Clarke Power Wash PLS190 Instruction Manual

OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
INSTRUCTIONS
LS0611
PETROL POWER WASHER
MODEL NO: PLS190, PLS260
PART NO: 7330340, 7330350

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INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing this CLARKE Petrol Power Washer.
Before attempting to use this product, please read this manual thoroughly and
follow the instructions carefully. In doing so you will ensure the safety of yourself
and that of others around you, and you can look forward to your purchase
giving you long and satisfactory service.
GUARANTEE
This product is guaranteed against faulty manufacture for a period of 12
months from the date of purchase. Please keep your receipt which will be
required as proof of purchase.
This guarantee is invalid if the product is found to have been abused or
tampered with in any way, or not used for the purpose for which it was
intended.
Faulty goods should be returned to their place of purchase, no product can
be returned to us without prior permission.
This guarantee does not effect your statutory rights.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
GUARANTEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
GENERAL SAFETY RULES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
SAFETY SYMBOLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
OVERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
ASSEMBLY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
BEFORE USE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
USING YOUR POWER WASHER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
STORAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
TROUBLESHOOTING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
EXPLODED PARTS DIAGRAM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
PARTS LIST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
PUMP EXPLODED PARTS DIAGRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
PUMP PARTS LIST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
PARTS AND SERVICING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
PLS190 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY PAGE 1 . . . . . 25
PLS260 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY PAGE 1 . . . . . 26
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY PAGE 2 . . . . . . . . . . . 27

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GENERAL SAFETY RULES
1. NEVER direct the spray towards any person or animal.
2. NEVER direct the spray towards electrical wiring or equipment.
3. NEVER hold your finger over the high pressure nozzle.
4. NEVER allow children to use this machine.
5. NEVER operate the machine with any of the covers removed.
6. NEVER attempt any repairs to this machine always refer to a qualified
service agent.
7. NEVER supply any liquid other than water to the water inlet.
8. NEVER use the chemical injection facility to introduce solvents, e.g. paint
thinners, petrol, oil etc.
9. ALWAYS release any residual pressure in the system by turning off the water
supply and operating the trigger before disconnecting any hose or
accessory.
10. ALWAYS keep the machine itself dry and well clear of water spray
11. ALWAYS wear protective clothing and safety glasses. Loose particles and
other debris may be propelled at high speed by the water jet.
12. ALWAYS grip the gun firmly before pressing the trigger, expect the gun to
‘kick’ when starting.
13. ALWAYS respect the requirements of the local water company. Power
washers may only be connected to the mains drinking water supply, if a
backflow preventer valve is installed in the supply hose.
14. When not in use, ALWAYS disconnect from the water supply, and ensure the
system is completely drained. Store in a cool dry location.
15. When using the chemical injection facility, use only the chemical cleaning
agents (detergents), that are approved for power washers. CLARKE Traffic
Film Remover or CLARKE Wash and WAX (available from your dealer), is
recommended.
WARNING: Water at high pressure can be dangerous and can cause
damage to persons or property if the operator is careless. Never allow
anyone to operate this equipment unless they are thoroughly reliable,
and familiar with the safety precautions.

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SAFETY SYMBOLS
ALWAYS: Read this manual. Understand all warnings and
instructions before operating this equipment.
DANGER: Risk of fire or explosion. Shut off engine before
adding fuel. Keep work area free of combustible materials.
Do not spray flammable liquids.
DANGER: Risk to breathing. Engine exhaust fumes can kill.
For outdoor use only. Work in a well ventilated area.
WARNING: Risk of injection or severe injury. Do not direct
discharge stream at persons or animals. Keep clear of nozzle.
This machine is to be used only by qualified operators.
WARNING: Risk of spray injury. Spray can propel objects.
Always wear ANSI approved Z87.1 Safety Glasses.
WARNING: Risk of chemical burn. Never spray acids, corrosive
or toxic chemicals. Use only cleaners formulated for power
washers.
WARNING: Risk of electrocution. Never direct spray toward
any electrical device or electrical outlet.
WARNING: Risk of unsafe operation. Keep children away
from this equipment. Gun kicks back. Hold with both hands.
WARNING: Risk of hot surfaces. Avoid contact with hot
engine exhaust components. Don't allow hoses to contact
the engine muffler during or after use.

