Coleman Powermate 1800: Best Fuel For Your Pressure Washer

The Coleman Powermate 1800 psi pressure washer is a powerful and versatile tool for all your cleaning needs. It is important to understand the instructions and safety precautions before operating this machine. This pressure washer is powered by regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 85. It is crucial to refer to the owner's manual for specific details on the type of oil to use in the engine and pump. The Coleman Powermate 1800 psi pressure washer is a robust and reliable tool for various cleaning applications.

Coleman Powermate pressure washer engine oil recommendations

The type of oil you should use for your Coleman Powermate pressure washer depends on whether it is for the engine or the pump.

For the engine, it is recommended to use a high-quality 30 weight detergent. However, this may vary depending on the engine manufacturer's specifications, so be sure to refer to your engine manual for oil recommendations. Generally, SAE 5w-30 or SAE 10w-30 are good grades for pressure washers.

For the pump, it is crucial to use non-detergent motor oil. Detergent additives can cause the pump to malfunction over time. Make sure to use oil that is labelled as "non-detergent" and is of the grade recommended in your owner's manual.

It is also important to never use two-cycle engine oil or diesel engine oil in your pressure washer, as these types of oil lack the necessary properties to cool and lubricate the engine properly.

Coleman Powermate pressure washer fuel recommendations

The Coleman Powermate pressure washer is a powerful and versatile tool for all your cleaning needs. To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your machine, it's crucial to use the right type of fuel. Here are some detailed recommendations for the type of fuel to use in your Coleman Powermate 1800 pressure washer:

Type of Gasoline

Regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 85 is suitable for your Powermate pressure washer. This type of fuel is readily available at most gas stations and will provide the necessary power for your washer.

Fuel Stabilizer

It is highly recommended to use a fuel stabilizer, such as Powermate's Generator Fuel Additive, or an equivalent product. Adding a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline will help prevent the formation of gum deposits during storage. This is especially important if you plan to store your pressure washer for extended periods or use it infrequently.

Engine Oil

The type of engine oil you should use depends on the engine manufacturer's specifications. In general, a high-quality 30-weight detergent oil is acceptable. However, always refer to your engine manual for specific oil recommendations. The engine oil is crucial for lubricating the internal components of the engine, ensuring their smooth operation and prolonging the engine's lifespan.

Pump Oil

The pump in your pressure washer also requires lubrication to function correctly. The recommended oil for the pump may vary, but it's typically non-detergent oil with a viscosity of around 30W (crankcase oil) or 75W90 (gear oil). Some users prefer synthetic marine lower unit gear lube for its superior moisture resistance. The pump typically requires a small amount of oil, and it doesn't need to be changed frequently.

Other Recommendations

Always check the oil levels in both the engine and the pump before starting your pressure washer. Operating the machine without sufficient oil can lead to severe damage. Additionally, if you plan to store your pressure washer in a location where temperatures may drop below freezing, it's essential to winterize it properly. This includes draining all gasoline from the engine and adding antifreeze to the system to prevent damage to the pump and other components.

Coleman Powermate pressure washer troubleshooting tips

No fuel reaching the engine

If your Coleman Powermate pressure washer is not starting, check for spark using a screwdriver shorted to the engine ground. If there is a spark, the problem may be with the fuel supply. Try giving the carburettor a shot of ether—if the engine fires up, you know you have a fuel supply issue.

To fix this, you can try cleaning the carburettor and removing any blockages. Remove the air cleaner and, if possible, separate the carburettor from the tank. If not, just remove the fuel pump on the side of the carburettor. Check the diaphragm and the fuel pump passages for dirt or damage. Spray carburettor cleaner through all the passages.

Check the fuel tank for debris and clean it out if necessary. Also, check the fuel tank sponge filter element and replace it if it is leaving bits of material on your hands.

No pressure/low pressure

If your pressure washer is not producing any pressure, or only tap pressure, the problem may be with the pressure relief valve. If you use a cleaning solution with the water, this can cause the housing of the aluminium relief valve to corrode, meaning the valve cannot move back and forth as it should.

Engine won't start

If your engine won't start, first check that the engine is filled with oil and that the engine switch is in the "ON" position. If the engine is overloaded, reduce pressure by using the pressure adjustment knob.

Leaking water or oil

A small amount of water or oil leakage from the bottom of the pump is normal. However, if excessive leaking occurs, contact the Customer Service Department.

Engine running but pump not building maximum pressure

If your engine is running but the pump is not building maximum pressure, the unit may have been stored in freezing temperatures. In this case, you need to completely thaw out the unit, including the hose, gun, and wand.

