WARNING – READ THIS MANUAL
READ and UNDERSTAND this Owner's Manual and the Engine Owner's Manual completely
before attempting to set up and use the pressure washer! Failure to properly set up, operate, and
maintain this pressure washer could result in serious injury or death to operator or bystanders.
WARNING – SPECIAL HAZARDS
Exhaust from both the engine and burner contains carbon monoxide, a
poisonous gas that can cause carbon monoxide poisoning and possible
death if inhaled. OUTDOORS and at least 20 feet from the home, away
from windows, vents and air intakes, to allow proper ventilation. If you
start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using the pressure washer, shut off
the engine and get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY.
High-pressure spray can cause serious skin or eye injury, including injection injury
if fluid pierces the skin. Injection injury can result in blood poisoning and/or
severe tissue damage.
Hot spray can scald and burn skin.
Hot surfaces of wand, engine and burner, as well as hot exhaust from both
the engine and burner can cause burns.
Spray discharge can cause puddles and slippery surfaces.
Spray-gun kickback can cause operator loss of balance and falls.
High-pressure spray can cause surface damage and flying debris.
Engine and burner sparking can ignite fuel or other flammable liquids or
vapors in the vicinity.
Hot exhaust from engine and burner can ignite combustible materials.
Cleaning chemical vapors or contact with skin may be hazardous.
Spray contact with electrical sources can cause electric shock.
A summary of important safety information is provided at the end of the manual.
ITEM NUMBERS: 157594
SERIAL NUMBER: _____________
Owner's Manual
Instructions for Set-up, Operation, Maintenance & Storage
HOT WATER PRESSURE WASHER – 4000 PSI / 4 GPM
Portable Outdoor-Use Only
This pressure washer produces both cold and hot water high-pressure spray. Cleaning chemicals may be
incorporated into the spray if desired. The pressure pump for this equipment is powered by a gasoline
internal combustion engine and the water is heated by a kerosene/fuel-oil fired, open flame burner.
Any Questions, Comments, Problems, or Parts Orders
Call NorthStar Product Support 1-800-270-0810
Hazard Signal Word Definitions
Equipment Protection Quick Facts
STOP! Closely inspect to make sure no components are missing or damaged. See the
"Assembly and Initial Set-Up" section for instructions on whom to contact to report
missing or damaged parts.
STOP! Engine is shipped without oil. DO NOT start pressure washer without adding oil
to engine. Please refer to Engine Manual shipped with unit for acceptable grade motor
oils.
Pump is shipped with oil. Remove shipping tape and black vent plug (if present) from
oil fill cap. Check pump oil level before starting.
A battery is not included. The engine will not run and the burner will not fire unless a
battery is installed. Purchase a standard 12VDC, 18 Ah automotive battery (Group 75).
Make sure your supply water flow rate is 20% higher than the pressure washer's flow
rate (see "Specifications" section for detail), and that your water is clean and particle
free.
Do not allow water to freeze in the pump, hose, coil, or spray gun(s).
Use only NorthStar brand or equivalent washer chemicals designed for high-pressure
use. Use soap adjustment knob to regulate cleaning power.
See Engine Owner's manual.
Change oil after first 40 hours, then every 3 months or 500 hours.
Burner fuel filter
/water separator:
Drain water as needed.
Change filter after every 500 hours of use.
Descale coil annually or more frequently as
conditions/performance require.
Inspect coil for soot build-up annually and desoot if needed.
