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Since: January 19, 2021 |
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Description
Zoom on the Predator 9000
In summary, the Predator 9000 is a portable generator especially useful for:
- Food van owners who know that just a short power outage could lose them hundreds of dollars
- Professionals in need of safely powering high-intensity work or lighting equipment
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
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's engine, 420 cc (13 hp) OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120/240V. It provides a running wattage of 7250W and reaches a peak wattage of 9000W.
With a noise rating of 76 dBA (less noisy than a shower), the generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism, but also a simple and elegant electric starter (battery not included).
Thanks to a fuel capacity of 8 gallons, the 9000 can operate for around 13 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.62 GPH).
Outlets
The control panel provides the upcoming 6 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it has 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which you may charge your batteries with ease.
This Predator generator features an L5-30R receptacle, enabling an easy RV connection via an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. However, it is still not quite RV ready. Besides, because the 9000 is equipped with a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it can power your home during a power outage, as it can be easily connected to your breaker box to power your household.
Portability
The dimensions of the Predator 9000, 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 194 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). However, its challenging mobility is solved by a wheel kit (separate purchase from Harbor Freight or Amazon), which will ease its displacement, once it is on the floor.
Features
The 9000's control panel
When the oil level is too low, you will be informed by the featured light indicator.
The generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.
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.
Along with the aforementioned features, from an accessory standpoint, the Predator 9000's box includes the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which will help you start your generator promptly.
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.
Product Videos
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).
- As its weight is 194 pounds, the Predator 9000 falls in the expected weight range of the devices in the 6500-7500 rated wattage category. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Sportsman GEN85KIDF, standing at just 133 lbs.
- When compared to devices able to produce a similar running wattage, this generator and its lowest emitted noise of 76 dBA is on the noisier side. If you’d prefer a less noisy device, one of the most quiet devices, which share the same power range with this one, is the Powerhorse 7500i, whose lowest noise levels reach just 55 dBA.
- Since the 9000 boasts with a run time of around 13 hours at 50% load, it can be safely judged as a device of a higher run time than most generators of a comparable output. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Generac XC6500, which is able to run for around 14 hours.
- The run time is important, but also hugely depends on the capacity of the fuel tank and doesn't mean much if we don't talk about fuel consumption as well. This generator can be considered as fuel efficient, due to its low estimated fuel consumption of only 0.62 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, within the aforementioned wattage range. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Lifan ESI 7000iER-EFI, with a fuel consumption of 0.38 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
- GFCI Outlets
- Electric start
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (194 lbs)
- No data center
- Battery not included
- No remote start
- Wheel kit not included
- Weak warranty
- On the noisy side (76 dBA)
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 | 7250 W |
| Starting watts | 9000 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 60.4/30.2 amps |
| Peaks 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 8A (cigarette lighter style) |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil |
| Fuel tank | 8 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 194 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 26.9 x 22 x 22.8 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 76 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Emissions | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | No |
| Warranty | 90 days |
| Other model numbers | 63968, 63969 |
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 Predator'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 | AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 |
| Dish washer | 1500 | 3000 | |
| Electric fry pan | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 5797 W | 7297 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Electric grill | 1650 | 1650 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 5790 W | 6380 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 8 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.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
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.
Can’t seem to find any information on expected hour lifetime,have a predator 9000 that is decent to very good on fuel consumption.
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.
Set up the predator 9000 and started first time. Everything is working as far as I can tell except fuel level indicator.
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.
Great powerful generator but very loud and heavy