Kärcher K 7.85 M User manual

5.962-164.0 (08-07)
K 7.85 M
PLEASE READ THIS LEAFLET CAREFULLY
BEFORE OPERATING YOUR MACHINE
Operating Instructions
PRESSURE WASHER

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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
2. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
3. GETTING STARTED
3.1 Contents
3.2 Assembly
3.3 Water Connection
3.4 Electrical Connection
3.5 Suction Mode
3.6 Detergent
4. OPERATING YOUR PRESSURE WASHER
4.1 High Pressure Operation
4.2 Low Pressure Operation Without Brush
4.3 Low Pressure Operation With Brush
4.4 End Of Operation
4.5 Storage
5. IMPORTANT – CARE AND MAINTENANCE
6. ACCESSORIES / SPARE PARTS
7. PROBLEM CHECKLIST / TROUBLESHOOTING
8. HELP-LINE
9. TECHNICAL DATA

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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 ga-
tes
• Spraying insecticide onto trees, plants and lawns
High pressure hose
The high pressure hose is specially constructed with reinforced
walls to handle water pressure up to 16 MPa (2400 psi) - it is easi-
ly damaged and should be stored carefully.
- Do not kink.
- Do not drive vehicles over the hose.
- Do not expose the hose to sharp edges or corners.
Misuse will lead to ballooning or premature failure and will invalida-
te warranty.
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).

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2. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Electrical Connection
Never use defect connection or extension lines! If the connection line
is damaged, it must be replaced with a special connection line that is
available from the manufacturer or his customer service.
Please make sure that the connection or extension lines are not
damaged by being ran over, pulled or dragged. Protect the
connection lines from heat, oil, and sharp edges.
Never touch the mains plug and the socket with wet hands.
The connection between connection line and extension line must not
lie in the water.
All current-carrying components within the working area must be
jet-proof.
The appliance may only be connected to an electrical connection that
was performed by an electrician according to IEC 60364.
Only connect the appliance to alternating current. The voltage must
comply with the voltage specified on the typeplate.
To avoid electric accidents, we recommend to use sockets with a
series connected residual current operated device (rated breaking
current max. 30 mA).
Warning: Inappropriate extension lines may be dangerous. If you
work outside, only use extension lines that are approved and specifi-
cally labelled and provide of a sufficient conductor cross section:
1 to 10 m: 1.5 mm² 10 to 30 m: 2.5 mm²
The plug and the coupling of an extension line must be waterproof.
Always unwind the extension line completely from the cable drum.
The maximum tolerable mains impedance at the electrical contact
point (see Technical Data) must not be exceeded.

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Safety Instructions
The operation of the device in hazardous locations is not admissible.
Please comply with the corresponding safety instructions if you use
the appliance in danger areas (e.g. filling stations).
Do not turn on the appliance if the power supply line or important
components of the appliance, such as safety components, high-
pressure hoses, spray jet, are damaged.
Warning: High-pressure hoses, fittings, and couplings are of
importance for the appliance safety. Only use high-pressure hoses,
fittings, and couplings recommended by the manufacturer.
The appliance is not intended for use by young children or infirm
persons without supervision.
Young children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play
with the appliance.
The operator must use the appliance properly. He must take the local
conditions into consideration and must pay attention to third persons,
in particular children, while working with the appliance.
Warning: Do not use the appliance if third persons are within the
reach of the appliance unless such persons wear protective clothes.
Warning: High-pressure jets may be dangerous if they are used
improperly.
The jet must not be directed at people, animals, active electrical
equipment, or the appliance itself.
Never direct the jet at yourself or third persons to clean clothes or
shoes.
Never use the appliance to spray objects containing hazardous
substances (e.g. asbestos).
Warning: Vehicle tyres/tyre valves may be damaged and burst by
the high-pressure jet. A first sign is the discoloration of the tyre.
Damaged vehicle tyres/tyre valves are hazardous. Always perform
the cleaning with a minimum distance of 30 cm.

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Cleaning operations during which oil saturated waste water is
generated, such as engine cleaning and underbody cleaning, may
only be performed in cleaning locations that are equipped with an oil
separator.
If you clean varnished surfaces, please respect a minimum distance
of 30 cm to avoid damages.
Never take in solvent-containing liquids or undiluted acids and
solvents! These include, for example, benzene, paint thinner, or
heating oil. The spray is highly inflammable, explosive, and toxic. Do
not use acetone, undiluted acids, and solvents as they affect the
materials used on the appliance.
If required, wear appropriate protective clothes and glasses to protect
yourself from return spray.
Never leave the appliance unattended as long as it turned on.
Warning: This appliance has been developed for the use of
detergents that are supplied or recommended by the manufacturer.
The use of other detergents or chemicals may affect the safety of
the appliance.
Environmental protection
Disposal of the packaging
The packaging material can be recycled. Please do not
place the packaging into the ordinary refuse for disposal,
but arrange for the proper recycling.
Disposal of the old appliance
Old appliances contain valuable materials that can be
recycled. Please arrange for the proper recycling of old
appliances. Batteries, oil, and similar substances must
ünot enter the environment. Please dispose of your old
appliances using appropriate collection systems.

