Predator 9000 - 7250/9000W Portable Generator With Electric Start

The Predator 9000 (72935) is a portable open frame generator with a rated wattage of 7,250 W and a starting wattage of 9,000 W. (Read full specs)

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Predator 9000Predator 9000
Even though the pictures on this product page show wheels, Predator generators sold at Harbor Freight do not come with a wheel kit. It must be purchased separately.
Price History
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Price history for the Predator 9000
Highest Price
$799.99
Lowest Price
$799.99
Current Price
$799.99

Description

Powered by a dependable 420cc PREDATOR® gas engine, this generator is ideal for emergencies, job-sites, and home backup. (source: Harbor Freight (opens in a new tab))

Zoom on the Predator 9000

To sum up, the Predator 9000 is a portable generator tailored for:

  • Food truck owners who do not wish to see their business interrupted under any circumstances
  • Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
  • Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working
  • 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.

Power & Run Time

The Predator 9000 in use

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 7,250W and reaches a peak wattage of 9,000W.

Featuring a noise rating of 73.5 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a shower), the generator is equipped with both a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism and a simple and elegant electric starter (battery not included) for starting.

Featuring a 8 gallons fuel tank, the 9000 guarantees continuous power for around 13 hours at 50% load on a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.62 GPH).

Outlets

The control panel features 6 AC outlets as follows:

Two Duplexes 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle
120/240V 30A (L14-30R) receptacle

Furthermore, it showcases 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 10A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle enabling simple battery charging for added ease.

While this Predator generator is not RV Ready, its L5-30R receptacle can be used for a simple RV connection with an L5-30P to TT-30R adaptor. Besides, since it boasts a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, the 9000 is engineered to be transfer switch ready, ensuring easy integration with your breaker box to provide backup power to your home during outages.

Portability

At L26.9 x W22 x H22.8 in, the traditional open frame structure of the Predator 9000 ensures stability while facilitating convenient maintenance access to components and promoting air cooling. The device has been designed for tough environments and demanding outdoor use.

Despite its weight of 195 lbs, the generator is considered 'portable,' signifying its capability to be moved, albeit its heaviness may hinder easy transport. 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

Panel of the Predator 9000

The 9000's control panel

The generator's light indicator provides visual feedback when the oil level is too low.

With its built-in fuel gauge, the generator provides quick and convenient gas level checks.

As for its security measures, the device features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, 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.

As for its accessories, apart from the previously mentioned features, the Predator 9000 also comes with the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), allowing you to start it right away.

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).

  • Having a dry weight of 195 lbs, the Predator 9000 belongs in the expected weight range for generators which produce 6500 to 7500 rated watts. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the Sportsman GEN85KIDF, weighing just 133 pounds.
  • Because this generator emits noise as low as 73.5 dBA, it can be considered to have a pretty average expected noise rating for a device of its power. If noise is a concern for you, you could consider the Powerhorse 7500i, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, rated at 55 dBA.
  • In terms of run time, the 9000 surpasses similarly powerful devices, boasting one of the highest run times at around 13 hours.
  • Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. This generator is one of the more fuel-efficient options in its power range, consuming approximately 0.62 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Cummins Onan P9500df, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.6 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.

Price comparison

As you can see from these interactive charts, 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

STRENGTHS:
  • Inexpensive
  • CO SECURE™ technology
  • GFCI Outlets
  • Electric start
  • High run time
  • Fuel efficient
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent weight (195 lbs)
  • Acceptable noise (73.5 dBA)
WEAKNESSES:
  • No data center
  • No 50-amp output
  • Battery not included
  • No remote start
  • Wheel kit not included
  • Weak warranty

Do you own the Predator 9000 and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterNo
Parallel capableNo
RV readyNo
FuelGasoline
Engine420 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil, Electric
Warranty90 days
Power
VoltageAC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Running watts7,250 W
Starting watts9,000 W
Running amps (@120/240V)60.4/30.2 amps
Peak amps (@120/240V)75/37.5 amps
Run time @50% load13 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsYes
Covered outletsYes
Automatic Voltage RegulationYes
AC outlets
  • 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI
  • 1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)
  • 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R)
DC outlets1x 12V 10A (cigarette lighter style)
Data centerNo
IndicatorsLow oil
Fuel tank8 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight195 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)26.9 x 22 x 22.8 in
Noise (lower limit)73.5 dBA
THDUnknown
ComplianceCARB, EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023
SecurityLow oil and overload protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralBonded to frame
Accessories includedNo
Other model numbers63968, 63969, 59134
UPC193175558107

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.

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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?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our wattage calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeSump pump (1/2 hp)10502150
Furnace fan (1/2 hp)8752350
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Electric range21002100
AC (10,000 BTU)15002200
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Total5772 W7247 W
For campingRadiant heater13001300
RV refrigerator180600
Hair dryer18001900
Electric grill16501650
Toaster oven800800
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Total5785 W6205 W
For workTable saw18004500
Air compressor (1 hp)16006100
Concrete vibrator (1 hp)10801080
Total4480 W8980 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)

NGK BP6ES (opens in a new tab)

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).

Can it be started without a battery? (Asked September 17, 2024)

Battery is optional.

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Predator 9000
7.4 Total Score
15 reviews
Add your review
Price
7.6
Value
8.1
Quality
6.5
Performance
7.5

User Reviews

Most Recent Most Helpful Highest Rating Lowest Rating Add your review
  1. 4.5
    Price
    80
    Value
    80
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    Great generator, adding remote start, including wheel kit, and a more data information center on the front panel would be great.

