Predator 9000/7250 Watt Generator, Tri Fuel Kit and Accessories Review/Testing

[@barrydawg7544]

Your video is by far one of the BEST I have ever seen on explanation and covering all the bases...I love how you referenced all the items you talked about,,GREAT JOB...

[@Sonyman34]

Just wanted to tell you your effort into this video was not in vain. It should be nominated for recognition. I saw many on here but yours is the only one with substance with weight. Thank you. I just bought mine used from a private owner and can't wait to use it like a kid with a toy on Christmas

[@roxanaquintana8620]

We have used the kzbin.infoUgkxOTeIs0vv4_9B5hsmnLsk9r930uDQLu_Y for probably 30 hours with our camper and it’s been great! The noise level is really only noticeable when running the AC and other appliances like the microwave, hair dryer, or coffee pot. It’s not huge like other ones and it has wheels so even at 90lbs, I can move it!

[@lasurvivor47]

Great video. Thanks for putting in all that time to help others. Very nice work!

[@TheBucktowncrazy]

Great video. 1st this is a great generator period!!!!! People may say because it's sold at Habor Freight its cheap or junk. We'll my area was hit last August by hurricane Ida. We were out of normal electricity for 19 days 8 hours and 32 minutes. Crazy because this same generator saved us. Running it 22 or 23 hours a day I changed the oil ever 2 days. Ran perfect Ran 2 window units, 2 refrigerators, TV, wifi and a light or 2. GREAT GENERATOR

[@Pk3_Garage]

So, I finally had a chance to install the Motor Snorkel and it works great. I think I found my issue when using the adaptor. On the carburetor, there is a small breather hole, that was covered up when using the adaptor. I believe this was preventing air flow into the carburetor. I had no problem running on Gasoline or switching back and forth between NG. I highly recommend using a "Poniie PN1500 Portable Micro Electricity Usage Monitor Electrical Power Consumption Watt Meter Voltage Amp Tester" to adjust engine RPM's, so you can have the 60-62hz, when running under load. (I did have to make some adjustments to the RPM's) My tachometer isn't showing the correct RPM's, so that's why I used the watt meter voltage tester. I plug the watt meter into the 120V plugs on the generator, on both legs, to see the hertz/volts output. I'm thinking about doing a more detailed video about this, the tri-fuel kit and the readings in volts and hertz. Let me know if you guys are interested in this. Thanks

[@rongray4118]

Bless you for spending 1 and 20 minutes time to show us!!

[@proengineering661]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge, this is a terrific instructional video. A few comments if I may. 1) I added casters to my generators after severely hurting my back lifting/rolling the genny's back and forth from garage to backyard for oil changes every day during a multi-day outage here..and since I'm not a youngster the casters really work wonders....2) For those who want to use Nat. gas or propane fuels I recommend purchasing a unit already built for dual-fuel or tri-fuel from Champion, Firman, Duromax etc. albeit they may cost slightly more than a gasoline only genny, the carburetors are designed to accept liquid or vapor fuels saving time and money for conversion....all you may need to add is an appropriate zero-regulator for Nat. gas operation for a dual-fuel unit. 3) As for continuous power rating of genny using nat. gas I use 80% of gasoline rating rule of thumb. So your machine should be able to supply around 5800 watts running on Nat. gas if it is getting adequate fuel supply. 3) You reviewed your nat. gas piping job (most people cannot or won't undertake this work because of requirements for permits by local authorities and work done by a licensed plumber)...but if your genny cannot supply its rated power (nat. gas rating of 5800W which would have been useful to see in your video) I suggest reviewing Chapters 5 & 6 of National Fuel Gas Code which describes how to size nat. gas piping systems (if you haven't already done so)...for calculation purposes I believe your unit would consume appx. 130,000 BTU/Hr nat. gas running at full load. 4) For those who want clean power to run sensitive electronics, try a 1500 watt regulated 12Vdc power supply connected to 1500 watt 12Vdc pure sine inverter....this rig is much cheaper than an UPS and will provide very clean stable and isolated output even for very wide swings in voltage and frequency out of your genny. Also, in addition to monitoring genny speed, suggest monitoring your frequency....set up for 60Hz at around 50% of full load....frequency will be slightly higher under no-load and slightly lower under full-load. Your genny voltage will remain around 120/240 because the unit llikely has an AVR which regulates the output voltage as speed and load vary.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi and thanks for your in-depth comment. This will help out a lot of people. The only thing I will disagree with is buying a already Tri-fuel generator over installing a Tri-Fuel kit. I can tell you from personal experience, that installing a Tri-fuel kit is much better. You can regulate the air/fuel mixture much better, which will help the loss of power when running NG/LP. With my testing on NG, I've been able to get close to 6000 to 7000 watts easily. As to oil changes, I'm using Pennzoil fully synthetic motor oil. I'm going to have it laboratory tested at 60 hrs. to see how long I can go between OC. Having to change the oil every 25 hrs. is crazy. Also, I installed a magnetic oil cap to catch the metal in the oil.

[@proengineering661]

@@Pk3_Garage Thanks so much for your reply....I agree many people experienced issues with the earlier versions of Tri-Fuel genny's of several years ago primarily because of the lousy gas regulators they came with and misunderstanding of gennys nat. gas pressure and consumption requirements. Recent models have much better more sensitive regulators like the Century one you installed and mfg. now provide the specific gas input requirements (eg. 7" w.c. @ 130,000 BTU/hr full load). With the proper pipe/hose sizing to meet the genny's input requirements, the newer Tri-Fuel units work very well on nat, gas right out of the box (as the reviews indicate). Furthermore, with a duel-fuel unit, you could still add a regulator like the Century if you want to have nat. gas operation giving you the ability to adjust the air/fuel mixture and still not have to modify the carburetor. Regarding the battery, we have found it to be nearly essential for these larger engines to start up on nat. gas....especially for older folks. I don't exercise genny more than once or twice a year so I use a battery maintainer, and never had a starting problem in more than ten years....the trickle charger will prolong the life of your lead acid battery (these batteries should last 5-6 years on trickle charger) so I still recommend using one even if you exercise the genny every 3 months.

