Predator 212cc Horizontal Shaft Engine Review - Above Spec (2024)

Predator engines have been quite popular and have received excellent reviews for great performance while being inexpensive. The Predator 212cc Horizontal Shaft Gas Engine is the perfect workhorse and can be used as a replacement engine for compressors, water pumps, lawn mowers, log splitters, pressure washers, small boats, cement mixers and several other machines. The Predator Horizontal Shaft Engine is ideal for modification for enhanced performance.

The engine is equipped with a horizontal shaft that is ball-bearing mounted which makes the gas engine a suitable substitute for most of the standard engine configurations. The overhead valves of the engine help to save gas, produce a cleaner and cooler performance, all while having a longer life. The engine also has a cast iron cylinder that helps to improve wear and makes it the perfect replacement engine for various machines. The low oil sensor and auto shut down help in the safe operation of the engine when the oil level is very low. The user-friendly controls make operating the Predator Horizontal Shaft Engine very simple.

Technical Specs of the Predator 212cc Engine

• 212cc 6.5 HP OHV Horizontal Shaft Gas Engine
• Dimensions: 16 x 16 x 16 inches
• Maximum Speed: 3600 RPM
• Sound Rating: 104 decibels
• Recoil Start
• Shaft output and shaft rotation direction: counterclockwise
• Shipping Weight: 38 lbs.
• EPA approved
• Comes with a 90-day warranty

Features of the Predator 212cc Engine

• Advanced engineering and construction of the engine provide superior performance and enhanced lifespan.
• Cast iron cylinder that can withstand rough usage and wear.
• User-friendly controls that allow easy operation.
• Recoil start that makes starting of the engine easy.
• Fuel shut-off for safe transporting.
• Comes with a mounting hardware kit.
• Ball bearing support shaft that offers long life.
• Can be used in compressors, mowers, pressure washers, vacuums, log splitters, water pumps, tillers, generators, small boats, blowers, go karts, chippers/shredders, etc.

Pros and Cons

Some FAQs Answered

Q. If I want to use the engine on a mini bike, does the engine come with a kill switch and a carburetor built-in?
A. The Predator 212cc Horizontal Shaft Gas Engine comes with everything, including the carburetor, gas tank, kill switch and spark plug, all except the gas and the oil. Once you fill it will gas and oil, all you need to do is turn the kill switch on, choke it one time and it’s ready to go.

Q. Does the Predator Gas Engine come with the clutch and spark plug?
A. Yes, the Predator engine comes with the spark plug bolted on.

Q. Can you add an electric start kit to the Predator Gas Engine?
A. Yes, it is possible to add an electric start kit to the engine, although the pull start works great too. However, if you plan to install an electric start kit, ensure that you disconnect the low oil indicator for smooth operation.

Q. What is the height of the Predator Gas Engine?
A. The height of the Predator Engine is around 13 inches to the top of the air filter.

Q. Can the recoil unit of the Predator Engine be rotated if I need to start it from the opposite side?
A. Yes, the pull starter can be rotated in any direction you require for your application.

Q. Can I put a throttle cable on the Predator engine?
A. Yes, you can fit a throttle cable on the engine and it comes with all the necessary screws and brackets for easy installation.

Q. How fast with the Predator Gas Engine go?
A. The Predator Engine will go around 25 mph in a go-kart. However, it can go much faster with certain modifications.

Q. What fuel does the Predator Gas Engine use? Does it use gasoline from the gas station or do I need to mix some fuel with oil?
A. The Predator Gas Engine runs on 87-octane regular gas that you get at your local gas station.

Q. I purchased the Predator Gas Engine online and ran it after the complete break in process. It ran perfectly for 3 hours and then won’t start up again. What should I do?
A. You could check the following:

• Ensure that the oil level is proper. The engine is equipped with a low oil switch that will shut the engine down and will not allow it to start if the oil level is low.
• Check if all the wires around the switch are connected properly and that the switch is turned on.
• Ensure that you have sufficient fuel in the tank and that the fuel switch is not shut off.
• If all these things don’t work then contact the customer service for help.

Q. Does the Predator Gas Engine come with a warranty?
A. The Predator engine comes along with a 90-day warranty.

Q. Can the Predator Gas Engine be used for a go-kart?
A. Yes, there are several customers who have used the Predator Gas Engine for their go-karts. In fact, the Predator Engine is the perfect engine for go-karts.

Q. Does the inbuilt muffler on the Predator Engine do a good job at reducing the engine noise?
A. The built-in muffler of the Predator Gas Engine is quite effective and does a good job of reducing the noise.

Q. Is the Predator Gas Engine 2-stroke or 4-stoke?
A. The Predator 212cc Horizontal Shaft Gas Engine is a 4-stroke engine.

Q. Does the Predator Gas Engine Have a compression release?
A. No, the Predator Engine does not have a compression release; however, it is quite easy to pull.

Q. How long does the Predator Gas Engine last?
A. The life of the Predator Gas Engine depends on a lot of factors. It depends on your maintenance, frequency of oil change, etc. It also depends on the type of application it is being used for and the frequency of use. Does it run on a daily basis or maybe once or twice in a month? With regular maintenance and upkeep and avoiding the rough use of the engine such as overloading, over speeding, etc., you can expect your engine to last for several years.

Q. Does the Predator Gas Engine come with the mounting hardware and bolts for the clutch shaft?
A. The Predator Engine does not include the mounting hardware. However, it does have the provision for mounting in the form of slotted holes on its base.

So, if you’re looking for an engine to replace the existing engine in any of your machines such as your compressor, lawn mower, pressure washer, vacuum, log splitter, water pump, tiller, generator, blower, go-kart, etc., then you could consider the Predator 212cc Horizontal Shaft Gas Engine because when it comes to reliability and a budget inexpensive buy, then nothing can beat the Predator Gas Engine.