Engine Shutting Down, Please help! - Power Wash Network "The Power Wash Contractors Forum"

Windows R Us · #1 (**permalink**) 05-08-08

We just picked up another direct drive 3700psi 13hp Honda gx-390 unit. It starts up fine, runs, and puts out pressure for several minutes and then starts to choke out and eventually die. You can start it back up and it does the same thing over again. I changed the gas and oil. The cord is hard to pull when the unloader is all the way open but starts up fine when the unloader is set to minimal pressure. Am I dealing with a pump problem or is it the engine?

Thanks

Mark · #2 (**permalink**) 05-09-08

As far as the running & then shutting down
issue check your air cleaner, it might be
choking out the engine.

For your starting issues try pulling the rope
while holding gun open.

jetstream1 · #3 (**permalink**) 05-09-08

Maybe spark plug

jzox2001 · #4 (**permalink**) 05-09-08

Had the same problem on my Kohler motor, that I thought was a unloader problem. Ended up being junk champion plugs. Replaced with a nice set of autolite platinums and haven't had the problem since.

JZ

jetstream1 · #5 (**permalink**) 05-09-08

Thats What I'm Thinking It Might Be

DAFF · #6 (**permalink**) 05-09-08

If the unit is new check and make sure the choke is fully operational. The Carb might have something not connected or out of adjustment. If it was me I'd be bringing this unit back. Why should you have to play with a brand new washer. I've got a work shop full of marginall units which run like a tempermental donkey. Although most of them have at least 1500hrs on them.

DAFF

AquaTech · #7 (**permalink**) 05-12-08

Hello Windows,
First I would check the Air Filter,Clogged? Check all the linkage connected to the Carb. Is the Choke lever loose? Possibly vibrating closed? While you are in that area, check to see if the carb is mounted TIGHT. Secondly, the Spark Plug may just be worn out. Too weak or to Cold. (Wrong type plug).

Cheers,
Dave

Ace Sewer · #8 (**permalink**) 05-15-08

-Believe it an engine problem, not a pump problem.

-Sounds like a fuel problem to me, either too much or too little.

-Agree; if this is new, take it back/discuss with vendor.

-If no warranty, used, or just too big a hassle, then is the dying accompanied by black smoke from exhaust?

if yes, then suspect too little air and agree with others choke or air cleaner.

if no smoke then suspect too little fuel; check fuel filter isn't clogged, fuel lines sucking air thru small leak, junk in carb float bowl, etc. Also possibly vapor lock; check make sure fuel lines not routed too close to exhaust pipng, exhaust discharge, or heads, check cooling air ducting intact, etc.

Scrappy · #9 (**permalink**) 05-19-08

Check and see if it has an auto safety shut off for low oil