[@basicnomad]

I wish I knew you when I was living in Chicago....I was pretty tight lipped about my preps. Stay safe.

[@michaelwarren5646]

I really enjoyed this video I didn't even notice the length. I hadn't thought about a generator but I may look into this. You do a great job and provide the links. Thanks!

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi and thanks for checking out my video. Let us know what you decided to do. Also, check out the solar battery a/k/a solar generators too. We don't have one, but I'm looking into purchasing one as a backup to our generator. The price for a 3K watts solar battery is almost $4,000, without solar panels.

[@frankhoose]

Yesterday the county inspector approved the natural gas conversion and installation for my Harbor Freight Predator 9000 generator. No more wrangling gas cans!! Your video was both an inspiration and a reliable guide for the conversion. I went with the US Carburetion kit. After a few tries (and remembering to use the primer button!) it started up. Since then I've started it several times using batteries and the pull starter. Thanks for posting your video!

[@Pk3_Garage]

Not having to keep a lot of fuel on hand, or having to refill the generator, is the greatest benefit to the Tri-fuel conversion kit. I've seen videos of people standing in long gas lines, to fill up gas cans, after a natural disaster. Not to mention, if the power goes out in my area, the gas stations won't have power to run the gas pumps.

[@towndraw]

Awesome video! I must say this is the best and most detailed info I’ve ever seen. Long but worth every minute. Thank you sir!

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi and thanks. It wasn't my intention for the video to be so long. I was covering different shots and thought about different things I wanted to share that would be helpful that other videos didn't have. I hope time coding the video helped.

[@kramsdrawde8159]

Iv'e watched only a few minutes and I believe you to be a real person, by that I mean a good person down to earth not a tuber that only cares about views. Looking forward to watching the video in entirety...

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi and thanks. Let me know how you like it. I'll be doing a 1 yrs. Review video soon too.

[@gregorygreen8979]

I hate to be redundant, but this is the best product review youtube video I have ever seen! You have impressed the hell out of me! There are other great review videos, this one tops them all. I tip my hat to you sir !

[@Pk3_Garage]

Happy Friday and thanks for your positive feedback.

[@frankhoose]

Excellent review! I've had a portable generator for over 10 years and I still learned a lot. I just bought a new Predator 9000 which I plan to convert to Natural Gas, so this was very helpful. The index into the video for each of the accessories was an extra bonus! Based on your recommendations, I've ordered the following items: - Tri-Fuel kit US Carburetion - Locking caster set - Runtime meter I already had a heavy-duty lock for my generator that the Predator 9000 replaced. It locks to a heavy-duty chain that connects underground to a spiral stake sunk about 12" into the ground. My generator is stored in a small custom-made shed. The stake for the lock is under the generator and some pavers that the generator sits on. My bigger concern is that a thief would saw through the frame where the chain wraps around. But then there are PIR sensors and security cameras to get past... :-)

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks. Sounds like you've got everything covered. I know what you mean about a thief cutting the frame. I use two locks and cable chains. One on front and back on the generator. I think I might dig a two foot hole and cement an eye bolt in it, to secure our generator.

[@jonathanDIYs]

If you're connecting this to your home power system, you don't need the grounding rod. The whole system is grounded from the grounding rod(s) for the house. Great video!

[@Pk3_Garage]

Good point. I was thinking the same thing, but decided to follow the manufacturer's directions. I will test it out the next time I exercise it.

[@jonathanDIYs]

@@Pk3_Garage It is somewhat more important in an isolated system that has no ground or earth connection. It is an overloaded term - there really is 2 separate considerations for "ground" - one is to protect from short circuit by bonding the neutral and ground such that the breaker would trip if a short was to happen and the second thing is to provide a path for lightning to dissipate into the earth without shocking anyone. When you're connected to the home, both of those objectives are already achieved if you have a properly wired electrical system.

[@snafu673]

I love this video. I just bought one of these generators yesterday and you answered every single question I had about this generator. Thank you so much!

[@Pk3_Garage]

I'm glad I could help.

[@snafu673]

@@Pk3_Garage My caster wheels came in today they are going on the generator tomorrow.

[@ronedge9659]

Wow! I must say - this is definitely an in depth and Excellent video review!! I think you helped me make a decision to purchase this generator. Wasn't aware of possibility to convert to NG or LP. Thank you for sharing this Awesome video! I will be watching again.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks. It's on sale for $689 this weekend. ($100 dollars off the regular price)

[@blackmacgyver9965]

Going threw the bill to calculate the wattage is a great tips thanks bro .

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks. It was just to complicated, trying to guess the wattage usage for each appliance, using online charts.

[@seansolina895]

Excellent video. great research for parts and such! Thanks.

[@paulhlange]

Great video - glad you covered many items that are not mentioned anywhere else, while my Predator 9000/7250 can't handle my 4Ton A/C unit it does cover everything else in our home by managing the Watts load via manual breaker toggles at our main breaker panel....the only thing I would recommend is to install a "Sense" unit that allows you to see your Watt's load via CT's deployed to your main breaker utility wires....

[@it4dps]

Very detailed and great video! I laughed when you threw pretty much every appliance in the house at your generator and it didn't even flinch. Overkill is a beautiful thing..

[@novarocker247]

The engine is running rich, not lean on load by that spark plug, which makes sense. Putting a longer adapter on the carburetor is like sucking through a straw. Its essentially choking the motor. You can just adjust the AF screw and lean it out a bit. Its really expected.

[@nulldude782]

I just picked up one of these today. Great video, thanks.

[@Pk3_Garage]

I've decided to do an updated video, showing the frequency and watts, on utility and generator power. I want to show, how you can use a simple tool to measure both, and how to make adjustments to the generator.

