The Predator 13000 (71386) is a powerful tri-fuel generator with a rated wattage of 10,000 W and a starting wattage of 13,000 W. (Read full specs)
Page Content
Description
Zoom on the Predator 13000
In short, the Predator 13000 is a powerful portable generator adequately designed for:
- Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
- Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.
Power & Run Time
The Predator 13000 delivers 120/240V and is equipped with a tri-fuel technology, enabling it to operate on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. When powered by gasoline, it achieves a running wattage of 10,000W and a peak wattage of 13,000W. Switching to propane provides 9,100 rated watts and 12,000 peak watts, while natural gas operation delivers 7,800W of rated wattage and 10,000W of starting wattage.
The generator, rated for a noise of 78.5 dBA (less noisy than a dishwasher), provides flexibility in starting, offering both a traditional recoil pull-start mechanism and a practical and straightforward electric starter (battery included). Furthermore, for added convenience, the 13000 offers remote starting capabilities (key fob included).
In terms of running time, the 13000, equipped with a 10.7 gallons fuel tank, is capable of running continuously for around 12.1 hours at 50% load on a full gasoline tank (with fuel consumption estimated at around 0.88 gallons per hour). When utilizing propane, it provides around 3.2 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 1.47 GPH) of operation.
The powering of sensitive electronic devices with the 13000 is not recommended due to its high THD (<23%).
Outlets
The control panel features the following 7 AC outlets:
While not classified as 'RV Ready,' this Predator generator can still provides the advantage of RV connection via its L5-30R receptacle, ensuring power supply to your RV with an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, with its twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the 13000 is configured to be transfer switch ready, allowing straightforward connection to your breaker box to supply backup power to your home during outages.
Portability
Thanks to its closed design (L30.3 x W29.2 x H27.2 in), the Predator 13000 has an esthetical advantage over conventional, open frame devices. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.
Despite its 226 lbs, the generator falls under the category of 'portable,' signifying its movability, although its weight may hinder easy portability. However, the constrained maneuverability is addressed with the assistance of its wheel kit (⌀10") and its folding handle, allowing for easy shifting once the generator is placed on the ground.
Features
The control panel of the 13000 includes a convenient meter, showing voltage, frequency, and lifetime hours metrics, helpful for the monitoring of its status and activity.
In addition to this info, the device’s light indicator will display if the oil level is too low.
With its built-in fuel gauge, the generator provides quick and convenient gas level checks.
From a security standpoint, the generator is furnished with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, ensuring peace of mind during 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.
While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the Predator 13000, the following accessories are also included: tool kit, propane hose, funnel, key fob and battery charger.
Product Videos
The Predator 13000 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Predator 13000 compare to multi-fuel generators of similar power (between 9500 and 10500 W).
- At a weight of 226 pounds, the Predator 13000 places in the expected weight range of the multi-fuel generators in the 9500-10500 rated wattage range. Weight-conscious users may find the Westinghouse WGen9500TFc appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 203.4 pounds.
- The generator's noise output, rated at 78.5 dBA, falls within the average range expected for devices in its type and power range. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may want to take a look at the Westinghouse WGen9500DF. It's one of the quietest options among generators of similar power, rated at 74 dBA.
- Thanks to an impressive running time of around 12.1 hours at 50% load, the 13000 benefits from one of the highest run times among multi-fuel generators of a similar output.
- Though run time is a significant parameter, it's closely tied to the generator's fuel tank size. To get a comprehensive understanding, fuel efficiency must also be taken into account. The generator utilizes approximately 0.88 GPH of gasoline at a 50% load, placing it within the typical range of fuel consumption seen in products of comparable wattage. If you're placing a high priority on fuel consumption, the Pulsar G12KBN, with a low fuel consumption rate of 0.67 GPH, could be an option to consider.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 9500-10500W multi-fuel generators, the Predator 13000 is on the average side of the price range.
Therefore, this generator nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of product.
