Kärcher 397 M plus User manual

5.960-588
10.02 F2002500
397 M plus
!

2
THANK YOU FOR PURCHASING A KARCHER
PRESSURE WASHER
PLEASE READ THIS LEAFLET CAREFULLY
BEFORE OPERATING YOUR MACHINE.
WHATIS APRESSURE WASHER?
A Pressure Washer is essentially a powerful electric motor driving a set
of pistons that force water through a small nozzle, thus creating a
pressurised jet of water. This provides the cleaning power behind the
Karcher Pressure Washer.
AKarcher Pressure Washer can be used for an endless list of applications
around the home and garden. It provides an efficient, economical and
labour saving way of cleaning with excellent results.
All Karcher domestic pressure washers are designed to run from a
suitable cold water supply although some models will accept a water inlet
temperature of between 40 °C and 60 °C.
Environmental Comment - Save water with high pressure.
The Karcher Pressure Washer is environmentally friendly enabling you
to reduce your water consumption compared to a normal garden hose.
A definite advantage with a metered water supply
OR
with the added benefit of suction mode, water can be drawn from an
open container such as a water butt.

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INDEX
1. APPLICATIONS ............................................................................................................................... 4
2. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .......................................................................................... 5
3. GETTING STARTED .............................................................................................................. 6
3.1 Contents
3.2 Water Connection
3.3 Electrical Connection
3.4 Detergent
4. OPERATING YOUR PRESSURE WASHER......................... 9
4.1 High Pressure Operation
4.2 Low Pressure Operation Without Brush
4.3 End Of Operation
5. IMPORTANT – CARE AND MAINTENANCE .................. 12
6. ACCESSORIES / SPARE PARTS.................................................. 14 / 15
7. PROBLEM CHECKLIST / TROUBLESHOOTING 16
8. AFTER SALES SERVICE ........................................................................................ 17
9. TECHNICAL DATA ................................................................................................................. 18
10. ASSEMBLY ............................................................................................................................................ 19

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1. APPLICATIONS
The main applications for this product are DOMESTIC
cleaning tasks:
• Cars, motorbikes, caravans, boats and bicycles
• Patio’s, fences, garden walls, pathways, driveways and house
facades – particularly useful for cleaning block driveways
• Removal of algae and moss from roofs, brickwork and
guttering
• Garden tools and machinery, furniture and barbecues
• Hygienic cleaning of animal pens and their surroundings
With the addition of Karcher accessories, the list
continues .............
• Clearing blocked drains and pipes
• Removal of old paint and rust from garden furniture and gates
• Spraying insecticide onto trees, plants and lawns

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2. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
BEFORE STARTING UP YOUR PRESSURE WASHER PLEASE
CHECK YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING:
We recommend you purchase these items from a reputable store
• RCD plug and socket that will interrupt electrical supply in an
emergency
• A typical garden hose (minimum length 7.5 metres) with suitable
hose connection (Hoselock/Gardena type) to match the coupling
on the machine (hose and connector not supplied).
•The mains voltage and supply indicated on the Rating Plate of the
machine corresponds with that of the power source
•The insulation of the supply cable is not damaged
•Only earthed sockets should be used
•If you are using an extension cable it must be completely unwound
from the cable drum and be the correct diameter:
10 meter length of cable should have a cross section of 1.5 mm²
30 meter length of cable should have a cross section of 2.5 mm²
Safety Assurance
As an added precaution, your pressure washer is fitted with a safety
locking device on the Spray Gun.
AFTER USE, ALWAYS REMOVE THE PLUG FROM THE SOCKET
BEFORE CLEANING YOUR PRESSURE WASHER.

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3. GETTING STARTED
3.1 Contents
Upon opening the carton, if you do not have all the items as detailed
please contact the Customer Helpline on 01295 752200.
1Detergent suction hose
with filter
2Power switch (ON/OFF)
3High-pressure outlet
4Water connection with fil-
ter
5Coupling
6Spray lance with vario po-
wer nozzle
7High-pressure hose
8Spray gun with safety rat-
chet (A)
9Connection lead
10 Transport bracket
11 Accessory compartment
12 Spray lance with dirt bla-
ster
Assembly see Page 19

