Predator 6500 Watt Inverter Generator Manual

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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Keep this manual for the safety warnings and precautions, assembly, operating, inspection, maintenance and cleaning procedures. Write the product's serial number in the back of the manual near the assembly diagram (or month and year of purchase if product has no number). Keep this manual and the receipt in a safe and dry place for future reference.

When unpacking, make sure that the product is intact and undamaged. If any parts are missing or broken, please call 1-888-866-5797 as soon as possible.

Read this material before using this product. Failure to do so can result in serious injury. SAVE THIS MANUAL.

WARNING SYMBOLS AND DEFINITIONS
	This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
	Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
	Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
	Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
	Addresses practices not related to personal injury.

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This manual contains important instructions that should be followed during installation and maintenance of the Generator and any batteries.

Set up precautions

1. This unit is to be installed so that access is restricted to only qualified service personnel who have been instructed of the reasons for the restrictions applied to the location and about any precautions that must be taken. Access shall be through the use of a special tool, or lock and key, or other means of security and shall be controlled by the authority responsible for the location.
2. Gasoline fuel and fumes are flammable, and potentially explosive. Use proper fuel storage and handling procedures. Do not store fuel or other flammable materials nearby.
3. Have multiple ABC class fire extinguishers nearby.
4. Operation of this equipment may create sparks that can start fires around dry vegetation. A spark arrestor may be required. The operator should contact local fire agencies for laws or regulations relating to fire prevention requirements.
5. Set up and use only on a flat, level, well-ventilated surface.
6. All connections and conduits from the Generator to the load must only be installed by trained and licensed electricians, and in compliance with all relevant local, state, and federal electrical codes and standards, and other regulations where applicable.
7. Connections for standby power to a building electrical system must be made by a qualified electrician. The connection must isolate the Generator power from utility power, and must comply with all applicable laws and electrical codes.
8. Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles, heavy-duty work gloves, and dust mask/respirator during set up.
9. Use only lubricants and fuel recommended in this manual.
10. Improper connections to a building electrical system can allow electrical current from the Generator to backfeed into the utility lines. Such backfeed may electrocute utility company workers or others who contact the lines during a power outage, and the Generator may explode, burn, or cause fires when utility power is restored. Consult the utility company and a qualified electrician if intending to use the Generator for back up power.
11. Do not operate the Generator before grounding. The Generator must be earth-grounded in accordance with all relevant electrical codes and standards before operation.

Operating precautions

1. CARBON MONOXIDE HAZARD
   Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.
   
   Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide. This is a poison you cannot see or smell.
   
   NEVER use inside a home or garage, EVEN IF doors and windows are open.

Only use OUTSIDE and far away from windows, doors, and vents.

