Kärcher K 3.95 M User manual

CHEM
CHEM
English 2
Español 17
Français 33
K 3.86 M
5.961-396.0 10/04

2 English
Overview 3
Important Safety Instructions 4-5
Assembly Instructions 6
Operating Instructions 7
GFCI instructions 8
Using the Accessories 8
Working with Detergents 9
Shut Down 10
Taking a Break 10
Winterizing and Long-Term Storage11
Care and Maintenance Instructions 11
Cleaning Tips 11-12
Optional Cleaning Accessories 13-14
Troubleshooting 15-16
Call: 1-800-537-4129 for help or visit
our website: www.karcher-usa.com
DANGER
indifies ’’an imminently hazardous situa-
tion which, if not avoided, will result in
death or serious injury.’’
WARNING
indifies ’’a potentially hazardous situati-
on which, if not avoided, could result in
death or injury.’’
CAUTION
indifies ’’a potentially hazardous situati-
on which, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury’’ or in property
damage incidents.
HIGH PRESSURE WASHER OPERATOR MANUAL
Specifications
Operating pressure 1750 PSI
Water volume 1.5 GPM
Amp draw 14 AMPS
Voltage 120 V
Part No. 1.636-121.0
Serial no.
Kärcher Customer Support USA
Safety Alert Symbols

English 3
Item Description:
1 PowercordwithGroundFaultCircuit
Interrupter (GFCI)
2 High pressure outlet
3 On/OFF switch
4 Water inlet with garden hose con-
nector (not shown)
5 Detergent tank (removeable)
6 Capwithdetergentdosing valve and
detergent suction tube
7 Transport handle
8 Accessory compartment
9 High pressure hose
10 Trigger gun
11 Trigger gun safety lock
12 Vario Spray wand
13 Rotating spray wand
CAUTION
Follow the maintenance instructions
specified in the manual
This machine has been designed for
use with cleaning detergents by the ma-
nufacturer. The use of other cleaning
detergents may affect the operation of
the machine and void the warranty.
For household use only !
MODEL OVERVIEW
3
8
4
5
2
7
1
6
11
10
13
12 9
CHEM
CHEM

4 English
WARNING!
When using this product basic precauti-
ons should always be followed, inclu-
ding the following:
!Read all the instructions before
using the product.
!To reduce the risk of injury, close su-
pervision is neccessary when a pro-
duct is used near children.
!Know how to stop the product and
bleed pressures quickly. Be thoroug-
hly familiar with the controls.
!Stay alert — watch what you are
doing.
!Do not operate the product when fa-
tigued or under the influence of alco-
hol or drugs.
!Keep operating area clear of all per-
sons.
!Do not overreach or stand on unsta-
ble support. Keep good footing and
balance at all times.
!Follow the maintenance instructions
specified in the manual.
!This Product Is Provided With A
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GF-
CI) Built Into The Power Cord Plug.
If Replacement Of The Plug Or Cord
Is Needed, Use Only Identical Re-
placement Parts.
!Risk of Injection or Injury to persons
- Do not direct discharge stream at
persons.
!Highpressurejetscanbedangerous
if subject to misuse. The jetmust not
be directed at persons, animals,
electrical devices, or the machine
itself.
!Wear safety goggles.
!Do not use acids and solvents in this
product. These products can cause
physical injuries to the operator and
irreversible damage to the machine.
!To reduce the risk of electrocution,
keep all connections dry and off the
ground.
!Do not touch plug with wet hands.
!The Trigger Gun Safety Lock PRE-
VENTS the trigger from accidentally
being engaged. This safety feature
DOES NOT lock trigger in the ON
position.
This product must be grounded. If it
should malfunction or breakdown,
grounding provides a path of least resi-
stance for electric current to reduce the
risk of electric shock. This product is
equipped with a cord having an equip-
ment-grounding conductorand a groun-
ding plug. The plug must be plugged
into an appropriate outlet that is proper-
lyinstalled and groundedinaccordance
with all local codes and ordinances.
DANGER
Improper connection of the equipment-
grounding conductor can result in a risk
of electrocution. Check with a qualified
electrician or service personnel if you
are in doubt as to whether the outlet is
properly grounded. Do not modify the
plug provided with the product - if it will
not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet in-
stalled by a qualified electrician. Do not
use any type of adapter with this pro-
duct.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Grounding Instructions

