In a nutshell, the Predator 3500 is a quiet and compact portable inverter generator mostly geared towards:
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- Amateur DIY lovers
- Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
In the forthcoming sections, you'll delve into its power characteristics, the various outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the additional features it boasts.
Power & Run Time
The Predator 3500
Running on gasoline, the Predator 3500 operates with a 212 cc (6 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine, delivering 120V, with a running wattage of 3,000W and a peak wattage of 3,500W. In addition, as it is parallel capable (parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included), this power can be doubled when linked to another similar or compatible unit.
The inverter generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism and also a practical and straightforward electric starter (battery included). It is rated for a noise of 56 dBA (less noisy than a refrigerator).
With a full tank, the 3500 can operate for up to 11 hours (fuel consumption around 0.24 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 2.64 gallons.
Delicate electronics can be plugged in an AC outlets safely, as the 3500 generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 3 AC outlets:
Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle
Moreover, it comes equipped with 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle enabling simple battery charging for added ease.
This Predator generator features an L5-30R receptacle, enabling an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor (included). However, it is still not quite RV ready.
Portability
As an inverter generator, the Predator 3500 showcases a closed design (L22.8 x W17.3 x H20 in), enhancing aesthetics and ensuring quieter operation compared to conventional, open frame models. The featured design follows the latest trends and is ideal for easy and recreational use.
Though weighing 102 lbs, the generator remains classified as 'portable,' indicating its capability to be moved, though its weight could pose transport challenges. Still, once it is on the ground, its set of 4 wheels and its double handle can easily solve the issue of low mobility and allow for easy relocation of the device.
Features
The 3500's control panel
Included in the control panel of the 3500, a digital data center assists in tracking its status and activity by providing details on the lifetime run hours, power output and voltage.
In addition to this info, light indicators on the device will signal if the generator is ready, the generator is overloaded and its oil levels are insufficient.
The inclusion of a built-in fuel gauge in the inverter generator streamlines gas level checks for quick and convenient assessments.
Considering security aspects, the generator boasts an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, offering peace of mind throughout operation.
The unit also benefits from the Predator's CO SECURE™ carbon monoxide detection. This system monitors the accumulation of CO gas while the generator is running and will shut off the engine if the levels become dangerously high.
Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the Predator 3500 also is packed along with the following accessories: RV adapter, tool kit, funnel and battery charging cables. A storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Predator 3500 compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).
Do you own the Predator 3500 and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.
Predator portable generators are solely distributed by the Harbor Freight Corporation, which has an impressive list of over 200 trademarked products. The Predator brand is one of their newer lines of outdoor power products. As with many other makes and models of power equipment sold by Harbor Freight, Predator generators are manufactured in China.
The Predator 3500 is covered under a warranty for up to 90 days. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Predator generators, please consult Harbor Freight's warranty policies stated in the user manual (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support : 1-800-444-3353.