[@thomastait8247]

Will you include ignition timing adjustments please?

[@Pk3_Garage]

Sorry, not sure how to do that.

[@KC-vp7wn]

Wow, Great video and ton's if info for converting to natural gas! Thanks so much....

[@antowanstanback8017]

Excellent video! Straight to the point and very detailed. This is the only video that explains and shows test of the furnace and central air. Thank you for this video, I’m in Chicago as well and been researching to purchase a generator to run my entire home. Im going to do the same setup.

[@Pk3_Garage]

I'm glade I could help. Let me know how things turn out when it's all completed.

[@StanlocoInc]

Thank you for posting such a detailed and informative video as I just recently purchased this same generator and was looking for ways to connect LP rather than gasoline. And the devices you also use are great. God Bless and Happy Easter.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi Stanloco and thanks. Happy Easter to you and God Bless you and your family too. Let me know if you have any questions about the conversion kit. I didn't do an installation video, but I can help you with set up, if needed. I haven't had any issues running off NG or gasoline. The Tri-fuel kit is a must have, for any gasoline only generator.

[@markthebop]

Great Video dude! Thanks for the information and all of the links. Very informative and kudos for the hard work putting this together.

[@richardtardy8438]

Excellent video! Very thorough and easy to understand!

[@ARS-77]

Excellent and greatly detailed video. This is just what I needed for the information on the Predator that I was looking for.

[@alboogie3578]

Wow!! Very detailed and informative review...thank you! You sound like a military Man like myself.👍🏾

[@dant1724]

Excellent video! I appreciate you, Thank You.

[@frankhoose]

A few more notes... I had my HVAC contractor do the connections from the gas line up to the regulator on the generator. I did the installation of the conversion kit on the generator. At my request, the contractor provided a flexible gas line with quick-connects on both ends. I wanted them to be responsible for everything upstream from the generator so that there would be clear lines of responsibility in case anything did not work as expected. Total for parts and labor was $600 which I thought was a fair price. That included the permit and inspection fees.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Not a bad price at all. Thanks for sharing. This info. will benefit those that can't do this job themselves.

[@AP-qd2dq]

Best Predator 9000 video ever. I've watched over 100

[@richardbrueggebors29]

Excellent presentation! Thanks so much for your efforts.

[@PacMan257]

Great info, thank you for taking the time to do this.

[@putmeonyourlist8688]

Thanks man! You look like Damon Wayans

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi and thanks for the compliment.

[@pctech911]

Great video, like how you went around and showed everything. I have the same kit on my B&S 6250 Storm Responder, works great!! No more storing/treating gasoline

[@Pk3_Garage]

I really like the Gentent. We had a big snow storm came through, about a month ago, that was predicted to knock out power in our area. I set up our generator and put the Gentent storage apron on until needed. The Gentent protected the generator very well. We never needed to use the generator, but it was nice to see how well the Gentent protected it in the snow.

[@pctech911]

@@Pk3_Garage I keep mine beside the house just inside the fence and next to gas/electrical inlet. I have a 6x8’ tarp mounted from house to fence and completely covers everything and protects from the elements. Cost maybe $15

[@Pk3_Garage]

How do you protect it from rain and snow, when it's running? Since we only lose power maybe once a year, if that, ours is stored in the garage until needed. So no need for a separate storage shed.

[@pctech911]

@@Pk3_Garage think of a lean to. Tarp from house to fence 6’ wide and 8 feet across. The whole area around the generator is covered. And great for airflow

[@SgtRudySmithbRet]

@@pctech911 I use a 10x10 tent from walmart. With the legs half way up. Then I lean a piece of plywood up to the generator to deflect the soud away from the house.

[@curve5746]

Extremely valuable video. Thank you so much. Getting ready to do the same setup. Just worried that generator won't last long. Dark winter is coming. You are an intelligent man. The only question i have left is efficiency on natural gas

[@Pk3_Garage]

What would you like to know about the generator running on NG and it being efficient?

[@mx2ce782]

Fantastic video, you are a natural teacher! I am mechanically illiterate, and you made perfect sense! Be well my friend!

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi and thanks for the comment. I'm glade I was able to help you out. God bless you.

[@sikes185]

Very informative. Great vid.

[@probeteam9936]

That was a really good video. What a great investment... thank you for the video and your time...

[@mrsa101]

great info man. thank you for making this!!! covered so much . wish i had seen this before i started buying things.

[@Pk3_Garage]

I'm glade I was able to help you out. Thanks for watching.

[@tonisam962]

@@Pk3_Garage please make sure you also watch this video about generator safety kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2LNhWZ3g6qBrKs thank you. Everyone really needs to know about generator safety if they have one. Stay safe

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks. I'll check it out.

[@captainnemo6001]

Thanks for making this great video. Just bought the same generator during the black Friday sale. Haven't fired it up yet. Have the wheel kit installed and have bought the oil, non-ethanol gas, sta-bil, and ordered the hours meter, which is supposed to be here on Saturday. Plan to follow your break-in procedure in the comments. Will likely wait for hour meter before firing up. Comments on the hour meter say the instructions are terrible, difficult to follow, and incorrect in some places. What was your experience?

[@Pk3_Garage]

Glade you was able to buy it for $599. I didn't have any issue installing either hours meter. It's really easy to install, the hrs./tacho meter was a little harder to figure out how to set it though. Had to read through the directions a few times.

[@socrates2706]

A battery powered angle grinder will overcome your security in minutes. Invest in one of those portable battery powered motion detectors and position it to detect activity. At least you will know they are around the generator before they steal it. However, you can’t shoot them unless they threaten you with a deadly weapon. Maybe scare them off. Otherwise, great video👍🏻

[@Pk3_Garage]

True. We do have a security camera system now, so we will see if anyone is on our property. The idea is to make it as hard as possible to steal it. I have some other ideas as well, which I won't share for obvious reasons.

