Pump for Pressure washer?

[Wiserphil]

I have a basic $300 pressure washer from Lowes. It's a Troy Built with a Briggs and Straton motor. And I have it hooked to two 55 gal drums. The pump on the pressure washer went out on it after only four months. I was told that I need to get a external pump between my water tank and pressure washer. Is this true or do I need to save and buy a more expensive PW?

Thanks

 

[rockinrandall]

I've searched this topic myself for a few months. I've had guys tell me to buy a commercial pump and gravity fed will work. Other guys say no dice. I actually came across a repair center for outdoor equipment (they're authorized by Honda and Cat) and he said no matter what type of pump $40 or $400 you have to have pressurized water supplied or eventually the pump will die. I have a 2,500psi unit with a Cat commercial pump and have a Surflo 3 gallons per minute pump on the way. If you look in the operators manual of whatever machine you buy, it will have the gpm listed. Mine, for example, is 2 gpm so my pump will be able to work comfortably. It was about $90. Better to invest now and have long running equipment is my thought. Good luck!!

 

[Wiserphil]

any luck with your new pump?

 

[jgibson2980]

I have a 2500 psi 2.3 gpm troy bilt pw with a honda motor. It is gravity fed and have been that way for 7 months with me and i dont know how long with the other guy that owned the van be for me and it works fine . Ive never had an issue with it at all . i think a pump would help but i do not think it is needed .

 

[ALLN1WASH]

I'm currently running two different units. Both Honda engines with comet pumps(2528 I think) and both systems are gravity fed. To date, I've yet to have any issues with either unit getting the water through the pump. Pumps are only 230, 2 year warranty and wil give you more than what you'll actually need.

 

[215Detailing]

Black Max 2,800 PSI Gasoline Pressure Washer - Powered by Honda - Sam's Club Bought this unit earlier today since it claims self priming feature hope to try on my 35 gallon tank tomorrow to try a few mobile jobs before the real cold weather sets in (40 & below) If it does not work I have SHURflo Industrial Pump — 198 GPH, 115 Volt, 1/2in., Model# 2088-594-154 | Utility Pumps| Northern Tool + Equipment on standby

 

[allenk4]

Karcher X series will pump from an unpressurized water source....pool...pond

 

[215Detailing]

I'm currently running two different units. Both Honda engines with comet pumps(2528 I think) and both systems are gravity fed. To date, I've yet to have any issues with either unit getting the water through the pump. Pumps are only 230, 2 year warranty and wil give you more than what you'll actually need.

sounds like a nice setup any photos?