Kärcher K 520 M User manual

High Pressure Washer Operator Manual
Overview ................................................................................... 2
Precautions ............................................................................ 2-4
Assembly Instructions .............................................................. 4
Operating Instructions .............................................................. 5
Using the Accessories .............................................................. 6
Working with Detergents .......................................................... 7
Shut Down and Clean-Up ........................................................ 8
Taking a Break .......................................................................... 8
Winterizing and Long-Term Storage ........................................ 8
Cleaning Tips ....................................................................... 9-10
Optional Cleaning Accessories .............................................. 10
Troubleshooting .................................................................11-12
Specifications
Max. Pressure1500
Max. Water volume 1.8 GPM
Voltage 120 V
Amp draw 13 AMPS
5.959-948 02.01
Please keep the original box, packaging and receipt.
Before operating this unit, please read this manual
thoroughly and retain it for future reference.
Model K 520 M

2
Never point nozzle at people or animals.
Never drink alcohol or use drugs while operating this equipment.
Never operate while standing in water.
Never touch plug with wet hands.
Never let electrical connections rest in water.
Never operate pressure washer without the water turned on
Never use hot water
OVERVIEW High Pressure Washer
NEVER!
Machine includes
1 Quick connect adapter male/female
2 Vario spray wand
3 Cleaning brush
4 Trigger gun
5 Trigger gun safety lock
6 High pressure hose
THE BEST ANTI-FREEZE PROTECTION IS PROVIDED BY
STORING THE MACHINE IN SHELTERED SPACE
7 Water inlet
8 Retractable Handle
9 Detergent filter and suction tube
10 High pressure outlet (not pictured)
11 On/Off switch
12 Power cord (not pictured)

3
Safety Warnings
When using this product basic precautions
should always be followed:
• Read all the instructions before using the
product.
• High pressure jets can be dangerous if
subject to misuse. The jet must not be
directed at persons, animals, electrical
devices, or the machine itself.
• To reduce the risk of injury, do not operate
the machine near children.
• Learn how to stop the machine and release
pressure quickly. Be thoroughly familiar
with the controls.
• Stay alert — watch what you are doing.
• Wear safety goggles.
• Do not use acids, solvents, or any other
flammable material in this product. These
products can cause physical injuries to the
operator and irreversible damage to the
machine.
• Do not operate the product when fatigued
or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Do not stand on unstable surfaces. Stand
with both feet balanced at all times.
• To reduce the risk of electrocution, keep
all connections dry and off the ground. Do
not touch plug with wet hands.
• The Gun Safety Lock PREVENTS the trigger
from accidentally being engaged. This
safety feature DOES NOT lock trigger in the
on position.
IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS – Read First!
Caution
• Follow the maintenance instructions
specified in the manual.
• This machine has been designed for
use with cleaning detergent supplied
or recommended by the manufacturer.
The use of other cleaning detergents
may affect the operation of the
machine and void the warranty.
WARNING
•DO NOT USE WITH FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS AND TOXIC CHEMICALS
• INJECTION HAZARD: EQUIPMENT CAN
CAUSESERIOUSINJURYIFTHESPRAY
PENETRATESTHESKIN.DONOTPOINT
THEGUNATANYONEORANYPARTOF
THE BODY. IN CASE OF PENETRATION
SEEK MEDICAL AID IMMEDIATELY.
• THIS SYSTEM IS CAPABLE OF
RUPTURE AND INJURY, DO NOT
OPERATE THIS PUMP WITH COMPON-
WORKINGPRESSURE(INCLUDINGBUT
NOT LIMITED TO SPRAY GUNS, HOSE
AND HOSE CONNECTIONS).
• BEFORE SERVICING, CLEANING OR
REMOVAL ANY PARTS, SHUT OFF
POWER AND RELIEVE PRESSURE.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This product must be grounded. If it should
malfunction or breakdown, grounding
provides a path of least resistance for electric
current to reduce the risk of electric shock.
This product is equipped with a cord having
an equipment-grounding conductor and a
grounding plug. The plug must be plugged
into an appropriate outlet that is properly
installed and grounded in accordance 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 installed by a qualified
electrician. Do not use any type of adaptor
with this product.
Extension Cords
Use only 3-wire extension cords that have 3-
prong grounding-type plugs and 3-pole cord
connectors that accept the plug from the
product. Use only extension cords that are
intended for outdoor use. These extension
cords are identified by a 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
rating 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. Keep cord away from heat
and sharp edges. Always disconnect the
extension cord from the receptacle before
disconnecting the product from the extension
cord.

