High Pressure WasherOperator ManualOverview .......................................... 2Important Precautions ................ 3 - 4Assembly Instructions ..................... 4Operating Instructions ..................... 5GFCI Instructions ............................ 6Using the Accessories ..................... 6Working with Detergents ................. 7Shut Down and Clean-Up ............... 8Taking a Break ................................. 8Winterizing and Long-TermStorage ............................................ 8Care and Maintenance Instructions 9Cleaning Tips ............................ 9 - 10Optional Cleaning Accessories ..... 10Troubleshooting ...................... 11 - 12

SpecificationsOperating pressure, max. .. 1500 PSIWater volume ...................... 1.3 GPMVoltage ...................................... 120 VAmp draw ........................... 10 AMPS

5.961-335.0 04/04

In USA call:800-537-4129

or visit our website:www.karcher-usa.com

K 2.90 M

2

OVERVIEW

������������ 1. Detergent suction tube with filter2. On/Off switch3. High pressure outlet4. Water inlet with filter5. Vario Power spray wand6. Rotating wash brush7. High pressure hose8. Trigger gun with safety lock (A)9. Power cord with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)10 Accessory compartment

3

IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS – Read First!

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONSGround Fault Circuit Interrupter(GFCI) ProtectionThis product is supplied with a Ground Fault Cir-cuit Interrupter (GFCI) built into the power cordplug. This device provides additional protectionfrom the risk of electric shock. If power is inter-rupted in the line, the GFCI will automaticallyre-close the circuit to the load after power is re-stored. Depending on the GFCI model, it maybe necessary to manually operate the reset but-ton to restore power to the GFCI load circuit. Ifreplacement of the plug or cord is needed useidentical replacement parts.

Grounding InstructionsThis product must be grounded. If it should mal-function or breakdown, grounding provides apath of least resistance for electric current toreduce the risk of electric shock. This product isequipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. Theplug must be plugged into an appropriate outletthat is properly installed and grounded in accor-dance with all local codes and ordinances.DANGER- Improper connection of the equip-ment-grounding conductor can result in a riskof electrocution. Check with a qualified electri-cian or service personnel if you are in doubt asto whether the outlet is properly grounded. Donot modify the plug provided with the product -if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outletinstalled by a qualified electrician. Do not useany type of adapter with this product.

Save these instructions!

Caution

• Follow the maintenance instructionsspecified in the manual.• This machine has been designed foruse with cleaning detergent supplied orrecommended by the manufacturer. Theuse of other cleaning detergents mayaffect the operation of the machine andvoid the warranty.

When using this product, basic precautionsshould 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 bedirected at persons, animals, electricaldevices, or the machine itself.

• To reduce the risk of injury, do not operatethe machine near children.

• Learn how to stop the machine and releasepressure quickly. Be thoroughly familiar withthe controls.

• Stay alert — watch what you are doing.• Wear safety goggles.• Do not use acids, solvents, or any flammable

material in this product. These products cancause physical injuries to the operator and ir-reversible damage to the machine.

• Do not operate the product when fatigued orunder the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Keep operating area clear of all persons.• 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 Trigger Gun Safety Lock PREVENTS thetrigger from accidentally being engaged. Thissafety feature DOES NOT lock trigger in theon position.

Extension CordsUse a sufficient gauge: Up to 25 ft. = 12/3 AWG;25 to 50 ft. = 10/3 AWG. Use onlyextension cords that are intended for outdooruse. These extension cords are identified by themarking “Acceptable for use with outdoor appli-ances; store indoors while not in use.”Use only extension cords having an electricalrating not less than the rating of the product.Do not use damaged extension cords.Examine extension cord before using and re-place if damaged. Do not abuse extensioncord and do not yank on any cord to disconnect.Keep cord away from heat and sharp edges. Al-ways disconnect the extension cord from the re-ceptacle before disconnecting the product fromthe extension cord. If you are using an exten-sion cord, it should always be completely un-wound from the cable drum.

4

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

Water Supply (Cold Water Only)• Water hose must be at least 3/4 inch in

diameter.• Flow rate of water supply must not fall

below 2.5 GPM (gallons per minute).• Flow rate can be determined by running

the water for one minute into an empty5-gallon container.

• The water supply temperature must notexceed 104°F/40°C.

IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS – continuedPRECAUTIONS

• Never use the pressure washer to draw inwater contaminated with solvents, e.g.paint thinner, gasoline, oil, etc.

• Always prevent debris from being drawninto the unit by using a clean watersource.

Step 3Pull out the locking slide from the right side ofthe trigger gun handle, and insert the small endof the high pressure hose into place. Push thelocking slide back into the trigger gun to lockthe hose in position.

Step 1 Step 2

5

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Step 3Connect the garden hose tothe water inlet.

Step 4Connect garden hose to the cold water source and turnwater on completely.Plug the power cord into the power outlet.

Step 6 Turn on the pressurewasher (1 /ON). The motor startsonly if the trigger of the gun ispulled and shuts off when thetrigger is released.

Step 2Insert the spray wand or rotating wash brush into thetrigger gun. Press in against the spring tension and twistinto the locked position.

Step 1Connect the high pressurehose to the high pressureoutlet.

Step 5 Unlock the lock of the trigger gun (A). Triggerthe gun (B) to eliminate trapped air, wait for a steady flowof water to emerge from the spray nozzle.

6

GFCI INSTRUCTIONS

USING THE ACCESSORIES

The spray wand allows you to adjust the cleaning pressure. To clean at maximumpressure, the spray wand must be positioned to the high pressure setting (Max).To apply detergent, the wand must be positioned to the low pressure setting (Min).

Vario power spray wand

For higher pressure turnwand collar in theMax direction.

For lower pressure turnwand collar in theMin direction.

Rotating wash brush

This brush is ideal for removing stubborn dirtand stains from finished surfaces. Use withdetergents only.

WarningTO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, NEVERPOINT SPRAY NOZZLE AT YOURSELF,OTHER PERSONS OR ANIMALS

Note:The actualappearanceof the GFCImay bedifferentfrom thisillustration.

������Plug the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter(GFCI) into a working outlet

������Press “TEST”, then press “RESET” toassure proper connection to power.

7

For best results see Cleaning Tips on pages 9 & 10 for specific information onhow to clean different surfaces.Always Use Karcher Detergents for Best Results.Karcher biodegradable detergents are specially formulated to protect the environment and yourpressure washer. Our special formula won’t clog the suction tube filter and will protect the internalparts of the pressure washer for a longer life. For Karcher Detergents, check your retailer or call:

WORKING WITH DETERGENTSKarcher pressure washers operate only at two pressures. The high pressure setting is usedfor cleaning, you cannot apply detergents when working at high pressure. To apply detergentsthe washer must be operating at low pressure (Min).

Step 3 Turn on the pressure washer.Pull trigger to operate unit: Liquid detergentis drawn into the unit and mixed with water.Apply detergent to work area. Do not allowdetergent to dry on surface.

Step 2 Fill a container with Kärcherdetergent. Place the filter end of detergentsuction tube into the container.

CautionNever use:

• Bleach, Chlorine products and othercorrosive chemicals

• Liquids containing solvents(i.e., paint thinner, gasoline, oils)

• Trisodium phosphate products• Ammonia products• Acid-based productsThese chemicals will harm the unit andwill damage the surface being cleaned.

The following Karcher detergents areavailable:

�������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������� �� �������������������������� ������������� �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������!"#����$��%&����������� �� ���������� ������$���%�� ����$�'����$�(�$����������������������������������������������������

In USA call:800-537-4129

or visit our website:www.karcher-usa.com

Step 1 Install the Wash Brush or Vario spray wand. Set the Vario spray wand tothe low pressure setting (Min) by turning the wand collar. The wand must be set inthe low pressure position to apply detergents.

8

Step 6Disconnect the high pressurehose from the high pressureoutlet.

Step 1Release trigger (A)and engage gunsafety lock (B).

1. Disconnect all water connections.2. Turn on the machine for a few seconds,

until the water which had remained inthe pump exits. Turn off immediately.

3. Do not allow high pressure hose tobecome kinked.

SHUTTING DOWN & CLEANUP

Step 1Remove detergent suctiontube from container andinsert into 1 gallon of freshwater. Siphon water at lowpressure for one minute.

Step 2Turn the switch tooff (0 /OFF)position and unplugcord from outlet.

Step 3Turn off the watersource.

Step 4Press trigger torelease waterpressure.

