The design of this model is quite new in the market. Nevertheless, it is showing its magic already as one of the most silent generators available with a 6 HP engine integrated.
Along with that power capacity, it also features all the high-tech characteristics that a brand like Predator should have. Among some of them, it stand out its extremely durable and safe case. The Predator 3500 can be used as an emergency backup, an RV generator, or for tailgating.
All of these properties, including drawbacks, will be discussed in this Predator 3500 generator review. Have a look at our best predator generators to know more about them.
Predator 3500 Watt Super Quiet Inverter Generator Review
You will find every detail about the product in this section. We have marked the key features and also showed you what you shouldn’t expect from the inverter.
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 3500 Watt / Running: 3000 Watt |
| AC Voltage | 120VAC |
| AC Frequency | 60Hz |
| AC Outlet | 2 x NEMA #5-20 (3-prong, 120 VAC) 1 x NEMA #L5-30 (3-prong, 120 VAC) |
| Noise Level | 57dB (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 11 hours / 25% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 2.6 |
| Engine Brand | Predator |
| Engine Size | 212cc |
| Engine Type | OHV |
| Engine Speed | 2600 – 3100 |
| Recommended Oil | 10W-30 |
| Starting Method | Electric |
| Wheels | Standard |
| EPA Certified | Yes |
| CARB Compliant | Yes |
| Weight | 99.2lbs |
| Manual | More Details |
Construction and Design
The strong ABS plastic of the exterior is even better than other Predator generators. Besides, you will have your fuel tank cap surrounded by a spill tray, which is backed by rubber. The cap is threaded and has a filter to separate the debris.
Now, many customers claim that this inverter does not have a fuel gauge. Despite that this is true, the generator does have a fill level indicator inside the tank. However, it is important to keep in mind that this is not nearly as effective as a gauge.
Both sides of the machine have metal handles. Moreover, you can pull or push this machine on four rubber backed smooth wheels which are also lockable. However, some units of the generator might rattle a bit.
The inside of the generator is deeply insulated. On the other hand, the battery is larger than the average size and is also protected in the lower right corner of the generator. Underneath the battery, there is an anti-vibration silicone pad that provides a rock-solid grip on the main structure.
Additionally, there is a large muffler along with a spark arrestor on the rear of the product. The right-hand side of the inverter houses the pull handle that sits on a metal housing.
Engine and Power
Compared to other inverter generators, the Predator 3500 has a much more powerful engine. Actually, it has a 4-stroke 6 horsepower OHV engine. This is the reason why you can get more power out of it. The engine displacement is measured to about 212cc. A bigger engine displacement gives better efficiency.
Both electric and recoil start options are available for you. When you start the engine, you will have a surge wattage of 3500 and a continuous wattage of 3000. The maximum output will be 25 amps.
You will be shocked to see the rubber anti-vibration motor mounting set. There are four of the rubber seals to keep the engine smooth and stable.
Fuel
Gasoline is the primary and only fuel for this generator. Therefore, there is no dual-fuel capability. Try to use non-ethanol gas. However, manufacturers claim that a 10% ethanol would not be a problem.
Besides, you do not have the burden to mix different oils with this engine. The maximum capacity of the fuel tank is 2.6 gallons. With a full tank, you will have an 11-hour runtime on 25% load.
Receptacle Panel Configuration
First, let’s talk about AC outlets. There are two 120 volt AC outlets (each of them with safety breakers). The RV adapter that comes with the generator goes into a 120-volt twist-lock AC outlet.
On the right-hand side, you will have the start dial and start button. Along with that, there will be the eco-throttle button. You will also have a two-pin DC outlet with a breaker. It is a 12-volt outlet with a maximum capacity of 8 amps. The parallel outlets will be covered with rubber sockets.
An LCD screen on the panel shows all kinds of information like amps, voltage, wattage, etc. The safety indicators are also placed under the screen.
Eco-Throttle
This feature allows you to run the generator at lower RPMs, reducing noise. Furthermore, it also plays its part in protecting the environment by reducing fuel consumption.
Noise
Inverter generators are supposed to be quiet. But this generator takes that to another level. Measured from 23 feet (7 meters), it is just 57 decibels. You will notice the difference immediately when you fire up the machine.
Certification
This model is certified by both EPA and CARB. Yes, you can get it in the golden state. However, the generator is still subject to proposition 65.
Some Small Drawbacks of the Inverter
Although the unit has no significant problems, we have located some minor issues that you should know about. Here are the things that Predator still needs to improve –
Small and Rattling Wheels
Despite being very smooth, the wheels tend to rattle. Furthermore, the wheels are also smaller compared to the total size of the machine.
No Fuel Gauge
The machine is missing a fuel gauge, which is a standard feature for this range of generators.
There is no need for a fuel gauge as the runtime is always updated on the display panel. Nevertheless, we had to disclose the lack.
Top Alternative of Predator 3500 Generator
Frequently Asked Questions
This is a new design. Therefore, it is reasonable to have some questions about the product. Here are some of them along with their answers.
Q: How hard is it to get to the battery?
A: Unscrewing a few screws will be enough to get the battery out. However, the silicone pad makes it much harder to remove it.
Q: How powerful is the battery?
A: It is a 12 volt 6Ah battery.
Q: How to get to the oil filling area?
A: You won’t have to unscrew anything in this model. There is easy access to the area on the lower left side of the inverter.
Q: Can we change the orientation of the receptacles?
A: Yes, you can unscrew the panel and change the orientation of the receptacles. That is not discouraged by the manufacturers.
Q: Why the gas tank is metal?
A: 3500 has a very compact design. Hence, the fuel tank is very close to the engine. Thus, to avoid any hazards, they didn’t include any plastic in the tank. It is all metal.
Conclusion
If you were thinking about purchasing this compact inverter, then you won’t need to read any other Predator 3500 review because we have covered every aspect of it. If it matches your power requirements, then you can easily put your money on it.
