The Predator 4550 (72936) is a portable open frame inverter generator with a rated wattage of 3,650 W and a starting wattage of 4,550 W. (Read full specs)
Harbor Freight 
Amazon | Price history for the Predator 4550 |
|---|
| Highest Price $679.99 Lowest Price $679.99 Current Price $679.99 |
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Description
Zoom on the Predator 4550
To sum up, the Predator 4550 is a portable inverter generator tailored for:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
- Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device.
Power & Run Time
The Predator 4550
The Predator 4550's core is the 223 cc (6.5 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 3,650W and a peak wattage of 4,550W. Furthermore, its parallel capability (parallel kit not included) allows power output to increase when connected to another similar or compatible unit, ensuring expanded energy capacity and reliability for various applications.
With a noise rating of 64.6 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a normal conversation), the inverter generator's ignition is facilitated by a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism.
Thanks to its 3.72 gallons fuel tank, the 4550 can run continuously for up to 16.1 hours on a full tank (with an average fuel consumption of approximately 0.23 GPH).
Featuring a <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), the 4550 delivers a clean sine wave, guaranteeing the safety of your sensitive electronics plugged into its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features 5 AC outlets as follows:
Moreover, it presents 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (USB-A) providing convenient charging capabilities for mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices.
Though it may not be labeled as 'RV Ready,' this Predator generator offers the benefit of hassle-free RV connectivity through its L5-30R receptacle, allowing you to easily power your RV with the assistance of an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor (included).
Portability
The open frame structure of the Predator 4550 guarantees stability, simplified maintenance access to components, and better air cooling than enclosed units. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.
The 4550 can be taken anywhere with you, thanks to its weight of 77 lbs. Furthermore, the generator's open frame construction allows for easy grabbing and movement.
Features
The 4550's control panel
Several light indicators serve to show you when the generator is ready, the generator is overloaded and the oil level is too low.
With its built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator provides quick and convenient gas level checks.
Regarding security, the generator comes with an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), providing 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.
In addition to the traditional documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to help you get started promptly, the Predator 4550 also includes several accessories: RV adapter, tool kit and funnel.
Product Videos
The Predator 4550 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Predator 4550 compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).
- When it comes to weight, the Predator 4550 tips the scales at just 77 pounds, making it one of the lighter inverter generators in the 3500 to 4500 rated wattage range. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Genmax GM4600iAEFIC, with a dry weight of only 58.4 lbs.
- When comparing it to devices with a similar running wattage, this inverter generator's lowest noise level of 64.6 dBA puts it alongside the noisier units. If noise level is one your key decisive factors, you may find the Westinghouse iGen5000DF appealing. It's rated at 52 dBA, making it one of the quietest generators in its power range.
- Given that the 4550 reaches an autonomy of up to 16.1 hours with a full tank and at 25% load, it is placed within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful inverter generators. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the Firman W03661OF, with up to 25 hours.
- Run time is a key metric, but it's dependent on the generator's fuel tank capacity. Therefore, discussing fuel efficiency is necessary for a complete understanding. When it comes to fuel efficiency among generators with similar wattage, this inverter generator lags behind, with a consumption rate of 0.23 GPH at a 25% load. If gasoline efficiency is at the top of your list, you may want to have a look at the Champion 201319, which has great fuel efficiency, with a gas consumption of only 0.16 gallons per hour.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3500-4500W inverter generators, the Predator 4550 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
- GFCI Outlets
- RV adapter included
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Lightweight for its kind (77 lbs)
- Decent run time
- No data center
- Weak warranty
- On the noisy side (64.6 dBA)
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 223 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 90 days |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,650 W |
| Starting watts | 4,550 W |
| Running amps | 30.4 amps |
| Peak amps | 37.9 amps |
| Run time @50% load | Unknown |
| Run time @25% load | 16.1 h |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port (USB-A) |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 3.72 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 77 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | Unknown |
| Noise (lower limit) | 64.6 dBA |
| THD | < 5% |
| Compliance | CARB, 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, and RV adapter |
| Other model numbers | 59189, 72936 |
| UPC | 193175558114 |
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 4550 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 |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Washing machine | 900 | 1650 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 2912 W | 3912 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 2910 W | 3500 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Total | 1800 W | 4500 W |
Where can you purchase parts for the 4550 or who works on these generators? My local repair shop won’t work on these units. Spring Texas (Asked August 10, 2024)
Replacement parts can be ordered directly from Harbor Freight: 1-800-444-3353.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Bought this at 40% off and it was already at the clearance table within HF. Made away with it for $240 which was a great deal. Previous users likely ran light loads for prolonged judging on the dry soot on the plug. Cleaned the arrester and put a autolite plug in and it’s never failed me. It had been out in serious storms uncovered and in the hot Texas sun for weeks and first pull starts every time. For anyone considering a larger displacement engine/generator(3000w+) it is best to put it on 60% amp load or more for a half hour every so often. Light loads are usually the sole reason why these begin to act up. That and use a good fuel stabilizer with zero ethanol gas. Never had a single carb issue since doing so for many engines. Can’t say I’d pay more than $400 for this since it doesn’t even come with a wheel kit new. It’s a bit heavy with a full tank. I keep it on a folding flat movers cart and it doesn’t vibrate much. I will base my review as if I purchased this at retail and not my refurbished price.