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OVERVIEW
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
NO DESCRIPTION NO DESCRIPTION
1 Gun/lance 6 Chemical hose
2 Spray wand 7 High pressure hose
3 Engine 8 Foldable handle
4 Adjustable nozzle 9 Pressure regulator
5Wheels

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UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY
Unpack your power washer and check to ensure the following items are
present.
• Hose, Gun/lance, Spray wand, Hook, Nozzle, Detergent hose with
filter, Oil plug, Rubber feet, Fixings pack
Contact your Clarke dealer immediately if any parts are missing or damaged.
ASSEMBLY
CONNECTING THE WHEELS
1. Remove the nut, spring washer
and washer from the axle.
2. Fit the axles into the axle ports as
shown, secure with the nut, spring
washer and washer.
3. Fit the wheels to the axles and
secure with the nut and washer.
NOTE: Do not overtighten the nuts,
the wheels must be able to
rotate freely.
RUBBER FEET
1. Fit the rubber feet to the legs as
shown.
ASSEMBLE THE LANCE
1. Connect the spray wand to the
lance and tighten securely.

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THE HIGH PRESSURE HOSE
CONNECT THE HOSE TO THE GUN
1. Slide the connector on the hose
backwards.
2. Push the gun into the connector.
3. Release the connector.
NOTE: Make sure the connection is
secure.
CONNECT THE HOSE TO THE POWER WASHER
1. Slide the connector on the power
washer towards the machine.
2. Push the hose into the connector.
3. Release the connector.
NOTE: Make sure the connection is
secure.
CONNECT WATER SOURCE
1. Connect the water supply hose to
the water inlet.
NOTE: Water source must provide
a minimum of 5 gallons per
minute at 20 p.s.i.
NOTE: Make sure the water supply
hose is screwed on tightly.
GUN/HOSE HOOK
1. Fit the hook into the position
shown and secure using the
washers and nuts on the bracket.

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REMOVE THE TRAVEL BUNG BEFORE USE.
1. Remove the red travel bung.
2. Inside the small bag attached is a
oil filler cap which needs to go in
its place.
BEFORE USE
IMPORTANT: The engine is supplied without any oil in it and must be filled to
the correct level before use, see below.
CHECKING THE PUMP OIL LEVEL
Look at the sight glass on the pump
to check the oil level inside the
pump.
If required, remove the oil filler cap
and top up with oil.
• We recommend the use of
SAE30 oil in this power washer.
CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL
1. Turn the oil filler cap/dipstick anti-
clockwise and remove it from the
oil filler tube, wipe the dipstick
with a clean cloth.
2. Insert the oil filler cap/dipstick
back into the oil filler tube and
then remove it again. Do not
screw it in when doing this.
WARNING: TO CARRY OUT THIS CHECK, PLACE THE POWER WASHER ON
LEVEL GROUND WITH THE ENGINE SWITCHED OFF.
WARNING: TAKE CARE NOT TO TOUCH ANY HOT PARTS OF THE POWER
WASHER WHEN CHECKING THE OIL LEVELS.
SIGHT GLASS
DRAIN CAP
OIL FILLER CAP

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3. If the oil is low fill the oil reservoir to
the edge of the oil filler hole.
• We recommend the use of
SAE30 oil in this power washer.
4. Replace the oil filler cap.
NOTE: Running the engine with
insufficient oil can cause
engine damage.
CHECKING THE FUEL LEVEL
1. To check the fuel level open the fuel tank cap.
2. Just inside the fuel tank is a fuel strainer, check this filter periodically and
remove any contaminants which may have accumulated.
3. Refuel in a well-ventilated area.
Before starting the engine. If the
engine has been running, allow it
to cool. Refuel carefully to avoid
spilling fuel. Do not fill above the
fuel strainer shoulder.
4. After refueling, tighten the fuel
tank cap securely.
5. Replace the fuel filler cap securely.
RECOMMENDED FUEL
Use unleaded petrol with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher. Do not overfill .
PRESSURE REGULATOR
When supplied the pressure regulator
may be set to minimum.
Turn the pressure regulator on the
pump fully clockwiseto allow water
pressure to build up when the
pressure washer is running.
If you find the pressure is too high, you
can adjust this later.
WARNING: ALWAYS REFUEL IN A WELL VENTILATED AREA AWAY FROM
ANY HEAT SOURCES.
WARNING: ALLOW THE UNIT TO COOL DOWN BEFORE REFUELLING.
WARNING: DO NOT LEAVE FUEL WITHIN THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

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USING YOUR POWER WASHER
POWER WASHER TERMINOLOGY
PSI: Pounds per square inch, the unit of measurement for water pressure.
GPM: Gallons per minute.
CU: Cleaning units, GPM x PSI.
Bypass mode: In bypass mode, the pump recirculates the water because the
trigger of the spray gun is not being pulled. If unit is left in bypass mode for
more than two minutes, the water temperature will rise to a dangerous level
and could damage internal components of the pump.
NOTE: Any damage to pump due to these causes will not be covered
under warranty.
Thermal Relief Valve: In an effort to prevent extreme damage, pumps are
equipped with a thermal relief valve. This valve will open when the
temperature inside the pump rises too high. This valve will then release a gush
of water in an effort to lower the temperature inside the pump. Immediately
after this occurs, the valve will close.
Chemical Injection System: Mixes cleaners or cleaning solvents with the
pressurised water to improve cleaning effectiveness.

