PREDATOR 13,000-Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Generator with Remote Start and CO SECURE Technology

roduct Description The PREDATOR 13,000-Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Generator is a high-output backup power solution designed for home emergencies, jobsites, outdoor events, workshops, and other applications requiring dependable 120V or 240V electrical power. Its tri-fuel system allows the generator to operate on gasoline, liquid propane, or natural gas. This gives the operator flexibility to select a fuel source based on availability, storage requirements, expected runtime, and the type of installation. A clearly marked fuel-selector switch makes it easy to change between gasoline, propane, and natural-gas operating modes. The generator is powered by a 458cc PREDATOR four-stroke engine. When operating on gasoline, it produces up to 13,000 starting watts and 10,000 running watts. Output is reduced when propane or natural gas is used because gaseous fuels contain less usable energy than gasoline. The combination of high output, multiple 120V and 120/240V receptacles, remote starting, automatic idle-down, digital monitoring, and CO SECURE protection makes this model suitable for users who need a versatile portable generator capable of supporting larger electrical loads. Tri-Fuel Operation The generator can operate using three different fuels: Gasoline Liquid propane Natural gas Gasoline provides the generator’s highest available starting and running output. It is useful when maximum power is required for appliances, tools, pumps, compressors, and other equipment with high starting demands. Propane provides easier long-term fuel storage and produces fewer fuel-system deposits than gasoline. It is supplied from a compatible propane cylinder through the generator’s fuel connection and regulator system. Natural gas allows the generator to connect to a properly sized household natural-gas supply. It can be particularly useful for extended backup operation because it does not require repeatedly filling the onboard gasoline tank or replacing propane cylinders. Natural-gas installation must provide the pressure and flow required by the generator. Harbor Freight specifies that the natural-gas hose must be more than 20 feet long, and the 25-foot natural-gas hose is sold separately. Gas connections and home-backup installations should be completed or inspected by qualified professionals. The fuel-selector switch includes settings for gasoline, propane, natural gas, and off/storage. Moving the selector to the off/storage position shuts off fuel flow when the generator is not being used. Power Output by Fuel Type The generator’s available electrical output depends on the fuel being used. Gasoline Output: Maximum starting power: 13,000 watts Continuous running power: 10,000 watts Propane Output: Maximum starting power: 12,000 watts Continuous running power: 9,100 watts Natural Gas Output: Maximum starting power: 10,000 watts Continuous running power: 7,800 watts These ratings show why connected equipment must be calculated using the output available for the selected fuel. A load that operates correctly on gasoline may exceed the generator’s capacity when the unit is changed to natural gas. Starting wattage is the temporary surge power available for appliances and tools that require extra electricity during startup. Running wattage represents the continuous power available after connected equipment is operating. The total running load should remain below the generator’s running-watt rating. Starting requirements must also be considered when operating refrigerators, freezers, air-conditioning systems, well pumps, sump pumps, compressors, and motor-driven tools. 458cc PREDATOR Engine The generator is powered by a 458cc PREDATOR four-stroke gasoline engine engineered to provide the torque required for high-output power generation. Its electronic engine throttle automatically adjusts performance to help maintain stable output as electrical demand changes. The throttle system works with the digital automatic voltage regulator to support consistent voltage delivery for connected tools and appliances. The engine includes an automatic choke system for easier push-button and remote starting. Under normal conditions, the operator does not need to manually adjust the choke before starting. A recoil starter is also included as a backup starting method. The manual choke override can be used if the electric-start battery does not have enough charge to operate the automatic choke system. Remote, Electric and Recoil Starting The PREDATOR 13,000-Watt Tri-Fuel Generator offers three starting methods: Remote key-fob starting Push-button electric starting Manual recoil starting The included remote control can start or stop the generator from up to approximately 100 feet away. Actual remote range may be reduced by walls, buildings, vehicles, interference, or a weak key-fob battery. Remote starting is convenient during a power outage because the generator can be started without walking directly to the unit, provided it has already been safely positioned outdoors, fueled, connected, and placed in standby mode. For safety, remote start is disabled after a CO SECURE shutdown event until the engine has first been restarted using another approved starting method. The remote uses a replaceable CR2032 battery. When the generator is placed in remote standby mode, it can normally be restarted remotely for up to 12 hours. After that period, the controller shuts down to conserve the generator’s starting battery. CO SECURE Carbon-Monoxide