    + PROS:
    • Affordable, quit, easy sart, will power my entire house, excluding central air, good all around generator, and back up power for your house.
    - CONS:
    • Doesn't come with battery, no data center, no wheel kit, no remote start, gas only. Dual fuel would be nice.
    Helpful(3) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  2. 0.65
    Price
    20
    Value
    10
    Quality
    10
    Performance
    10

    Bought for a mobile dog groomers. Running two window units, two led strip lights. And keeps cutting off. I unplugged the carbon monoxide sensor cuz that’s stupid anyway. Is there anyway to unplug the overload ? So it just runs and produces power. I don’t need any extra protection on it. I have a warranty

    + PROS:
    • So far. Just red and shiny
    - CONS:
    • Everything
    Helpful(0) Unhelpful(10)You have already voted this
  3. 4.9
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    90
    Performance
    100

    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

    + PROS:
    • Great Work horse of a generator
    - CONS:
    • heavy and the wheels are thin and hard, not great to move around in the dirt.
    Helpful(2) Unhelpful(2)You have already voted this
  4. 4.75
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    80

    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.

    + PROS:
    • Since I don't have to move it around, I like it being heavy. It has a automatic voltage regulator.
    - CONS:
    • No battery included
    Helpful(3) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  5. 4.5
    Price
    90
    Value
    100
    Quality
    80
    Performance
    90

    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.

    + PROS:
    • Very affordable.
    • Bought it on sale, with coupon, this week for $590 out the door with wheel kit.
    • Runs most of my house.
    • Not any louder than my other generator of the same size with a load.
    - CONS:
    • Very heavy.
    • No battery included.
    • Loud without a load on it.
    Helpful(5) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  6. 4.65
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    70
    Performance
    100

    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.

    + PROS:
    • All the power we need
    • Easy pull start, when warmer than -10F
    • 230lb anti-theft device.
    • Electric start for a few dollars more.
    • I couldn't be happier!
    - CONS:
    • VERY loud with no load
    • Clumsy to maneuver on soft ground.
    • It's red and black, should be orange and black.
    • It wasn't free.
    Helpful(9) Unhelpful(5)You have already voted this
  7. 4.65
    Price
    90
    Value
    90
    Quality
    90
    Performance
    100

    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.

    + PROS:
    • Quiet
    • Long run time
    • Easy to start
    - CONS:
    • No wheel kit
    • No battery
    • The cost of the generator is $749 (+ tax). Which makes it much cheaper than other 9000 Watt generators. After adding the $225 for battery & wheel kit price is comparable but still less than other 9000's.
    Helpful(6) Unhelpful(2)You have already voted this
  8. Avatar
    Greg Kowalski July 8, 2021 at 9:04 pm
    4.4
    Price
    90
    Value
    90
    Quality
    90
    Performance
    80

    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.

    + PROS:
    • Good price
    - CONS:
    • Its Loud
    Helpful(4) Unhelpful(3)You have already voted this
  9. Avatar
    Charles Naylor April 24, 2021 at 9:50 am
    1.9
    Price
    50
    Value
    50
    Quality
    40
    Performance
    10

    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.

    + PROS:
    • Looks good
    - CONS:
    • No customer care
    Helpful(3) Unhelpful(0)You have already voted this
  10. Avatar
    Edgar Gonzalez Orozco December 27, 2020 at 1:40 am
    3.4
    Price
    70
    Value
    70
    Quality
    60
    Performance
    70

    Great powerful generator but very loud and heavy

    + PROS:
    • Runs the whole house, my welders, tools ect.
    - CONS:
    • Very loud at 72 decibals and its rated at 55 decibals thats a big difference. Must wear hearing protection
    Helpful(6) Unhelpful(7)You have already voted this
  11. 3.25
    Price
    80
    Value
    70
    Quality
    50
    Performance
    60

    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.

    + PROS:
    • Fairly easy to move.
    • Very easy to start.
    • Both a 240 and 120 volt hook up for power panel
    • Quiet for a generator in its.power class
    - CONS:
    • Leaked oil on break in (I hope the oil change takes care of this)
    Helpful(11) Unhelpful(6)You have already voted this
  12. 2.25
    Price
    0
    Value
    90
    Quality
    0
    Performance
    90

    Set up the predator 9000 and started first time. Everything is working as far as I can tell except fuel level indicator.

    + PROS:
    • I did like the price and way the generator is operating efficiently.
    - CONS:
    • The fuel level indicator did not work.
    Helpful(10) Unhelpful(8)You have already voted this
  13. 3.75
    Price
    80
    Value
    80
    Quality
    60
    Performance
    80

    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.

    + PROS:
    • Has enough outlets, good on gas, with wheel kit easier to maneuver, price was about $700, compared to a Honda for $2,600.00
    - CONS:
    • Not duel fueled, a bit noisy, no wheel kit included.
    Helpful(14) Unhelpful(7)You have already voted this
  14. 3.4
    Price
    90
    Value
    90
    Quality
    30
    Performance
    60

    Can’t seem to find any information on expected hour lifetime,have a predator 9000 that is decent to very good on fuel consumption.

    + PROS:
    • Good fuel efficiency
    - CONS:
    • Optimistic about long life,have had other Honda clones that lasted very short time
    Helpful(7) Unhelpful(13)You have already voted this
  15. 5
    Price
    100
    Value
    100
    Quality
    100
    Performance
    100

    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.

    + PROS:
    • Inexpensive, but well made.
    - CONS:
    • very loud. I put mine in a quiet box that I constructed and the sound right next to the box is 70-72 dba,
    Helpful(30) Unhelpful(20)You have already voted this

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