PowerStroke pressure washers are reliable machines that handle all kinds of cleaning jobs. Despite their robustness, almost all types of pressure washers sometimes undergo performance-related issues that can be hard to diagnose. These may include an engine not revving, stalling or leaking oil, etc. Or if there’s an electric pressure washer, the motor may not start or give off a buzzing noise, etc.
PowerStroke Pressure Washer Problems: Engine/Motor Troubleshooting & Repair
If the engine of your PowerStroke pressure washer won’t start or stalls, inspect the carburetor jets and air and fuel filters. Check the fuel lines for vapor lock and ensure the tank vents are open. For an electric pressure washer to function correctly, the input voltage must be within the stated limits, and the power supply must be in good operating condition. If the motor buzzes, look for a damaged capacitor, a malfunctioning pump, or a buildup of pressure in the system.
This article should be of value to you if you want to learn how to troubleshoot gas or electric pressure washers by PowerStroke. I have explained some of the commonly occurring problems related to pressure washers that I have witnessed in my professional experience.
Contents
- 1 Problems with the PowerStroke Gas Pressure Washer Engine
- 1.1 ● 1. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: Keeps Stopping and Starting
- 1.2 ● 2. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: The Engine won’t run
- 1.3 – Solution:
- 1.4 ● 3. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: Engine Stops
- 1.5 ● 4. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: Engine not providing enough Power
- 1.6 ● 5. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: Oil Leak
- 1.7 ● 6. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: Water in Oil
- 2 PowerStroke Electric Pressure Washer Problems
- 3 PowerStroke Pressure Washer troubleshooting table:
Problems with the PowerStroke Gas Pressure Washer Engine
The pump is driven by a four-stroke gasoline engine in gas pressure washers. The addition of engine and fuel system components raises the system’s total complexity, necessitating more frequent maintenance. As a result, these pressure washer models are more likely to encounter problems that require troubleshooting.
Here are some common problems with PowerStroke pressure washer engines:
● 1. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: Keeps Stopping and Starting
If your pressure washer starts and stops repeatedly, the problem might be a clogged carburetor jet or a vapor lock in the fuel lines. A dirty fuel filter can be the source of the issue occasionally.
Most starting difficulties in pressure washers are caused by carburetor or filter issues. Carburetor jets can get blocked as a result of old fuel deposits. The amount of fuel that enters the engine, therefore, impacts combustion, which lowers the engine’s power output.
Aside from a clogged carburetor or filter, a vapor lock is another common cause of the problem. A vapor lock is usually triggered by a blockage in the fuel tank vents, resulting in a continual accumulation of gasoline vapors inside the fuel lines and, eventually, impacting the fuel delivery to the engine.
– Solution:
To resolve this issue, use WD-40 or a carb-cleaning solution to clean the jets of your carburetor properly. Ensure that all flow passages have been thoroughly cleaned, including the bowl’s nut, which is also a jet. Apart from cleaning the carburetor, you should examine and, if necessary, replace the fuel filter. I also recommend cleaning the gasoline tank vents to prevent vapor buildup, which might result in a vapor lock.
● 2. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: The Engine won’t run
If your engine doesn’t start, ensure the spark plug is in good condition. If the problems persist, dismantle the carburetor and use a carburetor cleaner liquid to clean the ports.
Carbon accumulation erodes spark plug electrodes over time, diminishing spark quality and making engine startup more problematic.
– Solution:
Remove the spark plug to inspect the electrodes. If the electrodes are in bad condition, replace the plug. If the problem persists, consider examining your pressure washer’s carburetor. Remove the carburetor and thoroughly clean it to remove any remaining fuel. I recommend investing in a carburetor repair kit that typically includes a cleaning solution for removing sticky deposits.
● 3. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: Engine Stops
If your engine stops after a startup, thoroughly inspect and clean the air and fuel filters. Examine the tank for vapor lock and make sure the carburetor is clean and correctly set.
The air and fuel filters are in charge of keeping foreign particles out of the carburetor. As a result, these filters become clogged with dirt regularly, resulting in changes in the engine’s air-fuel mixture and causing a loss in power.