2. Never use a generator indoors, including in garages, basements, crawlspaces and sheds. Opening doors and windows or using fans will NOT prevent carbon monoxide build up in the home.
3. When using generators, keep them outdoors and far away from open doors, windows, and vents to avoid toxic levels of carbon monoxide from building up indoors.
4. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air right away. The carbon monoxide from generators can quickly lead to full incapacitation and death.
5. Keep children away from the equipment, especially while it is operating.
6. Keep all spectators at least six feet from the Engine during operation.
7. Do not touch engine during use. Let engine cool down after use.
8. Never store fuel or other flammable materials near the engine.
9. Fire Hazard! Do not fill gas tank while engine is running. Do not operate if gasoline has been spilled.
   Clean spilled gasoline before starting engine.
   Do not operate near pilot light or open flame.
10. If the plugged-in product operates abnormally or unusually slow, immediately stop using the Generator as a power source. Always read and adhere to the instruction manual of the product to be powered, to make sure that it can be safely and efficiently powered by a portable generator.
11. Before connecting an appliance or power cord to the Generator: Make sure that it is in good working order. Faulty appliances or power cords can create a potential for electrical shock.
12. Do not exceed the maximum power rating of the Generator. Make sure that the total electrical rating of the all of the tools or appliances plugged into the Generator at the same time does not exceed that of the Generator. Check that the startup surge will not be beyond the limit of the Generator. Power levels between rated and maximum may be used for no more than 30 minutes.
13. Avoid substantially overloading which will trip the circuit breaker. Exceeding the time limit for maximum power operation or slightly overloading the Generator may not switch the circuit breaker or circuit protector OFF, but will shorten the service life of the Generator.
14. Do not attempt to connect or disconnect load connections while standing in water, or on wet or soggy ground.
15. Do not touch electrically energized parts of the Generator and interconnecting cables or conductors with any part of the body, or with any non-insulated conductive object.
16. Connect the Generator only to a load or electrical system (120 volt or 240 volt) that is compatible with the electrical characteristics and rated capacities of the Generator.
17. GFCI PRECAUTIONS
    Test Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacles before each use as follows:
    1. Disconnect all devices from the Generator.
    2. Start the engine.
    3. Press Test button on receptacle to trip the GFCI device.
    4. The Reset button should extend, cutting off electricity to the receptacle.
    5. If above test fails, do not use receptacle until it is repaired or replaced.
    6. Press Reset button in for use.
       GFCI receptacles will not protect against electric shock if Generator is not grounded. Refer to Grounding.
18. Insulate all connections and disconnected wires.
19. Guard against electric shock. Prevent body contact with grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators.
20. Only use a suitable means of transport and lifting devices with sufficient weight bearing capacity when transporting the Generator.
21. Secure the Generator on transport vehicles to prevent the tool from rolling, slipping, and tilting.
22. Industrial applications must follow OSHA requirements.
23. Do not leave the Generator unattended when it is running. Turn off the Generator (and remove safety keys, if available) before leaving the work area.
24. The Generator engine can produce high noise levels. Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 dBA is hazardous to hearing. Always wear ear protection when operating or working around the gas engine while it is operating.
25. Wear ANSI-approved safety glasses, hearing protection, and NIOSH-approved dust mask/respirator during use.
26. People with pacemakers should consult their physician(s) before use. Electromagnetic fields in close proximity to a heart pacemaker could cause pacemaker interference or pacemaker failure. Caution is necessary when near the engine's magneto or recoil starter.
27. Use only accessories that are recommended by Harbor Freight Tools for your model. Accessories that may be suitable for one piece of equipment may become hazardous when used on another piece of equipment.
28. Do not operate in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust. Gasoline-powered engines may ignite the dust or fumes.
29. Keep grounded conductive objects, such as tools, away from exposed, live electrical parts and connections to avoid sparking or arcing. These events could ignite fumes or vapors.
30. Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating this piece of equipment. Do not use this piece of equipment while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication.
31. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep hair, clothing and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
32. Parts, especially exhaust system components, get very hot during use. Stay clear of hot parts.
33. Do not cover the Generator or its engine during operation.
34. Keep the Generator, its engine, and surrounding area clean at all times.
35. Do not smoke, or allow sparks, flames, or other sources of ignition around the equipment, especially when refuelling.
36. Use the Generator, accessories, etc., in accordance with these instructions and in the manner intended for the particular type of equipment, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the equipment for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
37. Do not operate the Generator with known leaks in the engine's fuel system.
38. When spills of fuel or oil occur, they must be cleaned up immediately. Dispose of fluids and cleaning materials as per any local, state, or federal codes and regulations. Store oil rags in a bottom-ventilated, covered, metal container.
39. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Do not reach over or across Generator while operating.
40. Before use, check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, and any other condition that may affect the Generator's operation. If damaged, have the Generator serviced before using. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained equipment.
41. Use the correct generator for the application. Do not modify the generator or its engine, and do not use the generator for a purpose for which it is not intended.

