was told by HF customer service the serial numbers affected are 230615xxxxx thru 230628xxxxx. Harbor Freight will replace these units when new units become available . Estimated time is december or january . The serial number is located behind the starter embossed on the side of the engine.
After talking with several stores I was able to gather some info to get you the latest scoop. Hopefully these are back soon. Let me know if your has issues if you own it! #Predator #generator #recalled #harborfreight
Alternative gens……..
Champion 4500 Dual Fuel: amzn.to/45fM21A
Wen DF 4500: amzn.to/3F35CmV
Pulsar 4000: amzn.to/46aqfcT
Direct Questions for fast response ...asqme.com/@johnnysweekends
CHECK OUT MY AMAZON STORE: www.amazon.com/shop/johnnysweekends
If you feel I helped you out..Buy me a Coffee 👍🏼🙌🏼👊🏼😀
www.buymeacoffee.com/johnny5120J
What do you think of them now? Seems like you can find replacement parts for them at this point. Some people were saying you can't get the cylinder head if you end up needing one. What do you think?
I still see a lot of people complaining on my channel and also the forums
I would pass
Or definitely get the warranty
I'm going to test it this weekend. Like you I have two 15,000 BTU AC units in my toy hauler. I don't have the wine. But the unit did stall with the second AC load.
Make sure eco is off
@@johnnysweekendsi went camping this weekend. Only issue I had was a hot restart. That took a few attempts one time. I did not use more than 2,800 Watts at one time. It was raining all day Saturday. No issues.
@philip600rr thanks for the feedback 👍🏼
I just swapped the old unit out. In the end The starter would intermittently hang up and it blew up my Keurig.
@philip600rr whoa… thanks for the feed back. I never went back to get one
I was one of the first to purchase back in July. box is long gone. no email from HF, but i have seen/heard that whine before the soft start was added to my RV.
I have a soft start on both ac units. Lol it does that whine 50 percent of the time. ECO on or off doesn’t matter lol
@@mancavechronicles2139 is the number on the box somewhere?
I don't know . I don't have my box any longer.@@joey24698
Always keep your box!
Hi… I was just about to grab this predator 5000 until HF pulled it off the shelf. I’m still very interested in this unit. However, have you had the chance to review the Wen DF452iX. It’s very similar to the predator 5000. Just curious about your thoughts. Thanks
I’m hoping to review the power smart version, should be an exact copy. Will see soon
I have the older 3500 with a Loncin engine. Probably, they went fore cheaper options in later versions. Unfortunately, almost all HF products have gone down in quality and up in price lately.
Just picked up the 5000. Hopefully it doesn’t have issues. I’ve seen many videos on it and it seems to be a good item.
I think most are fixed. Get the warranty
@@Oharsh0928 recently picked one up. So far so good, perhaps the issues they had were fixed?!
How’s it running so far ? Thinking of getting it this week
@@jorgepulidovaladez9418 great. I had to run it the other day for about 6 hours. It easily ran a window unit, refrigerator, tv, internet, and some lights. Running those items only used about 1500 watts. I really love the option to use propane. Easy to get it up and running. Probably gonna change the oil this weekend and run it for a little while.
@@johnnysweekends That warranty was 2&300 bucks that ain't cheep
I hope the newer Champion generators are better than the older ones. I bought a 7500-watt duel fuel several years ago and at 64 hours of run time, it started shutting down on low oil level in less than a tank of gas. By 80 hours it was shutting down at about 2 hours of run time. I will never own another champion product again.
Every manufacturer can have bad units for sure. Doesn’t matter the brand but normally over all the champions tend to do pretty good
When is Champion coming out with newer generators? I need a 5,000 + model that has remote electric start and uses propane.
@samuelonthewall idk but you can grab a pulsar or a GenMax model
They replaced mine with a po# that wasn’t affected and it still acts up
That’s not good. Yea I think there is more than what they are thinking. The whole Line is gonna be pulled
@@johnnysweekends yea I hope they do something. I was gonna just return mine for a refund but they wanted to charge me 200 restocking fee
@jonathanramirez2896 did you have a warranty?