– Solution:
To solve the problem, examine these filters in order and clean/replace them as needed. If the problem persists, inspect the fuel tank vents for a vapor lock and adjust the carburetor screws.
● 4. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: Engine not providing enough Power
If your pressure washer’s engine isn’t providing enough power, ensure the water supply is adequate and the hoses aren’t kinked. Ensure that the air filter and the jets in the carburetor are clean.
The air-fuel mixture composition may be too rich if the engine isn’t generating adequate power. This means the engine is getting too much gas but not enough air to produce enough power after combustion. The problem might be with the carburetor, the filters, or both.
– Solution:
To guarantee enough air supply, inspect the air filter, which should not be blocked with dust. Furthermore, the carburetor’s L and H screws must be adjusted appropriately since they influence the engine’s RPMs at both low and high speeds.
Also, ensure no air is trapped in the pump and that the hoses are not twisted, which can produce significant back pressure on the engine. As a result, its power output may be diminished.
● 5. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: Oil Leak
The most common cause of oil leaks in your engine is a faulty seal. In virtually all situations, simply changing the seal would resolve the problem. Oil may also leak in rare instances owing to an overfilled oil tank.
You might get an oil seal kit to assist you in replacing seals of all types. Typically, all oil inlets of your engine have oil seals, which are on either side of the engine and are covered with caps.
– Solution:
Take the seal out using a screwdriver and inspect its condition. Replace it if it exhibits symptoms of wear. As a precaution, you should avoid overfilling your oil tank, as this may result in oil seeping from these inlets.
● 6. PowerStroke Pressure Washer: Water in Oil
Water entering the engine oil suggests a faulty oil seal. In this instance, you should replace the seal as directed by the manufacturer.
When diluted with water, the oil turns milky. One possible cause is a malfunctioning oil seal. A fatigued engine piston is another less likely cause. Over time, mechanical wear causes the metal to chip off from the pistons, increasing the gap between the piston and the cylinder walls.
As a result, water from the inlet manifold entering the cylinder head may enter the crankcase and combine with the oil to form a milky suspension.
– Possible Solutions:
If your engine is less than 5 years old, the seals/gaskets are most likely faulty. As a result, you’ll need to replace the seal/head gasket on your engine. Contact the manufacturer and request this replacement if your engine is still under warranty. I would not suggest putting your warranty at risk by changing the seals/gaskets yourself.
If your engine’s warranty has expired, you can contact a professional to repair the seals. In the instance of a worn-out piston, check with the manufacturer to see if the engine’s warranty is still valid. If this is not the case, your pressure washer engine shall not be usable again, and you certainly need a new pressure washer.
PowerStroke Electric Pressure Washer Problems
Electric pressure washers require lesser upkeep than gas pressure washers. Because the use of an electric motor reduces the machine’s complexity. Furthermore, the likelihood of failures, as well as noise levels and emissions, is significantly decreased. As a result, customer acceptance of these models has grown.
The subsequent portion of the blog article addresses concerns unique to electric pressure washers. The most typical motor issue with electric pressure washers is that the motor does not start or stop abruptly when in operation. It may occasionally make a buzzing noise without producing any power output.
● PowerStroke Electric Pressure Washer not running
Check the fuse and ensure the electrical outlet is operational if an electric pressure washer does not start. If it still won’t start, the electric motor has become faulty.
Check the following if your pressure washer motor isn’t working:
– Step 1: Check for Power Outlet Issues
If your electric pressure washer isn’t working, first check the outlet. Unplug the washer’s cord and examine the outlet with a voltage tester or other tools. If it doesn’t work and you notice a ‘reset’ button on the pressure washer, press it. If the problem persists, check the circuit breaker located in the fuel box.
– Step 2: Examine the Fault Circuit Interrupter.
Because of the voltage drop, a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) may have been engaged. Reset the GFCI after unplugging the pressure washer. If your pressure washer is wet and it still activates when you reattach it, allow it to dry before attempting to restart it. Continue to the next step if the pressure washer does not start even after drying.
