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Description
Zoom on the Predator 9000
In summary, the Predator 9000 is a portable generator especially useful for:
- Food truck owners who do not wish to see their business interrupted under any circumstances
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Professionals who want to be able to deliver results, even during a power failure
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.
Power & Run Time
The Predator 9000
The Predator 9000 houses a 420 cc (13 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine, which provides 120/240V, consumes gasoline and delivers a running wattage of 7,250W along with a peak wattage of 9,000W.
With a noise rating of 73.5 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a dishwasher), the generator features a conventional pull-start mechanism, but also a simple and elegant electric starter (battery not included).
With a full tank, the 9000 can operate for around 13 hours at 50% load (fuel consumption around 0.62 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 8 gallons.
Outlets
The control panel features the following 6 AC outlets:
In addition, it provides 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 10A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which you may charge your batteries with ease.
This Predator generator isn't quite RV Ready, but it features an L5-30R receptacle, allowing a simple RV connection through an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, due to the featured twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the 9000 is transfer switch ready: you may connect it to a breaker box to power your household during a power outage.
Portability
The design of the Predator 9000 is a typical, open frame, with the dimensions of L26.9 x W22 x H22.8 in, offering support and stability and enabling the possibility of raising it above ground level. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Since the generator weighs 195 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). Nevertheless, thanks to a wheel kit (separate purchase from Harbor Freight or Amazon), the generator can be easily moved, once placed on the ground.
Features
The 9000's control panel
A light indicator allows you to instantly see if the oil level is too low.
The generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.
As for its security measures, the device features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), letting you use it with a peace of mind.
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. It’s a welcomed additional security feature, but don’t forget to always take your generator outside (opens in a new tab).
Besides the features previously mentioned, accessory-wise, the Predator 9000 comes with the usual documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) needed to get you promptly started.
Emissions
The Predator 9000 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 9000 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Predator 9000 compare to generators of similar power (between 6500 and 7500 W).
- Since the generator weighs in at a dry weight of 195 lbs, the Predator 9000 belongs in the expected weight range for devices which can produce between 6500 and 7500 rated watts. If you are concerned by weight, one of the champions in the above-mentioned power range is the Sportsman GEN85KIDF, with a dry weight of just 133 pounds.
- The generator can be considered average in its noise for its power category, as it is rated at 73.5 dBA. If noise emissions are important to you, one of the least noisy generators of this power range is the Powerhorse 7500i with only 55 dBA.
- With a run time of around 13 hours at 50% load, the 9000 has one of the highest run times, compared to its similarly powerful peers.
- While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank’s capacity and thus, doesn’t say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. This generator, with an estimated fuel consumption of just 0.62 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, is one of the more fuel efficient generators, for the previously mentioned wattage range. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Energizer eZV7500, with a fuel consumption of 0.45 GPH could be in your good books.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
Price comparison
As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 6500-7500W generators, the Predator 9000 is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- CO SECURE™ technology
- GFCI Outlets
- Electric start
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (195 lbs)
- Acceptable noise (73.5 dBA)
- No data center
- No 50-amp output
- Battery not included
- No remote start
- Wheel kit not included
- Weak warranty
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Portable | Yes |
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 420 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 7,250 W |
| Starting watts | 9,000 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 60.4/30.2 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 75/37.5 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 13 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 | 195 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 | No |
| Warranty | 90 days |
| Other model numbers | 63968, 63969, 59134 |
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 9000 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 | |
| Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 5772 W | 7272 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 5785 W | 6205 W | |
| For work | Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Air compressor (1 hp) | 1600 | 6100 | |
| Concrete vibrator (1 hp) | 1080 | 1080 | |
| Total | 4480 W | 8980 W |
Can I add an hour meter to the 12VDC port? The manual says not to use the 12VDC port when using AC power. But would something small like an hour meter be ok. I ask this because it would help to keep track of oil changes etc. (Asked January 21, 2020)
If your manual says not to do it, why would you want to do it? You could try one of the cheap vibration-activated hour meters for sale on Amazon, such as this one.
How much fuel is the capacity? (Asked July 18, 2020)
Tank capacity is 8 gallons.
Does it run on gas and diesel? (Asked July 20, 2020)
Only on gasoline.
Will a 9000 watt be harmed if the battery is not hooked up (Asked July 28, 2020)
The battery is not included with the unit, and is only required for the electric start.
What's the best battery to use with the 9000 Watt Predator? (Asked August 01, 2020)
There is no such thing as the "best" battery. Unfortunately, we consider "best" as a subjective and time-sensitive term. Battery should be 12 V, lead acid, 9 Ah.
Will this power a Miller multimatic 215 welder? Also is the output a clean sine wave, or square wave? (Asked September 07, 2020)
This unit does not output a clean sine wave and thus, shouldn't be used to power equipment that contains sensitive electronic components. For clean power, it's always better to consider an inverter generator. Regarding your welder, we invite you to check its wattage requirements or to contact its manufacturer.