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Please follow these instructions carefully for
troublefree cleaning
Use the diagram on Page 6 for reference purposes
3.2 Water Connection
• The minimum length of supply hosepipe advised for maximum user
convenience is 7.5 metres with a diameter of 12.5 mm (1/2") to avoid
backpressure and any associated potential damage to your machine.
• Attach your supply hosepipe with its connector to the coupling on the
machine (No. 5) and the other end should be connected to a suitable
water supply
3.3 Electrical Connection
• Ensure the Power Switch (No. 2) is in the “OFF” position before
connecting the factory fitted Plug attached to the Mains Electric Lead
(No. 9) into an earthed socket.
If you are using an extension cable, it should always be completely
unwound from the cable drum and have a sufficient cross-sectional
area.
Cable length max. 10 m 30 m
Cross-sectional area 3 x 1,5 mm²3 x 2,5 mm²

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3.4 Detergent
Only cleaning agents recommended by Karcher (UK) Ltd.
should be used. Unsuitable detergents could damage your
Pressure Washer and the object being cleaned.
Recommended Detergents
1. The following cleaning agent may be used undiluted:
Universal Cleaner .............................. Profi RM 555 ASF
2. The following cleaning agents are available as concentrate
and must be diluted with 9 parts of water (1 : 9) before use:
Universal Cleaner .............................. Profi RM 555 ULTRA
Automotive Cleaner ........................... Profi RM 565 ULTRA
House & Garden Cleaner .................. Profi RM 570 ULTRA
Boat Cleaner ..................................... Profi RM 575 ULTRA
3. Detergent tablets are also available from some stores
Karcher Clean Tabs (10 tablets per box)
10 Tablets dissolved in clean water provide 5 litres of cleaning
detergent.
DETAILS OF THE FULL RANGE OF DETERGENTS AND
CHEMICALS ARE AVAILABLE BY CALLING THE KARCHER
CUSTOMER HELPLINE ON 01295 752200

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4. OPERATING YOUR PRESSURE WASHER
If you have followed all the instructions so far, you are
now ready to have fun cleaning the KARCHER way!!!
•Turn on the supply water and press the Spray Gun lever (No. 8) until
the water flows freely and removes all air locks from the hoses
•You may now attach the Spray Lance (No. 6) or required accessory
to the Spray Gun
All accessories are bayonet fit, simply push in and twist
until they click into position !
•Once water is flowing through the machine, you may now switch
on your Karcher Pressure Washer using the Power Switch (No. 3)
WHEN USING YOUR KARCHER PRESSURE WASHER ON
THE HIGH PRESSURE SETTING, THE RECOMMENDED
WORKING DISTANCE BETWEEN THE NOZZLE AND THE
OBJECT OR SURFACE TO BE CLEANED IS 30 CM.
IT CAN BE CLOSER IF REQUIRED FOR PATIOS OR MASONERY
It is your responsibility to check the suitability of the surface to be cleaned.
Karcher (UK) Ltd. cannot be held responsible for any damaged caused.

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4.1 High Pressure Operation
•Ensure the Spray Lance with Vario Power Nozzle (No. 6) or the Spray
Lance with Dirt Blaster (No. 12) are attached securely to the Spray Gun
(No. 8).
•Set vario power nozzle to high pressure mode
"+".
•Aim the lance towards the object to be cleaned making sure the
recommended working distance is used for reference (See Page 9).
Release the safety ratchet on the Spray Gun and squeeze the trigger.
•Switch on the pressure washer (No. 2)
The pressurised water jet alone is capable of fulfilling most
cleaning tasks around the garden or on building work but
detergent and wash brush are advantageous when cleaning
vehicles or other paint finishes.
4.2 Low Pressure Operation
•Dilute the detergent in a suitable container to the required concentra-
tion before using. (The correct dilution is dependent on the degree of
soiling of surface and is best determined by experience).
•Hang the Detergent Suction Tube (No. 1) in the
Detergent Container.
•Set Vario Power Nozzle to low pressure mode "–".
Note: No detergent in high pressure mode
Note: the Dirt Blaster (No. 12) is not for use in low pressure operati-
on.
•Aim the Spray Gun towards the object to be cleaned, release the
Safety Ratchet on the Spray Gun and squeeze the trigger to apply
the detergent to the working area.
•Switch on the pressure washer (No. 2)