Shutdown CO SECURE technology continuously monitors the area around the generator for unsafe carbon-monoxide accumulation. If dangerous levels are detected, the system automatically shuts down the engine. The generator complies with the ANSI/PGMA G300 portable-generator safety standard. Its carbon-monoxide shutdown system is an additional protective feature, but it does not make indoor or enclosed operation safe. The generator must only be operated outdoors, far away from occupied buildings, doors, windows, vents, garages, sheds, basements, crawlspaces, and other enclosed or partially enclosed areas. It must never be operated: Inside a home Inside a garage Inside a shed In a basement Under an enclosed porch Inside a trailer Close to open doors or windows In any area where exhaust could enter an occupied building Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless. The generator’s sensor should never be used as a substitute for correct outdoor placement and working carbon-monoxide alarms inside the building. Digital Automatic Voltage Regulation A digital automatic voltage regulator helps maintain stable electrical output when connected loads change. Stable voltage is important for refrigerators, freezers, pumps, furnace components, lighting, power tools, and other electrical equipment. The regulator helps reduce excessive voltage fluctuations, but this is a conventional open-frame generator rather than a low-distortion inverter generator. Users should verify the power requirements and sensitivity of connected electronics before operating them from any portable generator. Automatic Idle-Down System The automatic idle-down function reduces engine speed when no electrical load is detected. This can decrease fuel consumption, engine noise, and unnecessary engine wear during periods when connected equipment is not drawing power. When electrical demand returns, the electronic throttle increases engine speed to provide the required output. Automatic idle-down may not be appropriate for every load. Equipment requiring immediate starting current may perform better when the generator is operating at normal governed speed. The operator should follow the generator manual and the instructions supplied with the connected equipment. Integrated Digital Display The control panel includes a digital display that allows the operator to monitor important operating information. The display provides: Output voltage Electrical frequency Total running hours Runtime tracking helps owners follow the maintenance schedule for engine oil, the air filter, spark plug, fuel system, and other components. Power Outlets The generator includes a comprehensive outlet panel for household backup, jobsite equipment, recreational vehicles, and high-demand tools. Included receptacles are: Four 120V 5-20R GFCI-protected outlets One 120V L5-30R twist-lock outlet One 120/240V L14-30R twist-lock outlet One 120/240V 14-50R heavy-duty outlet The four standard 120V outlets are arranged as two duplex receptacles. GFCI protection improves jobsite safety by disconnecting power when a ground-fault condition is detected. The 30-amp and 50-amp 120/240V outlets can support compatible transfer equipment, power-inlet systems, recreational vehicles, and higher-demand electrical loads. The generator should never be connected directly to household wiring through an improvised cord or a standard wall outlet. Home-backup use requires a properly installed transfer switch or approved interlock and inlet system completed in accordance with local electrical requirements. Home-Backup Capability The 120/240V output and 30-amp and 50-amp receptacles make the generator suitable for properly configured home-backup systems. Depending on the selected fuel and total load, it may support combinations of: Refrigerators Freezers Lighting circuits Internet equipment Television equipment Furnace blowers Sump pumps Well pumps Selected kitchen appliances Window air conditioners Other essential household circuits It should not be assumed that the generator can operate every circuit in a home simultaneously. A qualified electrician should calculate the expected running and starting loads and configure the backup system accordingly. Central air-conditioning equipment, electric water heaters, electric ranges, clothes dryers, and large well pumps may require a significant portion of the generator’s available capacity. Gasoline Runtime Harbor Freight rates the generator for more than 12 hours of runtime from one gasoline fill under the manufacturer’s specified operating conditions. This runtime figure applies to gasoline operation and will vary based on electrical load, engine condition, ambient temperature, and maintenance. Runtime on propane depends on: Propane-cylinder capacity Electrical load Ambient temperature Fuel pressure Regulator performance Runtime on natural gas depends on the continuous availability and capacity of the connected gas supply. Low-Oil Shutdown An automatic low-oil shutdown system stops the engine if the oil level becomes too low for safe operation. This feature helps protect the engine, but the oil level must still be checked before each use. The low-oil system should not replace regular inspection and maintenance. The generator is typically shipped without the required operating oil. The correct amount and grade of engine oil must be added before the first startup according to the owner’s manual. Heavy-Duty Open Frame The generator is protected by a heavy-duty 1.25-inch steel frame. The frame shields major components, provides convenient lifting and tie-down points, and supports