[@socrates2706]

@@Pk3_Garage It’s VERY difficult to defend against a portable angle grinder. Owners of expensive motorcycles have been trying for years. You are smart to a least make sure you’re not the soft target in the neighborhood.

[@DavidRamirez-ol4sz]

Very nice setup!

[@johnmorse8434]

Thanks for making this video, you explained a lot.

[@24vignettes94]

Don’t confuse kWh with kW. kWh does not necessarily reflect your highest load (kW) at any given point.

[@MsDave64]

I noticed with Natural gas your engine RPMs were down below 3600, which would change frequency and voltage output more than likely to under 120 Volts. It may also be the reason for the carboning up of your spark plug. I would clean that plug and raise RPM to at least 3600 then check the plug after ten or 12 hour run to see if that corrected the problem. There is an inexpensive meter called a kil-o-watt that can be used to balance your frequency ( ideal 60 - 62.8) and voltage (110 - 125) that would help. {3600 RPM should equal120 volts at 60 Cycle frequency}

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks for that info. I actually thought the RPMs was 3400. Just recently I tested the voltage on a few 120V outlets in the house that was running on Gen power. The readings was 121V-123V and was pretty stable even under load. I'm still going to check the frequency though. (I have to verify that my multimeter has that setting). Question, on my tachometer, the RPM's range from 3200 to 3700, even though the engine is running smooth and the voltage output is at or above 120V. Is that normal? If not, any idea how to fix? Now that I'm thinking about it, I'm going to check the setting on the Tachometer and make sure it's set correctly, to register the RPM's for our generator engine type. Thanks

[@MsDave64]

@@Pk3_Garage I would say the tach readings were probably in the ball park because the governor may be doing some regulating if the engine was warming up or for some other reason. I would also like to add that it is normal for the engine to run a lower rpm using Natural gas or LP gas unless you adjust the Carburetor manually to compensate. The engine governor however is a internal mechanical devise activated by weights so it will continually hunt for the engines pre-set proper rpm iaw the spring tension applied. If you exceed that setting the governor is useless and that usually ends in disaster.

[@MsDave64]

@@Pk3_Garage An explanation of the 3600 rule: Your generator has a North and South pole each turning at 3600 RPM and alternating the current 7200 times per minute. 7200 /120 volts = 60 cycles known as the Frequency. (Hope that helps) This works when all factors are absolutely perfect. To get the perfect frequency vs volts inverters are used to invert DC to AC electronically. Generators produce an uneven frequency that can damage sensitive electronics like computers and circuit boards in tv and refrigerators under certain circumstances.

[@eternalbeing3339]

Very helpful! Well done brother!

[@jeremiah.k.mathis]

Awesome

[@ken-bm1wy]

Great video, but I have one question. I've installed a wheel kit on my Northstar 13000 generator and want to replace the two fixed feet with caster type wheels. I noticed that your caster wheels are designed to be mounted with four bolts and the predator feet are designed for two bolts. Did you mount the casters with just two bolts or use do something different?

[@Pk3_Garage]

Sorry, I forgot to mention that I had to drill two additional holes in the frame. I did use the two OEM bolts and holes too, along with the two additional bolts and holes I drilled.

[@felicelgato59]

Just amazing 👏 wow thank you very much, are you a military veteran? Attention to details is a must.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks for your kind words. No, I'm not a military veteran, but do have family members that are. My goal was to try and explain/show what I learned about generators. How to use them. The type of accessories you can buy, to make owning one a better experience. Alot of KZbin videos I watched, didn't matter the type of generator, didn't show the full potential of a portable generator. That's what inspired this video and its contents.

[@felicelgato59]

I have the same generator and have it ready to hook up to my house

[@kettlienicolas5413]

He is a good man very patient I appreciate you bro and thanks a lot!

[@4dirt2racer0]

that one part u couldnt remember the name of, then later overlaid it "generator" is actually called the "head" the whole thing, head attached to engine and gas tank and usually inverter

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks for the correction. I did look up the part and that's what it said.

[@mistastabs5840]

LOL I have a similar setup, I am still not sure about the gas hookup and the 20% power lose. Great video thanks for sharing.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Can you explain, in more details, about the gas hook up and 20% power lose your unsure about? Thanks.

[@mistastabs5840]

@@Pk3_Garage Natural gas or Propane gas is what I was referring to. Using either, there is roughly 20% lose in power output as a posed to gasoline only.

[@Pk3_Garage]

That is correct. I noticed some power lose between NG and Gasoline, but couldn't give you a percentage. (I was still able to run everything I had connected to the generator) What I can say though is, depending on your power need, buy a generator that has at least 2 kwz over what you need and you should be fine. Remember, the tri-fuel kit are to make it so you don't have to refuel or store a lot of fuel to run your generator. You can always switch between Gasoline and NG or LP, if you need the generators full power output. I store 15 gal. of gasoline, even though our generator uses NG as its primary fuel source. The more fuel options you have, the better.

[@mistastabs5840]

@@Pk3_Garage True, now I am seeing I really don't even need a specialized carburetor either. All that's required is a secured method of securing the natural gas line to the airbox (still investigating). In a real situation and time of year I am sure there are things that I can just not switch on if I were to go to natural gas. The propane option doesn't seem practical to me e.g. Texas long waits for fill ups. I too am in the Chicago land area and natural gas already comes to the house... Plus if it takes more propane to run less it just doesn't make sense to me.

[@robertgwalsh5878]

Great video. Thank you.

[@MrEricdgreat]

Great information 👍🏽

[@TheBucktowncrazy]

I did forget to add the natural gas kit I purchased was about $300 total and worth it. Today, I couldn't imagine standing in line for 6 to 8 hours to fill 5 gallon gas cans especially with the price of gas. It's lower down here about $3.68 a gallon.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi TRIP and thanks for sharing. Your example shows why this generator w/Tri-fuel kit, in a real-life situation, is worth it. We still haven't lost power in our area, since the making of this video. I'm sure we will be fine though. I hear you about the gas prices. Here in Chicago, the price for regular gas is around $5.75 a gallon. The Tri-fuel kit is an upgrade every owner, of a gasoline only generator, should have. Even though I have gas stored up, NG is what we are running when using the generator.

