Pressure Washer Suggestions

Did a quick search did not see much posted recently. Best brands? Recommended pressure for mud removal? Gas vs. Electric? I usually prefer gas power equipment but not sure if there are any decent gas ones to be had for the $200- $300 range?

I have been flirting with the idea of purchasing a pressure washer. I often have to go dump $5 in the local self wash joint just to get the mud off my vehicle so that I can take it through a local car wash spot. The mud/clay dries quickly here and really clings but don't want to strip paint with it.

 

I have an old Karcher electric, 1200 psi max I believe. It won't strip any paint that isn't damaged already and is much better than those wimpy self wash places. I'd go with an electric for truck washing however I've never used a gas one.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/power-washer.424242/

had the same problem.

 

If it's just for the truck you can get by with an electric pressure washer but if you think you'll use it a lot (I do) then pull the trigger on something gas powered with a Honda motor. Mine has lasted 15 years and I use it every spring, pressure washing the deck, house, teak lawn furniture, driveway side walk, BBQs, just about everything. It's my favorite yard toy and with the right tip, I can write either my name in concrete or just rinse suds off the truck with no worry to the paint.

One thing I've learned with pressure washers is too little pressure will frustrate you.

Just drain the gas tank completely when finished using and it will last forever.

 

Don't buy a Troybuilt piece of shit what ever you do. I've had good luck with the electric models for dirt bike clean up.

 

Go higher than 1300 psi, I cleaned my deck and that was garbage. Couldn't spray through a kleenex.

 

Go to lowes and get one of their $100 electric pressure washers.
Super simple to use, inexpensive, andcit will last at good long time as long as you dont abuse it too heavily.
I had mine for about 5 years now and it still runs like a champ.
Plenty of pressure and it runs very efficiently on standard water pressure and household 110v current.
I have a friend that owns a restaurant who abuses the shit out his every day, he claims he only has to replace his every 2-3 years.
Excellent product, and
For $100 you cant beat it.

 

Doh thanks

 

What brand and model?

 

Going along the topic of pressure washing your car.... What is the best way to clean engine bay? I know I don't want to soak the electronics but there are so many under this truck's hood!

 

You'll get varying opinions on this but the middle of the road opinion I've read is presoak with simple green or other degreaser then spray away. Just try not to go too heavy directly on electronic harnesses or air filter box. Consider that water sprays under the hood when driving down the interstate at 70+mph in rain storm. I've never had an issue spraying down the motor and have seen professional detailer using pressure washer on vehicle engine bays with little regard and absolutely no issues.

 

BE Pressure Washers are great. I have this one.

 

I may give this one a try
http://m.homedepot.com/p/Generac-2-...l-Cam-Pump-Gas-Pressure-Washer-6921/206936936

 

I do the same, simple green then use a hose to spray it off, leaf blower or compressed air to dry, no problems doing that for years.

Don't soak the electronics.

 

Just something to think about between axiel pumps and triplex pumps.

I researched just about every make and model of pressure washer out there. First, if you plan on keeping your pressure washer for a long time, you need to consider a triplex pump instead of an axial pump. The triplex pump has user serviceable parts and can be repaired, whereas the axial pumps are disposable and need to be completely replaced at a cost of $150-$200. Triplex pumps last about 4 times longer than axial pumps. The cost of entry level triplex pump models cost only $100-$200 more than the axial pump types. To me, I wanted to buy something local in case something went wrong (and something is bound to go wrong with these types of items- read the reviews). I was deciding between this Simpson model, Generac 6590 (triplex pump), the Generac OneWash, Husqvarna 3100 PSI model, and Simpson MSH-3125S (all axial pumps) In the end, it came down to the Generac 6590 and this Simpson ALH3225 because they both have triplex pumps with reputable engines. This Simpson has a very light all aluminum frame and weighs 62lbs total and I can lift this up into my SUV to transport to a job site. The Generac 6590 is a much larger model and weighs 102.5lbs and I can't pick it up myself. The Simpson has an adjustable pressure regulator where you can dial in the right amount of pressure for the job without having to go back to the engine. The hose is nice and pliable and easy to store and does not kink. Gas tank is 1 gallon and I ran it continuously for 2 hours before it ran dry. The Kohler engine has a 2 year warranty on it and is very easy to start. One pull right out of the box and it was up and running. One pull again when the engine is hot and it starts right up (remember to release the pressure from the wand to make it easier to pull the cord). This engine is much quieter than my old Generac engine. Cons: The wheels could use some better bearings as they wobble a bit. But no problems pulling the pneumatic tires through grass and mulch. Best of all, the pump has a 5 year limited warranty, and 10 year warranty on the frame. Much longer than any other unit out there 9even other Simpson models with Honda engines and triplex pumps). Hopefully, I won't have to find out how good customer service at Simpson is. Bottom line, there is no better value in the $500 price range with these features with commercial grade engine and triplex pump. I did the research for you. Just stop going over reviews and get this one!

Granted this is review on the simpson

 

I'm looking to keep it about 300 and am fine if it lasts 5 or 6 years so I don't think pump type matters. I'll just get the max big box store warranty

 

You'd be surprised what you find it useful for once you have one.

 

totally agree ^

 

I've got one of these. Porter cable 4000 psi 4.0 gal/min 15hp Kohler on it. Been a true workhorse for 12 years. Not in the price range you're looking for though unless you find one used and then probably a little over.

 

I just bought one of these.
http://m.homedepot.com/p/Ryobi-2800...ontrol-Gas-Pressure-Washer-RY802800/205566052