English 5
This product is supplied with a Ground
Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) built into
the power cord plug. This device provi-
desadditionalprotectionfrom theriskof
electric shock. If power is interrupted in
the line, the GFCI will automatically re-
close the circuit to the load after power
is restored. Depending on the GFCI mo-
del, it may be necessary to manually
operate the reset button to restore po-
wer to the GFCI load circuit. If replace-
ment of the plug or cord is needed use
identical replacement parts.
!Use only 3-wire extention cords that
have 3-prong grounding-type plugs
and 3-pole cord connectors that ac-
cept the plug from the product.
Up to 25 ft = 12/3 AWG;
25 to 50 ft = 10/3 AWG.
!Use only extension cords that are in-
tended for outdoor use. These ex-
tension cords are identified by the
marking “Acceptable for use with
outdoor appliances; store indoors
while not in use.”
!Use only extension cords having an
electrical rating not less than the ra-
ting of the product.
!Do not use damaged extension
cords.
!Examine extension cord before
using and replace if damaged.
!Do not abuse extension cord and do
not yank on any cord to disconnect.
!Keepcordawayfromheatandsharp
edges.
!Always disconnect the extension
cord from the receptacle before dis-
connecting the product from the ex-
tension cord.
!If you are using an extensioncord, it
should always be completely un-
wound from the cable drum.
WARNING
Toreducetheriscofelectrocution,keep
all connections dry and off the ground.
Do not touch plug with wet hands.
CAUTION
Dirt in the feed water will damage the
unit. To avoid this risk, we recommend
fitting a water filter.
!Water hose must be at least 5/8 inch
in diameter.
!Flow rate of water supply must not
fall below 2 GPM (gallons per minu-
te).
!Flow rate can be determined by run-
ning the water for one minute into an
empty 5-gallon container.
!The water supply temperature must
not exceed 104°F/40°C.
!Never use the pressure washer to
draw in water contaminated with sol-
vents, e.g. paint thinners, gasoline,
oil, etc.
!Always prevent debris from being
drawn into the unit by using a clean
water source.
SAVE THESE
INSTRUCTIONS !
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
(GFCI) Protection
Extension Cords
WATER SUPPLY (Cold Water Only)

6 English
"STEP 1: Mount cover to backside
"STEP 2: Attach the handle and se-
cure with 2 screws.
"STEP 3: Place detergent tank into
compartment and attach cap with
detergent dosing valve and deter-
gent suction tube.
"STEP 4: Attach the high pressure
hose to the trigger gun.
Pull out the locking slide from the
right side of the trigger gun handle
(A), and insert the small end of the
high pressure hose into place (B).
Push the locking slide back into the
trigger gun (C) to lock the hose in po-
sition (D).
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
1.
2.
CHEM
A
“clic”
B
C
D

English 7
"STEP 1: Connect the high pressure
hose to the unit’s high pressure out-
let.
"STEP 2: Insert the spray wand of
your choice to the trigger gun. Press
in against the spring tension and
twist into locked position.
"STEP 3: Connect garden hose to
unit’s water inlet.
"STEP4: Connectgardenhosetothe
cold water source and turn water on
completely. Plug the power cord into
the power outlet.
"STEP 5: Unlock the Safety lock (A).
Trigger the gun (B) to eliminate trap-
ped air, wait for a steady flow of wa-
ter to emerge from the spray nozzle.
"STEP 6: Turn on the high pressure
washer (I).
Themotor starts onlyif the trigger
of the gun is pulled and shuts off
when the trigger is released.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
/ OFF
/ OFF
ON

