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Predator Generators Use This Type of Gas (Avoid Fuel Issues)

Using the wrong type of gas or letting it sit in your generator for long periods often causes a generator to have starting and running problems.

Predator generators require unleaded gasoline with a minimum 87-octane rating and a maximum 10% ethanol content.

Take caution when fueling the generator. Wait for the generator to cool down before refueling. Always remove the cap slowly in case the tank is under pressure. Refuel in a well-ventilated area away from combustible products.

predator generator

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Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operator’s manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. Consult a professional if you don’t have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely.

Choose the Right Gasoline for a Predator Generator

When selecting fuel for your Predator generator, it is important to use fresh gasoline with a low level of ethanol. I also recommend using a fuel additive to help minimize the negative effects fuel can have on the fuel system and engine.

Low Ethanol Content

Ethanol is an alternative fuel added to gas to make it more environmentally friendly. That’s because it’s made from a renewable resource like corn or another high-starch plant.

This product naturally attracts moisture from the air. This water and ethanol mixture will separate from gas and leave behind varnish and gummy deposits that can restrict fuel flow and degrade components.

This mixture will eventually sink to the bottom of the fuel tank and run extremely hot through the engine potentially damaging the engine.

Because of the negative effects ethanol has on the fuel system and engine, always choose a gas with an ethanol content no greater than 10%.

Stay away from fuel sold as E15, E30, or E85. These fuels contain up to 15%, 30%, and 85% ethanol.

Use Fresh Gasoline

Gas begins to break down and degrade as soon as 30 days after purchase. Only purchase the amount of gas you are able to consume within 30 days.

I know this is easier said than done. Most people don’t use their generator on a regular schedule and only keep it on hand for emergency situations and power outages. It’s hard to know when you’re going to use your generator next.

Because of this, I add a fuel stabilizer so it lasts a little longer before it breaks down in case I am unable to use the fuel timely.

Add a Fuel Stabilizer

Add a fuel stabilizer to gasoline while it is still fresh. Fuel stabilizers cannot reverse the effects of old gas.

I add Sea Foam Motor Treatment to every tank of gas. Sea Foam not only stabilizes gas for up to two years but also cleans the fuel system and reduces moisture.

It helps minimize problems that can develop from running gas that contains ethanol. Another good fuel additive alternative is STA-BIL.

Ethanol-Free Fuel (Optional)

Using an ethanol-free gas will avoid the negative effects ethanol has on the generator. While ethanol-free gas is the best fuel to run through your Predator generator, it is the more expensive fuel choice.

Ethanol-free gas can be purchased at some fuel stations. It is sold as recreation fuel or REC-90.

It can also be bought in canisters at your local hardware store or online. The canisters are a convenient option to have on hand.

Tips for Purchasing and Storing Gas for Your Predator Generator

Using the wrong kind of gas or old gas in a Predator generator can cause starting and running problems. Follow these quick tips when choosing and storing gas:

  • Always use fresh gas and consume it within 30 days.
  • Use unleaded gasoline with a minimum 87-octane rating and a maximum 10% ethanol content.
  • Add a fuel stabilizer when you are unable to consume gas within 30 days.
  • Store gasoline in a dry cool location away from combustible products.