K 3.97 M
High Pressure
Washer Operator
Manual
Overview ....................................... 2
Precautions ............................... 2-4
Assembly Instructions ...............4-5
Operating Instructions ............... 5-6
GFCI Instructions ......................... 6
Using the Accessories .................. 6
Working with Detergents.............. 7
Shut Down and Clean-Up ............ 8
Taking a Break ............................. 8
Winterizing and Long-Term
Storage ......................................... 8
Maintenance Instructions ............. 9
Cleaning Tips ...........................9-10
Optional Cleaning Accessories .. 10
Troubleshooting..................... 11-12
Specifications
Operating pressure 1600 PSI
Water volume 1.6 GPM
Voltage 120 V
Amp draw 14 AMPS
Part No. 1.423-105.0
In USA call:
1-800-537-4129
or visit our website:
www.karcher-usa.com
Manual Part No. 5.960-771.0 01/03EN
Model K 3.97 M OVERVIEW
Item Description
1. Power cord with Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter (GFCI)
2. Trigger gun
3. Trigger gun safety lock
4. High pressure hose
5. Water inlet with filter and garden hose
connector
6. Transport handle
7. Accessory compartment
8. Detergent suction tube with filter
9. High pressure outlet
10. On/Off switch
11. Spray wand extension (must be
used for attaching accessories)
12. Wash brush
13. Quattro-nozzle
2
NEVER!
Never point nozzle at people or animals.
Never drink alcohol or use drugs while operating this equipment.
Never operate while standing in water.
Never touch plug with wet hands.
Never let electrical connections rest in water.
NeverNever
Never operate pressure washer without the water turned on
NeverNever
Never use hot water
IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS – Read First!
2 Safety Warnings
When using this product, basic precautions
should always be followed:
• Read all the instructions before using
the product.
• High pressure jets can be dangerous if
subject to misuse. The jet must not be
directed at persons, animals, electrical
devices, or the machine itself.
• To reduce the risk of injury, do not
operate the machine near children.
• Learn how to stop the machine and
release pressure quickly. Be thoroughly
familiar with the controls.
• Stay alert — watch what you are doing.
• Wear safety goggles.
• Do not use acids, solvents,
or any flammable material
in this product. These products can
cause physical injuries to the operator
and irreversible damage to the machine.
• Do not operate the product when
fatigued or under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
• Keep operating area clear of all persons.
• Do not stand on unstable surfaces.
Stand with both feet balanced at all
times.
• To reduce the risk of electrocution, keep
all connections dry and off the ground.
Do not touch plug with wet hands.
• The Trigger Gun Safety Lock
PREVENTS the trigger from accidentally
being engaged. This safety feature
DOES NOT lock trigger in the on
position.
Extension Cords
Use a sufficient gauge: Up to 25 ft = 12/3
AWG; 25 to 50 ft = 10/3 AWG. Use only
extension cords that are intended for outdoor
use. These extension cords are identified by
the marking “Acceptable for use with outdoor
appliances; store indoors while not in use.”
Use only extension cords having an electrical
rating not less than the rating of the product.
Do not use damaged extension cords.
Examine extension cord before using and
replace if damaged. Do not abuse extension
cord and do not yank on any cord to
disconnect. Keep cord away from heat and
sharp edges. Always disconnect the
extension cord from the receptacle before
disconnecting the product from the extension
cord. If you are using an extension cord, it
should always be completely unwound from
the cable drum.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
(GFCI) Protection
This product is supplied with a Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) built into the power
cord plug. This device provides additional
protection from the risk of electric shock. If
power is interrupted in the line, the GFCI will
automatically re-close the circuit to the load
after power is restored. Depending on the
GFCI model, it may be necessary to manually
operate the reset button to restore power to
the GFCI load circuit. If replacement of the
plug or cord is needed use identical
replacement parts.
Grounding Instructions
This product must be grounded. If it should
malfunction or breakdown, grounding
provides a path of least resistance for electric
current to reduce the risk of electric shock.
