Re: Pressure washers

On 5/21/2024 9:24 PM, bp@www.zefox.net wrote:

Snag <Snag_one@msn.com> wrote:

   I was given a Troy Bilt a couple of weeks ago because it "wouldn't
build pressure" and I think I figured out why . There is a ball check
vent valve on the HP outlet . The spring holds the ball off the seat
under normal hose pressure but as soon as the pump builds pressure the
ball is supposed to seal the outlet . Except the ball and spring are
missing ... Soooooo , the question is , if I can't find the ball and
spring can I just plug the hole ? I think the only difference it will
make is that I'll have to hold the wand trigger down while starting the
unit . I just replaced the bypass valve because it had a crack on the
piston head . I think the missing ball and spring are venting enough
pressure that the bypass valve never opens . I'd like to get this unit
running , it has higher pressure and flow rate than the last one I got
for free .

 A bit confused here; does the missing ball check valve vent to air?

   Yes , it vents to air . Near as I can tell it's purpose is to vent pressure as the motor comes up to speed . My other gas powered washer doesn't have that feature and you must hold the wand trigger down to start it . I'm pretty sure plugging the hole will result in having to hold the trigger down to start this one too .

 FWIW there's a Youtube channel called "Mustie1" with at least a few
pressure washer salvage videos, along with many more.
 bob prohaska
 

   I haven't watched any videos , but I did download the repair manual and the parts diagram . The diagram shows a ball and spring under the vent nipple , it's missing on this unit . Inspecting the nipple shows a bright ring where that ball has seated on a machined shoulder . I can think of no reason to have this feature but to relieve pressure at startup . The nipple will be going to town with me this morning to see if I can find suitable replacements . If I can't , I'll plug the hole and see what happens . And if I can't get this thing to run , I'm only out about 25 bucks for parts and I'll have a 6.5 Hp B&S OHV motor that can be used for other things .
--
Snag
  "They may take our lives but
they'll never take our freedom."
  William Wallace