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STARTING THE POWER WASHER
Prior to starting, refer to your engine manual for proper starting procedures for
your engine type.
1. Make sure the engine has sufficient fuel. See page 11.
2. Check engine oil level. See page 10.
3. Make sure that the filter screen is in water inlet of pump.
• Cone side faces out.
4. Turn water source on.
5. Start the engine. See Engine Owners Manual for correct procedure.
NOTE: If the engine does not start after two pulls, pull the trigger on the
gun to relieve the pressure.
6. Pull the trigger on the gun to start water flow.
• Stand on a stable surface and grip gun/spray wand firmly with both
hands.
• Expect the gun to kick when the trigger is pulled.
7. Release trigger to stop water flow.
NOTE: The power washer will automatically go into bypass mode.
WARNING: FAILURE TO TURN ON THE WATER COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO
THE PUMP.
WARNING: DO NOT ALLOW UNIT TO OPERATE IN BYPASS MODE FOR
MORE THAN TWO MINUTES AT ANY TIME. OVERHEATING OF PUMP CAN
CAUSE DAMAGE TO PUMP.

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ADJUSTING THE SPRAY
The nozzle is adjustable to allow you to adjust the spray from a narrow jet of
water to a wide spray.
To adjust the nozzle, proceed as follows.
1. Hold the shaft of the lance in one hand.
2. Twist the nozzle with the other hand.
3. To vary the spray between narrow and wide, turn the nozzle counter-
clockwise through a half-of-a-turn. The narrow jet should be used to clean
small areas where a small spray is required. The wide beam should be used
for cleaning large areas.
ADJUSTING THE PRESSURE
The pressure setting is preset at the factory. To lower the pressure:
1. Adjust the pressure regulator on
the pump. Turn the pressure
regulator knob counter clockwise
to lower pressure. Once you have
finished using your power washer,
return the pressure regulator to its
original position.
2. Back away from the surface to be
cleaned. The further away you
are the less the pressure will be on
the surface being cleaned.
3. Reduce the speed of the engine (RPM). Slow the engine down and the
water pressure will also go down.
4. Adjust the spray to a wider angle.
5. Slide the nozzle forward for low pressure and backwards for high pressure.

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APPLYING CHEMICALS AND CLEANING SOLVENTS
1. Push the chemical hose onto the
barbed fitting located near high
pressure hose connection of
pump as shown.
2. Place other end of chemical hose
with filter on it into container
holding chemical/cleaning
solution.
3. Slide the nozzle forward for low
pressure.
• The water/chemical ratio is 7:1, for every 7 gallons of water pumped
1 gallon of chemical/ cleaning solution will be used.
SHUTTING DOWN
1. After each use, if you have applied chemicals, place chemical hose into
container of clean water and run clean water through chemical injection
system to flush the system thoroughly.
NOTE: Failure to do so could cause damage to the pump.
2. Turn engine off. See engine owner's manual.
NOTE: NEVER turn the water off with the engine running.
3. Turn water source off.
4. Pull trigger on spray gun to relieve any water pressure.
5. See storage section in this manual for proper storage procedures.

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MAINTENANCE
CHANGING THE PUMP OIL
1.
CRANKCASE
DRAIN CAP
OIL FILLER CAP
SIGHT GLASS
Unscrew and remove the oil filler
cap.
2. Place the oil collection tray (not
supplied) under the drain cap.
3. Unscrew the drain cap, and allow
the used oil to drain from the
crankcase into the oil collection
tray.
NOTE: Drain the oil when the engine
is warm, this will ensure the oil
flows out quicker.
4. Replace the drain plug and its ring seal.
5. With the power washer in a level position, fill to the centre of the
sight glass with the recommended oil.
6. Replace the oil filler cap.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
One of the most damaging sources of pollution is oil. Do not throw away used
oil with your domestic rubbish or down drains and sinks. Place it in a leak proof
container and take it to you local waste disposal site.
CAUTION: PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO USED OIL IS DANGEROUS,
ALWAYS WASH YOUR HANDS THOROUGHLY AFTER HANDLING USED OIL.

