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Harbor Freight 
Amazon | Price history for the Predator 6500 | |
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| Latest updates:
Since: January 27, 2023 |
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Description
Zoom on the Predator 6500
In a nutshell, the Predator 6500 is a portable generator mostly geared towards:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- Food truck owners who want to ensure that their business is fully self-contained and does not rely on potentially unreliable external power
- Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
- Professionals who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.
Power & Run Time
The Predator 6500
The Predator 6500's design includes a gasoline-fueled 301 cc (8 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine. With a 120/240V output, it gives a running wattage of 5,500W and also a peak wattage of 6,500W.
With a noise rating of 73.5 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a shower), the generator features a conventional pull-start mechanism.
The 6500 can operate for around 14.5 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.55 GPH), due to its fuel capacity of 8 gallons.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 5 AC outlets:
Additionally, it features 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 10A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle allowing you to easily charge your batteries.
As the 6500 holds a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: you'll easily be able to connect it to your breaker box to power your home during a power outage.
Portability
The dimensions of the Predator 6500, which are L26.9 x W22 x H22.8 in, and its typical, open frame design provides stability and enables the generator to be raised above ground level. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.
Since the generator weighs 165 lbs, it will be incredibly difficult to manually lift it and transport it, even though it is technically considered to 'be portable' (in the sense that it is movable). Still, once it is on the ground, a wheel kit (separate purchase from Harbor Freight or Amazon) can easily solve the issue of low mobility and allow for easy relocation of the device.
Features
The 6500's control panel
The device’s light indicator will display if its oil levels are insufficient.
Thanks to a built-in fuel gauge, the generator allows you to quickly, conveniently and easily check the gas level at a glance.
As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker).
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.
Besides the usual set of documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, Predator also included a tool kit in the 6500's packaging. A storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
Emissions
The Predator 6500 is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. It can therefore be sold and purchased in all 50 states, including California.
Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, which makes it suitable for use in forested areas.
The unit also meets the ANSI/PGMA G300-2018 safety and performance requirements.
Product Video
The Predator 6500 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Predator 6500 compare to generators of similar power (between 5000 and 6000 W).
- Having a dry weight of 165 lbs, the Predator 6500 belongs in the expected weight range for generators which produce 5000 to 6000 rated watts. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the Genmax GM6000XiE, weighing just 106.9 pounds.
- As this generator can emit noise as low as 73.5 dBA, it finds itself in the average expected noise for this kind of power. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Honda EU7000iS, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 52 dBA.
- Thanks to an impressive running time of around 14.5 hours at 50% load, the 6500 benefits from one of the highest run times among generators of a similar output.
- Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. This generator reaches an estimated fuel consumption of 0.55 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, making it average, for the previously mentioned wattage range. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.36 GPH, the A-iPower SUA7000L is a device you could look out for.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 5000-6000W generators, the Predator 6500 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
- GFCI Outlets
- High run time
- Decent weight (165 lbs)
- Acceptable noise (73.5 dBA)
- Decent fuel efficiency
- No data center
- No electric start
- Wheel kit not included
- Weak warranty
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 301 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 90 days |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 5,500 W |
| Starting watts | 6,500 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 45.8/22.9 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 54.2/27.1 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 14.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 10A (cigarette lighter style) |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil |
| Fuel tank | 8 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 165 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 26.9 x 22 x 22.8 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 73.5 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2018 |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | Tool kit |
| Other model numbers | 63964, 59133 |
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 6500 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 | |
| Electric range | 2100 | 2100 | |
| Security system | 180 | 180 | |
| Total | 4397 W | 5872 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 4390 W | 4980 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Grinder | 1400 | 2500 | |
| Electric fence (25 miles) | 250 | 250 | |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 3780 W | 6480 W |
How can I attach a 12V battery to this generator? (Asked September 05, 2020)
Since this unit does not have an electric start, there are no reasons to attach a 12V battery to it.
Does the 6500 need to be grounded? (Asked October 28, 2020)
It is always safer to ground your generator.
how to get a wiring diagram (Asked April 15, 2021)
Wiring diagrams may be obtained by contacting Harbor Freight: 1-800-444-3353.