4
Step 1
Pull out the locking slide
from the right side of the
trigger gun handle.
IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS – continued
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Water Supply (Cold Water Only)
• Never use the pressure washer to draw
in water contaminated with solvents, e.g.
paint thinners, gasoline, oil, etc.
NOTE: Dirt in the feed water could lead
to the unit being damaged. To avoid this
risk, we recommend fitting a filter.
• Always prevent debris from being drawn
into the unit by using a clean water source
and an accessory water filter if required.
• Water hose must be at least 3/4 inch in
diameter.
• Flow rate of water supply must not fall
below 2 GPM (gallons per minute).
• Flow rate can be determined by running
the water for one minute into an empty
5-gallon container.
• The water supply temperature must not
exceed 104°F/40°C.
Step 2
Insert the small end of the
high pressure hose into
place.
Step 3
Push the locking slide back
into the trigger gun to lock
the hose into position.

5
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1 Connect the high pressure hose to the
unit’s high pressure outlet.
Step 2 Insert the spray wand into
the trigger gun. Press in against the
spring tension and twist into the
locked position.
Step 3 Connect garden hose to unit’s water
inlet using the quick connect adapter.
Step 4 Connect garden hose to the
cold water source and turn water on
completely.
Step 5 Plug the power cord into the power
outlet. Unlock the lock of the trigger gun. Trigger
the gun to eliminate trapped air, wait for a steady
flow of water to emerge from the spray nozzle.
NOTE: This unit is equipped with a pressure
switch. The motor only starts up when the trigger
on the gun is pressed.
Step 6 Turn on the pressure
washer (I). The motor starts only if
the trigger of the gun is pulled and
shuts off when the trigger is
released.

6
USING THE ACCESSORIES
The Vario spray wand allows you to adjust the cleaning pressure. To clean at maximum
pressure, the Vario wand must be positioned to the high pressure setting (+). To apply
detergent, the wand must be positioned to the low pressure setting (-).
For higher pressure turn wand
collar in the plus (+) direction.
For lower pressure turn wand
collar in the minus (-) direction.
This brush is ideal for removing stubborn
dirt and stains from finished surfaces. Use
with detergents only.
Warning
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY,
NEVER POINT SPRAY NOZZLE
AT YOURSELF, OTHER PERSONS
OR ANIMALS
Vario spray wand
Wash brush

7
WORKING WITH DETERGENTS
Detergents can only be applied at low pressure.
Step 3 Turn on the pressure washer.
Pull trigger to operate unit: Liquid detergent
is drawn into the unit and mixed with water.
Apply detergent to work area. Do not allow
detergent to dry on surface.
Step 2 Place the filter end of detergent
suction tube into the jug.
Always Use Karcher Detergents
for Best Results.
Karcher biodegradable detergents are
specially formulated to protect the enviroment
and your pressure washer. The special
formula won´t clog the suction tube filter and
will protect the internal parts of the pressure
washer for a longer life. For Karcher
Detergents, check your retailer or call:
1-800-465-4980
The following Karcher detergents are
available:
• Vehicle Wash
• Degreaser
•
For best results see Cleaning Tips on
pages 9 & 10 for specific information on
how to clean different surfaces.
Step 1 Install the Wash brush or the
Vario spray wand. Set the Vario spray wand
to the low pressure setting (-) by turning the
wand collar. The wand must be set in the
low pressure (-) position to apply detergents.
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.