Where do I hook up ground wire (Asked October 07, 2020)
The ground terminal is located on the control panel
What battery do I need (Asked October 08, 2020)
Battery should be 12 V, lead acid, 9 Ah
If portable do I need to connect to a grounding rod every time. (Asked October 11, 2020)
It is always safer to ground your generator
Can I parallel with another predator 9000 generator? (Asked October 11, 2020)
This unit does not have paralleling features
What spark plug does it take for NGK (Asked October 27, 2020)
Can a remote start be connected (Asked November 02, 2020)
There are no official remote start kits, but you can highly likely find an unofficial one. Be aware that modifying your unit may void your warranty.
Does it have idle control (Asked November 29, 2020)
The unit does not have idle control.
How much oil is capacity? (Asked December 05, 2020)
Engine oil capacity is 1.16 qt.
Where to attach the battery for easy start (Asked December 15, 2020)
Battery setup instructions are detailed page 9 of the owner's manual (opens in a new tab).
Is this generator a floating or bonded neutral? Does fram act as ground? (Asked February 19, 2021)
The unit has a neutral bonded to frame.
is the unit fuel injected (Asked March 05, 2021)
The Predator 9000 is carbureted.
Where can u get parts (Asked May 20, 2021)
Replacement parts can be ordered directly from Harbor Freight: 1-800-444-3353.
Does it come with an extension cord? (Asked July 09, 2021)
The unit does not come with an extension cord.
Can you operate the Predator 9000 uncovered in the rain? (Asked August 19, 2021)
The unit should be properly sheltered. We recommend reading our article on generator operation in bad weather.
Where can I find a wiring diagram for the Predator 9000? (Asked September 03, 2021)
The wiring diagram may be obtained by contacting Harbor Freight: 1-800-444-3353.
What are considered DC cables to charge the 12V battery please. (Asked July 25, 2022)
For this unit, you'd most likely be looking at this kind of DC cable (opens in a new tab).
do you have to drain the gas from tank when storing it off hurricaine season (Asked October 25, 2022)
Long-term storage instructions are located page 21 of the owner's manual (opens in a new tab).
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
six years now and still running great. have had to replace Bushings twice and AVR. Cleaned Carburator once and change spark plugs 3 times, runs better with the O’Reily’s E3 series spark plug with even great Gas running hours
I purchased the predator 9000 for whole house back up power. It’s doing a real good job. When the power goes off, we just keep on as usual. I do refill it every 8 hrs, to insure no surges because of fuel loss. It’s a real good product.
Bought the 9,000 preditor generator at harbor freight this week. Was on sale and with a coupon was $590 with taxes and that included a wheel kit. Very heavy unit but so far please with it for the price.
I was able to talk my wife into purchasing the Predator 9k while sitting in the dark, under every blanket in the house, and shivering with our young children during the ice storm last October here in Oklahoma. As soon as the power came on, I placed my order w/ HF. The gennie arrived sometime December, and was broken-in and ready to keep us warm and entertained during the frozen hell that was February ’21. Aside from having to wake up to feed it, and getting stuck in snow drift to refuel jerry cans, my winter hunker was lovely.
This year, I asked her to buy me(us) a natural gas kit for the gennie. It arrived last week, ya’ll can come over if you get cold. I also installed the battery, because it was cold enough that the oil was starting to jell.
I love my wife.
Maybe next year she’ll get me (us) a transfer switch installed.
Bought this generator for Hurricane Ida. Initially was sold the wrong battery so starting was iffy. After I switched to the correct battery, starting was smooth and quick. This generator is very quiet. When I stand in my front yard I can hear all the generators operating in the neighborhood but I can not hear mine. Neighbors ask if I have a generator since you can not hear it street side of my house. Sitting inside the house, I can barely hear the generator. The window a/c unit makes more noise than the Predator 9000. I am using regular gasoline and adding some octane boost to get a longer run time. Running all the lights, TV, refrigerator, 12000 BTU window unit, fans and only using a bit over 5 gallons of gas every 12 hrs. Very efficient.
Good all around, runs good does the job. BUT,.ran a FULL tank of gas out in 4 1/2 hours !!!! what happened to the 13 hr at half load…. It was ONLY supplying for a frig and a freezer !!!! when i called no one knew why.
The head caught fire and I can’t find a way to buy a new one.I never used it. I’d say Harbor Freight open box items need to have the open box items checked by experts. I’m out $600.
Great powerful generator but very loud and heavy
I bought a returned unit and somewhat happy so far. It doesnt like the surge of my well pum.i was running 2 fridges and 3 LED lights. When the pump kicked on the lights shut off or dimmed. It should have been well within the 9000 watt surge.
Set up the predator 9000 and started first time. Everything is working as far as I can tell except fuel level indicator.
For the price, it can’t be beat, I ran 2 refrigerators, lights, 3 fans and a 12,000 btu a/c unit, not a hiccup.
Can’t seem to find any information on expected hour lifetime,have a predator 9000 that is decent to very good on fuel consumption.
My gas tank took 5 gallons although I believe it should hold 6 gallons. 8 gallons? Where did that come from? Other than way too noisy it is a very good generator that I use for home back up. Heavy yes but OK with wheel kit. Get the battery it’s only 30 to 40 dollars. The warranty is only 90 days unless you buy the 2 year warranty at around 100 bucks. Even with these add ons price is unbeatable.