[@davstube]

To fix the issue with the generator running rich you need to reduce the spark plugs gap by 10,000

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks. The spark plug was re-gaped from 0.028" to 0.018". The problem was the adaptor. I have since then replaced the adaptor, with the Motor Snorkel, and haven't had any problems.

[@tubeDude48]

The 9500 requires a lot a disassembly of 2 covers, 2 wheels and lots of nuts! What a pain!!! I would have used 6 gauge. --- Add a slow-start to your A.C.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi, so are you saying you are interested in the 9000/7250 version?

[@tubeDude48]

@@Pk3_Garage - No the 9500.

[@tubeDude48]

@@Pk3_Garage - NO the 9500

[@johndifabrizio4344]

Outstanding video! Worth the time. Was it hard to set up the natural gas unit and line for the generator? I want to do that to my generator! Thank you very much.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Not at all. The gas line took about 3 hrs. to install and the tri-fuel kit about an hrs. Taking measurements, coming up with a diagram for the NG line and buying all the pipes, took longer to complete.

[@dredlock3000]

Thanks for this video! Very informative. Did you do all the electrical work yourself?

[@Pk3_Garage]

I did. You can learn a lot from online resources.

[@nativeamericangodfirst1083]

Very good, thank you

[@rudyrillera1629]

Thank you for an excellent, informative video. All aspects explained in an easy to understand manner. Did you make any provision to protect your sensitive electronic equipment (PC, video, etc.)?

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi and thanks. That's a good question that I don't believe I covered in my video. I didn't make any provisions to protect sensitive electronics. We do have surge protected power strips that we use to protect them. This would be my suggestion. Once you do it, you never have to worry about this particular step again.

[@jimbrown341]

@@Pk3_Garage You'd probably want to get a UPS instead. Those actually condition the current for clean power. That would be important for sensitive electronics like a desktop PC, TV, etc.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks for the suggestion. I've been looking into it, but haven't seen a need for it. From what I can tell, the frequency and volts don't fluctuate much and stays within the recommended limited. I've run all of our sensative electronics with no issues. (60+ hrs.)

[@laurarettig9874]

Nicely done video.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks. Hope it helped you out.

[@lewisellis7608]

Thank you well doe

[@joebob7344]

This is an excellent video.a lot of thought went into making it. It may be the spark plug that is burning black is not burning hot enough. Spark plugs come in different heat ranges. Could it be that you need to install a Hotter burning plug to eliminate the cold / black plug.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Once I installed the Motor Snorkel, no more issues.

[@nickhart3401]

Awesome video... answered many of my questions. I do have a question about your Runleader tach/hour meter. What setting did you use for the firing pattern....1P1R or 1P2R? Thanks!

[@Pk3_Garage]

I will have to look at my notes and get back to you. I can tell you though, that it's not dead on accurate with the RPM's. I verified this using a wattage usage meter, that measures the frequency.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi Nick, sorry for the late reply. I forgot to look this up for you. I'm using setting 1P2R. The RPM's are not very accurate when I compare it using my wattage meter. It's close but I wouldn't use it to set the RPM's. Use a watt usage meter that shows frequency instead.

[@mlmorlock772]

Thanks so much for this video. I'm a single gal, worship leader here in Nashville - so I can tell ya this is ALL new to me! I have no idea what I'm doing. However, I went and also bought this same 9000w gen. I have many questions. I won't be using it to the capacity that you are as far as getting this thing hooked up to my house to run my AC, etc. I wouldn't even know where to begin with all that falling short of hiring an electrician. However, I was simply planning on using an extension cord, and running it into my house to run my two refrigs, maybe a fan, tv, etc. 1) What gauge extension cord should I use? A guy friend told me 12g...another guy friend told me I could do a lighter one. 2) once I get the extension cord into my house, can I simply use a power strip and add other extension cords on to it to run multiple things? If so, do THOSE extension cords need to be a certain gauge? Does the power strip need to be a certain gauge? Thanks for your help. You're a blessing! ML

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi and thanks. I understand and would encourage you to hire an electrician to install a 6 or 10 circuit manual transfer switch. This would be much easier to manage the power loads on the generator. You wouldn't have to worry about running extension cords through doors or windows. Not to mention making sure you don't over load the generator or cause a fire. In order to buy the correct extension cords for the appliances you need to use, you need to size up the cord with the power required to run that appliance(s) and volts and amps. Most refrigerators are on a singe 15 to 20 amp circuit by itself. (Check inside your main control panel) Here is an article about extension cord sizes. www.protoolreviews.com/buying-guides/extension-cord-size-chart-wire-gauge-amps/50202/ To answer your questions, you could go with a 14 gauge extension cord reel. (See below link) www.menards.com/main/electrical/electrical-cords-cord-management/extension-cords/smart-electrician-reg-50-14-3-quad-outlet-extension-cord-reel/91286/p-1564036103973-c-6410.htm?tid=-3759614358132150087&ipos=1 Adding extension cords to extension cords, you can do, but isn't safe. (I know people do it though) For high wattage appliances like your frig. only have it plugged into that extension cord and that 120V outlet. (The generator has four of these outlets) All extension cords and power strips should be sized to the power loads you will need. Now you can see why I recommend a manual transfer switch. In the long run, its much safer and very easy to set up your generator to run those things you need. Not to mention you only need one 10 gauge extension cord to run from the generator to the power inlet box. You won't have to move any appliances to unplug from the outlet to plug into an extension cord. I hope this helps and sorry for the long answer.