Service precautions

1. Before service, maintenance, or cleaning:
   1. Unplug all devices from the Generator.
   2. Turn the engine switch to its "OFF" position.
   3. Allow the engine to completely cool.
   4. Then, remove the spark plug cap from the spark plug.
2. Keep all safety guards in place and in proper working order. Safety guards include muffler, air cleaner, mechanical guards, and heat shields, among other guards.
3. Make sure the Engine Switch is in its "OFF" position before moving the Generator and before performing any service, maintenance, or cleaning procedures on the unit.
4. Keep all electrical equipment clean and dry. Replace any wiring where the insulation is cracked, cut, abraded, or otherwise degraded. Replace terminals that are worn, discolored, or corroded. Keep terminals clean and tight.
5. Do not alter or adjust any part of the equipment or its engine that is sealed by the manufacturer or distributor. Only a qualified service technician may adjust parts that may increase or decrease governed engine speed.
6. Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles, heavy-duty work gloves, and dust mask/respirator during service.
7. Maintain labels and nameplates on the equipment. These carry important information. If unreadable or missing, contact Harbor Freight Tools for a replacement.
8. Have the equipment serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the equipment is maintained. Do not attempt any service or maintenance procedures not explained in this manual or any procedures that you are uncertain about your ability to perform safely or correctly.
9. Store equipment out of the reach of children.
10. Follow scheduled engine and equipment maintenance.

GFCI protection:

This Generator is equipped with two 3-Prong, duplex 120 V ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacles. These outlets provide additional protection from the risk of electric shock. Should replacement of the receptacles become necessary, use only identical replacement parts that include GFCI protection.

Refueling:

1. Do not refill the fuel tank while the engine is running or hot.
2. Do not smoke, or allow sparks, flames, or other sources of ignition around the equipment, especially when refuelling.
3. TO PREVENT FUEL LEAKAGE AND FIRE HAZARD, Do not overfill with fuel. Fill with fuel according to the Fuel Level information below the Specification chart for your model.
4. Do not fill fuel tank to the top. Leave a little room for the fuel to expand as needed.
5. Refuel in a well-ventilated area only.
6. Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow excess to evaporate before starting engine.
   To prevent FIRE, do not start the engine while the smell of fuel hangs in the air.

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Functional Description

Specifications

The emission control system for this Generator's Engine is warranted for standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. For warranty information, refer to the last pages of this manual.

Components and Controls

The following are descriptions of the controls on the power panel. Your Generator has sockets to power your products with circuit breakers to protect the voltage flow.

1. Engine Switch: Used to start and stop the Engine.
   
2. AC Receptacles: The Generator contains several AC Receptacles to power tools and equipment.
   
   1. 3-prong, duplex 120 volt GFCI receptacle (NEMA #5-20)
      
   2. 4-prong, twistlock, 120/240 volt receptacle (NEMA #L14-30)

Connect tools and equipment only to the Receptacle (120 volt or 240 volt) that is compatible with the electrical characteristics and rated capacities of the tools and equipment being used.

3. Circuit Breakers:
   
   The circuit breaker protects the Generator from overloading. The rating of the breaker and the load it protects are marked near the breaker. Should any of the Circuit Breakers trip, the Generator will stop the electricity output. If this happens, unplug all loads from the Generator. Allow the Generator to cool down. Then, press the tripped Circuit Breaker, restart the Engine, and re-attach loads.
   
4. 12 VDC Receptacle: 12 VDC Receptacle provides a power source for 12 volt DC items.
   
5. Grounding Terminal: Prior to each use, set up the ground wire (not included) connection to the Grounding Terminal to properly ground the Generator. Refer to Grounding for instructions on grounding the Generator.

Initial Tool Set Up/Assembly

Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION section at the beginning of this manual including all text under subheadings therein before set up or use of this product.

TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY: Operate only with proper spark arrestor installed.
Operation of this equipment may create sparks that can start fires around dry vegetation. A spark arrestor may be required. The operator should contact local fire agencies for laws or regulations relating to fire prevention requirements.

At high altitudes, the engine's carburetor, governor, and any other parts that control the fuelair ratio will need to be adjusted by a qualified mechanic to allow efficient high-altitude use and to prevent damage to the engine and any other devices used with this product.

Note:For additional information regarding the parts listed in the following pages, refer to the Assembly Diagram near the end of this manual.