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CLEANING THE NOZZLE
If the nozzle becomes clogged with foreign materials such as dirt, excessive
pressure may develop. If the nozzle becomes partially clogged or restricted, the
pump pressure will pulsate, clean the nozzle immediately by follow the below
Instructions:
1. Shut off the power washer and turn off the water supply.
2. Pull trigger on gun handle to relieve any water pressure.
3. Disconnect the spray wand from the gun.
4. Remove any obstructions with the nozzle cleaning tool provided and back
flush with clean water.
5. Direct water supply into spray wand end for 30 seconds to back flush
loosened particles.
6. Reconnect spray wand to gun and turn on water supply.
CLEANING THE WATER INLET FILTER
This screen filter should be checked periodically and cleaned if necessary.
1. Remove filter from the water inlet
of the pump as shown.
2. Clean filter by flushing both sides
with water.
3. Replace the filter into the water
inlet.
• Cone side faces out.
NOTE: Do not operate power
washer without filter properly
installed.

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STORAGE
ENGINE
See the separate engine manual supplied for information regarding the storage
procedure.
PUMP
1. Drain all water from the high pressure hose, coil it and store it on the gun/
hose holder located on the side of the power washer handle.
2. Drain all water from the spray gun and spray wand by holding the gun/
wand vertically with the nozzle pointing down and pulling the trigger. Store
in the gun/hose holder.
3. Store all other parts so that they are protected from damage.
STORAGE PROCEDURE
For long term storage, the petrol tank should be drained. Ensure that the
engine is cold before draining the tank. Remove the fuel tank cap and use a
pump type syphon to drain the petrol into an appropriate, clean container.
Do not store petrol for long periods of time.
Dispose of excess petrol in an environmentally safe way. Your local recycling
centre can advise you on the best method of disposal. After the petrol tank
has been drained, start the engine and allow it to use any petrol that may
remain in the engine, or fuel pipe. Make sure that the power washer has been
thoroughly cleaned before storing it in a clean dry place.

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TROUBLESHOOTING
If the following does not solve your problem, please contact the CLARKE service
department. See page 24.
PROBLEM CAUSE SOLUTION
Engine will not
start (see engine
manual for
further engine
troubleshooting)
No fuel Add fuel
Low oil Add oil
Pressure builds up after
two pulls on the recoil
starter or after initial use
Squeeze the gun trigger to relieve the
pressure
Spark plug wire not
attached
Attach the spark plug wire
Engine switch is in the
OFF position
Set the engine switch to the ON position
Choke lever is set to the
choke position when the
engine is warm
Set the choke lever to the NO CHOKE
position
Fuel valve closed Open the fuel valve
No or low
pressure (initial
use)
Water supply is not
adequate
Make sure your water supply can deliver 5
gallons per minute at 20psi
Leak in the high pressure
hose fitting
Tighten the fitting, use sealant tape if
required
Nozzle is obstructed Clear the nozzle
Water filter screen is
clogged
Remove and clean the filter
Defective E-Z start valve Have it replaced by your dealer
Air in the hose Turn off the engine
Turn off the water supply,
Disconnect the water source from the
pump inlet and turn on the water source
to expel the air from the hose.
When all the air has been removed, turn
off the water supply and reconnect the
hose.
Turn on the water supply and pull the
trigger to expel any air in the gun/wand

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No or low
pressure (initial
use) continued
Choke lever is in the
CHOKE position
Move the choke lever to the NO CHOKE
position
Throttle control lever is
not in the fast position
Move the throttle control lever to the fast
position
High pressure hose is too
long
Make sure the high pressure hose is under
100 feet
Will not draw
chemicals
Chemical filter is blocked Clean the filter
Chemicals being used
are too thick
Dilute the chemicals. The chemicals
should have the consistency of water
Pressure hose is too long. Use a longer supply hose instead of a
longer high pressure hose
Chemical build up inside
the chemical injector
Have the parts cleaned or replaced by
your dealer
No or low
pressure (after a
period of normal
use)
Worn seal or packing Have it replaced by your dealer
Worn or obstructed
valves
Have it replaced by your dealer
Worn unloader piston Have it replaced by your dealer
Worn E-Z start valve Have it replaced by your dealer
Water leaking at
the Gun / spray
wand
connection
Worn or broken O-ring Check and replace
Loose hose connection Tighten
Water leaking at
the pump
Loose connections Tighten
Piston packings worn Have it replaced by your dealer
Worn or broken O-rings Have it replaced by your dealer
Pump head or tubes
damaged from freezing
Have it replaced by your dealer. See
“Storage” on page 18.
Oil leaking at the
pump
Oil seals worn Have it replaced by your dealer
Loose drain plug Tighten
Worn O-rings Check and replace
Pump pulsates Nozzle obstructed Clear the nozzle
PROBLEM CAUSE SOLUTION