8
Step 6
Disconnect the high pressure hose from the high
pressure outlet and engage the gun safety lock.
Step 1
Engage gun
safety lock.
1. Disconnect all water connections.
2. Turn on the machine for a few seconds,
until the water which had remained in
the pump exits. Turn off immediately.
3. Do not allow high pressure hose to
become kinked.
SHUTTING DOWN & CLEAN-UP
Step 1
Remove detergent suction
tube from jug and insert
into 1 gallon of fresh water.
Siphon water at low
pressure for one minute.
Step 2
Turn the switch to
off (O) position and
unplug cord from
outlet.
Step 3
Turn off the water
source.
Step 4
Press trigger to
release water
pressure.
Step 5
Disconnect the garden hose
from the water inlet on the unit.
Step 2
Turn pressure
washer to off (O)
position.
WINTERIZING AND LONG-TERM STORAGE
TAKING A BREAK... five minutes or more
4. Store the machine and accessories in
a room which does not reach freezing
temperatures. DO NOT store near
furnance 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 assembly and accessories.

9
Deck Cleaning
Pre-rinse deck and surrounding area with
detergent suction tube directly into cleaning
solution and apply to surface at low
pressure. For best results, limit your work
area to smaller sections of approximately
on surface 1-3 minutes. Do not allow
detergent to dry on surface. Rinse at high
pressure in a long sweeping motion keeping
the spray nozzle approximately 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 eliminate stop marks
and ensure a more even cleaning result.
Caution: Do not use rotating nozzle
spray wand on wood surfaces as it may
cause damage.
House Siding
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water.
suction tube directly into cleaning solution
and apply to surface at low pressure (for
best results, limit your work area to sections
of approximately 6 feet and always apply
detergent from bottom to top). Allow
minutes. Do not allow detergent to dry on
surface, if surface appears to be drying,
simply wet down surface with fresh water. If
needed, use the special Wash Brush
attachment to remove stubborn dirt. Rinse
at high pressure from top to bottom in an
even sweeping motion keeping the spray
nozzle approximately 6 inches from the
cleaning surface.
Caution: Do not use rotating nozzle
spray wand on siding as it may cause
damage.
CLEANING TIPS
Cement Patios,
Brick and Stone
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water.
If using Pressure Wash, place detergent
suction tube directly into cleaning solution
and apply to surface at low pressure. For
best results, limit your work area to smaller
sections of approximately 25 square feet.
Allow Pressure Wash to remain on surface
1-3 minutes. 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 the cleaning
surface. Always clean from top to bottom
and from left to right. For removing
extremely stubborn stains, use the
Rotating Nozzle Spray Wand.
Cars, Boats & Motorcycles
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse vehicle with fresh water. If using
Vehicle Wash, place detergent suction tube
directly into cleaning solution and apply to
surface at low pressure. For best results,
clean one side of vehicle at a time and
always apply detergent from bottom to top,
do not allow detergent to dry on surface. If
needed, use the special Wash Brush
attachment to remove stubborn dirt. Rinse
at high pressure in a sweeping motion
keeping the spray nozzle approximately 6-8
inches from the cleaning surface (distance
should increase when rinsing pin-striping or
other sensitive surfaces). Always clean from
top to bottom and from left to right. For
best results, wipe surface dry with a
chamois or soft dry cloth.
Caution: Do not use rotating nozzle
spray wand on vehicles as it may cause
damage.

10
Barbecue Grills, Outdoor
Power Equipment &
Gardening Tools
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water.
If using Pressure Wash or Degreaser, place
detergent suction tube directly into
cleaning solution and apply detergent at
low pressure. Allow detergent to remain on
surface 1-3 minutes. Do not allow detergent
to dry on surface. Rinse at high pressure
keeping the spray nozzle approximately 3-6
inches from the cleaning surface. For
removing extremely stubborn dirt, it may be
necessary to move the spray nozzle even
closer to the surface for greater dirt cutting
action. To remove caked on mud from
garbage cans, lawn mower blades, wheel
barrels or other non-sensitive metal
surfaces, you may want to use the Rotating
Nozzle Spray Wand.
Caution: Do not use rotating nozzle
spray wand on cloth, plastic or other
sensitive surfaces as it may cause
damage.
Optional cleaning accessories are available to further enhance your cleaning capabilities:
See for details.
CLEANING TIPS – continued
Patio & Lawn Furniture
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse furniture and surrounding area
with fresh water. If using Pressure Wash,
place detergent suction tube directly into
cleaning solution and apply to surface at
low pressure. Allow All Purpose Cleaner to
remain on surface 1-3 minutes. Do not
allow detergent to dry on surface. If needed
use special Wash Brush Attachment to
remove stubborn dirt. Rinse at high
pressure in a sweeping motion keeping the
spray nozzle approximately 3-6 inches from
the cleaning surface. For best results, clean
from top to bottom and from left to right.
Caution: Do not use rotating nozzle
spray wand on patio or lawn furniture as
it may cause damage.
Recommendations
• Before cleaning any surface an
inconspicuous area should be cleaned 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.
OPTIONAL CLEANING
• Rotating Wash Brush
• Wash Brush
• Sandblasting Attachment
KARCHER CANADA INC. warrants to the original owner that this product shall be free from
defects in material and workmanship for two years from the date of its original purchase. If
such a defect appears during the warranty period, upon presentation of proof of purchase,
KARCHER CANADA INC. will repair or replace (at its option) your product without charge
within 35 days of receipt.
This warranty does not cover accidental damage, unreasonable use, normal wear and tear,
loss of use or other consequential damages, nor does it cover repairs made or attempted
by unauthorized persons.
Please note that no returns will be accepted without prior authorization from our customer
service department.
It is the owner’s responsibility to file claims for damage caused by public transportation
carriers directly with the carrier concerned.
KARCHER 2 YEAR WARRANTY

