How to Troubleshoot and Repair a Pressure Washer That Won’t Stay Running: A Comprehensive Guide
If your gas or electric pressure washer starts but won’t stay running, you’re not alone. This is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of issues. In this article, we will walk you through the most common problems with pressure washers stalling and how to troubleshoot and repair them. By following these instructions, you should be able to get your pressure washer up and running again in no time!
Parts to Check and Repair or Replace
There are many parts that can cause your pressure washer to stop running. Here are the most common ones:
Spark Plug
One of the most common reasons a pressure washer won’t stay running is because the spark plug is dirty or damaged.
To clean the spark plug, you will need to remove it from the engine and use a wire brush to remove any build-up on the electrode. Once the electrode is clean, you can reattach the spark plug and try starting the pressure washer again.
If the spark plug is damaged, you will need to replace it.
Ignition Coil
Another common reason for a pressure washer to stop running is an ignition coil problem. The ignition coil is responsible for providing the spark that ignites the fuel in the engine. If the ignition coil is faulty, it will prevent the spark from igniting the fuel, and the engine will not start.
To test the ignition coil, you will need to remove it from the engine and use an ohmmeter to measure the resistance. If the resistance is not within the specified range, the ignition coil needs to be replaced.
Fuel Cap
If the fuel cap is not sealed properly, it will allow too much air to enter the fuel tank, and the engine will not start.
To check the fuel cap, remove it from the pressure washer and ensure the O-ring is in good condition. If the O-ring is damaged, you will need to replace it.
Fuel Cap Vent
The fuel cap vent allows air to enter the fuel tank and pressure to escape. If the vent is blocked, it will cause vapor lock, and the engine will not start.
To check the fuel cap vent, remove the fuel cap and make sure the vent is clear. If the vent is blocked, you will need to clean it out by blowing it with compressed air or using a wire brush.
Fuel Filters
A clogged fuel filter will prevent fuel from reaching the engine, and the pressure washer will not start. This generally happens when you leave fuel in the tank for a long time without using it, and the fuel degrades.
To check the fuel filter, remove it from the pressure washer and inspect it for any build-up of sticky fuel. If the filter is clogged, you can unclog it by using a wire brush or soaking it in a cleaner. If the fuel filter is damaged, you will need to replace it.
Air Filters
If you have a clogged air filter, it will restrict the airflow to the engine, causing there to be too much fuel and not enough air, and the power washer will not start.
To check the air filter, remove it from the pressure washer and inspect it for any dirt or debris. If the air filter is dirty, you can clean it by using a brush or soaking it in a cleaner. If the air filter is damaged, you will need to replace it.
Carburetor
The carburetor mixes fuel and air in the correct ratio. If you have a clogged carburetor, it may explain why the engine stalls.
To clean the carburetor, you will need to remove it from the engine and use a carburetor cleaner to remove any build-up. Once the carburetor is clean, you can reattach it and try starting the pressure washer again.
To avoid replacing the entire carburetor, you can buy a carburetor repair kit that allows you to replace individual parts of the carburetor.
Fuel Pump
If the pressure washer is not getting enough fuel, it will stall.
To check the fuel pump, you will need to remove it from the engine and use a pressure gauge to test the pressure. If the pressure is not within the specified range, the fuel pump must be replaced.
Spark Arrestor
Your pressure washer’s engine may contain a small screen called a spark arrestor which prevents the pressure washer from emitting sparks. If the spark arrestor is dirty or damaged, it can cause the engine to stall.
To clean the spark arrestor, you will need to remove it from the pressure washer and use a wire brush to remove any build-up. Once the spark arrestor is clean, you can reattach it and try starting the power washer again.
Unloader Valve
The unloader valve releases pressure when the trigger is not engaged. If the unloader valve is stuck in the open position, it will cause the pressure washer to stall.
To check the unloader valve, you will need to remove it from the pressure washer and inspect it for any dirt or debris. If the unloader valve is dirty, you can clean it by using a brush or soaking it in a cleaner.
Flywheel Key
The flywheel key is responsible for connecting the flywheel to the crankshaft. If the flywheel key is broken, it can cause the engine to stall.
To check the flywheel key, you will need to remove the flywheel and inspect it for damage. If the flywheel key is broken, you will need to replace it.
FAQs
How can you prevent future pressure washer problems?
To prevent pressure washer problems, you should regularly clean and maintain all parts. You should also replace any parts that are worn or damaged.
What’s the best way to dry the parts after taking them out and cleaning them?
The best way to dry the pressure washer parts is to use compressed air.
How often should you replace gas in the gas tank to prevent sticky fuel build-up?
You should replace the gas in the pressure washer’s gas tank every three months to prevent sticky fuel build-up.
Conclusion
If your gas or electric power washer won’t stay running, many parts could be causing the problem. By troubleshooting and repairing each of these parts, you can get your pressure washer running again. Be sure to regularly clean and maintain all parts to prevent future pressure washer problems. Thanks for reading!
