Predator 4000 (Discontinued)
The Predator 4000 (63089) is a compact open frame generator with a rated wattage of 3,200 W and a starting wattage of 4,000 W. (Read full specs)
This product has been discontinued. We've kept this page live for reference.
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Description
Powered by a reliable Predator gas engine, this generator is ideal for emergencies, job site use, recreation, household, lawn and garden, heating and cooling.
Zoom on the Predator 4000
In short, the Predator 4000 is a compact portable generator adequately designed for:
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Professionals who want to ensure that a power failure will not prevent them from working
Over the following sections, you'll uncover its power characteristics, the selection of outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it includes.
Power & Run Time
The Predator 4000
The Predator 4000's design includes a gasoline-fueled 212 cc (6.5 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine. With a 120/240V output, it gives a running wattage of 3,200W and also a peak wattage of 4,000W.
With a noise rating of 72 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a shower), the generator's ignition is facilitated by a manual recoil starter system.
The 4000's fuel tank, with a capacity of 4 gallons, supports uninterrupted operation for around 10 hours at 50% load when fully fueled (fuel consumption at an estimated 0.4 gallons per hour).
Outlets
The control panel is equipped with the following 5 AC outlets:
It also sports 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle enabling simple battery charging for added ease.
Since the 4000 bears a twist-lock L14-30R receptacle, it is transfer switch ready: it is easily connectible to a breaker box and can power your home in case of a power outage.
Portability
Measuring L23.3 x W18.7 x H19.3 in, the classic open frame construction of the Predator 4000 provides stability while enabling convenient maintenance access to components and adequate air cooling. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.
With a dry weight of 99.5 lbs, the 4000 is convenient, ensuring it can be taken wherever power is needed. Moreover, the open frame design of the generator simplifies grabbing and relocating it.
It is also possible to purchase a wheel kit, such as this one (opens in a new tab), to help you transport this unit more easily.
Features
The 4000's control panel
A light indicator shows you if the oil level is too low.
Thanks to its 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).
As for its accessories, apart from the previously mentioned features, the Predator 4000 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 4000 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Predator 4000 compare to generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).
- With a dry weight of 99.5 pounds, the Predator 4000 finds itself in the expected weight range for generators able to produce between 2500 and 3500 rated watts. If you are mindful of weight, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO is among the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 46 pounds.
- If compared to generators capable of producing a similar running wattage, this generator with a lowest emitted noise of 72 dBA can be considered somewhat noisy. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may want to take a look at the Honda EU3000iS. It's one of the quietest options among generators of similar power, rated at 50 dBA.
- The 4000's runtime of around 10 hours at a 50% load on a full tank positions it within the average autonomy range compared to other generators with similar power. For those prioritizing autonomy, the Predator 4375 could be considered, as it offers one of the longest run times among generators with similar power output, reaching around 16 hours.
- Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. This generator doesn't excel in fuel efficiency when compared to others of its kind: it consumes approximately 0.4 GPH at a 50% load. If you wish to get a unit of similar power, but with one of the best fuel efficiency, you could consider the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, which has an impressively low fuel consumption of 0.22 GPH.
Here's a list of the most popular specific comparisons:
The bottom line
- GFCI Outlets
- Decent weight (99.5 lbs)
- Decent run time
- No data center
- No electric start
- Weak warranty
- On the noisy side (72 dBA)
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you own the Predator 4000 and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 90 days |
| Voltage | AC: 120/240V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,200 W |
| Starting watts | 4,000 W |
| Running amps (@120/240V) | 26.7/13.3 amps |
| Peak amps (@120/240V) | 33.3/16.7 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 10 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | Yes |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil |
| Fuel tank | 4 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 99.5 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.3 x 18.7 x 19.3 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 72 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Bonded to frame |
| Accessories included | No |
| Other model numbers | 63089 |
| UPC | 792363630894 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
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 4000 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 | AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 |
| Sump pump (1/2 hp) | 1050 | 2150 | |
| Total | 2550 W | 3650 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 | |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 2545 W | 3135 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Belt sander | 1150 | 2400 | |
| Total | 2550 W | 3800 W |
how, where to get repair parts? (Asked August 29, 2020)
Replacement parts can be ordered from Harbor Freight: 1-800-444-3353
What was the valve calibration setting for predator 4000? (Asked August 30, 2020)
Valve clearance settings are the following: intake 0.004″ – 0.006″, exhaust 0.004″ – 0.006″
What kinda oil does it use? (Asked November 01, 2020)
Recommended engine oil is SAE 10W – 30 above 32° F, and SAE 5W – 30 at 32° F or below
Do I have to ground it if I'm just running a couple house lights off of it? (Asked November 09, 2020)
It is always safer to ground your generator.
How to prepare the generator for long term storage? (Asked April 09, 2021)
You may want to refer to page 18 of the owner's manual (opens in a new tab).
Can I run a 30 amp rv (Asked July 23, 2021)
The unit features an L14-30R outlet, but the outlet is behind a 15-amp breaker.
What spark plug does this generator use? (Asked January 17, 2022)
Spark plug should be Torch F6TC or equivalent.
User Reviews
It’s a excellent backup power-source if: you immediately switch out the Chinese spark plug for a reputable brand, check air filter has been lubricated, ground the unit if you worry about that, extend the exhaust with a length of pipe so it can exit through the side of your shed or a shelter, use only clear gas, and during the winter, cover it with plenty of insulation so you can keep it warm with a 100 watt bulb in a drop light. When it’s 28 degrees, this generator WILL NOT START. A weather station with remote sensor temp probe helps you monitor when the warming light has burned out.
And consider getting a backup car-battery-powered 500 watt pure sine wave inverter for those times when the Predator is off-line for cool-down and gas refill. And if you come home to an ice storm black-out and a cold Predator, the inverter will power your shop light(s) to rewarm the generator to 45 degrees or higher, for an eventual pull-start.
I had this generator for about 6 years. After each use I close the gas switch and run the generator until the carburator runs dry and shuts down. I never had a generator before but this generator, in my opinion, is heavy duty and it has never failed me.
I recently purchased an Odessa Lextra Rv 24ft., and the Predator 4000 came with it. After the outlets fried, I replaced them and now I have no more problems.
I’ve had this for a few years, never let me down.
I’ve had my Predator 4000 for about 3 years and it has done it’s job each time. I’ve had 3 significant power outages, one lasted 2+ days. If you run it as recommended and take time to perform PM on it it’s a nice unit to save your frozen goods plus a few lights and TV.
i have had a predator 400 for about 4 years. however at this time, the plugs do not work, the resets do not work and when the front panel was taken off to be looked at, the plug casing was broken, only on one side, the other side was cracked. teh resets were replaced, but that did not solve the problem. i have been thru 2 hurricanes and a couple of other power outages. i work on fence lines and where i go hunting. great tool. i need the panel or i hve a 99.5 pound noise maker. can you help me