Inspect electrodes annually and clean/adjust as needed
Table of Contents
About Your Pressure Washer .................................................................................................... 4
Specifications ................................................................................................................................. 5
Component Identification ............................................................................................................ 6
Safety Labeling ............................................................................................................................. 8
Special Equipment Safety Features ............................................................................................ 9
Assembly and Initial Set-Up ....................................................................................................... 10
Step 1. Unpacking & Delivery Inspection .............................................................................. 10
Step 2. Attaching a Water Feed Tank (customer supplied) .................................................... 12
Step 3. Initial Pump & Engine Preparation ............................................................................. 14
Step 4. Battery Installation ...................................................................................................... 15
Moving and Handling .................................................................................................................. 16
Before Each Use ........................................................................................................................... 17
Step 1. Check Equipment ........................................................................................................ 17
Step 2. Add Fuel(s) ................................................................................................................. 18
Step 3. Select a Suitable Worksite .......................................................................................... 20
Operation ....................................................................................................................................... 22
Step 1. Connect Hose(s), Water Supply, and Spray Nozzle(s) ............................................... 22
Step 2. Set Up for Chemical Spray (if desired) ....................................................................... 26
Step 3. Spraying ...................................................................................................................... 28
Step 4. Stopping ...................................................................................................................... 34
Storage ........................................................................................................................................... 35
Burner Adjustment....................................................................................................................... 38
Maintenance and Repair ............................................................................................................. 40
Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................ 47
Parts Explosion ............................................................................................................................. 48
Pump Explosion ............................................................................................................................ 50
Wiring Diagram ............................................................................................................................ 51
Summary of Important Safety Information ............................................................................... 52
Limited Warranty ........................................................................................................................ 56
About Your Pressure Washer
Carefully read and follow all instructions and safety information for using this pressure washer.
Improper use or maintenance of the pressure washer can result in serious injury or death to the
operator or bystanders from:
Carbon monoxide poisoning
Skin/eye injury from high
pressure spray
ATTENTION:
Rental Companies and Private Owners who loan this equipment to others!
All persons to whom you rent/loan this pressure washer must have access to and read this manual. Keep this
owner's manual with the pressure washer at all times and advise all persons who will operate the machine to
read it. You must also provide personal instruction on how to safely set-up and operate the pressure washer
and remain available to answer any questions a renter/borrower might have.
Thank you for purchasing a NorthStar hot water pressure washer! Your machine is designed for long life,
dependability, and the top performance you demand. This pressure washer is designed to:
1) Produce a high-pressure spray of heated or unheated water (up to 4 gallons per minute at 4000 psi).
2) Incorporate cleaning chemicals into a low-pressure water spray.
Water is supplied to the pressure washer via external water tank (the water tank must be supplied by the
customer – a 200 gallon capacity tank or greater is recommended.) or via standard tap water through a garden
hose. In either case, the water supply must have a flow rate of at least 4.8 gallons per minute. If using tap water,
the use of a backflow preventer on the water supply hose is recommended, and may be required by local code.
Any cleaning chemicals that are used must be specifically approved for use in pressure washers.
The pump is powered by a gasoline-fueled engine. The spray water is heated (when desired) by a kerosene/fueloil fired, spark-ignited, open flame burner. Normal operation of this equipment will require you to supply:
Gasoline fuel and lubrication oil for the engine
Pump oil
Fuel for the burner (kerosene, diesel, or fuel oil)
See the "Specifications" section of this manual for more detail.
Gasoline powered pressure washers are for OUTDOOR USE ONLY. Be sure to read about site selection
for running this pressure washer in the "Installation & Initial Set-up" section of this manual.
The user should plan to acquire and wear safety apparel during operation of this pressure washer. Safety apparel
includes waterproof insulated gloves, safety glasses with side and top protection, and non-slip protective
footwear. Some cleaning chemicals may require the use of a respirator mask (as instructed on chemical label).
Before using this washer, the user shall determine the suitability of this product for its intended use
and assumes liability therein.
A 12-volt standard automotive battery.
Read this Manual
Keep this manual for reference and review. A summary of important safety information can be found at the end
of the manual.
Proper preparation, operation, and maintenance of this pressure washer will result in optimal performance and a
long life for this equipment. For detailed Engine operation and maintenance information, always refer to the
Engine Owner's Manual furnished with the pressure washer.
Specifications
High Pressure Discharge Hose
Maximum dilution ratio 13-to-1
SUPPLIES REQUIRED (not included)
Regular, Unleaded Gasoline
See Engine Owner's Manual
#1 or #2 Diesel, B5 or lower Biodiesel, Kerosene,
or Fuel Oil
(Capacity: 4 Gal.)
