Model 73255Predator 4,000W Gas Generator Review
The PREDATOR® 5000 Watt Gas-Powered Portable Generator is built with reliability and safety in mind. Powered by a dependable 224cc PREDATOR® gas engine, this compact generator is lightweight and provides power wherever it's needed.
At a Glance
- Running Watts4000W
- Starting Watts5000W
- Fuel TypeGasoline
- Runtime (50%)15.2h
- Noise Level71.3 dB
- Weight110 lbs
Where to buy
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Model Variations
Is this the right generator for you?
Here's the quick tradeoff view — what this model does well, and where it may not fit.
Pros
- CO SECURE® technology automatically shuts down the generator for safety when harmful levels of carbon monoxide are detected
- Powerful PREDATOR® 224cc engine easily powers essentials at home and tools on the jobsite
- Integrated digital display makes it easy to monitor output volts, frequency, and run hours
- Low-oil indicator/shutdown
- Circuit breaker protection prevents accidental overload
- Outlet covers protect against the elements and rugged working conditions
- Includes (4) 120V 5-20R GFCI-protected outlets, 120/240V L14-30R twist lock outlet, 12V DC outlet
- Complies with ANSI/PGMA G300 standard
Cons
- heavy weight of 110 pounds
- no electric or remote start options
Summary
The Predator 73255 is a gasoline generator built around a 4000 running watt output with 5000 starting watts for handling higher initial demand when equipment first kicks on. With gasoline as its fuel source, it fits shoppers who want a familiar refueling routine while still delivering substantial power for a range of household and project needs.
By pairing 4000 running watts with 5000 starting watts, the 73255 is set up to support steady operation while also accommodating brief surges, which can matter when powering items that draw extra power at startup.
Power & Runtime
As a gasoline-powered generator, the Predator 73255 combines practical refueling with a clear power profile: 4000 running watts for sustained output and 5000 starting watts for short bursts when loads first engage. That starting headroom can help reduce the need to micromanage what gets turned on first, since the generator is designed to handle higher initial demand before settling into its running capacity.
Noise is rated at 71.3 dBA, giving a concrete sense of how present the generator will sound while operating. For run time, it is rated for 15.2 hours at 50 percent load, which translates into longer stretches of operation when you are not pushing the generator to its full output.
Portability
Portability here is defined by a listed weight of 110 lbs and dimensions of 23.3 x 18.6 x 19.23 inches. That footprint makes it easier to gauge where it can be stored or staged for use, while the 110 lb weight sets expectations for the effort required to move it between storage and the work area.
With its compact rectangular dimensions, the 73255 can be planned into a garage corner, shed shelf space, or a dedicated spot near where it will be deployed, as long as the weight is taken into account when it is time to relocate it.
Recommended Audiences
- Shoppers who want a gasoline-powered generator
- Homeowners needing emergency backup for essential circuits
- DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists needing reliable portable power
- First-time generator buyers looking for a dependable option
Score Breakdown
- Watts/$
- Surge/$
- Runtime/$
- Warranty
- THD (lower=better)
- Build Quality
- Noise (lower=better)
- Portability
- Outlet Variety
- Feature Points
What this generator can power
At a Glance
- Continuous:4,000W(recommended usable: 3,200W)
- Surge:5,000W
- Output:120/240V
- Inverter:No
Big-item compatibility
May struggle with startup surge
Exceeds capacity
Exceeds capacity
Exceeds capacity
Example setups
Essentials
- Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
- Refrigerator
- Furnace Blower
- Sump Pump (1/3 HP)
Est. running: 1,800W
Peak surge (single motor): 2,000W
Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.
Essentials + Comfort
- Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
- Refrigerator
- TV + Entertainment System
- Microwave
- Window AC (10,000 BTU)
Est. running: 2,900W
Peak surge (single motor): 2,000W
Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.
Jobsite / Tools
- Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
- Circular Saw (7 1/4")
Est. running: 1,600W
Peak surge (single motor): 2,800W
Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.
These are estimates using typical wattage assumptions. Real appliances vary. Startup surges can be 2–6× the running wattage for motor-driven loads. 240V loads require a 120/240V generator and proper connection. Use a transfer switch or interlock kit; never backfeed a panel.
About Predator
Predator is recognized for its budget-friendly, high-performance generators, popular among homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts for reliable power solutions.
Full Specifications
Power
| Running Watts | 4,000 watts |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 5,000 watts |
Engine
| Engine Displacement | 224 cc |
|---|
Electrical
| Voltage (AC) | 120/240V |
|---|---|
| Phase | Single |
| AC Frequency | 60 hz |
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 23.3 x 18.6 x 19.23 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 110 lbs |
Other
| Automatic Low Oil Shutdown | Yes |
|---|---|
| Carbon Monoxide Sensor | Yes |
| Electric Start | No |
| Inverter | No |
| Noise Level | 71.3 dBA |
| Parallel Capable | No |
| Recoil Start | Yes |
| Remote Start | No |
| RV Ready | No |
| Starter Type | Recoil |
| Wheels | No |
Core
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
|---|
Runtime
| Runtime @ 50% | 15.2 hours |
|---|
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