[@mlmorlock772]

@@Pk3_Garage Thanks so much for all this information. You have been so helpful. To be honest, your video was very informative, but a little overwhelming to my musician/girl mind. I know it seems having an electrician come and set me up seems to be the easiest, but it sounds expensive, plus I didn't understand all the things you were showing us with yours. Because I'm a single gal, it just seems in an emergency the easiest thing for me to do and to understand is to start my generator and run an extension cord to power the things I need to run inside. Because of your warnings, I will only run extension cords straight from my generator instead of using power strips. I have two refrigerators. (one: 5.3A....the other: 3.5A) What do you mean when you say "most frigs are on a singe 15-20 amp circuit by itself"? Also, did you hire an electrician to install the manual switch, or did you do it yourself? Just wondering what the cost would be to have an electrician come. (Thanks for the links too!)

[@Pk3_Garage]

Questions: 1) Your frig should be on its own 15 to 20 amp circuit. This prevents tripping the breaker, if it shared that same circuit with other outlets in the house. 2) I installed our transfer switch. It wasn't hard and I'm familiar with working with electric components around the house. 3) I've heard an electrician charges $300 to $500 to install the transfer switch. The transfer switch can cost $200 to $300 dollars.

[@mlmorlock772]

@@Pk3_Garage Thanks so much for getting back to me. You have been so very helpful! Blessings to you and your family!

[@Ray420C]

I read that you have to change the spark plug gap for different Fuel that could be your running problem on gas call Tri fuel back.

[@Pk3_Garage]

You do have to make the sparkplug gap smaller when using the Tri Fuel Kit. I had the same thought as you, but when I re-gaped the spark plug to the manufacturer specification, it was the same result.

[@tubeDude48]

Where I live, we loose power all the time!!

[@hoofhearted1326]

1st question, Do you drain the gas tank on the generator after using it? Or do you use a fuel stabilizer? 2nd question, Have you ran the generator on propane yet? 3rd question, Why did you go with the Predator generator and not a Champion,Westinghouse or a Duromax generator? Very nice video by the way!!

[@Pk3_Garage]

1) No, I don't drain the tank. I just run the carb. dry before storage. I do use fuel stabilizer. 2) Haven't run on propane yet, as I will not be using propane as a fuel source. 3) The Predator was at an affordable price of $599 with coupon. That's half the cost of the other name brands, for the same watts and features I cared about. Also, the great reviews.

[@hoofhearted1326]

@@Pk3_Garage I was just wondering if there was a power difference running propane or natural gas. I am doing the same thing as you just want to have pack up power just in case things go down. With the way this year has been I want my family to be as comfortable as possible. I'll look for the coupon for the Predator. Thanks for answering my questions it will help with my generator buy. God Bless you and your Family. I'll be looking for your next video. Stay safe HOOF HEARTED OUT!!!

[@Pk3_Garage]

No problem and thanks for asking questions. So, during my testing, I can confirm that there is a power loss when using NG over Gasoline. How much, I can't tell, because I have no way of measuring it. The way I can tell is when running the same things at the same time using both fuel sources. Do a Google search about the three fuel sources and you will find more info as I did. I will say though, using the tri-fuel kit, I can adjust the fuel/air mixture, which is a big plus when using NG. I can compensate for the power loss, by allowing more fuel to be burned, to gain some of that power loss back. So far, I've been able to run everything on our ten circuits, without a problem. I'm still making adjustments to the power valve and idle screw on the generator, for the prefect balance.

[@moonolyth]

@@hoofhearted1326 don't own one but would love to get one soon. I've run a lawnmower on gas and Propane Yes gasoline gives more energy. This is out of a propane tank and not Plumbing from the house. But I have no doubt liquid fuel is better. I also understand there may not be a great savings going to piped in fuel other than convenience which is good enough for me... having a back up!

[@mandoramirez1205]

When your generator is not in use ,should the fuel be drained or can the fuel be allowed to remain in the tank until the generator is needed again, also , does gasoline go bad after a long period of time,great video thanks for sharing.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Personally, I treat all the gasoline with Fuel Stabilizer, in the gas storage containers. This way, I don't have to worry about adding the Fuel Stabilizer to each tank of gas. With fuel stabilizer treat gasoline, it should hold up to 12 months. I cycle the gas out, about every three months, by putting it in the gas tank, in our vehicles. If you exercise the generator every month or two, don't drain the tank. Any longer then that, I would drain the tank empty. Also, after each use, run the carb dry by closing the fuel line valve, before shut down, and let the engine die. This will burn any fuel left in the carb.

[@mandoramirez1205]

@@Pk3_Garage Thank you for the reply, it answered my questions and will be very useful, I plan to purchase a generator soon, but need to do more research, thanks again.

[@mandoramirez1205]

@@Pk3_Garage I'm sorry sir , but I had one other question, do you feel it's necessary to protect your generator against an EMT attack, I have some possible ways in mind but haven't decided yet on which I'm going to use, I hope you don't think I'm crazy ,just trying to cover all the bases, thank you very much ,your video is very informative, Thx.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Your welcome and no problem. You have to explain what you mean by EMT attach.

[@mandoramirez1205]

@@Pk3_Garage my fault, I meant to say an EMP attack, its similar to a solar flare where all or any kind of electronic device including automobiles will become non operational due to there electronics being overloaded and fried, also the grid will go down, maybe I have been watching to much KZbin, but if you look up " how to survive an EMP " on the net it will explain what I trying to say, also are enemy's are aware of this and know how to create a man made event like this as we know how to do this to them as well,I think you will find it interesting, it all about how you ground everything if you plan on surviving such an event, try looking it up and tell me what you think, have a good one.

