Electric pressure washers use a motor to drive the pump while most gas-powered washers will use a 4-cycle engine. The
pressure washer pump
consists of three plungers or pistons that operate in a similar manner to a piston in an engine. Water flows through
an unloader and output pipe on the pump, and then through a hose to
the spray gun. When the spray gun trigger is depressed, the pressurized water will exit through the trigger handle
assembly itself or through a separate spray wand and nozzle. When the trigger is released, the high-pressure water
stream should stop. The unloader will then detect the increase in pressure and a spring-loaded valve will open a
passage in the pump so the water can circulate back to the inlet pipe. This feature allows the engine to run while
the pressure washer is not in use.
Repair Clinic carries the parts that match all the top brand
pressure washers, including Briggs and
Stratton, Generac, Craftsman, Honda, Kärcher, Kohler, Troy-bilt, and
more. To see a full list of compatible parts, enter the full model number of your pressure washer, or the pressure
washer’s engine, in the Repair Clinic search bar. You can use the part category and part title filter to
narrow that list down to the exact part you want such as a thermal
release valve, pump, or O-ring
kit.
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