@@johnnysweekends I’m still within my 90 day return policy but no i didn’t buy the extended warranty
@@jonathanramirez2896wow...see...that's the biggest problem with Harbor Freight, that dishonest and extremely variable Customer Service response we get that differs from store to store seemingly at the whim of the local manager, or maybe regional manager...we're at the mercy of whatever lie they want to invent to avoid covering defective garbage while they're raking in our money. 🤬
Harbor freight will not be able to send emails to those people who have affected units if those people have never given Harbor Freight an email address.
Great video Johnny, one question: do you externally ground your generator when using it alone (not linked with another)?
I have never grounded a portable unit. I have never seen anyone else. I think it’s more legal stuff than being practical. To properly ground something with a grounding rod normally needs a ground rod minimum of 5 feet to 8 feet deep. But you then also create a shock hazard someone can touch or grab with copper wire.
Have you ever seen a portable small unit that is not permanent grounded..?
I just bought a 5000 from harbor freight yesterday
Should I be returning it?
Help please ✌️
Have you replaced the battery yet in the 5000? Can’t seem to find a replacement and it looks to be different sized than the 3500.
Mine wood sut off after about 1 hour took back got a honda
Harbor Freight is getting a little too pricey for being a budget tool store. Got a PG2300IS for a couple hundred cheaper than the Predator 2000. 30 day on the PG2300IS vs. Predator on 90 day if you can show its defective. Both are Ducar gensets.
I read so much about the Predator 3500 losing the Multifunctional Indicating Meter and not being able to get replacement parts. I see for years people have ordered this part and being told (on backorder). I’ve never seen any response that anyone has received this part. What’s you take on this and to get around this?
See here amzn.to/3zTfOje
Affiliate link
My predator 5000 kept cutting off around 3000 watts. I took it in and replaced it, same thing. It’s supposed to handle 5000 start up, I’m starting at 0, then working my way up and it cuts off at 3000 when it says it’s supposed to hold 3900 watts continuously. I’m using mine for my mobile grooming trailer and I need to be able to run my a/c with the dryer. That’s when it reaches the 3000. I don’t know what to do at this point. Maybe get a higher wattage?
Yea sounds like you need two gens or a bigger single
What are the PO numbers that are affected? We bought ours about 3 weeks ago and it’s running good just want to check.
Call harbor freight
it's back on their website again, it says available Dec 20th
I noticed that 👍🏼
My upc starts with 1931 is that a good one? Bought a few weeks ago
I dont know what the new ones are. I would call with that number or just return it if it acts funny
Johnny, after reading your initial review of the Predator 5000 , you indicated in the comments there was a recall. My two year old 5000 is still in the unopend box, so I called my friendly HF manager, who advised he has no information on ANY Predator recall. Would you please advise details so I can exchange it if necessary? Thank you.
I would definitely check it. Sitting in the box it could be DOA.
It was several units that had a SKU number in a certain range. The manager should know or speak to someone else who actually knows
what can you recommend, for an outside generator that work in the rain and snow. thanks
Either a home-back up unit or build get a gen shed /dog house made for it. They can be super simple to as nice as you want.
@johnnysweekends i own a trucking company, i'm looking for a small generator that's good in most weather conditions. Need to start it to the back of a semi truck.
@mrragnarokk7415 have you looked at adding one of these for the harsh weather. A little moisture is fine but being down poured on is not so good.
amzn.to/3EZkDWW
Hi Jonny, I purchased the predator 5000 from Harbour freight in Detroit last week. When it’s running, mostly at idle sometimes it will stumble a little bit. Not like it’s going to stall just a change in sound. Doesn’t seem to do it as much under load. Is this a normal occurrence and will it stop after the break-in period? I changed the oil today after eight hours of runtime and there was metal flakes in it.
