Kranzle Pressure Washer Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting Your Kranzle Pressure Washer: A Comprehensive Guide

Kranzle pressure washers are renowned for their robust build and reliable performance. However, like any piece of machinery, they can occasionally encounter issues. This guide aims to demystify some of the most common problems faced by Kranzle owners and provide practical, actionable solutions. Whether your machine is humming but not starting, blowing fuses, or experiencing leaks, we've got you covered.

Understanding Your Pressure Gauge: It's Not Water!

One of the first questions we often receive from new Kranzle owners concerns the pressure gauge. Many notice a liquid inside and assume it's water. However, this is actually glycerine. The gauge is typically half-filled with this substance to dampen the vibration of the needle. This allows for a clear and steady reading of the pressure, preventing the needle from appearing as just a blur during operation.

Machine Hums and Does Not Turn On

If your Kranzle pressure washer hums but fails to start, the first and easiest thing to check is whether the motor is free to turn. You can typically do this by inserting a screwdriver or a similar object through the fan casing to feel the fan wheel. It should not spin freely but should offer some resistance and be able to turn. If it doesn't turn at all, it indicates that something has seized internally. You can either attempt to diagnose and fix this yourself or seek assistance from your nearest supplier.

Alternatively, if the fan wheel does turn, the issue might be a failed capacitor. Many users who have needed to replace their starting capacitor reported using their machines with extension cables. This suggests a potential need to upgrade your extension cable if you frequently use one. Replacing a capacitor is generally a straightforward task. Refer to your machine's parts diagrams for guidance. Importantly, the polarity of the capacitor wires does not matter when replacing it.

Machine Blows the Fuse on Start-Up

Several factors can cause a fuse to blow upon start-up. Firstly, ensure you are not using an inadequate extension cable. Sockets in outbuildings or sheds can sometimes behave similarly to using an extension cable, potentially causing power supply issues. It's advisable to try the machine on a different power supply to rule this out. Also, consider if other appliances drawing significant current are connected to the same supply.

Crucially, with Kranzle pressure washers, the trigger gun should be squeezed when turning the machine on. For machines without water break tanks and high-pressure chemical systems, squeezing the trigger with the machine connected to the mains water supply should result in water flowing from the lance, even without electrical power. If no water emerges, it suggests a physical blockage within the system.

Common Blockage Points:

• Valves: Dried sediment can cause valves to stick, especially if the machine hasn't been used for a while. For machines without water tanks connected to the mains, the water supply pressure is often sufficient to dislodge these blockages.
• Nozzle: The most frequent culprit for blockages is the small hole in the nozzle at the end of your lance. Remove the lance from the gun, use a thin object like a paper clip to clear the hole, and give it a gentle tap.
• Trigger Gun Assembly: If clearing the nozzle doesn't resolve the issue, try removing the trigger gun assembly. The aim is to eliminate potential points where debris can accumulate and obstruct water flow.
• Hose Outlet and Inlet Filter: If water still doesn't flow, check that the hose outlet piece and the water inlet filter are not blocked.

Machine Blows the Fuse During Use

Similar to start-up issues, using an inadequate extension cable can cause fuses to blow during operation. Kranzle machines utilize industrial-grade induction motors that require a proper power supply. Lightweight extension cables are not suitable. If an extension cable is necessary, it must be a 2.5mm cross-section cable. As mentioned earlier, some plug sockets, particularly in sheds or outbuildings, can also contribute to this problem. Testing the machine on an alternative power supply and checking for other high-current-drawing devices on the same circuit are essential steps.

Another potential cause is a partially blocked nozzle, leading to excessively high operating pressure. Check the pressure gauge reading. If it's significantly higher than your usual operating pressure, try cleaning the nozzle as described previously.

If you have access to an ammeter, checking the current draw of the machine can be informative. A voltage drop typically leads to an increase in amperage, which can indicate an electrical supply issue rather than a problem with the pressure washer itself.

Machine Blows Fuse in Idle Mode (Between Uses)

This specific issue, often occurring on machines equipped with a Total-Stop system, usually points to an external or internal leak within the system. This leak allows pressure to escape, tricking the machine into thinking the trigger gun is being squeezed. When you then attempt to use the machine, the resulting energy spike can cause the fuse to blow.