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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.
1 Drawing bar
2a Detergent Tank 1
2b Detergent Tank 2
2c Detergent Dosing Valve
3 Spray gun storage clip
4 Power Switch (On/Off)
5 High Pressure Hose Reel
6 Inlet Water Connection
7 Hosepipe Connector
8 High Pressure Hose
9 Spray Lance with Pressure Regulator
(Vario Power)
10 Wash Brush
11 Safety Lock Device
12 Spray Gun
13 Accessory compartment
14 Mains Electric Lead with Plug
15 Mains Lead Storage

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3.2 Assembly

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Pleasefollowtheseinstructionscarefully
for troublefree cleaning.
Use the diagram on Page 6 for reference purposes.
3.2 Water Connection
• According to the applicable regulations, the appliance
must never be used on the drinking water net without a sy-
stem separator. Use a suitable system separator manu-
factured by Kärcher; or, as an alternative, a system separator as per
EN 12729 Type BA.
• 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 allow
free flow of inlet water to the machine so avoiding backpressure and
any associated potential damage to your machine.
• Attach your supply hosepipe with its connector to the coupling on the
machine (No.7) and the other end should be connected to a suitable
water supply.
3.3 ElectricalConnection
• Ensure the Power Switch (No.4) is in the “OFF” position before
connecting the factory fitted Plug attached to the Mains Electric Lead
(No.14) into an earthed socket. (it is recommended that an RCD plug
socket is used.)
If using an Extension Cable make sure it is completely unwound
from the cable drum and is the correct diameter.
3.4 Suction Mode - an added benefit of the Karcher Pressure Washer
• If you are drawing water from a static water supply such as a water
butt disconnect the water connection/hosepipe with coupling (No.7)
from the machine and replace with a suction hose and filter (Part
No. 4.440.238) that can be purchased as an accessory.
• Disconnect the Spray Lance from the Spray Gun.

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• Allow the pressure washer to operate without the Spray Lance fitted
until water flows from the Spray Gun without bubbles.
• Re-connect the Spray Lance to the Spray Gun.
Dirt in the drawn water could damage your Pressure Washer !
To avoid this risk please use a suitable filter - Part No. 4.730-059.
3.6 Detergent
It is recommended that only cleaning agents formulated by
and manufactured for Karcher should be used. Unsuitable
detergents could damage your Pressure Washer and the
object being cleaned.
Recommended Detergents
1. Detergent tablets
Karcher Clean Tabs (10 tablets per box):
10 Tablets dissolved in clean water provide 5 litres of cleaning
detergent.
2. The following cleaning agent may be used undiluted:
(But further dilution is practical but trial before application)
Universal Cleaner .............................. Profi RM 555 ASF
3. 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
NOTE:
In all instances, detergent concentration is set on the machine. It is
recommended that you start cleaning at maximum dilution, increasing
the concentration only if considered necessary for the cleaning task.
•Enclosed to your high pressure cleaner you find a information-card,
which shows all available Kärcher detergents. Next to the detergent
tanks you will find insert-cases in which you could place your de-
tachable product card to identify the detergents in use.

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4. OPERATINGYOUR 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.12) until
the water flows freely and removes all air locks from the hoses.
• You may now attach the bayonet fit Spray Lance (No.9) 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.4)
• You can regulate the working pressure on the spray by turning the
nozzle end of the Spray Lance (No.9) between "Mix" and "Max" posi-
tion.
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.
When cleaning painted surfaces, ensure that the paint is sound and
there are no signs or rusting or blistering.
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
• Switch on the pressure washer (No.4)
• Ensure the Spray Lance with the Pressure Regulator (No.9) is attached
securely to the Spray Gun (No.12) and the nozzle is set to the required
high pressure setting ("Min" – "Max").
• Aim the lance towards the object to be cleaned making sure the
recommended working distance is used (for reference see Page 10).
Release the Safety Lock Device (No.11) on the Spray Gun and
squeeze the lever.
The pressurised water jet alone is capable of fulfiling 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 without Brush
• Fill the Detergent Tanks (No.2a, No.2b) with the selected detergent,
ensuring it is the correct concentration (See Page 11 or read
recommended dosage on label)
or
Dilute the detergent to the required concentration before filling the
Detergent Tank. (The correct dilution is dependent on the degree of
soiling of surface and is best determined by experience).
• Set the nozzle to the low pressure setting („Mix“).
• Adjusting the detergent dosing valve to the desired dosage.
- Turn to the left: Meter detergent from container 1.
- Turn to the right: Meter detergent from container 2.
• Switch on the pressure washer (No.4)
• Aim the nozzle towards the object to be cleaned, release the Safety
Locking Device on the Spray Gun and squeeze the lever to apply the
detergent to the working area.
• To rinse the detergent away increase the nozzle setting towards “Max”
setting. (No detergent will be drawn in with high working pressure). Spray
with the required jet spray setting until no trace of detergent can be found.