This product is equipped with a cord having
an equipment-grounding conductor and a
grounding plug. The plug must be plugged
into an appropriate outlet that is properly
installed and grounded in accordance with all
local codes and ordinances.
DANGER- Improper connection of the
equipment-grounding conductor can result in
a risk of electrocution. Check with a qualified
electrician or service personnel if you are in
doubt as to whether the outlet is properly
grounded. Do not modify the plug provided
with the product - if it will not fit the outlet,
have a proper outlet installed by a qualified
electrician. Do not use any type of adapter
with this produc
t.
Caution
• Follow the maintenance instructions
specified in the manual.
• This machine has been designed for
use with cleaning detergent supplied
or recommended by the manufacturer.
The use of other cleaning detergents
may affect the operation of the
machine and void the warranty.
3
IMPORTANT PRECAUTIONS – continued
PRECAUTIONS
Water Supply (Cold Water Only)
• Water hose must be at least 3/4 inch in
diameter.
• Flow rate of water supply must not fall
below 2.5 GPM (gallons per minute).
• Flow rate can be determined by running
the water for one minute into an empty“
5-gallon container.
• The water supply temperature must not
exceed 104°F/40°C.
• Never use the pressure washer to draw
in water contaminated with solvents, e.g.
paint thinners, gasoline, oil, etc.
• Always prevent debris from being drawn
into the unit by using a clean water source.
• Save these instructions!
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
4
Step 1Step 1
Step 1
Step 1Step 1
Step 3Step 3
Step 3
Step 3Step 3
Step 2Step 2
Step 2
Step 2Step 2
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS – continued
Step 5Step 5
Step 5
Step 5Step 5
Insert the Spray Wand
Step 4Step 4
Step 4
Step 4Step 4
Pull out the locking slide from
the right side of the trigger
gun handle, and insert the
small end of the high
pressure hose into place.
Push the locking slide back
into the trigger gun to lock the
hose in position.
Extension into the trigger gun.
Press in against the spring tension and twist into the
lock position. Turn the Spray Wand Extension Collar
clock-wise until tight. Note: spray wand extension must
be attached to use accessories.
Step 6Step 6
Step 6
Step 6Step 6
Attach quattro nozzle for four different
spray settings.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
5
Step 1Step 1
Step 1
Step 1Step 1
Connect the high pressure hose to the high
pressure outlet.
Step 3Step 3
Step 3
Step 3Step 3
Connect garden hose to the cold water
source and turn water on completely.
Step 2Step 2
Step 2
Step 2Step 2
Connect the garden hose to the water inlet.
Step 4Step 4
Step 4
Step 4Step 4
Plug the power cord into the power outlet.
Trigger the gun to eliminate trapped air, wait
for a steady flow of water to emerge from
the spray nozzle.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS – continued
High pressure
pencil jet
cleaning
Step 5 Step 5
Step 5 Turn Quattro Nozzle to desired setting position. Match symbols above.
Step 5 Step 5
High pressure
fan jet cleaning
Rotating jet for
maximum dirt
cutting action
WARNING
6
Step 6Step 6
Step 6 Turn on the pressure washer. The
Step 6Step 6
motor starts only if the trigger of the gun is
pulled and shuts off when the trigger is
released.
RISK OF INJECTION OR INJURY-DO
NOT DIRECT DISCHARGE STREAM AT
PERSONS.
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, NEVER
POINT SPRAY NOZZLE AT YOURSELF,
OTHER PERSONS OR ANIMALS.
GFCI INSTRUCTIONS
Low pressure
fan jet for
detergent
injection
Step 1Step 1
Step 1 Plug the Ground
Step 1Step 1
Fault Circuit Interrupter
(GFCI) into a working outlet.
Step 2Step 2
Step 2 If the GFCI light
Step 2Step 2
glows, press the “Test”
button until the light goes
out.
Step 3Step 3
Step 3 Press the
Step 3Step 3
“Reset” button to restore
power to the washer.
WORKING WITH DETERGENTS
Detergents can only be applied at low pressure (-).