Pump Oil
(shipped with oil, but refills required)
SAE 30 non-detergent oil
18 oz. capacity
12 Volt, minimum 18 Amp/Hr.
Automotive Battery (Group 75)
Tap: Standard tap water @ 20-75 psi
Water feed tank: 200 gallon tank recommended
(customer supplied).
Flow rate must be maintained at 4.8 gpm
For Tap: Standard garden hose with inside
diameter at least 5/8" (at least 3/4" diameter if
hose longer than 100 ft.)
For Tank: 3/4" connection hose no longer than 6'
long and 3/4" or larger fittings
Component Identification
Ball Valve (city tap water)
Engine (see engine manual)
Water Inlet (city tap water)
Indicator Light (pressure sw.)
Battery Box (battery not included)
Indicator Light (thermostat)
Water Outlet (high pressure)
Component Identification
Valve that regulates pressure and directs flow into bypass
when trigger is closed.
The air-cooled engine powers the pump.
Means of connecting garden hose to pump inlet.
Diesel fuel storage container.
Gasoline fuel storage container.
A device that moves fluid through a combination of suction
and displacement.
8. Water Inlet (feed tank)
Used to connect water from the feed tank to the inlet
plumbing.
9. Ball Valve (feed tank)
Used to open or close the water line from feed tank.
10. Ball Valve (city tap water)
Used to open or close the water line from city tap.
Filters water prior to entering the pump.
12. Water Inlet (city tap water )
Used to connect city tap water to the inlet plumbing.
Flat surface for mounting switches.
Storage place to house the battery.
Connect high pressure hose here.
Start engine by turning clockwise.
Push to reset circuit breaker to protect against electrical
overloads.
On/off device for power to burner components.
Adjust the water temperature.
21. Indicator Light (pressure sw.)
Instrument used to monitor unit operation. Should not be
illuminated when the gun is in use.
22. Indicator Light (thermostat)
Instrument used to monitor unit operation. Should be
illuminated when the gun is in use and the burner is firing.
On-Product Warning Labels
NEVER use inside any building, structure or
garage, EVEN IF doors and windows are open.
DANGER
WARNING
FOR OUTDOOR USE ONLY! Using this pressure washer indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.
Engine exhaust and burner exhaust contain carbon monoxide. This is a poison you cannot
see or smell.
High pressure spray can cause injection injury, eye injury, and
loss of balance. Hot discharge fluid and hot surfaces can burn.
NEVER direct discharge stream at or near any person. Do not
allow any part of the body to come in contact with the fluid stream.
Gun kicks back - hold with two hands. Keep good footing and
balance at all times.
Surfaces of engine, burner, and wand can become very hot. Use
only designated gripping area of wand. Avoid contact with hot
engine and burner.
Spraying flammables can cause explosion. Fuel is flammable
and explosive. Exhaust can ignite combustible materials.
NEVER spray flammable liquids. Operate only where open flame
or torch is permitted.
NEVER fuel a running or hot engine or oil burner.
Ensure there are no fuel leaks before starting. Keep sources of
sparks and flames away.
Use approved container only for transferring fuel. Clean up fuel
spills immediately.
Keep engine and burner exhaust at least 7 feet from all
combustible objects. Situate on heat-resistant flooring when
using burner.
Understand all safety hazards and first aid measures for chemicals
being used.
Follow chemical manufacturer's directions when handling and
cleaning with chemicals. Wear safety gear as directed.
Keep spray away from electrical wiring, or electric shock /
electrocution could occur.
CAUTION: To Reduce Risk of Injury, Read Operating Instructions Carefully Before Using.
782325
Chemical Exposure Hazard
Electric Shock Hazard
Only use OUTSIDE and far away from
windows, doors, and vents.
Fire / Explosion Hazard
High Pressure Fluid Forces / Burn Hazards
ALWAYS use eye protection. Caustic acid and explosive
gases can cause blindness or severe burns.
NO smoking, sparks, or flames.
NEVER touch both battery terminals at the same time with your
hand or any non-insulated tools.
FLUSH immediately with water if battery acid contacts eyes,
skin, or clothing.
CONNECT cables in correct sequence: FIRST RED to POSITIVE
terminal, then BLACK to NEGATIVE terminal. When disconnecting,
DISCONNECT BLACK cable first, then RED.