– Step 3: Examine the Extension Cord
Remove the extension cord from your pressure washer and plug it directly into the power outlet. Make sure that the plug is fitted correctly into the power outlet. If it works now, the issue certainly was with the extension lead.
– Step 4: Examine the Fuse
If the power outlet is working (with a bulb or other appliance plugged in), ensure the fuse within the machine or the socket has not burned out. If you can’t locate it, look it up in the owner’s manual. If the fuse has blown, it needs to be replaced for the motor to function.
– Step 5: Examine the power cord
If it still doesn’t start, your pressure washer’s power cord may be faulty. This problem can be fixed by changing the power cord. Check with the maker of your pressure washer to see whether the warranty is still valid. If not, you can replace the cord yourself or get professional assistance.
– Step 6: Inspect the Capacitor
A faulty capacitor frequently causes a buzzing sound emanating from your pressure washer’s engine. You may also replace the capacitor yourself. However, if this is not for you, seek expert assistance.
If the machine still doesn’t start, replace the electric motor if it’s still under warranty.
● PowerStroke Electric Pressure Washer Motor Stops
A power failure in the socket or a defective capacitor is the most typical cause of pressure washer motor failure. In rare instances, a voltage drop in the main socket may force it to shut down.
When the voltage goes below a specific threshold, the motor shuts down. Check the voltage level in the socket using a multimeter to confirm this. Pressure washer voltage needs vary depending on where you reside. Pressure washers are commonly powered by voltages ranging from 140V to 240V.
If the voltage is correct yet the washer would not start, the capacitor in the motor may need to be changed. It is characterized by your motor humming and producing much less power. Replace the capacitor with the same kind and retest the pressure washer motor. Hopefully, it will resume now that the operation mentioned above has been completed. If it still doesn’t start, contact the manufacturer of your pressure washer to fix or replace the damaged electric motor.
● PowerStroke Electric Pressure Washer Motor Makes a Buzzing Noise
A buzzing noise from your electric pressure washer engine suggests a defective capacitor or an excessive pressure buildup in the system. A faulty pump might also be to blame.
- Capacitor: The most common cause of motor buzzing is a faulty capacitor. Inadequate charge storage happens, as a result, lowering motor RPMs. Replace the capacitor and check if the buzzing problem has been fixed.
- Low Voltage: If the input voltage is less than the pressure washer’s operational range, the motor may not run at the needed RPMs and instead produce a buzzing noise.
- Pressure Buildup: When the spray gun is not activated, water pressure builds up in the hoses. As a result, back pressure is produced on the pump and motor, reducing rotational speed. Press the spray gun and allow the water to exit to relieve the stress on the motor.
- Damaged pump: Pressure washer pumps might fail due to poor maintenance, and when this happens, the motor overheats owing to inadequate pump pressure. To ensure that the pump operates effectively, check that the pistons and plungers are well-greased.
