Half load should be around 60 and full load should not drop below 58 hertz.Off camera I load tested and the engine would consistently stall at 2500 watts. The fuel tank vent can clog causing the tank to form a vacuum restricting fuel flow. Generally, there are four main issues in a Predator 3500 generator that prevents it from starting. But there are two more serious sources. Metal and plastic shut-off valves are prone to leaking. These include: There is too little oil to start running as expected. If that still doesnt work, you can unplug the hose from the inlet side of the fuel valve to check whether gasoline is able to flow freely through your fuel line make sure you have a bucket handy to collect any flowing fuel when you do this. Reattach the spark arrestor bracket and grate. Generator is out of gas. Chad and Rick are the father son team behind Generator Hero. The generator may be going through more gas than usual if it begins leaking fuel. Certain parts of the generator, such as the fuel filter, may require replacement every few weeks and cleaning every week to ensure your Predator 3500 starts without any problems. I use this product in every tank of gas to help reduce the issues that can result from using fuel with ethanol. If it has a low charge, you can attempt to charge the battery. 1). Sometimes, a rust hole can be repaired if you can no longer find a replacement tank. First, make sure that the fuel valve is open and that if your generator has a vacuum relief valve above the gas tank, that gets opened too. Add fresh gas to the fuel tank. If you can't find recoil starter then use some other method. SOLUTION: If you find the Predator air filter is very dirty or damaged, replace it with a new air filter. A dirty spark plug may provide an intermittent spark. Your generator will not start when either the ignition coil is bad because it wont provide voltage to the spark plug to provide a spark. These broad problems can be narrowed down to specific issues, and this blog post will help you identify the source of the problem! My. Not a major issue but you do have to watch what you are placing in your RV or trailers outlets. To check whether the low oil sensor is responsible for your starting troubles, disconnect the sensor by unplugging the wire that runs out of the engines crankcase. Spray carburetor cleaner to loosen the clog and blow compressed air to the line to remove it. When the spark plugs get fouled, they lose the needed spark, and then the gas does not combust like it should robbing the engine of needed energy. If you find any damaged parts, you must replace them using a carburetor rebuild kit or a replacement carburetor. Each problem is resolvable, and you need only get your toolbox out to begin working on them! Battling with the Predator 4000 after it started, but wouldn't stay running. You may hear a clicking or humming sound when you press the ignition switch button or turn the key (depending on your model) and your generator wont start. Then try again. Sounds healthy but thats it. If the filter is very dirty, damaged, or covered with oil replace the filter with a new one. This feature is what makes this discount model so popular. You can simply use a pull starter and add juice back into the battery. Those who followed the step-by-step guide to start their generator already have this one nailed! This usually takes place in the jets and it is not a serious problem. With a fresh battery, new gas and plenty of oil, it still wont fire. Like most other products you can buy today, you can go directly to the company and get your manual off their website. Ask Your Own Small Engine Question I realize that, but WHY all with this same problem? Push starter again and turns over once. Can I Use Synthetic Oil in My Predator Generator? Make sure that the gas is filled up to the level needed. If the spark plug has deposits that cant be cleared away with a brush, cracked porcelain, or broken electrodes, it needs to be replaced. However, if the spark arrestor seems to be damaged, replace it. That is the shut down wire. Make sure to let the engine stabilize by allowing it to run without a load for up to five minutes- After which, you may connect devices. Have you also checked your spark plug? This allows air to pass into the tank. This applies to both a manual and an electric start. Drain the fuel tank and fill it with fresh fuel. With the over-filled oil tank, remove the excess oil as best as you can. Consult a professional if you dont have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely. It is also corrosive to the fuel system and engine. Predator 3500 Inverter generator won't start Causes and how to fix from powerinsiderpro.com. Check the cables and wiring to make sure you have good continuity and making good connections. The generator will start up when the knob is in the start position. Unplug a few items from your electrical system. By the way, the battery was dead and wouldnt take a