11
TROUBLESHOOTING
Disconnect the machine from the power source before making any repair.
Symptom
Motor will not start
Unit does not reach high
pressure.
Output pressure varies
high and low.
Cause
On/Off switch is in the “OFF” (O)
position.
Power cord is not plugged in.
Extension cord is too long.
Extension cord is not proper gauge.
Extension cord is damaged.
Electrical outlet does not supply
adequate power.
Tripped circuit breaker
Diameter of garden hose is too
small.
Water supply is restricted.
Not enough inlet water supply.
Water inlet filter is clogged.
Spray wand is in low pressure
position.
Not enough inlet water supply.
Pump is sucking air.
Water inlet filter is clogged.
Discharge nozzle is obstructed.
Calcified gun, hose or spray wand.
Solution
Turn switch to the “ON” (I) position
Plug in power cord.
Replace extension cord with either
a 25 ft. 12/2 gauge cord or a 50
ft. 10/2 gauge cord.
Try a different outlet.
Reset breaker (power supply) or
ground fault circuit interrupter.
Replace with a 3/4 inch garden
hose.
Check garden hose for kinks,
leaks and blockage.
Open water source full force.
Remove filter and rinse out in
warm water.
Turn spray wand to high pressure
position.
Turn water on full force. Check
garden hose for kinks, leaks or
blockage.
Check that hoses and fittings are
air tight. Turn off machine and
purge pump by squeezing trigger
gun until a steady flow of water
emerges through the nozzle.
Remove filter and rinse out in
warm water.
Blow out or remove debris with a
fine needle.
Run distilled vinegar through
detergent suction tube.

12
TROUBLESHOOTING – continued
Solution
Check connection.
Dilute detergent.
Run warm water through filter to
remove debris.
Remove obstruction or replace
detergent suction tube.
Turn spray wand tip to low
pressure position.
Blow out or remove debris with a
fine needle.
Tighten fittings.
Insert new washer.
Insert the spray wand into the
spray wand extension. Carefully
press in against the spring tension
and twist into the locked position.
Call service center and order
repair kit.
Check that hoses and fittings are
air tight. Turn off machine and
purge pump by squeezing trigger
gun until a steady flow of water
emerges through the nozzle.
Check that all fittings are tight.
Call service center.
Call service center.
1-800-537-4129
Symptom
No detergent.
Garden hose
connection leaks.
Spray wand leaks.
Pump is noisy.
Water leaks from pump (up
to 10 drops per minute is
permissible).
Oil Drip.
Cause
Detergent suction tube not properly
connected to the machine.
Detergent is too thick.
Filter on detergent suction tube is
clogged.
Damaged or clogged detergent
suction tube.
Spray wand is in high pressure
position.
Discharge nozzle is obstructed.
Loose fittings.
Missing/worn rubber washer.
Spray wand not properly attached.
Broken o-ring or plastic insert.
Pump is sucking air.
Loose fittings.
Water seals are damaged or worn.
Oil seals are damaged or worn.
If you encounter any additional difficulties not listed,
please call our service center at 1-800-465-4980 for help.