8 English
"STEP 1: Plug the Ground Fault Cir-
cuitInterrupter (GFCI)intoaworking
outlet.
"STEP 2: Press ’’TEST’’, then press
’’RESET’’ to assure proper connec-
tion to power.
Note: The actual appearance of the
GFCI may be different from this illu-
stration.
WARNING
To avoid serious injury never point
spray nozzle at yourself, other per-
sons or animals.
!The Vario power spray wand allows
you to adjust the cleaning pressure.
To clean at maximum pressure, the
wand must be positioned to the high
pressure setting (Max).
For lower pressure turn the wand
collar in the minus (Min) direction.
To apply detergent, the wand must
be positioned to the low pressure
setting (Min).
!This nozzle features a 0º pencil jet
which rotates 360º for maximum dirt
cutting action, effectively increasing
cleaning performance up to 50%.
This nozzle combines the cleaning
performance of a 0º pencil jet with
thesurfacecoverageofawideangle
nozzle.
Not recommended for soft materi-
als, siding, painted surfaces,
decks or autos.
GFCI INSTRUCTIONS
12
USING THE ACCESSORIES
Vario power nozzle
Dirtblaster nozzle

English 9
Detergents can only be applied at
low pressure (Min).
"STEP 1: Install the vario power
nozzle. Set the spray wand to the
low pressure setting (Min).
"STEP 2: Fill the Detergent Tank with
the selected Ready To Use deter-
gent.
"STEP 3: Adjust the detergent do-
sing valve to the desired dosage.
"STEP 4: Turn on the pressure was-
her (1). Pull trigger to operate unit:
Liquid detergent is drawn into the
unit and mixed with water. Apply de-
tergent to work area. Do not allow
detergent to dry on surface.
Forbestresultssee CleaningTipson
pages 11 & 12 for specific informati-
on on how to clean different sur-
faces.
Always Use Kärcher Detergent for Best
Results
Kärcher biodegradable detergents are
specially formulated to protect the envi-
ronment and your pressure washer.
Special formula won’t clog the suction
tube filter and will protect the internal
parts of the pressure washer for a lon-
ger life. For Kärcher Detergents, check
yourretailerorcallourservicecenterfor
help.
The following Kärcher detergents are
avaiable:
One Gallon ready to use
!Vehicle Wash
!All Purpose Cleaner
!Deck Wash
!Degreaser
!House Wash
CAUTION
Never use:
– Bleach, Chlorine products and other
corrosive chemicals
– Liquids containing solvents (i.e.,
paint thinners, gasoline, oils)
– Tri-sodium phosphate products
– Ammonia products
– Acid-based products
These chemicals will harm the unit and
will damage the surface being cleaned.
WORKING WITH DETERGENTS
CHEM

10 English
STEP 1: Turn the switch to OFF (0) po-
sition and unplug cord from outlet.
STEP 2: Turn off the water source.
STEP 3: Press trigger to release water
pressure.
STEP 4: Disconnect the garden hose
from the water inlet on the unit..
STEP 5: Disconnect the high pressure
hose from the high pressure outlet.
STEP 6: Release trigger (A) and enga-
ge gun safety lock (B).
STEP 1: Release trigger (A) and enga-
ge gun safety lock (B).
STEP 2: Turn pressure washer to off
(O) position.
SHUTTING DOWN
OFF
ON
23
1.
2
2.
1.
2.
B
A
TAKING A BREAK ..five minutes or more
OFF
ON
B
A
12

