K 3.78 M
High Pressure
Washer Operator
Manual
Overview .......................................... 2
Important Precautions ................ 3 - 4
Assembly Instructions ..................... 4
Operating Instructions ..................... 5
GFCI Instructions ............................ 6
Using the Accessories .................... 6
Working with Detergents .................. 7
Shut Down and Clean-Up ................. 8
Taking a Break ................................. 8
Winterizing andLong-Term
Storage ............................................ 8
Cleaning Tips ............................ 9 - 10
Optional Cleaning Accessories ..... 10
Troubleshooting ....................... 11 - 12
Specifications
Operating pressure, max. ... 1600 PSI
Water volume ....................... 1.6 GPM
Voltage ...................................... 120 V
Amp draw ............................ 14 AMPS
In USA call:
1-800-537-4129
or visit our website:
Part No. 1.423-953.0
Manual Part No. 5.961-216.0 12/03
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IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS – Read First!
using an extension cord, it should always be
completely unwound from the cable drum.
Safety Warnings
When using this product, basic precautions
should always be followed:
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
(GFCI) Protection
•
•
Read all the instructions before using the
product.
High pressure jets can be dangerous if
subject to misuse. The jet must not be
directed at persons, animals, electrical
devices, or the machine itself.
This product is supplied with a Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) built into the power
cord plug. This device provides additional
protection from the risk of electric shock. If
power is interrupted in the line, the GFCI will
automatically re-close the circuit to the load
after power is restored. Depending on the
GFCI model, it may be necessary to manually
operate the reset button to restore power to
the GFCI load circuit. If replacement of the
plug or cord is needed use identical replace-
ment parts.
•
•
To reduce the risk of injury, do not
operate the machine near children.
Learn how to stop the machine and
release pressure quickly. Be thoroughly
familiar with the controls.
•
•
•
Stay alert — watch what you are doing.
Wear safety goggles.
Do not use acids, solvents,
Grounding Instructions
This product must be grounded. If it should
malfunction or breakdown, grounding provides
a path of least resistance for electric current
to reduce the risk of electric shock. This
product is equipped with a cord having an
equipment-grounding conductor and a
grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into
an appropriate outlet that is properly installed
and grounded in accordance with all local
codes and ordinances.
or any flammable material
in this product. These products can
cause physical injuries to the operator
and irreversible damage to the machine.
Do not operate the product when fatigued
or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
•
3
•
•
Keep operating area clear of all persons.
Do not stand on unstable surfaces.
Stand with both feet balanced at all
times.
DANGER- Improper connection of the
equipment-grounding conductor can result in a
risk of electrocution. Check with a qualified
electrician or service personnel if you are in
doubt as to whether the outlet is properly
grounded. Do not modify the plug provided
with the product - if it will not fit the outlet,
have a proper outlet installed by a qualified
electrician. Do not use any type of adapter
with this product.
•
•
To reduce the risk of electrocution, keep
all connections dry and off the ground.
Do not touch plug with wet hands.
The Trigger Gun Safety Lock PREVENTS
the trigger from accidentally being
engaged. This safety feature DOES NOT
lock trigger in the on position.
Extension Cords
Use a sufficient gauge: Up to 25 ft. = 12/3
AWG; 25 to 50 ft. = 10/3 AWG. Use only
extension cords that are intended for outdoor
use. These extension cords are identified by
the marking “Acceptable for use with outdoor
appliances; store indoors while not in use.”
Use only extension cords having an electrical
rating not less than the rating of the product.
Do not use damaged extension cords.
Caution
• Follow the maintenance instructions
specified in the manual.
• This machine has been designed for
use with cleaning detergent supplied or
recommended by the manufacturer. The
use of other cleaning detergents may
affect the operation of the machine and
void the warranty.
Examine extension cord before using and
replace if damaged. Do not abuse extension
cord and do not yank on any cord to discon-
nect. Keep cord away from heat and sharp
edges. Always disconnect the extension cord
from the receptacle before disconnecting the
product from the extension cord. If you are
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IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS – continued
PRECAUTIONS
Water Supply (Cold Water Only)
• Water hose must be at least 3/4 inch in
diameter.
• Flow rate of water supply must not fall
below 2.5 GPM (gallons per minute).
• Flow rate can be determined by running
the water for one minute into an empty“
5-gallon container.
• Never use the pressure washer to draw in
water contaminated with solvents, e.g.
paint thinner, gasoline, oil, etc.
• Always prevent debris from being drawn
into the unit by using a clean water
source.
