Brad g.

In a quest for an upgrade to my reliable Furman generator from Lowe's, I ventured into Harbor Freight, drawn by the promise of the Predator 2000. The appeal of a seemingly powerful and efficient generator blinded me to the potential pitfalls of straying from a tried and true brand. My experience, however, rapidly devolved from hopeful to disheartening, culminating in a staunch warning to others considering the same path.Initially, the Predator 2000 seemed to fulfill its promises. Upon bringing it home, it started up smoothly, and I meticulously followed the break-in process. It ran commendably through its first tank of gas, leading me to believe I had made a wise investment. Yet, this performance was a fleeting illusion. Beyond the first use, the generator faltered, refusing to start or even ignite, betraying the basic expectation of reliability.Compelled by this failure, I sought to return the product, hoping at least for a straightforward resolution. My disappointment was compounded when Harbor Freight imposed a $125 restocking fee, a financial penalty for the generator's inadequacy. This fee felt less like a policy and more like a punishment for trusting in their product's quality.The interaction laid bare a stark reality: the allure of lower prices and new products can mask the true cost of inferior quality and customer service. This ordeal with the Predator 2000 and Harbor Freight not only resulted in a loss of time and money but also in a profound sense of frustration and betrayal.I share this experience not out of spite, but as a cautionary tale for others who might be lured by the prospect of a "deal" at Harbor Freight. The true cost of their low prices can be unexpectedly high, factoring in the potential for product failures and punitive fees. As for me, I returned to Lowe's, to the reliability of brands that have stood the test of time and use, with a newfound appreciation for the value of trust in a product and the company behind it.I urge potential buyers to consider this experience and weigh the true cost of opting for products from Harbor Freight, particularly the Predator 2000. It's a reminder that sometimes, an "upgrade" can turn out to be anything but, leading to more hassle and expense than sticking with what is known to be good. Harbor Freight has lost a customer in me, and I hope my story can prevent others from enduring a similar disappointment.