[@kchilz32]

You never thought of installing an interlock kit? More options

[@Pk3_Garage]

In our case, no. We only have 15 circuits. We only need 10 circuits in a blackout. A manual transfer switch is much better, safer, have more options. There are less steps when switching to generator power. Check out my video on our transfer switch. (Linked in the description)

[@abow8260]

Good video! Did it run on gasoline and natural gas well after taking that block out and putting in the motor snorkle? I got a kit from nash fuel and it wouldn't run on gasoline after installing it they are supposed to send me a different style venturi. Can you get full load out of your gen on Natural? Mine snuffs out at about 5400 watts now

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi and thanks. 1) Yes. It runs perfectly on NG and gasoline using the Motor Snorkel. 2) I can't confirm if we can get the full 9000/7250 watts on NG. (Probable not) I've been able to run our 3 ton AC, along with other essentials appliances at the same time, with no problem. The most I've used is 5800 watts. (That's running the same stuff on gasoline)

[@3332pat]

Excellent video. I have a Westinghouse Wgen 9500 dual fuel generator and want to convert it to use NG. I was wondering if you have had a chance to try the US Carburetion Snorkel kit yet.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks. Its funny you asked this question. I just installed it this weekend. (I had to order the Power Valve) It was an easy install and it works great. The issue I had, trying to run the generator on gasoline using the adaptor, is no longer an issue. I was able to switch between NG and Gasoline with no problem. There was no power lose either, with my testing. (Checking engine RPM's and voltage output in a few outlets in the house. US Carburetion kit is the way to go.

[@3332pat]

@@Pk3_Garage Great! That's what I needed to know. I'm going to order one now. Did you do a video of the installation, or is it easy enough that someone who is not that mechanically inclined, like me, can easily install it? Thanks for the reply

[@Pk3_Garage]

That's good. You'll enjoy not having to refuel the generator. No, I didn't do an installation video, but there are a few good ones, on KZbin, you can watch. It's not really hard, just make sure to place a piece of wood in front of the gas tank, when you are drilling through the frame. That will help to not drill into the gas tank. Ok, now that I'm thinking through things, let me know if you want me to do a video of everything relating to our gas line set up, to the Tri-fuel kit installation. (I had did a lot of research before buying supplies to set up our system)

[@sgtshultz13]

They sell a replacement carburetor with gas input for $40 on Amazon

[@Pk3_Garage]

At the time I was doing my research, the one on Amazon was not for the 9000/7250 watts generator. It will work, but you wouldn't be able to get the full 9000/7250 watts out of it.

[@alexcastro4595]

Who did your install. I know nothing about electric or gas so I guess I should seek out a pro to do it. Very very informative video. You did a great job. I saw another video where a gentleman used a small outdoor shed and a concrete platform with some dryer vents and stuff and made his a permanent install. I think I’ll incorporate both the videos to make my complete home generator solution.

[@Pk3_Garage]

I installed everything. For me it was easy, but for someone like yourself, I'd go with a professional installation.

[@johnswolter]

[Warning Cheap Shot] ....Chicago?! Why not pay a bribe for steady power? Okay, I liked the video article, JSW

[@johnswolter]

...and subscribed

[@emblems4life726]

Carbon Monoxide is the invisible gas that will kill you. Carbon Dioxide is an essential to life gas that benefits plant growth, and food production. Great Video overall though.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hi and thanks for the correction.

[@emblems4life726]

Pk 3 and you are humble too which is so rare these days. I am even more impressed with you now. 👍 Quick question. Does the top row of switches on your emergency load center have a true OFF setting, or does the "OFF" line just mean that the electrical connection is momentarily off to each circuit as you switch between GEN and LINE positions?

[@Pk3_Garage]

From my testing, when I place the switch to the "off" position in the transfer switch, that circuit power is cut off. (Even though the circuit, in the main control panel, is still in the on position)

[@emblems4life726]

Pk 3 Thanks. I just subscribed. Great info on the load balancing between phases which is overlooked by some people who are on the bubble as far as capacity goes.

[@emblems4life726]

@@Pk3_Garage Spark plug testing on a really great channel. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJS5d2augcSZsM0

[@dougvruggink2326]

I seen a comment that said yours did not run good on gasoline. I am having the same problem with the same tri fuel kit. Wondered if you ever came up with a solution to fix the problem when running on gasoline? Mine runs great on natural gas. Thanks

[@Pk3_Garage]

Remove the adaptor only. This will allow you to use the generator on Gasoline.

[@Pk3_Garage]

So I finally got around to installing the Motor Snorkel. It works great on NG and gasoline. You will have to buy the power valve from US Carburation over the phone.

[@kevinferger9897]

Where in your video does it run on propane? It's a tri fuel kit right. Do you adjust the the regulator and put a different propane line on it?

[@Pk3_Garage]

I don't have the connections for LP. If I did, it would connect above the NG pipe, on the regulator. (It would be another connection for LP) You will have to adjust the power valve, on top of the regulator, to smooth out the engine for all three fuels. (use a Tachometer to adjust the engine speed to 3600+ RPM's)

[@streetlifetrucks7888]

Where did you get that cover for your generator? I'm trying to figure that out since we're in hurricane season there's going be a lot of rain In these 4 months coming

[@Pk3_Garage]

If your referring to the one I use outside in bad weather, it's called a GenTent. Check out the link I provided in the description.

[@Randall9848]

I’m curious what kind of quick connects you are using for your gas?

[@Pk3_Garage]

I used some brass 3/4 inch natural gas quick/disconnects. I included a link in the description.

[@Dive-Bar-Casanova]

Need this for the Powerhorse 7500 inverter.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Check US Carburation's website and see if they have a Tri-Fuel kit for your generator.

[@Bob-gy6ud]

I’m planning on getting the same predator 9000 although now the price is $749 ($649 with coupon).

[@Pk3_Garage]

Yes, it has increased $100 since 2021. Even at $749, its still worth the price and we would have gladly paid that price, when we bought ours.

[@Bob-gy6ud]

@@Pk3_Garage exactly it’s still best deal on generator. I live out in the country so LP gas isn’t available however propane is but gas is still cheaper so I will buy the kit incase that changes.

[@christyallen7848]

Just bought a preditor 8750 used it was low on oil,dose it naturally use oil,concerned when I bought it for cheep must be ok?

