Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder Review

If you’re on the hunt for a reliable chipper shredder, the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder from Harbor Freight is a model worth considering. This review covers everything I discovered from setup through extensive use, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your yard cleanup needs. Here’s my firsthand Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder Review, where I dive into its strengths, limitations, and whether it lives up to its claims.

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Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder Specifications

Cutting capacity	3 in.
Horsepower	6.5 HP
Speed (max)	1520-3620 RPM
Length	26 in.
Width	20 in.
Blade size	4 in.
Engine displacement (cc)	212cc
Weight	120 lbs
Tire size	12 in.
Height	38 in.

Setting Up the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder

Right out of the box, Predator keeps things simple. The Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder only requires a few quick assembly steps attaching wheels, handle, and the front stand which I had done in under 15 minutes. Living at a higher altitude, I swapped out the included high-altitude carburetor jet to improve performance in thinner air, an addition Predator includes specifically for high-elevation users. After adding oil and gas, I pulled the starter cord, and it roared to life on the first pull a promising start for a gas-powered chipper shredder.

Handling Yard Waste in Practice

According to Predator, this 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder can handle branches up to 3 inches thick. However, in practice, anything over 2 inches begins to strain the motor. For testing, I used branches of varying thickness and quickly noticed that anything beyond 2 inches would slow down the machine, and pushing beyond this limit even caused it to shut down.

The Predator 6.5 HP offers two main feed options, which I’ll cover in more detail:

Side Chute for Branches: The side chute is designed for branches up to 3 inches, but realistically, 2 inches is the better limit for this chipper shredder.

Feeding branches at the 2-inch mark kept the motor running steadily, but any larger size led to slowdowns or jams. Having a chainsaw handy to trim larger branches before feeding them into the chute saved a lot of time and prevented issues.

Top Hopper for Leaves and Twigs: For twigs, leaves, and smaller brush, the top hopper worked smoothly when fed gradually.

The hopper has a wide opening, but it narrows down, which can lead to clogging if you try to feed too much at once. Keeping the feed slow and steady kept the machine running at its best.

The Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder discharges mulch out of a side port, and Predator includes a collection bag if you’d like to bag up mulch or compost material for later use. I used the shredded material directly in the garden as mulch, which worked well and saved on cleanup time.

Pros and Cons of the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder

Pros

1. Quick and Easy Setup: The minimal setup time and simple assembly made it easy to get started. Including a high-altitude carburetor jet was a thoughtful touch for those of us living at higher elevations.
2. Good Performance for Smaller Yard Waste: This chipper shredder handles branches up to 2 inches with ease, making it a convenient tool for standard yard cleanup.
3. Compact Design for Storage: Measuring about 26 inches long and 20 inches wide, this 6.5 HP chipper shredder fits well in garages or sheds without taking up too much space.

Cons

1. Limited Capacity for Larger Branches: While Predator markets this model for branches up to 3 inches, the machine performs best with branches closer to 2 inches. Larger branches slow it down and increase the risk of jams, limiting its heavy-duty potential.
2. Frequent Jamming with Dense Material: Feeding thicker branches or dense brush can lead to shutdowns, which requires time to clear. Patience and moderate pre-processing (like trimming branches) improve performance.
3. Higher Price for Light-Duty Capabilities: At around $600, this chipper shredder is priced on the higher side for its limited branch capacity, making it ideal for homeowners with moderate yard work rather than large-scale projects.
4. Chainsaw Recommended for Pre-Processing: Having a chainsaw or shears to trim branches helps the Predator 6.5 HP Shredder perform better, especially with anything near its maximum capacity.