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We recommend the following cleaning method:
Step 1:
Remove loose dirt by washing over the surface to be cleaned with the
high pressure jet.
Step 2:
Spray on the detergent and leave for 1-4 minutes, so assisting the easy
removal of fine dirt and associated greasy adhesions.
Step 3:
Finally, spray off the loosened dirt with the high pressure spray.
4.3 End Of Operation
ALWAYS REMEMBER TO RINSE YOUR PRESSURE WASHER
AFTER USING DETERGENT BY HANGING THE DETERGENT
SUCTION TUBE IN A CONTAINER WITH CLEAN WATER AND
RUN THE PUMP FOR APPROXIMATELY ONE MINUTE IN LOW
PRESSURE SETTING.
In the event of a break of 5 minutes in the operation of your
Karcher Pressure Washer, always switch off the pump to avoid
damage due to overheating.
•Switch off the pressure washer by the Power Switch (No. 2) and
unplug the Mains Electric Lead (No. 9) from the socket
•Close the water inlet (tap) and disconnect the hosepipe
•Release the trigger to remove all pressure from the machine
and then secure the trigger with the Safety Ratchet to prevent
accidental opening.

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5. IMPORTANT – CARE AND MAINTENANCE
To ensure prolonged life and trouble-free use of your
Karcher Pressure Washer we strongly recommend
that you always adopt the following procedures:
Water
•Before use, always check the inlet filter for dirt or debris.
•Visually check to see if the nozzle is blocked by dirt or grit, if so, re-
move the dirt from the nozzle hole with a needle and rinse with water
from the front.
Failure to do this will seriously damage your machine and invali-
date the warranty.
•Connect the water supply hose and, without the lance attached,
squeeze the trigger gun to run water through your pressure washer
until the water flow is constant. Then plug in to the electric supply.
•Unless drawing water from an open water source such as a water
butt, always have a minimum of 10 metres (25 feet) of uncoiled hose
between the water tap and your machine. The internal diameter of
the feed water hose should be 12 mm (1/2”).
•Water Regulations require the use of a back-flow preventer valve at
the tap end of the supply hose.
Only use a full flow connector to connect the hose to the machine.
Electricity
•If using an electrical extension lead it must be rated at a minimum of
13 amps.
•Always fully uncoil any extension lead when used.
Chemicals
Use of chemicals other than those recommended by Karcher could cau-
se significant damage which may not be covered by your warranty.
•After using chemicals, always run fresh water through your machine.

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The high pressure hose of your Karcher Pressure Washer should not
be mistreated. It is designed to withstand high pressure operation so
vehicles should NOT run over it, nor should it be pulled across sharp
or abrasive edges. These actions may weaken the hose and cause
ballooning.
IMPORTANT
REMEMBER FROST WILL DAMAGE YOUR KARCHER
PRESSURE WASHER IF IT HS NOT BEEN COMPLETELY
EMPTIED OF WATER AFTER USE. ALWAYS STORE IN A
FROST FREE AREA.

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6. ACCESSORIES
A wide range of popular accessories are available from your local store
selling Karcher Pressure Washers
2.638-817 Underbody Lance
Extended lance with angled end and upward firing jet for cleaning under cars, gutters etc.
6.903-276 Car Wash Brush
Simple bayonet fitting attaches the brush to the hand gun, used in conjunction with RM555.
4.762-065 Rotary Wash Brush
Ideal for car bodywor and windows as the water forces the brush to rotate enhancing cleaning power.
4.760-262 Extension Lance
To add length to the standard lance.
2.637-729 Drain Kit (7.5 m Hose)
2.637-767 Drain Kit (15 m Hose)
A flexible hose with bac wards firing high pressure jet to create turbulence and dislodge bloc ages.
4.760-272 Flexi Lance
A lance which can be angled to any degree to clean hard to reach areas such as wheel arches etc.
4.440-238 Suction Hose and Filter
Used to provide a water supply to the unit where a mains water supply is not available by placing the it into a water butt.
2.637-214 Water Pump Kit
9.300-051 25 Kg Grit
6.291-080 RM 555 (5 litre)
6.291-079 RM 555 (6 x 1 litre)
Most accessories will be available from your local store selling Karcher
Pressure Washers. If they are not stocked, most stores will raise a
special order for you. If you have difficulty obtaining accessories
please contact the Karcher Spares Desk on 01295 752101

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6. SPARE PARTS
In the event that your Karcher Pressure Washer requires replacement
parts –please refer to the diagram below AND identify the particular
model of your machine by reference to the data plate on the underside.
Then telephone [phone] for assistance.
A
K 397 M - PLUS
A
A
5.960-588.0
09/02
9.084-059.0
9.011-421.0
2.883-111.0
9.011-424.0
2.883-111.0
5.332-464.0
4.775-389.0 5.037-137.0
6.363-198.0
6.390-499.0 2.880-296.0
6.389-870.0