PowerStroke Pressure Washer troubleshooting table:
Problem | Cause | Solution |
The pressure washer is not producing high pressure | Hose with small diameter | Replace your hose with a 1″ (25mm) or 5/8″ (16mm) hose |
Restricted water supply to the washer | Check for the kinks and leaks in the hose | |
Inadequate water supply | Ensure the water source is unobstructed and fully turned on | |
Clogged intake filter | Remove the filter and rinse it with warm water | |
Air in the pump | Ensure that the hose and fittings are airtight. Shut off the washer and squeeze the trigger until water flows steadily from the spray tip | |
The suction tube or detergent bottle is not connected properly | Install the suction tube and detergent bottle correctly | |
Detergent too thick | Dilute the thick detergent by adding water | |
Obstructed spray tip | Remove the debris with a needle | |
No pressure tip on the wand | Install a suitable pressure tip at the end of the wand | |
If your model has a belt, it can be loose. | Tighten or replace the belt. |
Problem | Cause | Solution |
Pulsing pressure washer (output pressure varies high and low) | Inadequate water supply | Ensure that the water source is fully on and check the hose for kinks and blockage |
Obstructed spray tip | Remove the debris with a needle | |
Pump sucking air | Ensure that the hose and fittings are airtight. Shut off the washer and squeeze the trigger until water flows steadily from the spray tip | |
Clogged intake filter | Remove the filter and rinse it with warm water | |
Calcified hose, tip, or trigger | Clean the hose, pressure tip, or trigger with vinegar or a cleaner designed for this purpose |
Problem | Cause | Solution |
Noisy Pump | Air in the pump | Ensure that the hose and fittings are airtight. Shut off the washer and squeeze the trigger until water flows steadily from the spray tip |
Clogged inlet filter | Remove the filter and rinse it with warm water | |
Pump leaking water | Damaged or worn water seals | Replace the seals with new ones or call a professional |
Loose fittings | Ensure that all the fittings are tight | |
Erratic water pressure, changing up and down | Unloader valve | Check and clean the unloader valve. If in bad shape, replace it |
No output pressure. Or the motor stops when using the trigger (electric models) | Unloader valve | Check and clean the unloader valve. If in bad shape, replace it |
● PowerStroke Gas Pressure Washer Engine troubleshooting table:
Problem | Cause | Solution |
Leaks in the spray wand, spray tip, or extension | Damaged or broken O-rings or plastic insert | Replace the worn O-rings or call a professional |
Pressure washer pump dripping oil | Worn or damaged oil seals | Inspect the oil seals and replace them if worn |
No water from the washer outlet | The water supply is off | Turn the water supply ON |
Kink in the hose or faucet not fully open | Remove any kinks and debris from the hose or water lines. Check and fully open the faucet. |
Problem | Cause | Solution |
The motor won’t start | Check the battery | Check if the battery is charged correctly. Charge or replace when in bad condition. Examine the battery terminals for a proper connection. Clean if needed. |
Check the fuel filter | Clean the fuel filter if dirty. In that case, check the gas tank, as this is the most likely culprit. | |
Check the gas supply | Check the fuel level and add if needed. Ensure that the gas can flow to the carburetor. Remove any blockage. | |
Check the Air-filter | Clean the air filter. Replace it when it is in bad condition or it is a paper air filter. | |
Check the carburetor | Remove and clean the carburetor with some carb cleaner. It is also possible to clean it without removing it. | |
Fuel gap blocked | Check that the hole in the fuel cap is open. Clean if needed. | |
The engine is stalling, or starts and stops | Check the carburetor | Remove and clean the carburetor with some carb cleaner. It is also possible to clean it without removing it. |
Air filter | Clean the air filter. Replace it when it is in bad condition or it is a paper air filter. | |
Check for bad gas | Suppose you have old gas, more than a few months old. It can turn bad. Drain and replace the gas. Next time add a fuel stabilizer. |
● PowerStroke Electric Pressure Washer Motor troubleshooting table:
Problem | Cause | Solution |
The motor won’t start | The power switch is in the “OFF” or “0” state | Turn the power switch “ON” or “1” |
Cord not plugged | Plugin the power cord | |
Damaged, too long, or improper extension cord | Replace the existing cord with a 25′ (7.6m) 14 AWG cord or a 50′ (15m) 12 AWG cord | |
Inadequate power from the electrical outlet | Plug the cord into a different outlet | |
The pressure washer circuit breaker tripped | Please wait for the washer to cool down and restart it | |
The motor buzzes but fails to run | Loss in voltage due to the extension cord | Plug the unit directly into the outlet without an extension cord. If the problem isn’t solved, replace the extension cord |
Low supply voltage | Ensure that only the pressure washer runs on that circuit at the time of use | |
Residual pressure in the system | Shut off the washer and squeeze the trigger to release pressure | |
Residual friction among the internal components | Cut the water supply and turn the machine ON for 2 to 3 seconds. Try it a couple of times or until the motor starts. Don’t let the machine run dry for more than 3 seconds. | |
Unit not used for long periods | I recommend calling a professional for help | |
Motor not working | Faulty Timer | Disconnect the leads from the timer. If your pressure washer doesn’t turn off after the time out, the timer is faulty, and you need to replace it. |
I didn’t realize there were so many factors that could affect a pressure washer’s performance.
