The Predator 2000 (71343) is a quiet, compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 1,600 W and a starting wattage of 2,000 W. (Read full specs)
Harbor Freight 
Amazon | Price history for the Predator 2000 |
|---|
| Highest Price $599.99 Lowest Price $499.99 Current Price $599.99 |
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Description
Zoom on the Predator 2000
To sum up, the Predator 2000 is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator tailored for:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
The subsequent sections will explore in detail its power characteristics, the diverse outlets it provides, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it offers.
Power & Run Time
The Predator 2000
The Predator 2000 houses a 79.7 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, which provides 120V, consumes gasoline and delivers a running wattage of 1,600W along with a peak wattage of 2,000W. Moreover, the parallel capability (parallel kit not included) enables power output to double when paired with another similar or compatible unit, providing increased energy capacity and versatility for a wide range of needs.
Enjoying a noise rating of 58 dBA (less noisy than rainfall), this inverter generator gets running thanks to a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.
Thanks to a fuel capacity of 1.2 gallon, the 2000 can operate for up to 12 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.1 GPH).
Delicate electronics can be plugged in the AC outlets safely, as the 2000 generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 2 AC outlets:
Moreover, it comes equipped with 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle allowing you to easily charge your batteries.
Portability
With its enclosed inverter generator design (L22.6 x W12.6 x H18.5 in), the Predator 2000 offers superior aesthetics and operates with minimized noise levels, distinguishing itself from standard, open frame generators. The generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating power.
The 2000's weight, at just 49 lbs, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a lightweight and portable generator. The generator can be moved with ease by only one person and so it can be enjoyed on-the-go. The inclusion of a handle (molded in the case) makes carrying it a breeze, adding to its convenience.
Features
The 2000's control panel
Light indicators on the device will notify you if the generator is overloaded, the generator is ready 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.
From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, giving you a peace of mind during use.
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.
Beyond the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to assist with setup, the Predator 2000 ships with supplementary accessories: battery charging cables and tool kit.
Product Video
The Predator 2000 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Predator 2000 compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).
- As its weight is 49 pounds, the Predator 2000 falls in the expected weight range of the inverters in the 1500-2500 rated wattage category. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Genmax GM2000i with only 34.2 pounds.
- This inverter generator, with its lowest noise level at 58 dBA, is noisier than most generators of comparable running wattage. If you'd like a less noisy alternative, the Honda EU2200i is a strong contender. It boasts a noise rating of 48 dBA, placing it among the quietest generators in its power category.
- Since the 2000 boasts with a run time of up to 12 hours at 25% load, it can be safely judged as a device of a higher run time than most inverter generators of a comparable output. If concerned with autonomy, one of the products of a comparable power output, which offers the highest run time, is the DuroMax XP2300iH, boasting with up to 13 hours.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary to get the full picture. At an estimated fuel consumption of 0.1 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load, this inverter generator is a rather fuel-efficient one within its wattage category. If you're placing a high priority on fuel consumption, the Westinghouse iGen2800c, with a low fuel consumption rate of 0.08 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 1500-2500W inverter generators, the Predator 2000 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
- CO SECURE™ technology
- Several accessories included
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (49 lbs)
- Quiet, but noisy for its type (58 dBA)
- No data center
- No electric start
- Weak warranty
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 79.7 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 90 days |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 1,600 W |
| Starting watts | 2,000 W |
| Running amps | 13.3 amps |
| Peak amps | 16.7 amps |
| Run time @50% load | Unknown |
| Run time @25% load | 12 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A receptacle |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 1.2 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 49 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 22.6 x 12.6 x 18.5 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 58 dBA |
| THD | < 5% |
| Compliance | EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Tool kit and battery charging cables |
| Other model numbers | 71343, 59135 |
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 2000 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 | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Total | 992 W | 1992 W | |
| For camping | RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 |
| RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1270 W | 1860 W | |
| For work | Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 |
| Total | 1260 W | 1260 W |
How much oil and what weight does it take? (Asked August 13, 2020)
Engine oil capacity is 13 fl. oz. For general use, recommended oil is SAE 10W-30.
can I charge a car battery from the 12 volt DC outlet (Asked January 03, 2021)
Absolutely. It's exactly what this outlet is for.
When run parallel with an identical unit, what is the combined amperage output capabilities? (Asked May 22, 2022)
Combined amperage output would be 26.6 running amps and 33.4 starting amps.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
These things are great. Period. If you don’t have the common sense to run it once a month or use some starting fluid, don’t post a review. It’s all Honda from the handle to the floor. If you overfill it with oil IT WILL NOT FIRE. If you let it sit with untreated cheapo gas, it will not fire. I’ve got two paired up running a 33′ camper in 95 degree weather. These gennys are great.
Absolute junk! First one was hard to start after a year and the second one wouldn’t start at all. You pay for quality
My experience with the 2000w Predator was because a school brought generator to me when it could not be started.
Generator had not been care for well. The speed control had lost its fastener and therefore could not be set correctly for either starting or running.
Several fasteners from the chassis and covers were loose or had come loose and the plastic base frame was fractured.
Overall engineering impression. The base was flimsy and likely to become fractured if dropped or put down hard which is likely for a 50lbs machine. Base should be redesigned using engineered sheet metal. But you are getting mostly what you paid for. This generator sell for about $600 and a Honda on which I have also done repairs are closer to $1100. Overall summary probably worth while to pay for Honda.