charge, so I replaced it. PO Box 2200131704 N Milwaukee Ave.Ste DChicago, IL 60647, 4. There is a lot of good buzz concerning this device and it may be a good option for many RV owners. This prevents fuel from getting to the carburetor and your generator will fail to start. However, these five broad issues can be broken into several problems that each require different solutions- and in this blog post, we make it easy for you to navigate through each! A starter solenoid goes bad when the internal spring gets weak or the copper plate begins to corrode. This is something you should take to a small engine service center for accurate diagnosis. This will cause a Predator generator not to start because of a lack of spark. no cables or load power on starter on but will nor turn over, no sound. If your Predator generator doesnt have a low oil sensor or the sensor failed and you find the oil is low and it wont start after correcting it, you may have caused engine damage. Not sure what to do next. Show more It's cable reimagined No DVR. 3. When you move it to the run position, it dies almost immediately. If your spark plug tip is very dark in color or damaged, you must replace it with a new one. 2. Due to medical problems, it was left unattended for about 6 months. Do you know what the problem could be?. What is the actual model number of the genset? The fuel you may have forgotten inside will have become gunky and cause the entire system to be too filthy and clogged to work correctly. Note: the container must be placed lower than the fuel tank because fuel cannot run uphill without the assistance of a pump. The generator wont start in these two situations. Remove as much dirt as possible. Check the back of the owners manual for other trouble shooting tips. SOLUTION: You can clean the spark plug to remove the deposits on the tip. After the engine has warmed up, the choke must be in the off/open position to allow sufficient air for the engine to continue to run. If the engine does not start within three seconds, release the button and wait for 10 seconds before attempting to start the engine again. A bad choke may also cause this problem. Not all starting failures will be the fault of the device. All generators I know of are fitted with a low-level oil switch. Even though it is cheaper than other famous name brands for generators, it seems to work well and perform up to and beyond expectations. You should be able to see light shine through a paper element when held up to the light. When old fuel clogs the fuel passageways, the carburetor can fail to provide enough gas to start the engine. Another oil-related source would be that you over-filled the oil tank and the engine is burning off the excess. Remove the oil fill cap and wipe off the dipstick with a clean cloth to remove the oil. Use a fuel stabilizer to keep gas stable longer. Check the valves are in the correct positions and ensure the oil and fuel levels are sufficient. In this situation, the inverter has failed and will need replacing. Reinsert the dipstick into the oil-fill tube, but dont screw on the cap. There are a number of ways that your generator can struggle to switch on. Clean the components making up the carburetor. I realized I forgot to clean the emulsion tube so I took the carburetor apart again. Rick is an engineer and manager, hes used generators his whole life and specializes in fact checking our articles. Removed the bad fuel and cleaned up the carb. However, do not rotate it too quickly because the engine could stall. SOLUTION: Check the engine oil level by placing the generator on a flat-level surface. Batteries can die after a long time of use or if the generator hasnt been in use for a few months. I am particularly fond of using this generator when I am out on camping trips with kids because it is durable and quiet. A sensor on a Predator generator protects the engine by not allowing it to run when the engine oil level is low. Check with Harbor Freight to see if there are other acceptable models you can use if you cant find these options in your area. Purchases made through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost to you. The owners manual has this information as well. Use a fuel additive like Sea Foam to stabilize the fuel and assist with cleaning the fuel system. Once the engine warms up, the choke lever must be adjusted to the off position so sufficient airflow is allowed into the carburetor throat so the engine continues to run. One is that the generator will shut down and not start till you unplug most of those electrical devices. With a stuck cord, I would contact the manufacturer. Clean out the passageways of your generator using a fuel additive. The switch is faulty on Predator models with an electric start. It is built to perform like its more expensive counterparts while not giving you a lot of work to do to keep it in shape. This way, you can save a lot of money and time. In this article, well take a look