Review is accurate I would say more or less a fair review. I’ve owned this inverter generator since around January of the beginning of this year. As foolish as this is going to sound I actually own 3 inverter generators.
In January I decided to buy the predator 4550 while at harbor freight with my step father. Brought it home put gas and oil in it 2 pulls started up runs great. I was new to the whole generator wattage world so I didn’t quit understand what to me did not sound like a lot was actually more than enough than I needed at the time which prevented me from listening to my stepfather and buying the champion 2000/1750 portable inverter(the back one from tractor supply) like he suggested in the beginning.
A month after buying the predator I was at tractor supply long story short I ended up going home with said 2000w champion. Then decided I needed one for all and all for one last real inverter to have as a stationary back up once my generator building is finished(building a cabin). That led to me purchasing a champion 8750/7000w open frame digital hybrid inverter. I can say after extensive use for the entire year alternating amongst mainly the predator and 2000w champion don’t let people steer you away from predators they are real deal. I installed a hour meter on mine like the review said it doesn’t have one which in inconvenient wrong keep track if maintenance and run time and the champion 2000w received one as well the 8750 has the bells and whistles(electric start/pull start,intelligauge,favorite feature champion does the oil drain hose).
Now that I’ve wired up a inlet box into my panel box from outside to inside and purchased predators 30amp rv Cord (L14-30r aka 4 prong ) and then buying a 3 prong to L14-30r adapter I’m able to plug the predator in using it’s 30 amp twist lock when I use the cord without the adapter with my big champion I’m able to produce 240v. I do oil changes religiously because I’m still working on getting my power so my electricity is coming from my solar and my generators primarily the 4550 and the 2000 the 8750 doesn’t get used. I run it on occasion just to keep it charged but that’s a real gas burner and I have no need for 240 at the moment so it’s just wasting money to fire ol Bertha up.
Everything stated in the article is pretty accurate but I promise you predator is no joke and if you take care of it it’s going to run forever. I highly recommend both brands I spoke of predator and champion. I do like champion more simply because their warranty is much better customer service is better parts are available if needed and they are reputable the a proven track record.
One piece of advice buy whatever plugs you use and change out the bunk ass torchF6rtc plugs that come in both predator and champion although the 2000w champion has a different torch a smaller plug. My predator I run NGKBR6ES and then that small one I run a NGKBP6HS world of difference and I purchased magnetic oil plugs also recommend those first oil check tells you why you want one.
Good luck with whatever you choose just do your research and remember if you take care of it, it’s going to take care of you 90% of the time and also remember at harbor freight if you buy their extended warranty at anytime throughout the course of its life you decide you want a new one or a bigger one you can take yours in and because you purchased that extended service plan most say no too you can put your used one toward your new one and “trade up” as harbor calls it. A lot of people don’t realize that’s a option. Stay safe
I live in Florida and use mine about 6 hours a day on average and many times I have to start and stop to travel to the next customer. I have had no issues with it starting when it is hot outside or restarting when the generator is hot which was an issue with the 3500W. I am getting an AC and am excited to see how it does.
I’ve had the Predator 4550 for over a year now. I still consider this unit quiet. I use it for boondock camping.
The generator is easy to service, Very Powerful and I love the fuel capacity. The pull start is very easy, with the choke pulled the unit fires with one or two pulls. I also like the run time.
I previously owned a predator 3500 which was less noisy. That is a great unit as well. I compared the two units and ended up selling my 3500.
With my 4550 it was nearly a 30 amp constant work load (29.8). Basically I can run more things in my trailer at once compared to my 3500. Biggest plus is the larger fuel tank. I can fit nearly 4 gallons if i fill it to the rim.
I love the longer run times and less weight. I am totally satisfied with the predator 4550! The price isnt bad either.
After buying and assembling the unit (4550) complete with wheels I started it and ran for an hour or so with no difficulty. A few weeks later I attempted to start it again and failed. I read all directions completely but still no luck. About two weeks later I did start and again it ran well for a while. Now that winter has arrived I thought I should give it another trial run. No luck. The damn thing would not start. Calling the company didn’t help a bit. I purchased from Harbor Freight and they are no help. PLEASE DO NOT PURCHASE A PREDATOR 4550 GENERATOR. It has caused me only grief and I haven’t even used it other than those two trials.
I’m really an anti-China consumer; but, there is nothing else available to date. I bought the Predator 4550 as a an interim solution. I’ll just have to wait for Honda to fill the gaps in this Amperage range. Pros: This Predator model has; a great price point, is moderately quiet, and easy to start. It simultaneously runs my 15000BTU AC, 1500W convection/micro, and coffee pot. Cons: It’s China and the longevity is up for grabs, no hour meter, no oil filter, and you have to purchase the weel kit extra.
Max amps are 23 amps and will not start a 15K RV A/C. Exchanged for a welder so not to pay the 20% restocking fee.