the generator during transportation and jobsite use. The open-frame construction improves cooling and service access but produces more operating noise than a fully enclosed inverter generator. Wheels and Folding Handle Two 10-inch flat-free wheels and a folding transport handle are included. These features make it easier to move the generator across driveways, garages, yards, and uneven jobsite surfaces. Flat-free wheels eliminate the need to maintain tire pressure. However, the generator is still a heavy machine and may require more than one person or suitable equipment when loading it into a truck or moving it across steep terrain. The folding handle reduces the generator’s storage footprint when it is not being transported. Routine Maintenance Regular maintenance is necessary to keep the engine, electrical system, fuel system, and safety features operating correctly. Maintenance includes: Checking engine oil before every use Changing engine oil at the required intervals Inspecting and servicing the air filter Inspecting and replacing the spark plug Cleaning the spark arrestor Maintaining the starting battery Inspecting fuel lines and connections Checking propane and natural-gas connections for leaks Draining or stabilizing gasoline before storage Inspecting power cords and receptacles Cleaning dirt and debris from cooling areas Testing the CO SECURE indicator system Monitoring running hours on the digital display Only fresh unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher should be used. The manual warns against gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol. The generator should be allowed to cool before refueling, cleaning, transportation, or storage. Technical Specifications Specification Details Brand PREDATOR Product Type Open-Frame Tri-Fuel Portable Generator Primary Item Number 71386 Additional Item Number 70476 California-Compliant Item 72860 Engine Brand PREDATOR Engine Displacement 458cc Engine Type Four-Stroke Gasoline Engine Fuel Options Gasoline, Propane and Natural Gas Gasoline Starting Watts 13,000 Watts Gasoline Running Watts 10,000 Watts Propane Starting Watts 12,000 Watts Propane Running Watts 9,100 Watts Natural-Gas Starting Watts 10,000 Watts Natural-Gas Running Watts 7,800 Watts Output Voltage 120V/240V Starting Methods Remote, Push-Button Electric and Recoil Remote Operating Range Up to Approximately 100 Feet Automatic Choke Yes Fuel Selector Four-Position Selector Gasoline Runtime More Than 12 Hours Under Rated Conditions Voltage Regulation Digital Automatic Voltage Regulator Electronic Throttle Yes Automatic Idle-Down Yes Low-Oil Shutdown Yes Carbon-Monoxide Protection CO SECURE Automatic Shutdown Digital Display Voltage, Frequency and Running Hours Standard 120V Outlets Four 5-20R GFCI-Protected Receptacles 120V 30A Outlet One L5-30R Twist Lock 120/240V 30A Outlet One L14-30R Twist Lock 120/240V 50A Outlet One 14-50R Heavy-Duty Outlet GFCI Protection Yes OSHA-Compliant Outlets Yes Safety Standard ANSI/PGMA G300 Frame Heavy-Duty 1.25-Inch Steel Wheels Two 10-Inch Flat-Free Wheels Transport Handle Folding Starting Battery Included Remote Key Fob Included Propane Connection Quick Connect Natural-Gas Connection Quick Connect Natural-Gas Hose Sold Separately Recommended Use Home Backup, Jobsites, Events and Emergencies Generator Type Conventional, Non-Inverter The fuel-specific power ratings are taken from the official owner’s manual, while the outlets, engine, remote range, safety system, and operating features are confirmed by Harbor Freight’s current product information. What’s Included PREDATOR 13,000-Watt tri-fuel generator 458cc PREDATOR engine Integrated gasoline fuel tank Propane and natural-gas quick-connect system Electric starting system Manual recoil starter Starting battery Remote start and stop key fob Four 120V GFCI-protected outlets 120V 30A twist-lock outlet 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet 120/240V 50A outlet CO SECURE carbon-monoxide shutdown system Digital voltage, frequency and runtime display Automatic idle-down system Two 10-inch flat-free wheels Folding transport handle Heavy-duty steel frame Owner’s documentation Engine oil, transfer equipment, extension cords, propane cylinder, natural-gas hose, and home electrical connections may not be included and should be confirmed before purchase. Accessories Sold Separately 25-foot natural-gas hose Properly rated propane cylinder Heavy-duty generator extension cords 30-amp generator cord 50-amp generator cord Outdoor generator cover Weather-resistant operating enclosure approved for portable generators Battery charger or maintainer Replacement remote battery Transfer switch Generator interlock equipment Outdoor power-inlet box Wheel and handle replacement components Engine oil Oil drain accessories Air filter Spark plug Fuel stabilizer Grounding equipment where required Transfer switches, interlocks, inlet boxes, gas connections, and other permanent home-backup components should be selected and installed by qualified professionals. Ideal Applications Emergency home backup Refrigerator and freezer backup Sump-pump operation Well-pump backup Furnace-blower operation Selected air-conditioning loads Workshop equipment Construction jobsites High-demand power tools Outdoor events Recreational-vehicle power Farm and property maintenance Areas with access to natural gas Users requiring propane flexibility Extended power outages Applications requiring 120V and 240V output Users wanting remote startup Properties requiring a 50-amp generator connection Situations where multiple fuel options improve availability