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HomeRepair HelpCraftsman Pressure Washer RepairCraftsman Pressure washer runs rough Repair
Craftsman Pressure washer runs rough
If your Craftsman gas pressure washer is running rough, surging, sputtering, or hesitating, start with the carburetor. A clogged carburetor is the most common cause, especially when stale or ethanol-blended fuel has been left in the carburetor during storage. Evaporated fuel can leave a sticky residue that restricts the main jet and pilot jet, causing the engine to run poorly. Clean the carburetor with carburetor cleaner; if cleaning does not help, install a carburetor repair kit or replace the carburetor. Next, check the fuel filter, since old fuel can clog it and limit fuel flow. A blocked fuel cap vent can also make the engine run rough or stall as tank pressure builds. Loosen the cap slightly while testing, and replace the fuel cap if the engine runs better. Then inspect the air filter and pre-cleaner. A clogged air filter restricts airflow and creates an overly rich fuel mixture, while a clogged pre-cleaner can reduce airflow, although this is less common. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement carburetor, fuel filter, fuel cap, air filter, or other part for your specific Craftsman pressure washer.
01 - Craftsman Pressure Washer Carburetor
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the pressure washer for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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02 - Craftsman Pressure Washer Carburetor Repair Kit
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the pressure washer for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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03 - Craftsman Pressure Washer Fuel Filter
The fuel filter might be clogged. A clogged fuel filter is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the pressure washer for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the fuel filter and cause the engine to run roughly. If old fuel was left in the pressure washer, drain the old fuel from the fuel tank and replace the fuel filter.
Highly Likely
04 - Craftsman Pressure Washer Fuel Cap
As fuel is consumed, the pressure in the gas tank rises. To relieve this pressure, the gas cap uses a small vent to allow air to enter the gas tank. If the gas cap vent is clogged, air won’t be able to enter the gas tank, and the pressure in the tank will begin to rise. When the pressure in the gas tank exceeds the pressure in the engine, the engine will stall or run poorly. To determine if the gas cap vent is clogged, try slightly loosening the gas cap and then starting the engine. If the loosening the gas cap allows the engine to stay running, this indicates that the gas cap vent is clogged. If the gas cap vent is clogge...
Highly Likely
05 - Craftsman Pressure Washer Air Filter
The air filter may be clogged. If the air filter is clogged, the engine will get too much fuel and not enough air. As a result, the engine may run roughly. If the air filter is clogged, replace it.
Highly Likely
06 - Craftsman Pressure Washer Pre-Cleaner
The pre-cleaner might be clogged. However, this is rare.
Highly Likely
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Craftsman pressure washer running rough or surging?
What should I check when my Craftsman pressure washer runs poorly under load?
Can a bad spark plug or ignition coil make a pressure washer run rough?
How do I clean the carburetor on a Craftsman pressure washer that is sputtering?
How do I find the correct Craftsman pressure washer carburetor or fuel filter?
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