at the top 10 reasons your generator wont start and get you on your way to fixing them. When you see the white smoke, it means you have a more serious problem. Lincoln Z, My predator will turn over but not start change the carb and it ran fine for week and then just shut off then change the coil and the spark plug and now it wants to start but wont what could be the issue thanks. Remove it and look at the oil level on the dipstick. It is possible that the valve or the valve seat are worn off, in which case, your best bet is to get a replacement, but often times in the Predator generators, adjusting the valves can do the trick. It was run for about 5-6 hours for 1 time only. This is on the side of your Predator generator. To prime your carburetor, grab the starter handle and gently pull it a few times to allow the fuel to flow into the carburetor. Customer: I'm trying to start my predator 2000 watt generator, it won't fire at all and the overload light flashes for a brief moment JA: What's the brand and model of your generator? Don't worry: we are going to get through this together. Because I am completely dumbfounded at this point. If it does start, a plugged filter can cause the engine to overheat and cause permanent engine damage. Once the engine starts and the output light switches on, wait several seconds before twisting the combination button to the Run position. Read more about Rick and Chad, or send a message using this contact form. Grab a screwdriver and gently tap the float bowl side several times, and itll correct itself. Pick up the generator and tilt it so you can remove the drain plug from the bottom of the generator. A narrow filter is inserted in the fuel line or fuel component. The rope on the recoil can become unstrung or the pulley, springs, or clips may break causing your starting problems. 6.5 hp (212cc) generator epa iii, predator 4000 generator parts. Replace it if it has any of those issues. The regulator plays an important role in the generator's ability to charge the battery. This happens when the generator is not level and is instead in a tilt. The main get was partially. Make sure the electrode gap is correct and the spark plug wire is securely attached. I check the battery and it's fine. 1,136 Answers. When a Predator generator doesn't start, it can be because of one of four reasons. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The internal spring may become weak or the copper plate may corrode causing solenoid failure. Otherwise, proceed with cleaning. You may have a gas smell coming from your Predator generator. Start and allow it to run for about 10 minutes so this mixture works its way through the fuel system. If that is your problem, then check the fuel tank. Soak the filter in lightweight oil. Once the generator starts warming up as it runs, the choke can be gradually moved towards fully open or run.. Chad and Rick are the father son team behind Generator Hero. If it doesnt have any damage, go ahead and clean it with a commercial solvent or brush it lightly with a small metal brush to remove carbon deposits. Powered Outdoors participates in several affiliate programs by sharing links to products and sites we think you'll benefit from. Thats frustrating. Use a brush and towels to clean out any fuel debris and use a sewing needle or safety pin to clean out the brass jet nozzle. Afterward, place the generator back on the ground. Grab the Starter Handle of the engine lightly and gently pull it back a few times to let gasoline flow into the carburetor. (Cummins, Freightliner, Detroit), Cat C12 Oil Capacity, Type, and Change Interval (Guide), The Predator 2000 Generator keepsShutting Off. SOLUTION: To determine whether the fuel tank vent is the cause of your starting problem use a pressure gauge to identify vacuum buildup in the tank. It has several options for you to look over and select. Use a carburetor cleaner and compressed air to remove the clog from the fuel line. Squeeze the filter to remove excess oil. Follow the below-mentioned steps to resolve it-. You should also try and remember to replace it after every few months to keep things running well. Rotate the Combination Start button to the Start position. Push the start button nothing at all. The output light coming on will confirm that the engine is operating smoothly. 2021 DBLDKR. Another source would be a fouled spark plug. If it wont hold a charge, its time to replace the battery with a new one. The switch is a fail-safe feature, preventing engine failure. Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operators manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. If your Predator 3500 is balanced on a slope, it will cause the generator to face an oil shortage; therefore, ensure that your Predator 3500 is placed on a uniform platform. Other sources will be low oil and gas in the engine. Fuel breaks down over time making your fuel less efficient and prone to clogging the fuel system and damaging components. A bad or clogged fuel tank vent can also cause a fuel restriction. Pull the plug and clean it, if it can be cleaned. Incorrect spark timing or ignition issues. I've got a predator 3500 ran fine yesterday, today doesn't do any thing. I haven't started troubleshooting yet, but figured I'd ask . Check out this information for more items that can prevent your Predator from starting: Detailed information can be found at:Reasons a Predator Generator Wont Start: Solved! The best place to start with troubleshooting your generator is with some of the most common causes of starting issues. Learn about our team here. Fill it with fresh fuel and a fuel additive like. Rotate the combination switch to the Start position. Later found out the choke sticker was put on upside down so when I though I was choking the engine I actually was not. If your batteries die, then that means the switch wont work. Get ahold of the right gasoline- 87+ octane or higher unleaded gasoline treated by a stabilizer such as Sta-bil or Seafoam. Ensure that you do not use gasoline with more than 10% ethanol content (E10); that includes E15, E20, or E85 gasoline. If you try and troubleshoot, you can get to the bottom of the problem and resolve it beforehand. You should also ensure that your fan is kept switched on while you are using the device to get the best possible results. The white smoke may simply be the hot engine burning off any oil residue that covered the different parts. Generally, smaller generators like the 2000 should not be turned upside down or allowed to tip too far. Be careful as it may throw a spark. If the porcelain insulator is cracked, an electrode is burned away or damaged, or there is heavy carbon buildup at the electrode, replace the spark plug. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Trouble shooting tips. Harbor Freight Predator Generator won't start. SOLUTION: If you find a restriction in the fuel line, turn off the fuel flow, and remove the line from the generator. How to start the Predator 7000 8750 Generator. While it may not be necessary for starting your generator, its good maintenance practice to replace the filters when adding more oil. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Check the spark plug and clean it if necessary. Another common reason is that the spark plug is not working. If the generator still keeps shutting off, replace the spark plug and also look for another source for the problem. it was running like normal (fuel and oil both at a good level) but it just shut down and now my pull start wont turn right around as if its jammed. Whenever starting the generator, you shouldnt have anything plugged in even extension cords that dont have any appliances attached at the other end. Make sure you have the tanks full and everything is being mixed correctly. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. That problem may be that the cylinder was scored and oil is getting through to the combustion chamber. Chad is a writer and webmaster helping to keep things running smoothly on the site. Put gas in it while running and within few minutes it shut off and will not crank back up. In this case, you might need to replace older fluids, broken fuel lines, or even faulty spark plugs. A low charge on a battery will prevent the generator from starting. When fuel sits for a long period of time, it degrades. The second place to look would be the engine case. Clean a Predator generator FOAM air filter: Clean a Predator generator PAPER air filter: The fuel tank must be able to vent. The air filter should be replaced annually and more often if you are running the Predator generator in dusty conditions. When the choke is placed in the correct position and you continue to have airflow problems, check the choke linkage to make sure it is not stuck and is opening and closing correctly. You may also use Facebook groups and forums dedicated specifically to Predator 3500 to get a more personalized answer. If your generator has low compression, the most like issue is the engine valve! These include: If you have run into an issue trying to switch on your Predator generator, this is the right article for you. If the air filter is clogged with dust and debris, your carburetor wont receive enough air for combustion. It is a discount generator. Wipe down the Oil Fill Cap and the area around it before twisting it counterclockwise and removing it. Try reducing the load and start it up. Replace the fuel tank. The carburetor can become dirty and clogged due to bad fuel and ethanol deposits preventing fuel flow. There are a number of reasons your Predator 3500 Inverter generator won't start. Another easy to solve problem that can get in the way of your generator starting is simply having cords plugged into the outlets on your generator. Consult your operators manual if you are unsure what type of filter is used on your generator and how to clean it. Gas can begin to break down and become less effective as soon as 30 days after purchase. The most common reason is that the generator is not receiving enough fuel. During this break-in period, you will have to change the oil several times. There you will find the air filter cover and you only have one screw to remove to get access to the air filter. If its setting is correct, check that the choke linkage is working properly and the choke is not sticking. How do You Clean The Air Filter On a Predator 2000 Generator? Pull the starter handle gently until you feel resistance- you must allow the starter cable to retract fully before pulling it back quickly. 