Grounding

The Generator must be properly grounded before use. Have the unit grounded by a qualified electrician if you are not qualified to do so.
To ground the Generator, connect a #6 AWG grounding wire (not included) from the Grounding Terminal on the Control Panel to a grounding rod (not included) that has been driven at least 24 inches deep into the earth. The grounding rod must be an earth-driven copper or brass rod (electrode) which can adequately ground the Generator.
There is a permanent conductor between the portable generator stator winding and the frame.

GFCI receptacles will not protect from electric shock if Generator is not grounded.

NOTICE: This Generator is not intended to power sensitive electronic equipment without the addition of an appropriate line conditioner and surge protector (both not included). Sensitive electronic equipment includes, but is not limited to, audio/video equipment, some television sets, computers, and printers. Sensitive electronic equipment should be operated on approved inverter-type generators or pure sine wave generators.

Note: Wheel Kit, #68531 (sold separately) can be used with this Generator.

High Altitude Operation Above 3000 feet

TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM FIRE:
Follow instructions in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources.
If the engine is hot from use, shut the engine off and wait for it to cool before proceeding. Do not smoke.

NOTICE: Warranty void if necessary adjustments are not made for high altitude use.

At high altitudes, the engine's carburetor, governor, and any other parts that control the fuel-air ratio will need to be adjusted by a qualified mechanic to allow efficient high-altitude use and to prevent damage to the engine and any other devices used with this product. The fuel system on this engine may be influenced by operation at higher altitudes. Proper operation can be ensured by installing an altitude kit at altitudes higher than 3000 ft. above sea level. At elevations above 8000 ft, the engine may experience decreased performance, even with the proper main jet. Operating this engine without the proper altitude kit installed may increase the engine's emissions and decrease fuel economy and performance. The kit should be installed by a qualified mechanic.

1. Turn off the engine.
2. Close the fuel valve.
3. Move the air cleaner housing aside to allow access to the carburetor:
   1. Loosen the knob and remove air cleaner cover.
   2. Remove the foam filter and deflecting plate.
   3. Remove the nuts to allow the air cleaner housing to be moved aside.
4. Place a bowl under the fuel cup to catch any spilled fuel.
5. Unthread the screws holding the solenoid in place.
   
   Carburetor bowl may have gas in it which will leak upon removing the solenoid/bolt.
6. Disconnect the solenoid and solenoid seal from the bolt.
7. Unthread the bolt holding the fuel cup.
8. Remove the bolt, Bolt Seal, fuel cup, Fuel Cup Seal and Main Jet from the body of the carburetor assembly. A carburetor screwdriver (not included) is needed to remove and install the Main Jet.
   
   
   Note: The mixing tube is held in place by the Main Jet and
9. Replace the Main Jet with the replacement Main Jet needed for your altitude range (part 1a or 2a).
   
   Note: The Fuel Cup Seal and Bolt Seal may be damaged during removal and should be replaced with the new ones from the kit.
10. Replace the Fuel Cup Seal (4a), fuel cup, Bolt Seal (3a), and bolt. Tighten in place.
    
    NOTICE: Do not cross thread bolt when tightening. Finger tighten first and then use a wrench to make sure the bolt is properly threaded.
11. Replace the solenoid and Solenoid Seal (5a), and tighten in place with screws.
12. Reassemble the air cleaner and reattach all hoses to it.
13. Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow excess to evaporate before starting engine. To prevent FIRE, do not start the engine while the smell of fuel hangs in the air.

High Altitude Kit parts List - A

Operating Instructions

Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION section at the beginning of this manual including all text under subheadings therein before set up or use of this product.
Inspect tool before use, looking for damaged, loose, and missing parts. If any problems are found, do not use tool until repaired.

Generator pre-Start Checks

1. Inspect engine and equipment, looking for damaged, loose, and missing parts before set up and starting. If any problems are found, do not use equipment until fixed properly.
2. Brush off outside of Engine.
3. Remove the air filter cover and the air filter elements and check for dirt. Clean as needed and replace them.
4. Install carbon monoxide alarm(s) with battery backup in all nearby buildings according to alarm manufacturer's instructions.

