Predator Generator 6500 Review & Buyers Guide (Revealed)

Last Updated on April 25, 2023 by Rod Olivares

Looking for a new portable generator and considering the Predator 6500? Are Predator generators any good? Predator generators are some of the best on the market. Here’s a full review of the 6500 Predator generator.

Generators vary enormously and if you aren’t familiar with some terminology, it can feel impossible to find the right one. Starting your search is half the battle. The other half is deciding on a generator that will suit your lifestyle and intentions.

In this Predator 6500 generator review, we’ll take you through the pros and cons. We’ll cover details including price, starting and running wattage, the difference between inverter and conventional generators, and much more. Let’s start.

Features and Functions Of The Predator 6500

5500 Running Watts, 6500 Starting Watts

As the name suggests, the Predator 6500 Generator possesses 6500 starting watts and 5500 running watts. This is relatively high for a portable generator. The impressive power output should keep most of your essentials running during a power outage. The wheel kit associated with the Predator generator also means you have power on the go, so it’s ideal for RV excursions.

A power output of 6500 starting watts and 5500 running watts makes the gas-powered unit capable of powering the following home essentials:

Refrigerators
Window air conditioners
Televisions
Electric clothes dryers
Electric water heaters
Radiant heaters
Hairdryer
Radio

Among others! If you are unsure of whether 5500 running watts is enough for any particular appliance, make sure to check the associated instruction manual. These usually contain information relating to your product’s power requirements. I also invite you to read about the Predator 3500 generator and also the smaller Predator 4375 generator.

Gas-Powered HP Air Cooled OHV Gas Engine

All Predator generators are gas-powered with an easily refillable fuel tank. A full tank can power the reliable Predator gas engine for up to 14. 5 hours on a 50 load. This provides it with one of the longest run times on the market, all powered by a reliable HP air-cooled OHV gas engine. There is also a built-in fuel gauge and low-oil indicator, so you always know when it’s time for a refill. The Predator 6500 generator also features both an electric start and a recoil option as a backup, so it’s never difficult to get started.

Heavy-Duty Steel Frame Wheel Kit

The steel-frame Predator generators are built from provides it with great durability. This is especially important if you intend to use the Predator generator on rugged job sites or similarly difficult terrain. If you purchase the Predator 6500 generator through Harbor Freight then the wheel kit won’t be included, which is a slight drawback. As a whole, the Predator 6500 generator weighs in at 161lbs, which is heavier than your average portable generator.

However, 5500 running watts is a greater continuous charge load than many portable generators, so it really depends on where your quality priorities lie. If you’re looking for something you can easily fit into the back of your car, then this isn’t it. If you’re looking for a more heavy-duty generator that has solid power behind it and a great run-time, the Predator 6500 generator may be for you.

Extended Run Time

A full tank should give your gas-powered engine enough power to last an incredible 14.5 hours on a 50 load. This is more than enough time to keep your home going during a power outage. The fuel consumption of this Predator generator sits at around 0.55 GPH. The total fuel tank capacity available is 8 gallons, which is why it possesses such a strong run time.

The 14.5 hours of run time can be increased if the tank isn’t operating at full capacity. However, with the Predator generator not being an inverter, it may be difficult to control its max output level. Your control resides in how many outlets you put to use and what level of power you require for your tools.

5 AC Outlets

There are a total of 5 AC outlets featured with the Predator 6500. This includes two duplex outlets, 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI, a 120/240V 30A (L14-30R), a twist-lock outlet, and a singular 12v DC outlet for charging batteries. The DC outlet is similar in build to a cigarette lighter. The twist-lock outlet makes the Predator 6500 easy to charge via any transfer switch cable. Simply hook it up to your breaker box to power your home whenever you need it!

Pros

Providing power for up to 14. 5 hours of good run time
5,500 running watts make for considerable power output for a portable generator
The low-oil indicator lets you know exactly when you need to refill the unit to keep the engine healthy
Electric start with recoil backup to make starting the generator easier
Steel roll-cage frame makes it an appropriate generator for rugged job sites or camping terrain
8 Gallon fuel tank can run at 0.55 GPH
Provides premium quality at a reasonable price

Cons

Predator generators sold at Harbor Freight do not come with the wheel kit, which is sold separately
Noise level is higher than the average generator
Possesses no inverter capability, so unit engine speed is fixed

Customer Reviews For The Predator 6500 Generator

Reviews for this generator are generally very positive. Starting on the Harbor Freight website, there are hundreds of positive reviews. Common threads between them relate to how easy the generator is to start, the appropriate price point, and how easy it is to get around despite its weight. Some also praised the moderate noise level as being quieter than they had initially expected.