Identifying Leaks:

• External Leaks: These are typically visible. Even a small, seemingly insignificant drip can lead to this problem. Ensure all connections, including between the gun and lance, gun and hose, machine and hose, and water feed connection, are secure and free from leaks. Replacing worn O-rings is often the solution for these external leaks.
• Internal Leaks: These are more challenging to spot. The most common cause is dirt or debris obstructing the non-return valve system, preventing a proper seal. In older machines, these components may have simply worn out and require servicing.

Problems Operating the Chemical Feature

Low-pressure chemical injectors in Kranzle pressure washers operate on a Venturi system, which is governed by basic physics. If your chemical feature isn't working, here are a few things to check:

• Chemical Feed Hose: Ensure the chemical pick-up feed hose is fully submerged in the cleaning solution.
• Lance Adjustment:
• Standard Lance: The end of the lance typically twists to adjust the amount of chemical drawn.
• Vario Lance: On this type, the adjustable spray pattern grip slides away from you to initiate chemical draw.
• Hose Length: Using excessively long lengths of high-pressure hose can impede the Venturi system's ability to function effectively. In such cases, alternative chemical application methods might be more suitable.
• Chemical Barb: In older machines, dried cleaning agents can accumulate around the spring within the chemical hose barb. You can unscrew this barb with a spanner. Be careful not to lose the barb, ball, or spring. Clean these components thoroughly. To prevent recurrence with particularly viscous cleaning agents, consider flushing the chemical hose with water before storing the machine.

Oil Change and Maintenance

The process for changing the oil on a Kranzle pressure washer depends on your specific model. Kranzle typically uses two standard oil types: 15W/40 and 10W/60. Always consult your Operator's Handbook for the correct oil type and quantity required.

Kranzle machines are supplied with the correct oil level. We recommend performing an initial oil flush after the first 50 operating hours. Drain the existing oil responsibly, add a small amount of new oil, seal the chamber, and run the machine for a second or two. Drain again and repeat this process until the drained oil runs clear. Finally, refill the oil reservoir to the correct level as specified in your handbook.

Water contamination can emulsify oil. If water has contaminated the oil chamber, the most effective way to remove all traces is to disassemble the machine and manually clean all components. While the colour of the oil isn't the primary concern, its consistency is. Oil in these machines serves for heat dissipation and lubrication of the transmission parts.

Addressing Oil Leaks

First, try to pinpoint the source of the oil leak. A loose oil sight glass is a simple, common cause. After checking all filler, drainage, and level plugs, the next most likely area for a leak is the housing plate situated between the brass pump and the oil casing, specifically through the leakage drain-off chambers. If oil is leaking from here, it indicates that the oil seals have worn and require replacement.

Addressing Water Leaks

If a water leak is originating from the housing plate between the brass pump and the oil casing, through the leakage drain-off chambers, it suggests that the water seals have worn and need to be replaced. For leaks occurring at the connections between the gun and lance, gun and hose, machine and hose, or where the water feed connects, the solution is usually to replace the appropriate O-ring.

Motor Does Not Turn On

If the motor isn't turning on, first verify that the power supply is live and the machine's switch is on. Check that the fuse is intact and that you're not experiencing a fuse-blowing issue due to not squeezing the trigger during start-up. If your machine has an illuminated switch, check if it lights up; if not, power isn't reaching that point.

Inspect the electric cable for any signs of damage, such as crushing, which can initially manifest as an intermittent fault before deteriorating further. As previously mentioned, check if the fan wheel turns freely but with some resistance. If it's seized, internal damage is likely, requiring professional attention or a DIY repair attempt.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use extension cables with my Kranzle pressure washer?

A1: Yes, but only with appropriate, heavy-duty extension cables. A minimum cross-section of 2.5mm is essential. Using lightweight or inadequate cables can lead to power supply issues, damage to the motor, and potentially cause fuses to blow.

Q2: What is the liquid in my pressure gauge?

A2: The liquid is glycerine. It's a damping fluid designed to stabilize the pressure gauge needle, allowing for a clearer reading of the pressure output.

Q3: My machine is making a humming noise but won't start. What should I do?

A3: First, check if the motor shaft can be turned by gently inserting a screwdriver through the fan casing. If it's seized, it needs professional attention. If the motor turns but still won't start, the starting capacitor may have failed and will need replacing.

Q4: Why does my pressure washer blow a fuse?

A4: This can be due to using an incorrect extension cable, a faulty power supply, the trigger gun not being squeezed during start-up, a blockage in the system, or a partially blocked nozzle causing excessive pressure. Addressing each of these potential causes should help resolve the issue.

By understanding these common issues and their solutions, you can keep your Kranzle pressure washer running efficiently and effectively for years to come.

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