• The water supply temperature must not
exceed 104°F/40°C.
Save these instructions!
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
4
Step 1
Step 2
Pull out the locking slide from the right side of
the trigger gun handle, and insert the small end
of the high pressure hose into place. Push the
locking slide back into the trigger gun to lock the
hose in position.
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OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1
Step 2
Connect the high pressure hose to the high
pressure outlet.
Insert the spray wand of your choice into the
trigger gun. Press in against the spring tension
and twist into the locked position.
5
Step 4
Step 3
Connect garden hose to the cold water
source and turn water on completely.
Plug the power cord into the power outlet.
Connect the garden hose to the water inlet.
O/OFF
ON
/
Step 5 Unlock the lock of the trigger gun
(A). Trigger the gun (B) to eliminate trapped
air, wait for a steady flow of water to emerge
from the spray nozzle.
Step 6 Turn on the pressure
washer (I). The motor starts only if the
trigger of the gun is pulled and shuts off
when the trigger is released.
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GFCI INSTRUCTIONS
Note:
The actual
appearance
of the GFCI
may be
different
from this
illustration.
Step 1
Step 2
Plug the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
(GFCI) into a working outlet
Press “TEST”, then press “RESET” to assure
proper connection to power.
USING THE ACCESSORIES
Vario power spray wand
The spray wand allows you to adjust the cleaning pressure. To clean at maximum
pressure, the spray wand must be positioned to the high pressure setting (+).
To apply detergent, the wand must be positioned to the low pressure setting (-).
For lower pressure turn
wand collar in the
6
minus (–) direction.
For higher pressure turn
wand collar in the
plus (+) direction.
Rotary spray wand
Warning
This wand features a 0º pencil jet which
rotates 360º for maximum dirt cutting action,
effectively increasing cleaning performance
up to 50%. This wand combines the cleaning
performance of a 0º pencil jet with the surface
coverage of a wide angle nozzle. Not
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, NEVER
POINT SPRAY NOZZLE AT YOURSELF,
OTHER PERSONS OR ANIMALS
recommended for soft materials, siding,
painted surfaces, decks or autos.
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WORKING WITH DETERGENTS
To apply detergents you must be operating at low pressure (–).
Step 1 Install the Vario spray wand. Set the Vario spray wand to the low pressure setting (–)
by turning the wand collar. The wand must be set in the low pressure (–) position to apply
detergents.
7
Step 3 Turn on the pressure washer.
Pull trigger to operate unit: Liquid detergent
is drawn into the unit and mixed with water.
Apply detergent to work area. Do not allow
detergent to dry on surface.
Step 2 Fill a container with Kärcher
detergent. Place the filter end of detergent
suction tube into the container.
For best results see Cleaning Tips on pages 9 & 10 for specific information
on how to clean different surfaces.
Always Use Karcher Detergents for Best Results.
Karcher biodegradable detergents are specially formulated to protect the environment and your
pressure washer. Special formula won’t clog the suction tube filter and will protect the internal parts of
the pressure washer for a longer life. For Karcher Detergents, check your retailer or call:
In USA call: 1-800-537-4129
or visit our website:
Caution
Never use:
• Bleach, Chlorine products and other
corrosive chemicals
• Liquids containing solvents
(i.e., paint thinner, gasoline, oils)
• Trisodium phosphate products
• Ammonia products
The following Karcher detergents are
available:
--------------------------------------------------
One Gallon ready to use
• Vehicle Wash
• Degreaser
• All Purpose Cleaner • House Wash
• Deck Wash
-------------------------------------------------
Detergent Concentrate Tablets:
(10 Pack; makes 1 1/4 gallon RTU product)
• Acid-based products
These chemicals will harm the unit and
will damage the surface being cleaned.
• All Purpose
• Degreaser
• Deck and patio
• Windows and Siding
-------------------------------------------------
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SHUTTING DOWN & CLEANUP
O/OFF
ON
/
I
Step 3
Step 1
Step 4
Step 2
Turn off the water
source.
Remove detergent suction
tube from container and
Turn the switch to off
(O) position and
Press trigger to
release water
pressure.
insert into 1 gallon of fresh unplug cord from
water. Siphon water at low
pressure for one minute.
outlet.
A
8
B
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Disconnect the garden hose from Disconnect the high pressure hose Release trigger (A)
the water inlet on the unit.
from the high pressure outlet.
and engage gun
safety lock (B).
TAKING A BREAK... five minutes or more
A
O/OFF
Step 1
Step 2
Release trigger (A)
and engage gun
safety lock (B).