The metal looking flakes could just be assembly grease which has a silver tint. After a couple oil changes that will be gone. The stumble is probably because they come lean from the factory so when no load its just free spinning really and not drawing in much fuel.
I just watched a bunch of your videos they are very informative I thank you for posting them. Should I return this unit and exchange it for a different one because of the rough popping idle and the slight whine when I put a load on or am I overthinking this? It would be a hassle to exchange because I am in Canada. Otherwise it seems to work fine I’ve had it at max load and it hasn’t overloaded.
I just tried running the generator on propane and it doesn’t do the stumbling on idle like it does with gas. What could it be?
@garycossar3577 I would call first because I don’t know how long the return window is. I’m sure it’s still good and probably will be for months.
If it’s having issues and say dies in 8 months well then maybe you will wish you had returned it.
So up to you.
If it isn’t running right out of the box, then it’s not right.
If it was a lawn mower or a dirt bike or something else that wasn’t running right would you return it?
@garycossar3577 carb issues probably maybe internal or stepper motors…clean small speed jet…
Johnny has there been any updates on the Predator 5000? Are the latest current models fixed?
The new ones are out. Most are having no problems, but unfortunately there are a few that still do. So left overs ..????
One thing with HF is a good return policy. Especially with the warranty .
@@johnnysweekends Okay thank you. I'm preparing to purchase. They have a sale coming next week.
How do you check the fuel leveel? I'd hate to run out of gas.
The 5000 dual fuel will just quit and say overload when you restart it and will not start on propane, this thing is not working for me need a new one but can't get one till after Christmas some time
This first run is definitely having issues
I told you so 😂
I will keep my firman for the time being and let others be the guinea pigs. Can’t wait for the new generator. That’s supposedly getting released around the end of the year but I won’t buy the first batch until the bugs get fixed.
An updated 5000 watt model? Or a whole new model?
Mine ran for about 48 hours straight great unit this Labor Day weekend started up and ran for a half hour and it shut down on May try add noil different gas it keeps shutting now and you started it would shut down start it shut down
Thanks for the feedback it seems several are still having issues
Good job😮
Is this model better or worse than the ones from last year? I'm literally on the verge of buying the predator 5000 - tonight! Thanks
I would buy anything else still to many problems
But something with a warranty from anywhere and your good
Have you tested this generator Johnny WEN DF452iX?
I have looked at it and may get it but pretty sure it’s a champion 4500 dual fuel. Electronics could be slightly different but everything else looks the same
Okay, Thank you!@@johnnysweekends
My son is happy with his Champion 4500 which he uses as backup power for his bar & grill which runs mainly on propane. 🤠👍🇺🇸
I was wondering if the 5000 watt Predator inverter generator is capable of running two RV air-conditioners? I just got a 5000 to replace my 3500 Predator and the new 5000 ran both ACs one time but it now instantly goes into overload. I've tried starting one before the other and vice-versa in case one pulls more on start-up. I know one AC unit has the hard start capacitor upgrade. I noticed that with one AC it was pulling 12-13 amps. It seems it should be able to get the other one started when it has a max of 32 amps available. I'm wondering if I have one with the inverter board problem as you mentioned here. I do have the box still and also have a 2 year extended warranty. The 3500 was pretty forgiving on going into overload. You really had to have an overload for good amount of time before shutting down. This 5000 seems like its prematurely shutting down in overload. The 3500 if there was too much head pressure on the compressor it would sit there for a while before shutting the generator output off. As a matter of fact, the thermal heat switch in the compressor would trigger the power off to the compressor before generator would overload. That's when the compressor was locked by head pressure and didn't even attempt to crank over. Like after cycling off after running continuous all day and then cycling back on again with residual head pressure.
It should run a 15k and 13.5k but under high heat conditions it may have trouble starting the second as starting amps and heat is where it has to work the hardest. Start amps can be double the running. The 5000 also seems to have load issues and it seems they are to inconsistent and now I dont even think I can recommend it…😕 its 50/50 on if you get a good or bad from everything i read and see.