Step 5Disconnect the garden hosefrom the water inlet on the unit.

Step 2Turn pressure washerto off (0 /OFF)position.

WINTERIZING AND LONG-TERM STORAGE

TAKING A BREAK... five minutes or more

4. Store the machine and accessories ina room which does not reach freezingtemperatures.

Caution: Failure to follow the abovedirections will result in damage to thepump assembly and accessories.

A

B

Step 7Release trigger (A)and engage gunsafety lock (B).

A

B

9

Deck Cleaning(with or without detergent)Pre-rinse deck and surrounding area withfresh water. If using Kärcher Deck and PatioCleaner, place detergent suction tube directlyinto cleaning solution and apply to surface atlow pressure. For best results, limit your workarea to smaller sections of approximately 25square feet. Allow Kärcher Deck and PatioCleaner to remain on surface 1-3 minutes. Donot allow detergent to dry on surface. Rinse athigh pressure in a long sweeping motionkeeping the spray nozzle approximately 3-6inches from the cleaning surface. Alwaysclean from top to bottom and from left to right.When moving on to a new section of thecleaning surface, be sure to overlap theprevious section to eliminate stop marks andensure a more even cleaning result.Caution: Do not use rotary spray wand onwood surfaces as it may cause damage.House Siding(with or without detergent)Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water. Ifusing Kärcher House or Window and SidingCleaner, place detergent suction tube directlyinto cleaning solution and apply to surface atlow pressure (for best results, limit your workarea to sections of approximately 6 feet andalways apply detergent from bottom to top).Allow Kärcher House or Window and SidingCleaner to remain on surface 1-3 minutes. Donot allow detergent to dry on surface, ifsurface appears to be drying, simply wet downsurface with fresh water. If needed, usespecial Wash Brush Attachment to removestubborn dirt. Rinse at high pressure from topto bottom in an even sweeping motion keepingthe spray nozzle approximately 6 inches fromthe cleaning surface.Caution: Do not use rotary spray wand onsiding as it may cause damage.

Cement Patios, Brick and Stone(with or without detergent)Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water. Ifusing Kärcher Deck and Patio or All PurposeCleaner, place detergent suction tube directlyinto cleaning solution and apply to surface atlow pressure. For best results, limit your workarea to smaller sections of approximately 25square feet. Allow Kärcher Deck and Patio orAll Purpose Cleaner to remain on surface 1-3minutes. Do not allow detergent to dry onsurface. Rinse at high pressure in a sweepingmotion keeping the spray nozzle approxi-mately 3-6 inches from the cleaning surface.Always clean from top to bottom and from leftto right.For removing extremely stubborn stains,use the rotary spray wand.

Cars, Boats & Motorcycles(with or without detergent)Pre-rinse vehicle with fresh water. If usingKärcher Vehicle or All Purpose Cleaner, placedetergent suction tube directly into cleaningsolution and apply to surface at low pressure.For best results, clean one side of vehicle at atime and always apply detergent from bottomto top, do not allow detergent to dry onsurface. If needed, use special Wash BrushAttachment to remove stubborn dirt. Rinse athigh pressure in a sweeping motion keepingthe spray nozzle approximately 6-8 inchesfrom the cleaning surface (distance shouldincrease when rinsing pin-striping or othersensitive surfaces). Always clean from top tobottom and from left to right. For best results,wipe surface dry with a chamois or soft drycloth.Caution: Do not use the rotary spray wandon vehicles as it may cause damage.

Cleaning the water inlet filterPull out the water inlet filter with flat-nosepliers and rinse out in warm water.

MaintenanceThe unit is maintenance-free.

CLEANING TIPS

CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

10

Barbecue Grills, Outdoor PowerEquipment & Gardening Tools(with or without detergent)Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water.If using Kärcher All Purpose Cleaner orDegreaser, place detergent suction tubedirectly into cleaning solution and applydetergent at low pressure. Allow Kärcherdetergent to remain on surface 1-3 minutes.Do not allow detergent to dry on surface.Rinse at high pressure keeping the spraynozzle approximately 3-6 inches from thecleaning surface. For removing extremelystubborn dirt, it may be necessary to movethe spray nozzle even closer to the surfacefor greater dirt cutting action.Caution: Do not use rotary spray wandon cloth, plastic or other sensitivesurfaces as it may cause damage.