Can you make the predator 6500 w generator with an electric start having electric start (Asked April 16, 2021)
The 301cc engine of the Predator 6500 is not electric start capable.
Can you run a desk top computer with this generator (Asked April 22, 2021)
The unit is not suitable to power sensitive electronic equipment.
What kind of spark plug does it take (Asked April 23, 2021)
Spark plug is NHSP® / Torch® F6TC
What is the max AMP capacity of this unit? (Asked June 17, 2021)
120V: 54.2 starting amps. 240V: 27.1 starting amps.
Why does it have a 25 amp plug in instead of a 30 amp plug in for a 30 amp for a travel trailer? (Asked June 12, 2022)
The unit provides 5500 running watts. For convenience, it does have a 30-amp L14-30R twist lock outlet. However, this outlet is behind a 23-amp breaker to prevent overloading, since the 5500 watts are reached at 23A (23A*240V=5520W).
I have a well water system that runs on 220v. Will this generator supply 220v to run the system.? (Asked July 16, 2022)
The unit produces 240V through its L14-30R outlet.
were can I get valves for a 301cc predator (Asked September 30, 2023)
Replacement parts can be obtained through Harbor Freight: 1-800-444-3353.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
I’ve owned this generator 6500 watt since mid 2000’s. Mine has to be 15 years old. I ran the crap out of it for 4-5 days without changing oil or stopping the machine. I do change the oil often. One problem I had was it leaked gas out of the carb after my house AC unit kicked on and off while the microwave started etc. That was only one instance. I would like to see a parts list for these. Thats my only drawback to predator motors, you can’t even find carb gaskets. When I bought it I was told by harbor freight that all honda parts fit on this engine. Good luck finding a mechanic that will do the research to cross fit parts. Overall I give this gen a 5 star as its served me well. When it dies out if the parts list are available I might buy another predator or if not I might buy somehting with a standard briggs and stratton. Another note, when contractors buy them you know they must be reliable.
Yes I’ve had a problem with the gas leaking by the air filter from the carburetor does not stop flow of gas from coming out. This generator is brand new unboxed today and this is the second one that has not worked for me the first one was 1 day pass warranty then blew up smh I honestly have to give this predator product a zero as it’s very unpredictable and unreliable
Good except the on/off button.
I have this generator and it’s overall pretty good plenty of power to run my 3 bedroom home completely.it is a lil in the heavy ockward side,to be expected with a unit if this size,it starts on first pull Everytime with the original carburetor,except the fuel consumption is crazy to me in not only this one but in all gens if even smaller size,so I bought a propane /gas carb off internet thinking it would do better on my pocket .here’s were it gets stupid to me in all gens if u use propane your gen won’t produce the same amount of wattage ..😒and that’s across the board on any unit.oh yes it didn’t save me a dime either.lol,but if you’re aware of all of this then I suggest this unit because I have had several brands as well as a smaller predater,and it’s been the best one ever I promise .as long as I keep the oil changed and fresh about once every two or three weeks depending on use and always use a quality oil supliment that starts with an L it really does help no matter what oil you burn .
I have one only 7 months old and it has stop producing power!!!!! Not reliable at all 0 stars
I give it a 4.5. Only reason it doesn’t get a five is the starting issue.
We bought this Predator 6500 used so we do not know how many hours it was used. But it has been reliable and we have used it for equivalent of 2 weeks full run time on and off. Change the oil for every 80 hours of run time.
Add fuel stabilizer to each fill up. Always turn gas off and run residual fuel in carb till engine dies to store it away. Run engine at least once every month or two for 15 minutes even when stored. Very reliable, it starts every time on 2nd pull start. Its a little noisey, good idea to build a enclosure insulsted with fresh air intake and exhaust. And it runs a small house with lights on, 2
This is the best generator I have ever owned. No need for electric start, it cranks first pull every time. It ran everything in my house during a three day power outage including the water heater and well pump (not at the same time though, I shut off the pump when the water heater was on)