One thing to check is make sure everything else is off when starting second AC.
Fridge, converter, electric water heater and more.
what is the PO that is bad?
They didn’t give me that..🤷🏼♂️
Was this issue ever taken care of?
It seems several are still having issues
@@johnnysweekendsthank you sir for your response sir
What about their 9750 inverter?
Any issues with that one?
$2,299
Any better alternatives?
I’m a disabled veteran and getting around to figure these out is challenging for me
I appreciate your help very much thank you ✌️
@jrbarilla they have a 9500 inverter ina closed frame/box.
They have open frame inverter models as well like the 8750 for $1199.
These are made from the actual predator manufacturer not Ducar.
All depends how quiet you want…..
@@johnnysweekendsthank you again or your response
Which do you recommend
And do any have issues?
Anything else I should consider in lieu of? Same price point but maybe better?
I’m
Looking to
Get as
Close
To 10,000
As
Possible
Ty sir
@jrbarilla 10,000 running ?
what about the pred 9500
That’s been doing good from most the reviews I have seen and in the groups
Purchase a Yamaha, more expensive? Yes but the quality is superior and it will last for years.
Not all units "AFFECTED"
The only NGK I can find is the one with resistor.
longcin makes pretty good motors
Ran mine 32 hours for a weekend in the woods, came back the following weekend overload light stays on will not reset. Nothing plugged in at all, Bad inverter. Returning it it’s not even a month old
Darn I thought they fixed these!!!
I think this is what is happening to mine on 07-24-2023. Just had to use it during power outage to run 2 sump pump. Should have gotten a honda.
I have seen plenty of issues with Honda as well but yes the predator 5000 still seems to be hit and miss. The 3500 was way better
...they also yanked the 5000 off the website.
Yup, more then what they are saying
@@johnnysweekends I've not received an email. mine was purchased 7/21.
@_emanon you won’t unless it’s a real recall. If having problems return it
@@johnnysweekends I got an email about quality control. It's dated August 31st. I'm going to fill it out after the weekend. They want to know if you use propane or gas. How many hours I've been running it. And any additional feedback.
@@johnnysweekendsaccording to the manager i spoke with the other day the recall is due to handles breaking.
Beautiful where is made original
Just opened up my Predator 5000 will not run longer then 10 min
Take it back now…there are still duds out there !!
Or buy something that's commercial rated like a Honda. At least it has a reputation that goes back over 45 years as well as being the largest engine producer on the planet.
Bought one turned it back in what a failure.
It had such promise to
Commenting because I am troubleshooting my 5000 and have the load issue, ran for around 100hrs and now there's gas in the oil and it won't start. I have to take it back. This is so lame.
Yea I’m still seeing and reading many with issues. Some are doing well but it’s very hit and miss with this model
Don't feel bad you are not alone. I purchased one and it did exactly what you described. The fuel in the tank went inside the engine and I took it back. I had purchased the two year warranty but the
warranty is only a one time replacement
Once replaced your warranty ended according to HF.
Sorry talking into this it would start and stop-start and stop-start and stop had to return mine
Glad I didn’t end up buying 5000. Their replacement warranty is nice, but it is good for nothing if you need to use generator for backup and it doesn’t work… Then of course local HF stores don’t have them in stock.
Mine broke in one day..
It could have been so good. Hopefully the revised model is fixed
This thing is a piece of crap. I bought one and it worked fine for a day (24 hours). Now it’s just crap (35 hours). Problem is I’m on a week long hunting trip in FL and it’s 0209 am messing with this generator. This is ridiculous
Yea unfortunately its having issues
Its a piece of garbage. 1000.00 pissed to the wind
Return it
Honda
Ask the Honda boys how the eu7000 is doing with the fuel pump and more going out at 500 hours and less
Honda may have good quality parts, but they don't make a single generator that uses propane. Terrible!
Junk