Step 1Step 1
Step 1 Install the Wash brush or Quattro
Step 1Step 1
nozzle.
Step 2Step 2
Step 2 Fill a container with Kärcher
Step 2Step 2
detergent. Place the filter end of detergent
suction tube into the container.
For best results see Cleaning
Tips on pages 9 & 10 for specific
information on how to clean
different surfaces.
Always Use Karcher Detergents for Best
Results.
Karcher biodegradable detergents
are“specially formulated to protect the
environment and your pressure washer.
Special formula won’t clog the suction tube
filter and will protect the internal parts of the
pressure washer for a longer life. For Karcher
Detergents, check your retailer or call:
7
In USA call:
1-800-537-4129
or visit our website:
www.karcher-usa.com
Step 3Step 3
Step 3 Turn on the pressure washer.
Step 3Step 3
Pull trigger to operate unit: Liquid detergent
is drawn into the unit and mixed with water.
Apply detergent to work area. Do not allow
detergent to dry on surface.
Caution
Never use:
• Bleach, Chlorine products and other
corrosive chemicals
• Liquids containing solvents
(i.e., paint thinners, gasoline, oils)
• Tri-sodium phosphate products
• Ammonia products
• Acid-based products
These chemicals will harm the unit and
will damage the surface being cleaned.
The following Karcher detergents are
available:
-----------------------------------------------------------
One Gallon ready to use
• Vehicle Wash
• Degreaser
• All Purpose Cleaner
• House Wash
• Deck Wash
-----------------------------------------------------------
Detergent Concentrate Tablets
(10 Pack; makes 1 1/4 gallon RTU product)
• All Purpose
• Degreaser
• Deck and patio
• Windows and Siding
-----------------------------------------------------------
SHUTTING DOWN & CLEAN-UP
Step 1Step 1
Step 1
Step 1Step 1
Remove detergent suction
tube from container and
insert into 1 gallon of fresh
water. Siphon water at low
pressure for one minute.
8
Step 2Step 2
Step 2
Step 2Step 2
Turn the switch to
off (O) position and
unplug cord from
outlet.
Step 3Step 3
Step 3
Step 3Step 3
Turn off the water
source.
Step 4Step 4
Step 4
Step 4Step 4
Press trigger to
release water
pressure.
Step 5Step 5
Step 5
Step 5Step 5
Disconnect the garden
hose from the water inlet
on the unit.
Step 6Step 6
Step 6
Step 6Step 6
Disconnect the high pressure
hose from the high pressure
outlet.
TAKING A BREAK... five minutes or more
Step 1Step 1
Step 1
Step 1Step 1
Engage the gun
safety lock.
WINTERIZING AND LONG-TERM STORAGE
1. Disconnect all water connections.
2. Turn on the machine for a few seconds,
until the water which had remained in
the pump exits. Turn off immediately.
3. Do not allow high pressure hose to
become kinked.
4. Store the machine and accessories in
a room which does not reach freezing
temperatures.
Caution: Failure to follow the above
directions will result in damage to the
pump assembly and accessories.
Step 7Step 7
Step 7
Step 7Step 7
Engage the gun
safety lock.
Step 2Step 2
Step 2
Step 2Step 2
Turn pressure washer
to off (O) position.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Maintenance
The unit is maintenance-free.
Cleaning the water inlet filter
Pull out the water inlet filter with flat-nose
pliers and rinse out in warm water.
CLEANING TIPS
Deck Cleaning
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse deck and surrounding area with
fresh water. If using Kärcher Deck and Patio
Cleaner, place detergent suction tube directly into cleaning solution and apply to surface
at low pressure. For best results, limit your
work area to smaller sections of approximately 25 square feet. Allow Kärcher Deck
and Patio Cleaner to remain on surface 1-3
minutes. Do not allow detergent to dry on
surface. Rinse at high pressure in a long
sweeping motion keeping the spray nozzle
approximately 3-6 inches from the cleaning
surface. Always clean from top to bottom
and from left to right. When moving on to a
new section of the cleaning surface, be sure
to overlap the previous section to eliminate
stop marks and ensure a more even cleaning result.