Turn pressure washer
to off (O) position.
B
ON
/
I
WINTERIZING AND LONG-TERM STORAGE
1. Disconnect all water connections.
4. Store the machine and accessories in
a room which does not reach freezing
temperatures.
Caution: Failure to follow the above
directions will result in damage to the
pump assembly and accessories.
2. Turn on the machine for a few seconds,
until the water which had remained in
the pump exits. Turn off immediately.
3. Do not allow high pressure hose to
become kinked.
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CLEANING TIPS
Deck Cleaning
(with or without detergent)
Cement Patios, Brick and Stone
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse deck and surrounding area with
fresh water. If using Kärcher Deck and Patio
Cleaner, place detergent suction tube directly
into cleaning solution and apply to surface at
low pressure. For best results, limit your
work area to smaller sections of approxi-
mately 25 square feet. Allow Kärcher Deck
and Patio Cleaner to remain on surface 1-3
minutes. Do not allow detergent to dry on
surface. Rinse at high pressure in a long
sweeping motion keeping the spray nozzle
approximately 3-6 inches from the cleaning
surface. Always clean from top to bottom and
from left to right. When moving on to a new
section of the cleaning surface, be sure to
overlap the previous section to eliminate stop
marks and ensure a more even cleaning
result.
Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water. If
using Kärcher Deck and Patio or All Purpose
Cleaner, place detergent suction tube directly
into cleaning solution and apply to surface at
low pressure. For best results, limit your
work area to smaller sections of approxi-
mately 25 square feet. Allow Kärcher Deck
and Patio or All Purpose Cleaner to remain
on surface 1-3 minutes. Do not allow
detergent to dry on surface. Rinse at high
pressure in a sweeping motion keeping the
spray nozzle approximately 3-6 inches from
the cleaning surface. Always clean from top
to bottom and from left to right.
For removing extremely stubborn stains,
use the rotary spray wand.
Cars, Boats & Motorcycles
(with or without detergent)
Caution: Do not use rotary spray wand on
wood surfaces as it may cause damage.
Pre-rinse vehicle with fresh water. If using
Kärcher Vehicle orAll Purpose Cleaner, place
detergent suction tube directly into cleaning
solution and apply to surface at low pressure.
For best results, clean one side of vehicle at
a time and always apply detergent from
bottom to top, do not allow detergent to dry
on surface. If needed, use special Wash
Brush Attachment to remove stubborn dirt.
Rinse at high pressure in a sweeping motion
keeping the spray nozzle approximately 6-8
inches from the cleaning surface (distance
should increase when rinsing pin-striping or
other sensitive surfaces). Always clean from
top to bottom and from left to right. For best
results, wipe surface dry with a chamois or
soft dry cloth.
House Siding
9
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water. If
using Kärcher House or Window and Siding
Cleaner, place detergent suction tube directly
into cleaning solution and apply to surface at
low pressure (for best results, limit your work
area to sections of approximately 6 feet and
always apply detergent from bottom to top).
Allow Kärcher House or Window and Siding
Cleaner to remain on surface 1-3 minutes. Do
not allow detergent to dry on surface, if
surface appears to be drying, simply wet
down surface with fresh water. If needed, use
special Wash Brush Attachment to remove
stubborn dirt. Rinse at high pressure from top
to bottom in an even sweeping motion
keeping the spray nozzle approximately 6
inches from the cleaning surface.
Caution: Do not use the rotary spray wand
on vehicles as it may cause damage.
Caution: Do not use rotary spray wand on
siding as it may cause damage.
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CLEANING TIPS – continued
into cleaning solution and apply to surface at
Barbecue Grills, Outdoor Power
low pressure. Allow Kärcher All Purpose
Cleaner to remain on surface 1-3 minutes. Do
not allow detergent to dry on surface. If
needed use special Wash BrushAttachment
to remove stubborn dirt. Rinse at high
pressure in a sweeping motion keeping the
spray nozzle approximately 3-6 inches from
the cleaning surface. For best results, clean
from top to bottom and from left to right.
Caution: Do not use rotary spray wand on
patio or lawn furniture as it may cause
damage.
Equipment & Gardening Tools
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water. If
using Kärcher All Purpose Cleaner or
Degreaser, place detergent suction tube
directly into cleaning solution and apply
detergent at low pressure. Allow Kärcher
detergent to remain on surface 1-3 minutes.
Do not allow detergent to dry on surface.
Rinse at high pressure keeping the spray
nozzle approximately 3-6 inches from the
cleaning surface. For removing extremely
stubborn dirt, it may be necessary to move
the spray nozzle even closer to the surface
for greater dirt cutting action.