Maintenance Tips for the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder

Proper maintenance is key to getting the most out of the Predator 6.5 HP. Here are a few tips that kept my chipper shredder running smoothly:

1. Regular Oil Checks: This chipper shredder consumes oil quickly, so check levels before each use and refill as needed.
2. Clean Blades and Discharge Chute After Use: After each use, spend a few minutes removing any debris around the blades and chute to prevent buildup that can lead to jams.
3. Sharpen Blades Regularly: Keeping the blades sharp improves efficiency, especially when chipping close to the 2-inch limit.
4. Inspect for Loose Parts: The machine’s vibrations can loosen bolts, so make a quick inspection a habit before each use.
5. Replace Spark Plug Annually: Replacing the spark plug at least once a year enhances startup and overall engine performance, ensuring the machine runs reliably.

Is the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder Worth $600?

Based on my experience, the Predator 6.5 HP is best suited for homeowners who need a chipper shredder for standard yard maintenance involving branches around 2 inches or smaller. At the $600 price point, it feels a bit high for light-to-moderate use. This model performs well for smaller branches, twigs, and leaves, but if you frequently tackle larger or denser material, you might find its limits restrictive.

For best results, consider keeping a chainsaw on hand to trim larger branches, as this can make a significant difference in how smoothly the chipper shredder operates. However, if you’re primarily looking to handle lighter yard waste, the Predator 6.5 HP provides a reliable solution.

Final Verdict: A Practical Yard Tool for Moderate Use

In the end, this Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder Review shows that it’s a dependable, compact option for lighter-duty yard cleanup. While it’s not built for heavy-duty work, it performs well with smaller branches and yard debris and is easy to maintain with regular care.

For someone managing moderate yard cleanup needs, the Predator 6.5 HP provides a convenient and compact solution. If you need a chipper shredder for frequent heavy-duty work, however, a more powerful model might be a better investment. But for typical yard maintenance, the Predator 6.5 HP is a practical addition to the tool shed.

FAQs

1. How does the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder handle large branches?
   The Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder is rated for branches up to 3 inches in diameter, but it performs best with branches around 2 inches. Feeding branches larger than 2 inches may slow the motor or cause jams, so it’s recommended to trim larger branches before chipping.
2. Is the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder easy to assemble?
   Yes, the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder requires minimal assembly. You only need to attach the wheels, handle, and front stand. Most users can set it up and start chipping within 15 minutes.
3. Does the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder work for wet branches?
   No, the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder is best suited for dry branches and yard debris. Wet material can clog the hopper and reduce the machine’s efficiency, so it’s recommended to let branches dry before chipping.
4. What maintenance does the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder need?
   Regular maintenance includes checking oil levels, cleaning the blades and chute, sharpening the blades periodically, tightening any loose bolts, and replacing the spark plug annually. These steps help keep the chipper shredder running smoothly.
5. Is the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder worth the investment?
   For homeowners with moderate yard maintenance needs, the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder is a solid investment. It handles branches up to 2 inches well, but for frequent heavy-duty tasks, a more powerful model may be more cost-effective.
6. How loud is the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder?
   The Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder is fairly loud, typical for gas-powered models. It’s recommended to use ear protection, especially during extended use.
7. Can the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder produce mulch?
   Yes, the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder processes branches, leaves, and twigs into small mulch pieces, ideal for garden beds, pathways, and composting. The machine includes a collection bag for easy mulch storage.

As we wrap up our journey through the features and experiences with the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder, it’s clear that this tool is a reliable companion for conquering yard tasks with ease. With innovative technology, versatile design, and a commitment to user-friendly operation, the Predator bids you farewell as your go-to solution for efficient yard maintenance. Until the next outdoor adventure, let the Predator 6.5 HP Chipper Shredder be your trusted ally in the ongoing quest for a pristine and well-groomed outdoor space. Happy shredding!

Benjamin Brooks

Forestry Author

Greetings! I'm Benjamin Brooks, and my journey over the past 15 years has revolved around the fascinating realms of content creation, expertise in snow clearing, and the intricate world of lumberjacking and landscaping. What began as a simple curiosity about the natural world and heavy machinery has evolved into a passionate profession where my love for crafting words intertwines seamlessly with my lumberjacking and garden skills.