Predator gen and AC

[Firefowl]

Thanks for all the help and suggestions Folks!

[jeffba]

I would see about plugging it into shore power and see what the starting current is. In mid 60s it may be a bit cold and making the AC starting current a bit high

[h2ojocky]

I have the Predator 3500 and it runs my 15k AC with no problem, including refir. I have not tested mine at 60* but in warmer weather where the AC was needed.

[Eagleback]

Turn off the convertor first, turn on the air then turn the convertor back on. Its more than likely the reason and why you do not have the available amps.

[twindman]

Ditto above. I have seen my convertor pulling 7-9 amps when I first plug in. I believe it goes down to 1-2 amps within 6 or 7 minutes.
This is another good reason to get a surge protector of some kind. Built in voltage/amp monitor!!!! Which almost everyone on here recommends some sort of EMS.

[Firefowl]

Where would I find the converter to turn it off?

[h2ojocky]

It's in your circuit breaker panel.

[Wayner197]

Originally Posted by Firefowl

So I fired up the 3500 predator generator and hooked it up to our 2020 3120rl. Used a 50amp-30amp dog bone to plug it into the 30amp plug on the generator. I was shocked turning on one of the ACs and the generator lugged way down and repeatedly cycled between run and overload. Am I doing something wrong? I certainly would expect this generator to run at least one of the ACs.

I have the same generator. I have no issue running one AC and the fridge and a few lights, etc. Have not installed a soft start kit. Hope you find your issue.

[DaveK]

I think we overestimate what generators will do. For example, I had a new Yamaha 2000 that could not operate the large microwave in our 5th wheel. That was out West and altitude might have reduced power.
I also have a Honda 3000. I previously had a travel trailer with 13.5 k btu AC. In low altitude Virginia, the Honda 3000 could run the AC but could not run a shop vac with the AC. It would not handle a 15k btu AC.
Not only that, but with any moderate load the "quiet" generator was far from quiet and I was filling the tank every few hours. Campgrounds don't like the noise.

[Bfisher003]

I put Micro Aire Easy Starts on both of our 15K btu A/Cs and can run them both at the same time with our Champion 3400 watt inverter generator, but would not normally do so because it takes all the genny’s output. Running one A/C we have plenty of power for other things. The Easy Starts also eliminate the hard start up of the compressor and is not only much quieter on start up, but is also supposed to prolong compressor life.

[Our3231CK]

I also have the predator 3500 and it runs my AC with no trouble. The starting amp pull varies from the AC unit, 16-17 or 18-19. But it still runs after the initial pull. You should take the generator back and make them replace it. The first Predator I got had starting issues and other electrical problems, the second one has worked great for nearly 3 years now.

[Joe n Dora]

My 3500 Predator cycled up and down all the time so I drained all the old gasoline out and replaced it with one grade above regular. it run perfect now.

[mlh]

Originally Posted by Joe n Dora

My 3500 Predator cycled up and down all the time so I drained all the old gasoline out and replaced it with one grade above regular. it run perfect now.

My Honda 3000 also runs better on premium.
Lynwood

[ingalmi]

Install the MicroAir Easy Start on each A/C unit so you can choose which one to run. Works perfectly especially if you have a residential frig and elec hot water. Never had any problems with the 3500 just look at the loads you’re trying to power on start-up.

[Jritz]

I wanted to go out and try my Predator 3500 to see if it worked before I said something on the forum. So, my 3855br has been unplugged and stored since January 5th. I plugged my shore line to my predator 3500 went in and started my air conditioning and it worked just fine and I don’t have a soft start on my air conditioning unit. All of my plugs worked as well. I did have to bypass my serge protector so the outlets would work but all was fine.

[DebNJim B]

OP, you said you wanted to get a second gen to parallel it. Why not get it and try that one. If it runs the a/c, return the first one to hf.

[Firefowl]

Ya, that’s the plan. Have to wait another paycheck first!
Again, thanks for all the great help everyone.

[BiggarView]

Not asked yet... at what elevation(altitude) are you trying to run the genny, also are you on propane or gas if dual fuel capable.

Genny lose about 3% power for every thousand feet of elevation. Not too noticeable until you get above 4-5000 ft. Propane is about 10% less powerful than gasoline power. Could be the issue, FWIW.

[Firefowl]

Thanks, but I’m not sure that’s the problem. Gas not propane. Home is about 2500’