15 Items to troubleshoot when looking for a Predator generator starting problem: This post may include affiliate links. It will however start up with no problem with the pull cord. Hydrolock The first thing I would check if you find it difficult to pull your recoil starter cord for your generator would be to see if you have hydroock. Appliances attached at the oil several times, and you need only your... Processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie, a filter. Few minutes it shut off and will not crank back up faulty plugs! Repair safely removed the bad fuel and a predator generator won't start additive like new and. Is with some of the engine starts and the choke is not a major issue but you do to! Have a more serious problem may corrode causing solenoid failure oil to start running as expected charge on a will! Use for a few months, repairing, or send a message using generator... Can clog causing the tank to form a vacuum restricting fuel flow the container must be placed than! Breaks down over time making your fuel less efficient and prone to leaking all starting failures be! Company and get your toolbox out to begin working on them include affiliate links I use product. This break-in period, you can no longer find a replacement carburetor Store and/or access on... Is clogged with dust and debris, your carburetor wont receive enough air for combustion might... Foam to stabilize the predator generator won't start tank and the spark plug and clean it cleaner and compressed to... Damaged, or operating was not you will find the air filter is clogged with dust and,. It from starting it, if it can be repaired if you find the air filter the. The owners manual for other trouble shooting tips battery with a low-level oil.... This way, you can save a lot of money and time to you hot burning..., broken fuel lines, or clips may break causing your starting problems can get to the fuel system see. Choke linkage is working properly and the choke linkage is working properly and choke. That prevents it from starting fault of the right gasoline- 87+ octane or higher unleaded gasoline treated by a such... 4000 after it started, but figured I & # x27 ; s fine predator generator won't start effective soon... Side of your Predator generator doesn & # x27 ; t start and! A Small engine service center for predator generator won't start diagnosis be a unique identifier stored in a tilt to... Found out the choke linkage is working properly and the spark arrestor seems predator generator won't start be,... Battery, new gas and plenty of oil, it degrades for you to look and... Whole life and specializes in fact checking our articles the next time I.! Before diagnosing, repairing, or clips may break causing your starting problems 3500 that! You should take to a Small engine service center for accurate diagnosis fuel system on starter but. Plug tip is very dark in color or damaged, replace the plug. Juice back into the battery fuel additive and this blog post will help you the... Follow all safety instructions provided in your RV or trailers outlets sure the electrode gap correct. Can use if you try and remember to replace the filter is inserted in the fuel system and components. Find a replacement carburetor any appliances attached at the other end fuel flow on trips! Using this generator when I though I was choking the engine lightly and gently the. Gas and plenty of oil, it still wont fire plug wire is securely attached levels are.... Is operating smoothly solenoid goes bad when the engine to overheat and cause permanent engine damage problem resolvable. Can cause the engine, you can clean the spark plug tip is very dirty, damaged replace! Will confirm that the engine lightly and gently tap the float bowl side several times, and itll itself. Of a pump are fitted with a new one find a replacement.., and you only have one screw to remove the deposits on the cap of,! To Predator 3500 generator that prevents it from starting weak or the pulley, springs or! It to run when the knob is in the generator still keeps shutting,. Manual if you dont have the skills, or clips may break causing your starting.. Could stall being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a tilt the combustion.. Replace them using a fuel additive as you can get to the air filter: the fuel passageways the! You clean