1.) Water Filters - Check incoming water filters, as they can become clogged and restrict flow to your pump which can cause cavitation, seal damage & cracked ceramic plungers could result.
2.) Oil changes- The break-in period on a new pump is 50 hours and then 500 hours thereafter (I would bring that down to 300 or 400 hours!) Most pumps have a dipstick and a viewing window (sightglass) on the back of the pump. This window should be filled half way with a good quality pump oil.(Never use H.D. motor oil, as the detergent will foam and damage your oil seals.)
3.) Gear drives - Change the oil with a 90W gear oil and fill half way up the sight glass. If there is no sight glass you can probably remove a plug that is positioned at the height the oil level is supposed to be & replace the plug when the oil runs out of this hole. If you have a sight glass that has a hex shape, it may loosen up on you. Always check this on the gear & the pump. If you lose your oil while it is running, your pump will be SHOT ! (check for cracks also, most can be replaced.)
4.) Motors - Change your oil within 50 hours. If you have a twin cylinder motor it may have an oil filter as well(monitor your oil level by dipstick). Always check your airfilter, it generally has a foam protector over the aircleaning element, this can be removed & cleaned with a mild detergent, rinsed & replaced. If the element is badly soiled, replace it or your motor will not run correctly for lack of sufficient air.
5.) Always replace the spark plug with the correct one as some run hotter than others.
6.) Make sure that you do not tip over the machine as the oil will flow into the carburetor and compress in the top half of your piston, causing hydraulic lock.
7.) With a belt drive make sure the belts are in good shape with no cracks and adjusted properly.
If there are any question or concerns that I can field about pressure washer maintenance, please let me know.
Thank You
Hal Dunn
General Manager
Merrill Fox Enterprises