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7. PROBLEM CHECKLIST
The machine you have chosen is of the highest quality. Correctly stored
away from frost it should operate without problems. If a problem does
arise, please check the following chart as a solution may be at hand.
In the unlikely event that you need to return your machine to your
supplier, please ensure that this is returned, complete with
hose, gun and all accessories.
MELBORPESUACELBISSOPNOITCERROC
sesuferenihcaM
tratsot
detcennoctongulP
tekcosevitcefeD
nwolbesuF
elbacnoisnetxeevitcefeD
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gulptcennoC
tekcosrehtonayrT
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elbacnoisnetxetuohtiwyrT
otsdnopserrocegatlovsniamkcehC
nihcamfosnoitacificeps
spotspmuP nwolbesuF
roopoteudgnitaehrevO
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etunimenonitekcubertil01allif
erusserpgnortS
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dekcolbyltrapelzzoNeldeenhtiwelohelzzonmorftridnaelC
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8. Help-Line
Karcher (UK) Limited operate a help-line allowing customers to dis-
cuss any problems experienced with our products.
The help-line operates during normal business hours, if you have dif-
ficulty getting through, please understand that there are peak periods
during the day when our consultants are unable to take all calls co-
ming in. In these circumstances we would ask that you try to contact
us again later in the day.
The help-line number is 0906 6800632.
It helps us if you have the model number and data plate details to
hand before making your call as there are very many different models
of Karcher Pressure Washers in use.
Alternatively you may write or e-mail to the address below:
Karcher (UK) Limited
Karcher House
Beaumont Road
Banbury
Oxon, OX16 1TB
E-mail: [email protected]

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9. TECHNICAL DATA
Power Connection
Voltage ..................................................... 230-240 V -AC
Current ........................................................... 1~50 Hz
Connected/Load ............................................... 1.7 KW
Mains Fuse ........................................................ 13 AMP
Safety class ......................................................... 1
Water Connection
Supply Temperature (Max) ................................ 40 °C
Supply Rate (Min) ............................................ 600 litres per Hour
Supply Pressure (Max) ...................................... 12 bar
Supply Hose Length ......................................... 7.5 metres
Diameter ........................................................... 1/2 inch
Performance Data
Pump Pressure (Max)...................................... 110 bar
Operating Pressure ......................................... 120 bar
Flow Rate......................................................... 380 litres per hour
Detergent Intake ................................................ 20 litres per hour
Recoil Force of Hand Held Spray Gun
at Operating Pressure (Max) ............................. 10 N
Unit vibrations ................................................... 0.8 m/s²
Sound level
LPA (EN 60704-1)............................................ 74.5 dB(A)
LWA (2000/14/EEC) ............................................ 87 dB(A)
Optimum Working Distance on High Pressure .. 30 cm
Dimensions
Length .............................................................. 290 mm
Width ............................................................... 340 mm
Height .............................................................. 805 mm
Weight ............................................................ 12.2 Kg
Circuit Diagram
C1 Capacitor
M1 Motor
Q1 Switch
T Temperature limiter
S1 Pressure switch

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10. ASSEMBLY

EU Declaration of Conformity
We hereby declare that the equipment described below
conforms to the relevant fundamental safety and health re-
quirements of the appropriate EU Directives, both in its ba-
sic design and construction as well as in the version mar-
keted by us.This declaration will cease to be valid if any
modifications are made to the machine without our express
approval.
Product: High-pressure cleaner
Model: 1.423-xxx
Relevant EU Directives:
98/37/EEC
73/23/EEC (+93/68/EEC)
89/336/EEC (+91/263/EEC, 92/31/EEC, 93/68/EEC)
2000/14/EEC
Harmonised standards applied:
DIN EN 60 335 –1
DIN EN 60 335 –2 –29
DIN EN 55 014 –1 : 2000 + A1: 2001
DIN EN 55 014 –2 : 1997
DIN EN 61 000 –3 –2 : 2000
DIN EN 61 000 –3 –3 : 1995 + A1: 2001
Conformity assessment procedure followed: Annex V
Measured sound power level: 85 dB(A)
Guaranteed sound power level: 87 dB(A)
Appropriate internal measures have been taken to ensure
that series-production units conform at all times to the re-
quirements of current EU Directives and relevant
standards.The signatories are empowered to represent and
act on behalf of the company management.
Alfred Kärcher GmbH & Co.
Cleaning Systems
Alfred-Kärcher-Str. 28–40
P.O. Box 160
D-71349 Winnenden