Checking and Filling Engine Oil

NOTICE: Your Warranty is VOID if the engine's crankcase is not properly filled with oil before each use. Before each use, check the oil level. Engine will not start with low or no engine oil.

1. Make sure the engine is stopped and is level.
2. Close the Fuel Valve.
3. Clean the top of the Dipstick and the area around it. Remove the Dipstick by threading it counterclockwise, and wipe it off with a clean lint free rag.
   
4. Reinsert the Dipstick without threading it in and remove it to check the oil level. The oil level should be up to the full level as shown above.
5. If the oil level is at or below the low mark add the appropriate type of oil until the oil level is at the proper level. SAE 10W-30 oil is recommended for general use. (The SAE Viscosity Grade chart in the Service section shows other viscosities to use in different average temperatures.)
6. Thread the dipstick back in clockwise.
   
   NOTICE: Do not run the engine with too little oil. Engine will shut off if engine oil level is too low.

Checking and Filling Fuel

TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM FIRE:

Fill the fuel tank in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources. If the engine is hot from use, shut the engine off and wait for it to cool before adding fuel. Do not smoke.

1. Clean the Fuel Cap and the area around it.
2. Unscrew and remove the Fuel Cap.
3. If needed, fill the Fuel Tank to about 1 inch under the fill neck with 87 octane or higher unleaded gasoline that has been treated with a fuel stabilizer additive. Follow fuel stabilizer manufacturer's recommendations for use.
   Note: Do not use gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol (E10). Do not use E85 ethanol.
   Note: Do not use gasoline that has been stored in a metal fuel container or a dirty fuel container. It can cause particles to enter the carburetor, effecting engine performance and/or causing damage.
4. Then replace the Fuel Cap.
5. Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow excess to evaporate before starting engine. To prevent FIRE, do not start the engine while the smell of fuel hangs in the air.

Using the Generator

Before Starting the Generator Engine

Before starting the engine:

1. Follow the Set Up Instructions to prepare the Generator.
2. Unplug all loads from the Generator.
3. Inspect the Generator and engine.
4. Fill the engine with the proper amount and type of both stabilizer-treated fuel and oil.

Basic Generator Use procedure

See following information for specific instructions

1. Check that the Generator can handle the wattage needed to power your products.
2. Start the Engine, and allow the Engine and Generator to run and warm up for five minutes after starting with no electrical load.
3. With the engine running, test GFCI receptacles before each use as follows:
   1. Press Test button on receptacle to trip the GFCI device.
   2. The Reset button should extend, cutting off electricity to the receptacle.
   3. If above test fails, do not use receptacle until it is repaired or replaced.
   4. Press Reset button in for use.
      
4. Plug in products.
5. When finished using the Generator, disconnect all electrical loads.
   Note: Do not allow Generator to run out of fuel with loads attached.
6. Turn off the Engine.
7. Allow the Generator and its Engine to completely cool. Then store the unit in a clean, dry, safe location out of reach of children and other unauthorized people.
   
   After starting the engine, allow it to run at no load for five minutes with no load after each start-up so that the engine can stabilize.
8. Break-in Period:
   1. Breaking-in the engine will help to ensure proper equipment and engine operation.
   2. The operational break-in period will last about 3 hours of use. During this period:
      • Do not apply a heavy load to the equipment.
   3. The maintenance break-in period will last about 20 hours of use. After this period:
      • Change the engine oil.
        Under normal operating conditions subsequent maintenance follows the schedule explained in the SERVICE section.

Starting the Engine

1. To start a cold engine, move the Choke to the START position. To restart a warm engine, leave the Choke in the RUN position.
   