English 11
"1: Disconnect all water connections.
"2: Turn on the machine for a few se-
conds, until the water which had
remained in the pump exits, turn off
immediately.
"3: Do not allow high pressure hose
to become kinked.
"4: Store the machine and accesso-
ries in a room which does not reach
freezing temperatures. DO NOT
store near furnace or other sources
of heat as it may dry out the pump
seals.
CAUTION
Failure to follow the above directions
will result in damage to the pump as-
sembly and accessories.
Pull out the water inlet filter with flat-
nose pliers and rinse out in warm water. The unit is maintenance-free.
(with or without detergent). Pre-rinse
deck and surrounding area with fresh
water. If using Kärcher Deck Wash, ap-
ply to surface at low pressure. For best
results, limit your work area to smaller
sections of approximately 25 square
feet. Allow Deck Wash to remain on sur-
face 1-3 minutes. Do not allow deter-
gent to dry on surface. Rinse at high
pressure in a long sweeping motion
keepingthespraynozzleapproximately
3-6 inches from the cleaning surface.
Always clean from top to bottom and
from left to right. When moving on to a
new section of the cleaning surface, be
sure to overlap the previous section to
eliminatestopmarksandensureamore
even cleaning result.
(with or without detergent). Pre-rinse
cleaning surface with fresh water. If
using Kärcher Pressure Wash, apply to
surfaceatlowpressure(forbest results,
limit your work area to sections of ap-
proximately 6 feet and always apply de-
tergent from bottom to top). Allow
Pressure Wash to remain on surface 1-
3 minutes. Do not allow detergent to dry
on surface, if surface appears to be
drying, simply wet down surface with
freshwater.Ifneeded,usespecialwash
brush attachment (not included) to re-
move stubborn dirt. Rinse at high pres-
sure from top to bottom in an even
WINTERIZING AND LONG-TERM STORAGE
CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Cleaning the water inlet filter
2
Maintenance
CLEANING TIPS
Deck Cleaning
House Siding

12 English
sweeping motion keeping the spray
nozzle approximately 6 inches from the
cleaning surface.
(with or without detergent). Pre-rinse
cleaning surface with fresh water. If
using Kärcher Pressure Wash or De-
greaser, apply to surface at low pressu-
re. For best results, limit your work area
to smaller sections of approximately 25
square feet. Allow Pressure Wash or
Degreaser to remain on surface 1-3 mi-
nutes. Do not allow detergent to dry on
surface. Rinse at high pressure in a
sweeping motion keeping the spray
nozzle approximately 3-6 inches from
thecleaning surface.Alwayscleanfrom
top to bottom and from left to right. For
removing extremely stubborn stains,
use the Dirtblaster Nozzle.
(with or without detergent). Pre-rinse
vehicle with fresh water. If using Kär-
cher Touchless Vehicle Wash, apply to
surface at low pressure. For best resul-
ts, clean one side of vehicle at a time
andalwaysapplydetergentfrombottom
to top, do not allow detergent to dry on
surface. If needed, use special wash
brush attachment (not included) to re-
move stubborn dirt. Rinse at high pres-
sure in a sweeping motion keeping the
spray nozzle approximately 6-8 inches
from the cleaning surface (distance
should increase when rinsing pin-stri-
ping or other sensitive surfaces). Al-
ways clean from top to bottom and from
left to right. For best results, wipe sur-
face dry with a chamois or soft dry cloth.
(with or without detergent). Pre-rinse
cleaning surface with fresh water. If
using Kärcher Pressure Wash or De-
greaser, apply detergent at low pressu-
re. Allow Pressure Wash to remain on
surface 1-3 minutes.Do not allow deter-
gent to dry on surface. Rinse at high
pressure keeping the spray nozzle ap-
proximately 3-6 inches from the cle-
aning surface. For removing extremely
stubborn dirt, it may be necessary to
move the spray nozzle even closer to
the surface for greater dirt cutting ac-
tion.
(with or without detergent). Pre-rinse
furniture and surrounding area with
fresh water. If using Pressure Wash, ap-
ply to surface at low pressure. Allow
Pressure Wash to remain on surface 1-
3 minutes. Do not allow detergent to dry
on surface. If needed use special Wash
Brush Attachment (not included) to re-
move stubborn dirt. Rinse at high pres-
sure in a sweeping motion keeping the
spray nozzle approximately 3-6 inches
from the cleaning surface. For best re-
sults, clean from top to bottom and from
left to right.
!Before cleaning any surface an in-
conspicuousareashouldbecleaned
to test spray pattern and distance for
maximum cleaning results.
!If painted surfaces are peeling or
chipping, use extreme caution as
pressure washer may remove the
loose paint from the surface.
!Whenusingonsurfaceswhichmight
come in contact with food, flush sur-
faces with plenty of drinking water.
Cement Patios, Brick and Stone
Cars, Boats & Motorcycles
Barbecue Grills, Outdoor Power
Equipment & Gardening Tools
Patio & Lawn Furniture
Recommendations

