Pressure Washer Help... Narrowed down to two...

[jdrautoworks]

Hopefully this is the right spot for this post but I'm looking at 2 pressure washer and would appreciate any feed back.

First is a Crafstman I can get $35 off on...

http://www.sears.com/pid/p-07175490000P?unitNo=1078&sellerId=sears

Next is from Lowes I can grab 10% off on...https://www.lowes.com/pd/Troy-Bilt-3100-PSI-2-5-Gallons-Gpm-Cold-Water-Gas-Pressure-Washer-Carb-Compliant/1000178199

Just need something to do general house stuff, do not need nothing fancy but something that will last a little while would be nice. If I have better options around the same price I'm defiantly open!

Thanks for the help in advance!

 

[Cf mtn]

hi, both are about the same. which ever 1 you end up with be sure to read the operating instructions. the pumps on those units are not the sturdiest on the market. there are things you can do to extend the life of the pump like never letting your machine sit and idle without using, turn off the engine if stepping away. if your doing larger areas of cement (walkways, driveways, patios), invest in a small surface cleaner or rotating nozzle, saves alot of where and tear on your p/w. good luck

 

[seagravedriver]

The pump is the important part, for the most part. Good ones are money, so I went halves with my father-in-law. That being said, I always hook up the supply and discharge hoses, then turn on the supply and let it get the air out. as Cf mtn said, never letting it go long without water flow for very long. I winterize mine (I live in Western WA, so it's not REAL cold, but it does freeze). I add a pump protector. Many brands out there, "pump guard" etc., over the winter or for long down times.

IF, you can find a used machine with a Cat or Comet pump on it, that is the way to go. Mine has a Comet and a Honda engine. It should be a lifer for me. Craig's list etc. But get what you can afford, and maintain it. I would actually consider a extended warranty if they offered it, as I can see where it may come in handy, depending on the price. So go with Lowes, who knows how long Sears will be around!! (Maybe Sears uses an outside company that may honor the warranty of things go bad).

On of my high school jobs was pressure washing semi trucks and trailers, so I have a little bit of an idea. Just a little, as Reagan was still president when I was doing it, so it has been a while. Oh, and run ethanol free gas if you can. my .02.

 

[mitusa]

I've had a couple of washers with those pumps.....each lasted about one season.

I bought a John Deere at Lowes with the cat pump.....it works good and I've had it for five years.

YMMV.