The bottom line
- In the expected price range
- Tri-fuel
- CO SECURE™ technology
- Several accessories included
- GFCI Outlets
- 4 different AC outlet types
- Remote start
- High run time
- Decent weight (226 lbs)
- Acceptable noise (78.5 dBA)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- Weak warranty
Features and Specifications
Inverter | No |
---|---|
Parallel capable | No |
RV ready | No |
Fuel | Tri-Fuel (gasoline/propane/natural gas) |
Engine | 458 cc OHV 4-stroke |
Starting system | Recoil, Electric, Remote |
Warranty | 90 days |
Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz |
Gasoline | LPG | NG | |
---|---|---|---|
Running watts | 10,000 W | 9,100 W | 7,800 W |
Starting watts | 13,000 W | 12,000 W | 10,000 W |
Running amps (@120/240V) | 83.3/41.7 amps | 75.8/37.9 amps | 65/32.5 amps |
Peak amps (@120/240V) | 108.3/54.2 amps | 100/50 amps | 83.3/41.7 amps |
Run time @50% load | 12.1 h | 3.2 h | N/A |
Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown | N/A |
GFCI outlets | Yes |
---|---|
Covered outlets | Yes |
Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
AC outlets |
|
DC outlets | No |
Data center | VFT |
Indicators | Low oil |
Fuel tank | 10.7 gal |
Fuel gauge | Yes |
Weight | 226 lbs |
---|---|
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 30.3 x 29.2 x 27.2 in |
Noise (lower limit) | 78.5 dBA |
THD | < 23% |
Compliance | EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
Spark arrestor | Yes |
Neutral | Bonded to frame |
Accessories included | Funnel, tool kit, key fob, battery charger, propane hose, and battery |
Country of origin | China |
Other model numbers | 71386, 70476 |
UPC | 193175546814 |
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.
About Predator
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.
Warranty Information
The Predator 13000 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.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
---|---|---|---|
At home | Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 |
Furnace fan (1/2 hp) | 875 | 2350 | |
Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
Clothes dryer | 5400 | 6750 | |
Blender | 400 | 850 | |
Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
Total | 7972 W | 9447 W | |
For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
Total | 7985 W | 8405 W | |
For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
Pressure washer (1 hp) | 1200 | 3600 | |
Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 | |
Total | 7990 W | 12490 W |
Why is the 13000 watt generator cheaper than the 9500? (Asked January 29, 2024)
There's a difference in technology. The 9500 is an inverter generator, whereas the 13000 is a conventional one. You may want to read this article explaining the differences between inverter and non-inverter generators.
Is a predator 13000 watt generator safe for electronics (Asked May 22, 2024)
The unit is not safe for powering AC equipment that contains sensitive electronic components.
Where can I get parts for my 13000 predator generator (Asked May 24, 2024)
Replacement parts can be ordered through Harbor Freight: 1-800-444-3353.
what predator Harbor Freight dealers have a 13000 watt generator available for sale? (Asked June 05, 2024)
We do not have access to HF's in-store stock statuses. Only Harbor Freight would be able to provide you with this information.
How much oil should it hold ? (Asked September 07, 2024)
Engine oil capacity is 1.3 qt.
Charging the battery do you just plug the charger into the the control panel (Asked January 05, 2025)
The battery charges when the engine is running. You may also use the battery charging port to charge/maintain the battery when the unit is not running.
"The unit is not safe for powering AC equipment that contains sensitive electronic components." This was the answer to a previous question above asked in May of 2024. My question is can the Predator 13000 be made safe for Sensitive Electronics/Computers and/or TV's by installing appropriate Line Conditioners and Surge Protectors and what would you recommend? (Asked January 09, 2025)
Neither a line conditioner or a surge protector will have any sort of sensible effect on waveform. You may want to consider a double-conversion online UPS, which will will first convert AC to DC, then DC back to AC. But for what it will cost, if "dirty power" is one of your concerns, you'd be better off getting an inverter generator or a non-inverter unit with a low THD.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Love the machine, works excellent on fuel and Propane. No issues starting. Changed out the spark plug to smooth idling out and spares. Everything works well on it as a whole but the ‘Generation Bible’s statement to wit; ‘(less noisy than a dishwasher)’, is absolutely a flat out lie, and completely misrepresented. This thing is super loud. Period. You will need hearing protection standing next to it. I additionally enjoy the diversity of the electrical plug capability as I’ll be using this on my house. Negatives are that even with a high-end Klein Multimeter, the Hz and THD are hard to read and utterly horrible. The amount of dirty electricity this beast puts out is astonishing. DO NOT plug in sensitive electronics as stated on this page. Overall, very sincerely pleased with this Generator despite it’s energy wavelength.
Have owned for two weeks. Been running it for about 30 minutes. Every other day to test and get thru break in period. Then going do an oil change.
So far things have been running well. On some startups I have to adjust choke. Then starts right up.