Recommendations
• Before cleaning any surface an incon-
spicuous area should be cleaned to test
spray pattern and distance for maximum
cleaning results.
Caution: Do not use rotary spray wand on
cloth, plastic or other sensitive surfaces
as it may cause damage.
• If painted surfaces are pealing or chipping,
use extreme caution as pressure washer
may remove the loose paint from the
surface.
• While using on surfaces which might come
in contact with food. Flush surfaces with
plenty of drinking water.
Patio & Lawn Furniture
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse furniture and surrounding area with
fresh water. If using Kärcher All Purpose
Cleaner, place detergent suction tube directly
10
OPTIONAL CLEANING ACCESSORIES
Optional cleaning accessories are available to further enhance your cleaning capabilities: See
accessories order form for product descriptions and ordering instructions.
• Vario Spray Wand
• House Washing Wand
• Wet Sandblasting Attachment
• Pipe Drain Cleaner
• Extension Wand, 20 inches
• Flexible Spray Wand
• Water Suction Hose With Filter
• Extension Hose 25’
• Underbody Spray Wand
• 4 Piece Extension Wand, 66 inches
• Rotating Wash Brush
• K12 Surface Cleaner
In USA call:
1-800-537-4129
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TROUBLESHOOTING
Disconnect the machine from the power source before making any repair.
Symptom
Cause
Solution
Motor will not start
On/Off switch is in the “OFF” (O)
position.
Turn switch to the “ON” (I) position
Power cord is not plugged in.
Extension cord is too long.
Plug in power cord.
Replace extension cord with either
Extension cord is not proper gauge. “a 25 ft. 12/3 gauge cord or a 50
Extension cord is damaged.
ft. 10/3 gauge cord.
Electrical outlet does not supply
adequate power.
Try a different outlet.
Tripped circuit breaker
Reset breaker (power supply) or
ground fault circuit interrupter.
Unit does not reach high
pressure.
Diameter of garden hose is too
small.
Replace with a 3/4 inch garden
hose.
Check garden hose for kinks, leaks
and blockage.
Water supply is restricted.
Not enough inlet water supply.
Water inlet filter is clogged.
11
Open water source full force.
Remove filter and rinse out in
warm water.
Spray wand is in low pressure
position.
Turn spray wand to high pressure
position.
Output pressure varies high
and low.
Not enough inlet water supply.
Turn water on full force. Check
garden hose for kinks, leaks or
blockage.
Pump is sucking air.
Check that hoses and fittings are
air tight. Turn off machine and
purge pump by squeezing trigger
gun until “a steady flow of water
emerges through the nozzle.
Water inlet filter is clogged.
Remove filter and rinse out in
warm water.
Discharge nozzle is obstructed.
Calcified gun, hose or spray wand.
Blow out or remove debris with a
“fine needle.
Run distilled vinegar through
“detergent suction tube.
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TROUBLESHOOTING – continued
Symptom
Cause
Solution
No detergent.
Detergent suction tube not properly Check connection.
connected to the machine.
Detergent is too thick.
Dilute detergent, for best results
use Kärcher detergent.
Filter on detergent suction tube is
clogged.
Run warm water through filter to
remove debris.
Damaged or clogged detergent
suction tube.
Remove obstruction or replace
detergent suction tube.
Spray wand is in high pressure
position.
Turn spray wand tip to low
pressure position.
Discharge nozzle is obstructed.
Blow out or remove debris with
fine needle.
Garden hose
Loose fittings.
Tighten fittings.
connection leaks.
Missing/worn rubber washer.
Spray wand not properly attached.
Insert new washer.
12
Spray wand leaks.
Insert the spray wand into the trig-
ger gun. Carefully press in against
the spring tension and twist into
the locked position.
Broken o-ring or plastic insert.
Pump is sucking air.
Call Kärcher customer service
“hotline and order repair kit “(part
no. 2.883-111.0).
Pump is noisy.
Check that hoses and fittings are
air tight. Turn off machine and
purge pump by squeezing trigger
gun until “a steady flow of water
emerges through the nozzle.
Water leaks from pump (up Loose fittings.
Check that all fittings are tight.
Call service center.
to 10 drops per minute is
permissible).
Oil Drip.
Water seals are damaged or worn.
Oil seals are damaged or worn.
Call service center.
If you encounter any additional
difficulties not listed, please call our
service center for help.
In USA Call: 1-800-537-4129
Karcher Customer Support USA
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