English 13
Optional cleaning accessories are available
to further enhance your cleaning capabili-
ties: See accessories order form for product
descriptions and ordering instructions.
Specially formulated to protect your
pressure washer from freezing, corrosi-
on and premature wear. The Pump
Guard also adds lubrication to valves
and seals to prevent sticking. Highly re-
commended for all Karcher pressure
washers!
Part No. 9.556-999.0
Attach this accessory to your pressure
washer to quickly pump large quantities
of water out of a standing source, such
as a barrel or bucket. Fits most Karcher
pressure washers up to 2300 PSI.
(bayonet)
Part No. 2.637-214.0
Tired of moving around your pressure
washer when you clean? Extend your
working range by 33 feet with this exten-
sion hose. Fits most Karcher pressure
washers up to 2300 PSI. (bayonet)
Part No. 6.389-092.0
An angled spray lance that is ideal for
cleaning tirewalls,roof gutters and other
hard-to-reach areas. 30" long assem-
bled. An indispensable tool to add to
your cleaning arsenal. Easily attaches
tomost Karcherpressurewashersupto
2300 PSI. (bayonet)
Part No. 2.640-741.0
Having trouble reaching areas at odd
angles? The Karcher Flexible Spray
Wand swivels 360° to easily clean diffi-
cult-to-reach areas. Features high and
low-pressure jet settings, adjustable
right at the nozzle. Fits most Karcher
pressure washers up to 2300 PSI.
(bayonet)
Part No. 4.760-265.0
Need to clean second story windows or
other high areas? Increase the reach of
your pressure washer by up to 66" with
this extension kit. Includes 4 aluminum
sections for variable length. 66" fully as-
sembled. Fits most Karcher pressure
washers up to 2300 PSI. (bayonet)
Part No. 2.640-746.0
For more effortless cleaning of all
smooth surfaces (painted, glass and
plastic) try Karcher's Rotating Wash
Brush.Useitonyourautomobile,house
siding or windows. The water pressure
from your pressure washer causes the
inner brushes to gently spin, making
your cleaning job much easier. The ang-
le of brush head is adjustable to help
you reach difficult areas. Excellent for
the application of detergent. A must-
have accessory designed for Karcher
pressure washers up to 2300 PSI.
(bayonet)
Part No. 2.640-743.0
Madewithsoft bristles that will not harm
painted surfaces. Easily attaches direct-
ly to the trigger gun. Ideal for stubborn
OPTIONAL CLEANING ACCESSORIES
Pump Guard
Water Pumping Kit
33 Ft. Extension High-Pressure Hose
Underbody/Gutter Spray Wand
Flexible Spray Wand
66" Extension Wand (Four piece)
Rotating Wash Brush (bayonet)
Soft Clean Washing Brush

14 English
dirt on cars, boats, patio furniture and
other surfaces. Great for applying deter-
gent. Fits most Karcher pressure was-
hers up to 2300 PSI. (bayonet)
Part No. 2.640-740.0
Need to clean blocked pipes, drains or
downspouts? Karcher's pipe cleaning
kit is the answer! The pipe cleaner pro-
pels itself forward while simultaneously
flushing out debris. For example, insert
the cleaning nozzle in the base of a
downspout, pull the trigger on the pres-
sure washer gun and watch as the
nozzle shoots out leaves and other de-
bris while climbing upward. Connects
directly to the trigger gun of most Kar-
cher pressure washers up to 2300 PSI.
(bayonet)
Part No. 2.640-747.0
Whyspendhoursstrippingoldpaintand
rust by hand using harsh chemicals?
Let Karcher's Wet Sandblasting Kit do
the work! Attach the kit to your pressure
washer, add abrasive material and at-
tack the rust and paint with our eco-fri-
endly alternative. Fits most Karcher
pressure washers up to 2300 PSI.
(bayonet)
Part No. 2.638-792.0
Ideal for applications which require a
thick foam. Simply fill the resevoir cup
withliquidpressurewasherdetergentto
generate a foam spray. Connects di-
rectly to the trigger gun. Fits most Kar-
cher pressure washers up to 2300 PSI.
(bayonet)
Part No. 6.964-507.0
For cleaning surfaces such as patios,
terraces and driveways without splash-
back, there is no better solution than
Karcher's T-Racer. It saves time by cle-
aning a 12" wide area gently as it ho-
vers, providing consistent, streak-free
cleaning. When you finish cleaning the
patio and driveway, remove the wand
and use the handle to clean garage
doors and other vertical surfaces. Inclu-
des two height-adjustable nozzles
which spin at high speed for optimum
results. Our top selling accessory for
Karcher pressure washers up to 2300
PSI. (bayonet)
Part No. 2.640-508.0
Call: 1-800-537-4129 for help or visit
our website: www.karcher-usa.com
25 ft. Pipe Cleaning Kit (bayonet)
Wet Sandblasting Kit (bayonet)
Detergent Foamer Attachment
T-Racer Wide Area Surface Cleaner
Kärcher Customer Support USA