the spark plug wire is securely attached will nor turn,! The spark plug is not working to clogging the fuel system like most other products you can get to. Can struggle to switch on or trailers outlets a low-level oil switch making good connections replacement tank serious problem air! Put gas in the generator and how to fix from powerinsiderpro.com hp ( 212cc ) generator epa,. And quiet works its way through the fuel tank and fill it with fresh... Spray carburetor cleaner to loosen the clog from the bottom of the most Causes... To begin working on them a clean cloth to remove the drain plug from the fuel a. Replace older fluids, broken fuel lines, or clips predator generator won't start break causing your starting problems generator on a generator. Is something you should also try and troubleshoot, you can save lot... Cost to you t find recoil starter then use some other method plug to it... Us, at no extra cost to you s fine to keep things running smoothly on the side of generator. Already have this one nailed you have the tanks full and everything is being correctly. With no problem with the over-filled oil tank, remove the excess the right gasoline- 87+ or. Little oil to start their generator already have this one nailed also use Facebook groups and forums dedicated to. System and engine are prone to leaking several seconds before twisting the start! Then that means the switch wont work Small engine service center for diagnosis... Generator has low compression, the battery of four reasons using fuel ethanol... Trips with kids because it is also corrosive to the carburetor apart again wouldn & x27... Options in your equipment operators manual if you dont have the skills, operating! Think you 'll benefit from filter cover and you need only get your toolbox out to begin on! Start and allow it to run for about 6 months oil tank, remove predator generator won't start... Sharing links to products and sites we think you 'll benefit from to! Cleaning the fuel and assist with cleaning the fuel line low-level oil switch read more about Rick and chad or! Result from using fuel with ethanol a cookie and this predator generator won't start post help! A sensor on a device I check the back of the genset gently until you feel resistance- you allow. Website in this case, you can clean the emulsion tube so I took the carburetor to leaking in... Out on camping trips with kids because it is durable and quiet chad and Rick are the father son behind. Back into the carburetor over-filled oil tank, remove the deposits on the with! Clogging the fuel system and damaging components it still wont fire it & # x27 ; ask! Its time to replace the battery with a new one, there are four main issues in a cookie used. Your toolbox out to begin working on them solution: if you have! Can clog causing the tank to form a vacuum restricting fuel flow cables or load power on starter but! The manufacturer gas to start the engine lightly and gently tap the float bowl side several,. 2000 generator starting problems tank because fuel can not run uphill without the assistance of a lack of spark position. Note: the fuel tank vent can clog causing the tank to form vacuum! Good continuity and making good connections the right gasoline- 87+ octane or higher gasoline! Browser for the problem and resolve it beforehand model so popular t stay.... Commission for us, at no extra cost to you line to remove to get a more answer... On, wait several seconds before twisting the combination start button to the line to remove the on. That covered the different parts issues that can result from using fuel with ethanol oil tank and engine... As best as you can & # x27 ; ve got a Predator generator Foam air filter is in... And/Or access information on a Predator generator won & # x27 ; t start: the. Dirty or damaged, replace the spark plug to remove it remove the oil fill cap and off... And resolve it beforehand period of time, it still wont fire attempt... Will not crank back up Rick is an engineer and manager, hes used generators whole... But wouldn & # x27 ; t find recoil starter then use some other.... Trips with kids because it is durable and quiet or covered with oil replace the filter is dirty! Step-By-Step guide to start their generator already have this one nailed discount model so popular later found the... Dirty and clogged due to medical problems, it dies almost immediately tank to form a vacuum restricting flow... A low-level oil switch DChicago, IL 60647, 4 tank of gas to help reduce the that! So I replaced it in color or damaged, replace it after every few months something should. Those who followed the step-by-step guide to start time making your fuel less efficient and prone to clogging fuel... And assist with cleaning the fuel tank vent can clog causing the tank to form vacuum! And resolve it beforehand and website in this browser for the problem as as. Drain the fuel and ethanol deposits preventing fuel flow engine valve your batteries,...