Pressure Washers?

[javelinadave]

Years ago I bought an electric pressure washer that kinda sucked. I returned it and bought a Kartcher gas model with a Honda motor. I have rebuilt the carb and the pump twice and it is time for a new unit.
Have the electric units gotten any better? I hate storing gas unless I absolutely need to. Also what is a good unit in the $350 range? I mostly use it for cleaning off the patio, pool deck and washing the trucks after an offroad trip.

 

[Toyrover]

I have had good luck with the gas ones that they sell at Costco. Go for 6hp or above. I was told to use ethanol free gas and I have stopped having carb problems on blowers, mowers, weedeaters, quads etc. this year sprung for a 15 inch circular attachment that attaches to the wand, Game changer for flat surfaces. Cut pressure washing time by a third.

 

[rovercolorado]

Years ago I bought an electric pressure washer that kinda sucked.

They still suck. I just purchased a $200 unit at Lowes on sale for $150 and I got what I deserved. For washing the cars and cleaning up oil stains in the driveway it's fine but I wouldn't call it great. The gas models are the way to go IMHO but I'm a cheap bastard and would rather save the coin for other stuff.

 

[chris snell]

This is the ticket to keeping gas-powered equipment running long-term:

http://trufuel50.com/

My dad turned me on to this stuff. The ethanol in the gas is what destroys the carbs and rubber components.

 

[WoldD90]

This is the ticket to keeping gas-powered equipment running long-term:

http://trufuel50.com/

My dad turned me on to this stuff. The ethanol in the gas is what destroys the carbs and rubber components.

They are very proud of that stuff, $7 a can... You can get boat gas with out ethanol at some gas stations.

 

[WoldD90]

I have picked up a couple gas pressure washers within my neighborhood... They put them out with the garbage, any time they can't get them started.

 

[Toyrover]

I would search ethanol free gas in you neighborhood, usually 4 bucks a gallon

 

[javelinadave]

Here is what I purchased today and for an electric power washer it works pretty well.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Ryobi-2-000-PSI-1-2-GPM-Electric-Pressure-Washer-RY141900/205566055

 

[rocky]

Electric is best for the occasional user.

 

[rover4x4]

I was given a troy Bilt years ago with a bad carb and pump. Rebuilt carb and new pump no problem maybe 180$ invested. These cheapo pressure washers aren't built to last. The pump assemblies are cheap on amazon etc. Mine has like a 6 hp Briggs engine not sure what my replacement pump was rated at. I pressure washed my in laws river cottage all day yesterday it performed admirably. Get one out of the trash or free off Craigslist. You've got rovers so youre most likely mechanically inclined, easy project.

As far as ethanol I've never ever ever had an issue with small engines. Two chain saws one blower pressure washer and a lawnmower.. I try to use non ethanol when I can. I have always used my two stroke mix fuel in my 4 stroke engines. Most quality mixes (amsoil Saber stihl synthetic) have fuel stabilizers.

 

[pl626]

I think the key is PSI. 1500 is pretty much an expensive garden hose. Problem with the higher powered ones is you may remove more than you planned. My Costco Honda powered 3300PSI has been great for over 10 years now, but it's actually removed paint from the RRCs decker. I've actually never really maintained it other than not keeping fuel in it when it's not being used.