Thank you for your comment, Tiffany! I’m glad you found the information on pressure washer performance factors useful. Let me know if you have any further questions.
Really helpful article, especially for someone like me who’s not very familiar with pressure washers.
Thank you, Terrance! I’m glad you found the article helpful. If you have any other questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out.
Do you have any tips for maintenance to prevent these issues?
Inspect carburetor jets, air/fuel filters, and fuel lines for vapor lock. Make sure tank vents are open. For electric, check input voltage and motor components. Hope this helps!
Great tips on troubleshooting different issues with pressure washers.
Thank you, John! I’m glad you found the troubleshooting tips helpful for PowerStroke pressure washers. Let me know if you have any specific issues you need help with.
This was very informative, thank you for sharing!
Thank you for your kind words, Alfredo! I’m glad you found the information informative. If you have any questions or need further assistance with your PowerStroke pressure washer, feel free to reach out.
I appreciate the step-by-step troubleshooting guide provided in the article, very helpful.
Thank you, Cathy! I’m glad you found the troubleshooting guide helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions or need further assistance with your pressure washer.
So important to keep filters and carburetors clean for proper functioning.
Thank you, Emily! I appreciate your input on the importance of maintaining filters and carburetors for optimal pressure washer performance. Happy cleaning!
I never knew about vapor lock issues in pressure washers, good to know!
Glad you found the information on vapor locks helpful! Remember to check the tank vents and carburetor when troubleshooting, and keep up the maintenance on your pressure washer.
Is it possible to replace parts of a pressure washer on my own, or should I always seek professional help?
Replacing parts of a pressure washer on your own is possible, Troy. Check the carburetor, filters, spark plugs, and capacitors. Maintenance and repairs depend on the issue you’re facing.
What kind of cleaning solution would you recommend for carburetors?
For cleaning carburetors on your PowerStroke pressure washer, I recommend using WD-40 or a carb-cleaning solution. Make sure to clean all jets thoroughly for optimal performance.
What are some signs that I may need to replace my pressure washer’s motor?
If your pressure washer motor is buzzing, check the capacitor and pump for damage or pressure buildup in the system. It may need a replacement.
Are there any specific brands you recommend for replacement parts?
For reliable replacement parts for your PowerStroke pressure washer, consider brands like Simpson, Generac, and AR Blue Clean. These brands offer quality components to help resolve common engine and motor issues.
Is it safe to use an electric pressure washer in wet conditions?
Yes, it is safe to use an electric pressure washer in wet conditions, just ensure that the power supply is within limits and the voltage is stable. Happy cleaning!
I never knew about the different issues that could arise with pressure washers.
Thank you, Nathaniel! I’m glad you found the information valuable. Let me know if you have any other questions about pressure washer issues.
How often should I be cleaning the fuel filters in my pressure washer?
For best performance, clean fuel filters in your PowerStroke pressure washer every 3-6 months to prevent clogs and maintain engine efficiency. Regular maintenance is key to long-lasting use.
Very thorough explanations, it’s clear and easy to understand.
Thank you, Melanie! I’m glad you found the explanations helpful. Let me know if you have any questions about PowerStroke pressure washers.
I’m curious about the differences in maintenance between gas and electric pressure washers.
Gas pressure washers require more maintenance due to the complexity of the engine system. Electric pressure washers are simpler but can have motor issues. Troubleshooting tips provided in the article should help.
I appreciate the detailed solutions provided for each problem.
Thank you for your feedback, Marie. I’m glad you found the solutions helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions or need further assistance.
The video tutorials are a great addition to help visualize the troubleshooting steps.
Thank you for the feedback Janet! I’m glad the video tutorials are helping you troubleshoot your PowerStroke pressure washer. Good luck with your repairs!
How often should I be checking the oil levels in my pressure washer?
Check oil levels in your pressure washer every time before using it to ensure proper lubrication. Additionally, monitor for oil leaks, excessive usage can result in leaks or the need for a seal replacement.