House Siding
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water.
If using Kärcher House or Window and
Siding Cleaner, place detergent suction tube
directly into cleaning solution and apply to
surface at low pressure (for best results,
limit your work area to sections of approximately 6 feet and always apply detergent
from bottom to top). Allow Kärcher House or
Window and Siding Cleaner to remain on
surface 1-3 minutes. Do not allow detergent
to dry on surface, if surface appears to be
drying, simply wet down surface with fresh
water. If needed, use special Wash Brush
Attachment to remove stubborn dirt. Rinse
at high pressure from top to bottom in an
even sweeping motion keeping the spray
nozzle approximately 6 inches from the
cleaning surface.
Cement Patios, Brick and Stone
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water.
If using Kärcher Deck and Patio or All
Purpose Cleaner, place detergent suction
tube directly into cleaning solution and apply
to surface at low pressure. For best results,
limit your work area to smaller sections of
approximately 25 square feet. Allow Kärcher
Deck and Patio or All Purpose Cleaner to
remain on surface 1-3 minutes. Do not allow
detergent to dry on surface. Rinse at high
pressure in a sweeping motion keeping the
spray nozzle approximately 3-6 inches from
the cleaning surface. Always clean from top
to bottom and from left to right.
Cars, Boats & Motorcycles
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse vehicle with fresh water. If using
Kärcher Vehicle or All Purpose Cleaner,
place detergent suction tube directly into
cleaning solution and apply to surface at low
pressure. For best results, clean one side of
vehicle at a time and always apply detergent
from bottom to top, do not allow detergent to
dry on surface. If needed, use special Wash
Brush Attachment to remove stubborn dirt.
Rinse at high pressure in a sweeping motion
keeping the spray nozzle approxi-mately 6-8
inches from the cleaning surface (distance
should increase when rinsing pin-striping or
other sensitive surfaces). Always clean from
top to bottom and from left to right. For best
results, wipe surface dry with a chamois or
soft dry cloth.
9
CLEANING TIPS – continued
Barbecue Grills, Outdoor Power
Equipment & Gardening Tools
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water.
If using Kärcher All Purpose Cleaner or
Degreaser, place detergent suction tube
directly into cleaning solution and apply
detergent at low pressure. Allow Kärcher
detergent to remain on surface 1-3 minutes.
Do not allow detergent to dry on surface.
Rinse at high pressure keeping the spray
nozzle approximately 3-6 inches from the
cleaning surface. For removing extremely
stubborn dirt, it may be necessary to move
the spray nozzle even closer to the surface
for greater dirt cutting action. To remove
caked on mud from garbage cans, lawn
mower blades, wheel barrels or other
non-sensitive metal surfaces, you may
want to experiment with different settings on
the Quattro Nozzle.
10
Patio & Lawn Furniture
(with or without detergent)
Pre-rinse furniture and surrounding area
with fresh water. If using Kärcher All
Purpose Cleaner, place detergent suction
tube directly into cleaning solution and apply
to surface at low pressure. Allow Kärcher All
Purpose Cleaner to remain on surface 1-3
minutes. Do not allow detergent to dry on
surface. If needed use special Wash Brush
Attachment to remove stubborn dirt. Rinse
at high pressure in a sweeping motion
keeping the spray nozzle approximately 3-6
inches from the cleaning surface. For best
results, clean from top to bottom and from
left to right.
Recommendations
• Before cleaning any surface an inconspicuous area should be cleaned to test spray
pattern and distance for maximum cleaning results.
• If painted surfaces are pealing or
chipping, use extreme caution as
pressure washer may remove the loose
paint from the surface.
• While using on surfaces which might
come in contact with food. Flush surfaces
with plenty of drinking water.
OPTIONAL CLEANING ACCESSORIES
Optional cleaning accessories are available to further enhance your cleaning capabilities:
See accessories order form for product descriptions and ordering instructions.