[@Pk3_Garage]

I haven't seen or heard anything about oil consumption on these generators. How many run hrs. does it have? How much oil is it burning between oil changes? We have over 40 hrs. run time since are last oil change and no oil lose. We do use fully synthetic Pennzoil, which is better for the engine. Because these engines don't have a oil filter, might want to replace the stock oil filler cap, with a magnetic one, to catch the metal particles in the oil. (I'm in the process of doing this)

[@annehart1393]

Where did you buy the conversion Kit? Looking to do the same with our new generator.

[@Pk3_Garage]

Check out the links in the video discription. It's called a tri-fuel kit.

[@rhurtadorh32]

Have you had issues with the carbon sensor?

[@Pk3_Garage]

This unit didn't have the carbon sensor. HF added it in 2022, I believe. As much as I like the sensor, I really prefer not having one. I've heard units turning off when it's windy outside. This makes the unit unreliable if I shuts off unexpectedly.

[@spqr105]

Did you ever wind up having the same spark plug corrosion issue when running on gasoline with the motor snorkel?

[@Pk3_Garage]

Hum, good question. I haven't had any issue running on NG or gasoline, since installing the Motor Snorkel. I'm at 55 hrs. run time now, so will be doing an oil change at 60 hrs. I will check the spark plug and will let you know.

[@spqr105]

@@Pk3_Garage awesome, I appreciate that. I was considering installing the motor snorkel to run on natural gas only as a backup if the gasoline supply became scarce (as things did in NY during Hurricane Sandy). I know natural gas burns cleaner and will probably prolong the life of the engine but gasoline will give me more power and allows me to get the generator farther from my home. Anyway, your video got me thinking of any potential pitfalls of such a conversion. I'm aware of the decreased power because of less BTUs in natural gas as well as the compression ratio not being designed for it. However, I wasn't aware of any issues with the spark plug. Was the plug gapped to .2? I know US Carburetion recommends that gap when running on NG. Thanks again for the information and great video!

[@Pk3_Garage]

You are correct that NG burns cleaner and has a decrease in power output because of less BTU's. Here's the thing, the motor snorkel kit comes with a regulator, which allows you to adjust the gas flow into the carburetor. You have to change the spark plug gap from 0.0028" to 0.0018". This will allow for a hotter burn to ignite the NG. You can adjust the idle screw to make sure your producing 60 hz and 120V. (Need to use a Portable Micro Electricity Usage Monitor Electrical Power Consumption Watt Meter Voltage Amp Tester) These few factors/adjustments, make the power loss minimal. From my testing, I haven't notice any power loss, with the few adjustments I have made. You do have to make the idle adjustment underload though.

[@Pk3_Garage]

I forgot to add, if I were you, I'd invest in running the generator on NG as your primary source of fuel. The reason why, is you can only store so much fuel, but NG is endless. You don't have to shut the generator down, and wait for it to cool down, to refuel. We have a 15' NG hose that I use. That should be enough distance from your house. Just a thought. Run test to verify what you can run, this way no surprises.

[@Pk3_Garage]

I changed the spark plug, at 56 hrs., and there was no burning/corrosion on it. The spark plug looked really good. I had to change it, because the spark plug terminal was lose to where I could twist it. (Never seen that before)

[@kinguzziahbenisrael9986]

Are both of those hour meter running at the same time, I'm asking because I need to get one

[@Pk3_Garage]

Yes. I bought the hrs. meter on the left first. Then I bought the one on the right second. They are both connected to the sparkplug boot. They work very well in keep track of hrs. run. I like the one on the right better, because it has more features and measures the RPM's.

[@kinguzziahbenisrael9986]

@@Pk3_Garage thank you for responding, do I need both are just get the one on the right

[@Pk3_Garage]

No, you don't need both. Either meter will work. If you want more features, go with the one on the right.

[@grasser82]

Thank you for the video sir how much was the hard start kit for your ac?

[@Pk3_Garage]

I think around $50 on Amazon.

[@dalltex]

Soft start kit is better for generator use. Cost more but it's the correct way to run it.

[@raymondj8768]

PART OF THE MOTOR HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHH

[@boricuaarecibo9259]

I'm no expert but should the transfer switch be set to Gen?

[@Pk3_Garage]

Only when running on Generator power. All toggle switches should be in the "Line" position, when running on utility/grid power.

[@thomastait8247]

Does anyone know how to adjust the ignition timing or the magneto on the predator 9000?

[@Pk3_Garage]

I'm not sure how to do that. Maybe someone else can answer your question.

[@theplinkerslodge6361]

Great vid. I don't know what is magic about the airbox that causes everybody to cut the frame. Can't you just fashion another airbox that would fit???? There was another vid that said you have to get rid of the snorkel if you want to run gasoline. The snorkel is disturbing the necessary airflow or correct carburation - disturbing the Bernoulli effect. Remember, you are helping thieves supply all that power to their electric grinder/cut-off tool to cut through your security cables/chains in the middle of the night(!) Oh, and make sure you replace all Incandescent bulbs in your house with LED bulbs(!)

[@Pk3_Garage]

I've since then, installed the motor snorkel and it works great. No issues using gasoline or natural gas. I turn off the 120V outlets, so they can't use them. I've since then, bought a very thick security chain, that goes through a concrete anchor, that's under the generator. (The chain is secured under the generator. So thieves would have a really hard time getting through all our security. Not to mention, they would have to lift it over our fence. We have a really small yard and its only one way in or out.

[@theplinkerslodge6361]

@@Pk3_Garage Great, thanks for the speedy update.

[@4dirt2racer0]

haahaha the gloves!!! :p do u wipe ur rags off when ur done with them to :p im just jokin man im sry i cant help it man this was a good in depth video tho thanks man

[@Pk3_Garage]

So that's weird. I noticed all the dislikes disappeared. Not that I'm complaining, but this is baffling. Anybody, notice this with other KZbin videos?