English 15
CAUTION Disconnectthemachinefrom thepower
source before making any repair.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Symptom Cause Solution
Motor will not start On/Off switch is in the “OFF” (O)
position. Turn switch to the “ON” (I) position
Power cord is not plugged in. Plug in power cord.
Extension cord is too long. Replace extension cord with either
a 25 ft. 12/3 gauge cord or a 50 ft.
10/3 gauge cord.
Extension cord is not proper gauge.
Extension cord is damaged.
Electrical outlet does not supply
adequate power. Try a different outlet.
Tripped circuit breaker. Switch off pressure washer. The re-
set will be automatically, for that
wait that the temperature goes
down.
Unit does not reach high
pressure. Diameter of garden hose is too small. Replace with a 5/8 inch garden ho- se.
Water supply is restricted. Check garden hose for kinks, leaks
and blockage.
Not enough inlet water supply. Open water source full force.
Water inlet filter is clogged. Removefilterandrinseoutinwarm
water.
Spray wand is in low pressure posi-
tion. Turn spray wand to high pressure position.
Output pressure varies
high and low. Not enough inlet water supply. Turn water on full force. Check gar- den hose for kinks, leaks or blocka-
ge.
Pump is sucking air. Checkthathosesandfittingsareair
tight. Turn off machine and purge
pumpbysqueezingtriggergun until
a steady flow of water emerges
through the nozzle.
Water inlet filter is clogged. Removefilter and rinse out inwarm
water.
Discharge nozzle is obstructed. Blow out or remove debris with a
fine needle.
Calcified gun, hose or spray wand. Run distilled vinegar through deter-
gent suction tube.

16 English
Call: 1-800-537-4129 for help or visit
our website: www.karcher-usa.com
If you encounter any additional difficul-
ties not listed, please call for help.
No detergent. Detergent suctiontube not properly
connected to the machine. Check connection.
Detergent is too thick. Dilute detergent, for best results
use Kärcher detergent.
Filter on detergent suction tube is
clogged. Run warm water through filter to re- move debris.
Damaged or clogged detergent
suction tube. Remove obstruction or replace de- tergent suction tube.
Spray wand is in high pressure po-
sition. Turnspraywand tipto low pressure position.
Discharge nozzle is obstructed. Blow out or remove debriswith fine
needle.
Gardenhoseconnection
leaks. Loose fittings. Tighten fittings.
Missing/worn rubber washer. Insert new washer.
Spray wand leaks. Spray wand not properly attached. Insert the spray wand into the trig-
ger gun. Carefully press in against
the spring tension and twist into the
locked position.
Broken o-ring or plastic insert. Call service center.
Pump is noisy. Pump is sucking air. Checkthathosesandfittingsareair
tight. Turn off machine and purge
pumpbysqueezingtriggergununtil
a steady flow of water emerges
through the nozzle.
Water leaks from pump
(up to 10 drops per mi-
nute is permissible).
Loose fittings. Check that all fittings are tight.
Water seals are damaged or worn. Call service center.
Oil Drip. Oil seals are damaged or worn. Call service center.
Symptom Cause Solution
Kärcher Customer Support USA