• Vario Spray Wand
• House Washing Wand
• Extension Wand, 20 inches
• Flexible Spray Wand
• Underbody Spray Wand
• 4 Piece Extension Wand, 66 inches
In USA call:
1-800-537-4129
or visit our website: www.karcher-usa.com
• Wet Sandblasting Attachment
• Pipe Drain Cleaner
• Water Suction Hose With Filter
• Extension Hose 25’
• Rotating Wash Brush
• K12 Surface Cleaner
TROUBLESHOOTING
Disconnect the machine from the power source before making any repair.
SymptomSymptom
Symptom
SymptomSymptom
Motor will not start
Unit does not reach high
pressure.
CauseCause
Cause
CauseCause
On/Off switch is in the “OFF” (O)
position.
Power cord is not plugged in.
Extension cord is too long.
Extension cord is not proper gauge.
Extension cord is damaged.
Electrical outlet does not supply
adequate power.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
(GFCI) tripped.
Diameter of garden hose is too
small.
Water supply is restricted.
Not enough inlet water supply.
Water inlet filter is clogged.
Quattro Nozzle is in low
pressure position.
Wash brush is attached.
SolutionSolution
Solution
SolutionSolution
Turn switch to the “ON” (I)
position
Plug in power cord.
Replace extension cord with either
“a 25 ft. 12/3 gauge cord or a 50
ft. 10/3 gauge cord.
Try a different outlet.
Reset breaker (power supply) or
GFCI.
Replace with a 3/4 inch garden
hose.
Check garden hose for kinks,
leaks and blockage.
Open water source full force.
Remove filter and rinse out in
warm water.
Turn Quattro Nozzle to high
pressure position.
Attach Quattro Nozzle.
11
Output pressure varies high
and low.
Not enough inlet water supply.
Pump is sucking air.
Water inlet filter is clogged.
Discharge nozzle is obstructed.
Calcified gun, hose or Quattro
Nozzle.
Turn water on full force. Check
garden hose for kinks, leaks or
blockage.
Check that hoses and fittings are
air tight. Turn off machine and
purge pump by squeezing trigger
gun until a steady flow of water
emerges through the nozzle.
Remove filter and rinse out in
warm water.
Blow out or remove debris with a
fine needle.
Run distilled vinegar through
detergent suction tube.
TROUBLESHOOTING – continued
Symptom
No detergent.
Garden hose
connection leaks.
12
Spray wand or Spray
wand extension leaks.
Cause
Detergent suction tube not properly
connected to the machine.
Detergent is too thick.
Filter on detergent suction tube is
clogged.
Damaged or clogged detergent
suction tube.
Quattro Nozzle is in high pressure
position.
Discharge nozzle is obstructed.
Detergent container is empty.
Loose fittings.
Missing/worn rubber washer.
Quattro Nozzle not properly
attached.
Spray wand extension not properly
attached.
Solution
Check connection.
Dilute detergent, for best results
use Kärcher detergent.
Run warm water through filter to
remove debris.
Remove obstruction or replace
detergent suction tube.
Turn Quattro Nozzle to low
pressure position.
Blow out or remove debris with
fine needle.
Add more detergent.
Tighten fittings.
Insert new washer.
Insert the Quattro Nozzle into the
spray wand extension. Push in
and turn clockwise to lock
Quattro Nozzle in place.
Slide the spray wand extension
into the trigger gun. Press in
against the spring tension and
twist into the lock position. Turn
the spray wand extension collar
clockwise until tight.
Broken o-ring.
Pump is noisy.
Water leaks from pump (up
to 10 drops per minute is
permissible).
Oil Drip.
If you encounter any additional difficulties not listed, please call our service center for help.
Karcher Customer Support USA
Pump is sucking air.
Loose fittings.
Water seals are damaged or worn.
Oil seals are damaged or worn.
1-800-537-4129
Call Kärcher customer service
hotline and order an o-ring.
Check that hoses and fittings are
air tight. Turn off machine and
purge pump by squeezing trigger
gun until a steady flow of water
emerges through the nozzle.
Check that all fittings are tight.
Call service center.
Call service center.
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