2. Open the Fuel Valve.
   
3. Turn the Engine Switch to ON.
   
4. Grip the Starter Handle of the Engine loosely and pull it slowly several times to allow the gasoline to flow into the Engine's carburetor. Then pull the Starter Handle gently until resistance is felt. Allow Cable to retract fully and then pull it quickly.
   Repeat until the engine starts. Note: Do not let the Starter Handle snap back against the engine. Hold it as it recoils so it doesn't hit the engine.
   
   
   Note: If engine does not start, check engine oil level. Engine will not start with low or no engine oil.
   
5. Allow the Engine to run for several seconds. Then, if the Choke Lever is in the START position, move the Choke Lever very slowly to its RUN position.
   
   Note: Moving the Choke Lever too fast could stall the engine.
   
   
   Allow the engine to run at no load for five minutes with no load after each start-up so that the engine can stabilize.

Connecting Electrical Loads

Familiarize yourself with the engine controls, power panel and how to start the engine before using the Generator. Calculate the wattage of the products you will use with the Generator and verify that the Generator can handle the total load.

Connect only properly wired plugs to the Generator. A plug that is spliced onto a different cord may be hazardous. Only a qualified electrician should wire a plug onto a cord.

NOTICE: Never exceed the rated capacity for this Generator, as serious damage to the Generator and/or appliances, tools, and equipment could result from an overload. Starting and running wattage requirements should always be calculated when matching this Generator's wattage capacity to the appliance, tool, or equipment.
Use the DC12 V Receptacle to power 12 VDC equipment.

Do not charge batteries without a proper charge controller. Do not overcharge.

1. Connect the items that require the most wattage first.
2. Connect "inductive" load appliances, tools, and equipment next. Inductive loads are small hand tools and some small appliances.
3. Connect any lights next.
4. Voltage sensitive appliances, tools, and equipment should be the last to be connected to the Generator. Plug voltage sensitive items such as TVs, DVD players, microwaves, and cordless telephones into a UL^® Listed voltage surge protector (not included). Then, connect the surge protector into the Generator.

Failure to connect and operate appliances, tools, and equipment in this sequence can cause damage to the Generator, appliances, tools, and equipment and will void the Warranty of this Generator.

Note: If Engine speed or voltage fluctuates with a load below the Generator's running watts, move the Choke Lever to the halfway position.

Calculating Total Wattage of Devices Used with the Generator

Before using the Generator, check that the products you want to plug into the unit are below the rated and maximum wattage ratings of the Generator. Use the Wattage Calculation Table below, and the watts listed on your products, to help calculate multiple wattage totals.

To use the table:

1. Add up the Running Watts for all items you would like to use at any given time
2. Make sure that this total is under the 5,500 running wattage of the Generator.
3. Find the single highest starting watts for the selected items and add to the total.
4. Make sure that this total is under the 6,500 max. starting wattage of the Generator.
5. Plug in and turn on products from largest wattage to smallest.

Wattage Calculation Table

Example:

A generator that is rated more than the minimum required max. starting watts will last much longer than a generator that only supplies the exact watts needed.

To Calculate Wattage:
Volts and amps can be multiplied together to get watts (volts x amps = watts).

To Calculate Additional Start-Up Watts (If They Are Not Listed)
For equipment with a motor: Use the rated watts amount as an estimate of additional Start-up Watts.
For most lights or heaters: there are no additional start-up watts.

Wattage Estimate Charts
Note: Wattages listed below are estimates for that type of equipment only. Check nameplate wattages on all loads before connecting to Generator.

Stopping the Engine in an Emergency

1. To stop the engine in an emergency, turn the Engine Switch off.
   

NOTICE: Generator shut-off under load may damage the Generator and attached equipment.

Stopping the Engine Under Normal Conditions

1. Before turning off the Engine, turn off all electrical loads, then unplug them.
   
2. Turn the Engine Switch off.
   
3. Close the Fuel Valve.
   

User-Maintenance Instructions

Procedures not specifically explained in this manual must be performed only by a qualified technician.

TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM ACCIDENTAL OPERATION:
Turn the power Switch of the Generator to its "OFF" position, wait for the engine to cool, and disconnect the spark plug cap before performing any inspection, maintenance, or cleaning procedures.

TOPREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM EQUIPMENT FAILURE:
Do not use damaged equipment. If abnormal noise, vibration, or excess smoking occurs, have the problem corrected before further use.
Follow all service instructions in this manual. The engine may fail critically if not serviced properly.
Many maintenance procedures, including any not detailed in this manual, will need to be performed by a qualified technician for safety. If you have any doubts about your ability to safely service the equipment or engine, have a qualified technician service the equipment instead.

Cleaning, Maintenance, and Lubrication

Note: This maintenance schedule is intended solely as a general guide. If performance decreases or if equipment operates unusually, check systems immediately. The maintenance needs of each piece of equipment will differ depending on factors such as duty cycle, temperature, air quality, fuel quality, and other factors.

Note: The following procedures are in addition to the regular checks and maintenance explained as part of the regular operation of the engine and equipment.

Procedure	Before Each Use	Monthly or every 20 hr. of use	Every 3 mo. or 50 hr. of use	Every 6 mo. or 100 hr. of use	Yearly or every 300 hr. of use	Every 2 Years	page
Brush off outside of engine							10
Check engine oil level							10
Check air cleaner							10
Change engine oil							17
Clean/replace air cleaner			*				17
Clean Spark Arrestor							18
Check and clean spark plug							18
Check/adjust idle speed Check/adjust valve clearance Clean fuel tank, strainer and carburetor Clean carbon build-up from combustion chamber					**		–
Replace fuel line if necessary						**	–

*Service more frequently when used in dusty areas.
**These items should be serviced by a qualified technician.

Checking and Filling Fuel

TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM FIRE:

Fill the fuel tank in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources. If the engine is hot from use, shut the engine off and wait for it to cool before adding fuel. Do not smoke.

1. Clean the Fuel Cap and the area around it.
2. Unscrew and remove the Fuel Cap.
   Note: Do not use gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol (E10). Do not use E85 ethanol.
   Note: Do not use gasoline that has been stored in a metal fuel container or a dirty fuel container. It can cause particles to enter the carburetor, effecting engine performance and/or causing damage.
3. If needed, fill the Fuel Tank to about 1 inch under the fill neck with 87 octane or higher unleaded gasoline that has been treated with a fuel stabilizer additive. Follow fuel stabilizer manufacturer's recommendations for use.
4. Replace the Fuel Cap.
5. Wipe up any spilled fuel and allow excess to evaporate before starting engine. To prevent FIRE, do not start the engine while the smell of fuel hangs in the air.

Engine Oil Change

Oil is very hot during operation and can cause burns. Wait for engine to cool before changing oil.

1. Make sure the engine is stopped and is level.
2. Close the Fuel Valve.
3. Place a drain pan (not included) underneath the crankcase's drain plug.
4. Remove the drain plug and, if possible, tilt the crankcase slightly to help drain the oil out. Recycle used oil.
5. Replace the drain plug and tighten it.
6. Clean the top of the Dipstick and the area around it. Remove the Dipstick by threading it counterclockwise, and wipe it off with a clean lint free rag.
   
7. Add the appropriate type of oil until the oil level is at the full level. SAE 10W-30 oil is recommended for general use.
   Note: Do not thread the dipstick in when checking the oil level.
   
   
   The SAE Viscosity Grade chart shows other viscosities to use in different average temperatures.
   
8. Thread the dipstick back in clockwise.
   
   NOTICE: Do not run the engine with too little oil. Engine will not start with low or no engine oil.

Air Filter Element Maintenance

1. Remove the air filter cover and the air filter elements and check for dirt. Clean as described below.
2. Cleaning:
   • For "paper" filter elements: To prevent injury from dust and debris, wear ANSI-approved safety goggles, NIOSH-approved dust mask/respirator, and heavy-duty work gloves. In a well-ventilated area away from bystanders, use pressurized air to blow dust out of the air filter. If this does not get the filter clean, replace it.
   • For foam filter elements: Wash the element in warm water and mild detergent several times. Rinse. Squeeze out excess water and allow it to dry completely. Soak the filter in lightweight oil briefly, then squeeze out the excess oil.
3. Install the cleaned filter. Secure the Air Cleaner Cover before use.

