I have a Honda pressure washer that's been very reliable for me. I stored it under my back deck so it's been outside but not directly exposed to the elements. I haven't started it up in a few months and decided to try tonight. We've had a few nights under freezing but I live in Texas so for the most part it's been 'warm'. It was pretty empty on gas so I filled it up, pulled the choke, made sure the fuel line was open and I crank it and it doesn't even act like it wants to start. I checked to make sure the spark plug cap was on tight - it was - and the plug at least looks OK.
So, I guess my question is - how do you troubleshoot something like this? I pulled the crank at least 40 times trying to get it to start. It has usually in the past just started right up - with or without the choke pulled.
#2
robert@honda
For a pressure washer, be sure to pull the trigger on the wand when trying to start the engine. This will relieve any pressure remaining in the pump. Does the engine feel like it's harder to pull the rope?
Assuming the internal parts of the engine are okay, it's usually a lack of spark, no fuel, or an incorrect fuel/air mixture (choke) that causes a no-start condition. Since you said this unit had been sitting, I'd be really concerned with accumulated gunk and debris inside the carburetor.
Spark is easy to check. Disconnect spark plug cap, remove spark plug, snap cap back onto plug. Ground bent electrode on the end of the plug to the side of then engine block and only grip the cap. Have a helper pull the rope a few times and confirm you see spark.
Next, confirm the choke is operating okay. Remove air cleaner and filter, move choke lever to fully closed (ON) and confirm the choke plate is fully closed across the throttle opening.
Check fuel supply next; make sure tank is full with fresh fuel, turn fuel valve to ON. Wait 30 seconds. Turn fuel valve to OFF, loosen drain bolt on carburetor bowl and confirm fuel is present.
If all the above are okay, it may be there's debris or crud inside the small passages of the carburetor. Usually, it's faster/easier to just replace the carb vs. trying to completely clean it. Most Honda carbs are $25 or so.
Finally, FYI, the engine on your pressure washer is a Honda engine, but the frame and pump are made by the pressure washer company. Technically, Honda does not make pressure washers, just the engines that bolt onto to them.