Also, check that you have an adequate water supply—a minimum of 4 gpm at 20 psi is required. Check for a clogged water inlet screen or a kink in the garden hose. Let the unit run with the gun open and the wand removed until a steady stream of water is released.

No intake of chemicals

If your pressure washer is not taking in any chemicals, check that the injection tube is securely inserted into the unit. Push it firmly into the injector. If the tube is cracked or split, switch to a low-pressure nozzle. If the injector is turned off, turn the collar counter-clockwise.

Trigger will not move

If the trigger on your pressure washer gun won't move, the gun safety lock may be engaged. Simply release the safety lock.

Fuel type

Regular unleaded gasoline (at least 85 octane) can be used with your Coleman Powermate pressure washer.

Coleman Powermate pressure washer accessories

The Coleman Powermate pressure washer is a powerful tool for cleaning a variety of surfaces. To get the most out of your machine, it's important to use the right accessories, fuel, and maintenance practices.

Firstly, let's talk about fuel. The Powermate pressure washer is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 85. Using the correct fuel is crucial to ensure optimal performance and avoid any damage to the engine.

Now, let's discuss some essential accessories and replacement parts for your pressure washer. The good news is that Powermate offers a wide range of official accessories, which can be purchased online or at select home improvement centres. Here are some key accessories to consider:

• Hoses and Nozzles: Powermate offers hoses of various lengths, with the maximum recommended length being 100 feet for optimal performance. They also provide different types of nozzles, including variable pressure wands and long gutter wands with quick-connect nozzles, to suit different cleaning tasks.
• Wands and Brushes: The Powermate range includes extension wands in various configurations, such as straight and angled, to help you reach difficult areas. They also offer soft-bristle hand brushes for more delicate cleaning tasks.
• Pumps and Pump Parts: The pump is a critical component of your pressure washer, and Powermate offers replacement pumps as well as individual parts such as pump flange assemblies, manifold assemblies, inlet and outlet tubes, check valve kits, and pump seal repair kits.
• Detergents and Cleaning Solutions: Powermate offers a range of cleaning solutions and detergents specifically designed for pressure washer use. These solutions are biodegradable and environmentally friendly, ensuring they won't damage your equipment.
• Maintenance and Repair Kits: Proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your pressure washer. Powermate offers pump oil, anti-freeze solutions, and repair kits that include items like vortex pump savers and thermal relief valves.

In addition to these accessories, it's worth mentioning that Powermate provides a one-year limited warranty on their pressure washers, covering replacement parts and labour for defects in material and workmanship.

By using the right fuel and investing in quality accessories and maintenance practices, you can ensure that your Coleman Powermate pressure washer remains a reliable and powerful tool for all your cleaning needs.

Coleman Powermate pressure washer maintenance tips

To ensure your Coleman Powermate pressure washer is always in top condition, here are some maintenance tips to follow:

Oil Type and Frequency of Oil Changes:

The type of oil to use in your Coleman Powermate pressure washer depends on the specific model and the manufacturer's recommendations. The engine manufacturer's specifications should be consulted for the engine oil, and this is usually a high-quality 30-weight detergent. For the pump, straight non-detergent 30W oil is often recommended, although some users opt for synthetic marine lower unit gear lube for better moisture resistance.

It is worth noting that some "consumer-grade" pressure washers state that the pump oil never needs to be changed. However, if you do decide to change the oil, it should be done infrequently, and you should consult your owner's manual for the exact type and amount of oil required.

Fuel Type and Storage:

Regular unleaded gasoline with at least 85 octane can be used in your Powermate pressure washer. If you plan to store your pressure washer for an extended period or transport it in a vehicle, always remove the gasoline from the engine. Additionally, consider using a fuel stabilizer like Powermate's Generator Fuel Additive to minimize the formation of fuel gum deposits during storage.

Nozzle Maintenance:

Clogged nozzles can lead to increased pump pressure and potential damage, so immediate attention is required. Clean nozzles with a small rigid piece of wire, such as a paper clip, and flush them backward with water. If the nozzle is still clogged, repeat the process or replace it with a new one.

Water Source and Temperature:

Never use water from a lake or holding tank as it may contain debris that can damage the pump. Always use water with a temperature below 40 degrees C (104 degrees F) and ensure the inlet water pressure is between 20 and 100 psi.

Chemical Usage:

Only use chemicals specifically designed for pressure washer use. Other chemicals, such as bleach, will damage seals and O-rings in the gun, wand, hoses, and pumps. Additionally, chemical injection should only be used under low pressure to prevent splashing and wastage.

Frequently asked questions