Spark plug Maintenance

1. Disconnect spark plug cap from end of plug. Clean out debris from around spark plug.
2. Using a spark plug wrench, remove the spark plug.
   
3. Inspect the spark plug:
   If the electrode is oily, clean it using a clean, dry rag. If the electrode has deposits on it, polish it using emery paper. If the white insulator is cracked or chipped, the spark plug needs to be replaced.
   
   NOTICE: Using an incorrect spark plug may damage the engine. See the Specifications chart for your Generator for the type and gap required.
4. When installing a new spark plug, adjust the plug's gap to the specification on the Specifications chart. Do not pry against the electrode, the spark plug can be damaged.
5. Install the new spark plug or the cleaned spark plug into the engine. Gasket-style: Finger-tighten until the gasket contacts the cylinder head, then about 1/2-2/3 turn more. Non-gasket-style: Finger-tighten until the plug contacts the head, then about 1/16 turn more.
   
   NOTICE: Tighten the spark plug properly. If loose, the spark plug will cause the engine to overheat. If overtightened, the threads in the engine block will be damaged.
6. Apply dielectric spark plug boot protector (not included) to the end of the spark plug and reattach the wire securely.

Spark Arrestor Maintenance

1. Wait for Engine exhaust and Muffler to cool completely.
2. Remove Spark Arrestor from end of exhaust.
3. Brush all carbon off Spark Arrestor using a stiff brush (sold separately).
4. 
   TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM ACCIDENTAL BRUSH FIRE, secure Spark Arrestor back in place immediately after cleaning and before further operation.

Long-Term Storage

When the equipment is to remain idle for longer than 20 days, prepare the Engine for storage as follows:

1. CLEANING:
   Wait for Engine to cool, then clean Engine with dry cloth.
   NOTICE: Do not clean using water.
   The water will gradually enter the Engine and cause rust damage. Apply a thin coat of rust preventive oil to all metal parts.
2. FUEL:
   To protect the fuel tank during storage, fill the tank with gasoline that has been treated with a fuel stabilizer additive. Follow fuel stabilizer manufacturer's recommendations for use. Refer to Checking and Filling Fuel.
   
   TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM FIRE:
   
   Fill tank in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources. If the engine is hot from use, shut the engine off and wait for it to cool before adding fuel. Do not smoke.
3. LUBRICATION:
   1. Change engine oil.
   2. Clean out area around spark plug. Remove spark plug and pour one tablespoon of engine oil into cylinder through spark plug hole.
   3. Replace spark plug, but leave spark plug cap disconnected.
   4. Pull Starter Handle to distribute oil in cylinder. Stop after one or two revolutions when you feel the piston start the compression stroke (when you start to feel resistance).
4. STORAGE AREA:
   Cover and store in a dry, level, well-ventilated area out of reach of children. Storage area should also be away from ignition sources, such as water heaters, clothes dryers, and furnaces.
   
   NOTICE: During extended storage periods the Engine must be started every 3 months and allowed to run for 15 – 20 minutes or the Warranty is VOID.
5. AFTER STORAGE: Before starting the Engine during or after storage, keep in mind that untreated gasoline will deteriorate quickly. Drain the fuel tank and change to fresh fuel if untreated gasoline has been sitting for a month, if treated gasoline has been sitting beyond the fuel stabilizer's recommended time period, or if the Engine does not start.

Troubleshooting

Follow all safety precautions whenever diagnosing or servicing the equipment or engine.

Visit our website at: http://www.harborfreight.com
Email our technical support at: productsupport@harborfreight.com
Email our engine support at: predator@harborfreight.com

Videos

Predator 6500 Watt Inverter Generator. Unboxing and First Impression Video

Documents / Resources

References

• http://www.harborfreight.com

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download Predator 6500 Watt Inverter Generator Manual