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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 Low Pressure Operation with Brush
When cleaning surfaces with a grease contamination - typically car
paintwork that always has a greasy traffic film covering adopt the
following procedure:
• Washing loose dirt away with the clean water high pressure spray.
• Apply the detergent in low pressure mode by setting the bayonet fit
spray lance (No.9) to the low pressure setting („Mix“).
• Leave for 2-4 minutes for the detergent to have maximum effect.
•Remove the bayonet fit spray lance and fit the Wash Brush
(No.10) to the Spray Gun (No.12). The Wash Brush is suitable
for use with a water inlet temperature into the Pressure Washer of
maximum 40 °C.
• With or without the pressure washer switched on, brush down the surface
being cleaned, this physical agitation removes all trace of traffic film.
• Finally revert to the high pressure operation with the Spray Lance
and complete the wash down.

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4.4 End Of Operation
ALWAYS REMEMBER TO RINSE YOUR PRESSURE WASHER
AFTER USING DETERGENT BY FILLING THE DETERGENT
CONTAINER WITH CLEAN WATER AND RUN THE PUMP FOR
APPROXIMATELY ONE MINUTE
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.4) and
unplug the Mains Electric Lead (No.14) from the socket.
• Close the water inlet (tap) and disconnect the hosepipe.
• Squeeze the lever to remove all pressure from the machine.
Release the lever and then secure the trigger with the Safety
Locking Device to prevent accidental opening.
4.5 STORAGE
• The Spray Gun (No.12), the Spray Lance (No.9)
and the Wash Brush (10) can be stored with the
Pressure Washer.
• The Mains Electric Lead (No.14) can be wound up
over the Mains Lead Storage (No.15).

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5. IMPORTANT – CAREAND 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 water inlet filter for dirt or debris.
• Visually check to see if the nozzle is blocked by dirt or grit, if so,
remove 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
invalidate the warranty.
• Connect the water supply hose and, without the lance attached,
squeeze the Spray Gun lever 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
cause 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.
High pressure hose
The high pressure hose is specially constructed with reinforced walls to
handle water pressure up to 16 MPa (2700 psi) - it is easily damaged
and should be stored carefully.
• Do not kink.
• Do not drive vehicles over the hose.
• Do not expose the hose to sharp edges or corners.
Misuse will lead to ballooning or premature failure and will invalidate
warranty.
IMPORTANT
REMEMBER FROST WILL DAMAGE YOUR KARCHER PRESSURE
WASHER AND ACCESSORY IF IT IS 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.
4.763-228 Dirt Blaster/Rotary Jet
A rapidly rotating pencil jet used to remove loose paint, stubborn algae and moss from hard surfaces.
4.760-269 Triple Nozzle Lance
An integral fan jet, pencil jet and low pressure chemical jet in one unit allows optimal nozzle selection.
4.762-065 Rotary Wash Brush
Ideal for car bodywork 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 backwards firing high pressure jet to create turbulence and dislodge blockages.
4.760-265 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 kit into a water butt.
2.637-214 Water Pump Kit
6.291-080 RM 555 (5 litre)
6.291-079 RM 555 (6 x 1 litre)

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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.
Please write, email or fax Karcher (see page 20) with any parts order you
wish to place. A premium rate Help-line Number is available for tele-
phone enquires of any type.

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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.
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
Machine refuses
to start
Plug not connected
Defective socket
Fuse blown
Defective extension cable
Wrong mains voltage
Connect plug
Try another socket
Change the fuse
Try without extension cable
Check mains voltage corresponds to
specifications of machine
Pump stops Fuse blown
Overheating due to poor
water Supply
Change fuse and check size of
extension cable
Check inlet water flow rate - hose
should fill a 10 litre bucket in one
minute
Strong pressure
fluctuations
Nozzle partly blocked
Inadequate mains water
Clean dirt from nozzle hole with
needle and rinse from the front
Check inlet water flow rate
Machine does
not reach
operating
pressure
Nozzle blocked/worn out
Inadequate mains water
Inlet hose squeezed
Water filter clogged (3.1
item15)
Inlet hose blocked
Clean/replace nozzle
Check inlet water flow rate
Straighten out hose
Clean filter
Check hose for leaks or blockages
No detergent
suction
Wrong pressure
Blocked filter in
detergent tank
Set Spray Lance to low pressure
setting („Mix“)
Unblock filter
Clean ventilation hole in cover of
Detergent Tank
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.