One common theme between the few negative reviews available relates to the 20% restocking fee that’s required upon the return of generators. If you’re happy with your generator then you don’t need to worry about this, but keep this possibility in mind before committing to a purchase.

Who is the 6500 Predator Generator For?

This generator is a particularly versatile unit due to its mid-size power output and stature. Its hours of run time make it ideal for providing additional energy to those who spend a lot of time outside. The price may initially seem quite high, but this is ultimately down to its good power output. Cheaper generators are available, but they won’t provide you with the same max load.

Some main groups this generator is targeted toward include:

Those who participate in outdoor recreation such as sporting events or festivals
People who own food trucks and require connection to a power supply at all times
Professionals that use tools that require a high voltage load to start
Explorers with an RV that want to go further afield without disconnecting themselves

There are multiple people who would benefit from this generator. Whether it’s a good fit for you personally depends on your personal requirements. Mid-size generators are ideal for those who don’t require the max output larger generators provide but need an extra push than the lower portable voltages. If you feel you may fall into that bracket, then this could be the one for you!

FAQ

How Loud is a Predator 6500 Watt Generator?

The 6500 generator certainly possesses a higher noise level than your average generator. This is primarily due to its open-frame design. While this makes the portable engine easier to move around, it does mean you need to prepare for some noise pollution. Having said that, at 74dBA max, this generator product is roughly the same volume as a dishwasher. If you use your generator unit in an enclosed space in your home or on a noisy worksite, you won’t even notice it.

What Type of Oil Does a Predator 6500 Watt Generator Use?

The best oil to use with this generator is a synthetic high mileage oil, such as 10W30 or 0W40. You can use these oils year-round to fuel your unit for hours of power output. They are also highly receptive to temperature changes, so you won’t need help starting your product. Don’t feel tempted to go cheap on the quality of your fuel. It has a direct impact on the efficacy of your generator!

What Can a 6500 Watt Generator Run?

All of your household essentials such as refrigerators, window air conditioners, electric clothes dryers, televisions, electric water heaters, cookers, and various tools on a job site. This may include a table saw, grinder, drain cleaner, 25 miles worth of electric fence, and a bug zapper! It’s a versatile device. The size of the appliance you’re attempting to power will impact the voltage load required to keep it running. The number of items you are attempting to charge will have an impact too. Always check the associated instruction manuals to ensure you don’t accidentally overload your generator.

Will a 6500 watt generator run my house?

Not exactly. As mentioned above, it’ll run a few of your most common (and critical) items at home simultaneously – just be careful to not overload it. It’ll run for example your fridge, a TV, and a few lights. The essentials.

Can I run central AC on 6500 watt generator?

Maybe. This really depends on how much power your specific AC unit demands. If you have one that requires 6000 Watts for example, it’ll run it, but you’ll be maxing it out. In other words, that’s pretty much the only thing you’ll be able to run – no microwave, no fridge, no toaster etc. At least NOT at the same time! Cool your house off first, turn the AC unit off, and use the 6500 generator for other things.

What is the Best 6500 Watt Generator on the Market?

The better question is, what do you need out of a good generator? Everyone’s circumstances are different and the best RV generator for someone traveling will be different from the owner of a five-bedroom home. You need to consider the pros and cons of each generator product and apply it to your unique situation. For instance, how important is noise to you? What’s the max price you are willing to pay? What tools and appliances do you need to keep in power after an outage? These questions are just the start. Reading reviews can help point you in the right direction, so you’re in the right place. Just remember, the best generator for someone else might not be the same product for you.

What Safety Features do Predator Generators Possess?

The Predator 6500 has all of the safety features you would expect from a portable generator, including low oil shutdown and circuit breaker to prevent overload. Engine failures of any kind are rare with the new Predator generators, as many of them received recent redesigns to improve their usability. However, in the event of a unit experiencing problems, the Predator features an automatic shut-down to minimize any damage to the engine. This also protects your outlets and appliances from sustaining any damage too. You don’t need to worry. The Predator generator is safe to use.

Verdict On Our Predator 6500 Generator Review

If you’re looking for a mid-size generator with some serious staying power, then yes! There are generators out there that have greater wattage or portability, but this one features the best of both worlds. If you don’t need inverter capabilities then there’s no reason the Predator should disappoint. We find it to be a solid backup with versatile applications.