PREDATOR 4550 Watt Inverter Generator with CO SECURE Technology, EPA

It depends on how many devices you want to power and their power needs. For more details, see our Generator Selector

• Perform preventative maintenance, disconnect all electrical plugs, then fill with proper fuel mixture. If the generator engine is in an environment below room temperature (78 F+), pull the choke knob out (leave choke knob in if in room temperature or above, or if the engine was recently running and is still warm). Open fuel valve (underneath the fuel tank) and turn ESC Throttle to the OFF position (when applicable).
• Set the Starter Switch to ON and then pull the starter rope until there is some resistance. Let the rope retract and then pull the rope quickly. Repeat rope pulling process as necessary until the engine Starts.
• After the engine runs for 60 seconds, slowly push the choke knob in (if pulled out), then plug in your devices

If your generator is running, however you notice some issues such as (but not limited to) the RPM going up-and-down or the engine making revving noises, there are maintenance tasks you can perform. Confirm all parts of the generator (see manual for components / controls detail) are clean and in good working order, paying special attention to the carburetor and throttle / governor linkage (connected to the carburetor). Clean any debris from the governor spring, air intake and cooling areas. If the unit has been stored with fuel but without a a fuel stabilizer, the carburetor may need to be cleaned. Ensure the generator has fresh fuel in the fuel tank and that the spark plug is in good condition. After the engine has started and warmed up, make sure the choke is off (push choke in). If problems persist, call our generator customer service at 888-866-5797.

Generators with a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor can shut down the generator if carbon monoxide accumulates. Always ensure you are running the generator outside and away from enclosed spaces, also be sure the exhaust is not pointed into the wind; using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES. Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a poison you cannot see or smell. NEVER use inside a home or garage, EVEN IF doors and windows are open. The carbon monoxide sensor is an additional layer of protection only. Do not use the generator in any area or situation that will allow carbon monoxide to accumulate (e.g., enclosed, poorly circulated areas). See manual for further details.

Some generators will shut down if the oil level is low because they are equipped with a low oil level shutdown mechanism to prevent damage. Check the oil level and if it is low, change and refill with fresh oil according to the owner’s manual.

Another cause of a portable generator shutting down may be that it is overloaded. Most devices have a power rating on them indicating how many amps they will draw. Add up the number of amps for all devices you are trying to power, and make sure this number does not exceed the maximum amps the generator can provide. See product manual for further details.

If you plan to store your generator for a few months, you should add a fuel stabilizer to fresh gasoline in the fuel tank. Be sure to turn off the fuel supply at the fuel tank and drain any fuel from the carburetor (see manual for further details). It is a good idea to take care of any upcoming maintenance items, such as oil change, air filter cleaning and spark plug check/replacement. If you think your generator might be in storage for more than a few months, it is advisable to drain the fuel from the fuel tank as well.

Generally, operating a generator at an altitude over 3,000 feet requires installation of a high-altitude kit. A high-altitude kit changes the amount of fuel delivered to the engine to maintain the optimal air/fuel ratio. Operating a generator at high altitude without a high-altitude kit installed may make it difficult to start the generator. The generator may also run roughly, not start high-powered loads, or cause the spark plug and/or spark arrestor not to function properly, requiring more frequent maintenance or replacement. If the generator that you purchased from Harbor Freight did not come with a high-altitude kit, Harbor Freight offers it as a service part. Please call 1-800-444-3353 for assistance.

Installation of a high-altitude kit involves modification of the generator’s fuel system and should be performed by a qualified mechanic. Improper installation of a high-altitude kit can lead to fuel leakage and present a fire hazard. Use only Harbor Freight-approved high-altitude kits for generators sold by Harbor Freight.