Patio & Lawn Furniture(with or without detergent)Pre-rinse furniture and surrounding area withfresh water. If using Kärcher All PurposeCleaner, place detergent suction tubedirectly into cleaning solution and apply tosurface at low pressure. Allow Kärcher All

Optional cleaning accessories are available to further enhance your cleaning capabilities: Seeaccessories order form for product descriptions and ordering instructions.

CLEANING TIPS – ���������

Purpose Cleaner to remain on surface 1-3minutes. Do not allow detergent to dry onsurface. If needed use special Wash BrushAttachment to remove stubborn dirt. Rinseat high pressure in a sweeping motionkeeping the spray nozzle approximately 3-6inches from the cleaning surface. For bestresults, clean from top to bottom and fromleft to right. Caution: Do not use rotaryspray wand on patio or lawn furniture asit may cause damage.

Recommendations• Before cleaning any surface an incon-

spicuous area should be cleaned to testspray pattern and distance for maximumcleaning results.

• If painted surfaces are peeling or chip-ping, use extreme caution as pressurewasher may remove the loose paint fromthe surface.

• While using on surfaces which mightcome in contact with food, flush surfaceswith plenty of drinking water.

OPTIONAL CLEANING ACCESSORIES

• Rotary Spray Wand• House Washing Wand• Extension Wand, 20 inches• Flexible Spray Wand• Underbody Spray Wand• 4 Piece Extension Wand, 66 inches

• Wet Sandblasting Attachment• Pipe Drain Cleaner• Water Suction Hose With Filter• Extension Hose 25’• Wash Brush• T-Racer

In USA call:800-537-4129

or visit our website: www.karcher-usa.com

11

TROUBLESHOOTING

Disconnect the machine from the power source before making any repair.

Symptom

Motor will not start

Unit does not reach highpressure.

Output pressure varieshigh and low.

Cause

On/Off switch is in the 0 / OFFposition.

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 supplyadequate power.

Tripped circuit breaker

Diameter of garden hose is toosmall.

Water supply is restricted.

Not enough inlet water supply.

Water inlet filter is clogged.

Spray wand is in low pressureposition.

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 1 /ON position

Plug in power cord.

Replace extension cord with eithera 25 ft. 12/3 gauge cord or a 50ft. 10/3 gauge cord.

Try a different outlet.

Reset breaker (power supply) orground fault circuit interrupter.

Replace with a 3/4 inch gardenhose.

Check garden hose for kinks,leaks and blockage.

Open water source full force.

Remove filter and rinse out inwarm water.

Turn spray wand to high pressureposition.

Turn water on full force. Checkgarden hose for kinks, leaks orblockage.

Check that hoses and fittings areair tight. Turn off machine andpurge pump by squeezing triggergun until “a steady flow of wateremerges through the nozzle.

Remove filter and rinse out inwarm water.

Blow out or remove debris with afine needle.

Run distilled vinegar throughdetergent suction tube.

12

TROUBLESHOOTING – ���������

If you encounter any additionaldifficulties not listed, please call ourservice center for help.Karcher Customer Support USA

In USA Call: 800-537-4129or visit our website: www.karcher-usa.com

Solution

Check connection.

Dilute detergent, for best resultsuse Kärcher detergent.

Run warm water through filter toremove debris.

Remove obstruction or replacedetergent suction tube.

Turn spray wand tip to lowpressure position.

Blow out or remove debris withfine needle.

Tighten fittings.

Insert new washer.

Insert the spray wand into the trig-ger gun. Carefully press in againstthe spring tension and twist intothe locked position.

Call Kärcher customer servicehotline and order repair kit (partno. 2.883-111.0).

Check that hoses and fittings areair tight. Turn off machine andpurge pump by squeezing triggergun until a steady flow of wateremerges through the nozzle.

Check that all fittings are tight.

Call service center.

Call service center.

Symptom

No detergent.

Garden hoseconnection leaks.

Spray wand leaks.

Pump is noisy.

Water leaks from pump(up to 10 drops perminute is permissible).

Oil Drip.

Cause

Detergent suction tube not properlyconnected to the machine.

Detergent is too thick.

Filter on detergent suction tube isclogged.

Damaged or clogged detergentsuction tube.

Spray wand is in high pressureposition.

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.