NEVER charge a visibly damaged or frozen battery. ALWAYS
read and follow charger instructions.
BATTERIES:
1) contain caustic acid, 2) emit explosive gases,
3) can cause electric shock
WARNING - BATTERY HAZARDS
782397
Safety Labeling
Always make sure safety labels are in place and in good condition. If a safety label is
missing or not legible, order new labels or unsafe operation could result. To order replacement
safety labels, call Northstar Product Support at 1-800-270-0810
Special Equipment Safety Features
High Pressure
Safety Device
(Rupture Disc)
WARNING: If the high-pressure safety device ever discharges water,
turn the engine off and do not use the machine. The device will no longer
function properly. See a dealer or call Product Support at 1-800-270-
0810.
This unit is equipped with a high pressure
safety device, which acts as a backup
safety feature. If the unloader
malfunctions, the high-pressure safety
device will open and relieve excess system
pressure.
This unit is equipped with a high
temperature limit that measures
discharge spray temperature and
automatically turns the burner off
when the temperature setting is
reached. When the discharge spray
temperature drops, the burner
automatically reignites.
This unit is equipped with a thermal
relief valve to protect the pump from
overheating. The pump continues to
work in bypass mode when you are not
spraying. If high temperatures are
developed during bypass mode, the
thermal relief valve will open and
discharge hot water onto the ground,
protecting the pump from overheating.
The thermal relief valve is located on
the pump.
The spray gun is equipped with a
built-in trigger safety latch to
guard against accidental trigger
actuation.
Guard
removed
for clarity
High pressure
safety device
Assembly and Initial Set-Up
Steps for Assembly / Initial Set-Up
Step 1. Unpacking & Delivery Inspection
Step 2. Attaching a Water Feed Tank (customer supplied)
Step 3. Initial Pump & Engine Preparation
Step 4. Battery Installation
Step 1. Unpacking & Delivery Inspection
Find and separate the components identified in Figure 2 – Overview of Pressure Washer
Components and Figure 3 – Hardware Bag. Inspect the pressure washer immediately after you
receive delivery for missing parts and damage.
If you have missing or damaged components, contact Product Support at 1-800-270-0810.
Figure 2 – Overview of Pressure Washer Components
Each of these steps is discussed in the below:
Figure 3 – Hardware Bag Contents
Nozzles
Qty-5
Part # 778946 - 0°, red
Part # 778739 - 15°, yellow
Part # 778948 - 25°, green
Part # 778947 - 40°, white
Part # 778949 - Soap, black
Suction Hose Assembly
Qty-1
Part # 221222 and 777165
Chemical Injector
Qty-1
Part # 779614
Assembly and Initial Set-Up
Assembly and Initial Set-Up
Step 2. Attaching a Water Feed Tank If Desired (customer supplied)
Water may be supplied to the pressure washer either via an external water tank or via a standard tap
supply.
CAUTION: Inadequate plumbing between a feed tank and the pressure washer can
cause damage to the pump from cavitation. To avoid cavitation:
Use 3/4" hose and fittings or larger. Hose should be no longer than 6 ft.
Place feed tank so bottom of tank is level or higher than bottom of skid
frame.
Place the feed tank as close as possible to the pressure washer so the
connection hose will be as short as possible.
Make sure the connection hose does not kink.
Never allow tank to run dry.
To connect an external water feed tank, follow the steps below:
Step 1. You will need to supply the following:
a. A 200 gallon or larger water feed tank.
b. 3/4" connection hose no longer than 6 ft.
c. 3/4" fittings. Do not use 90 elbow fittings unless absolutely necessary.
Step 2. Make sure the bottom of the water tank is level with or higher than the bottom of the
skid frame.
Step 3. Connect one end of the 3/4" hose to the water tank.
Step 4. Connect the other end of the 3/4" hose to the pump as shown in Figure 4a. Make sure
the connection hose does not kink.
Figure 4a
Assembly and Initial Set-Up
Step 5. CLOSE the city tap water ball valve and OPEN the feed tank ball valve, as shown in
Figure 4a.
Step 6. Reroute the easy start valve so it discharges back to the feed tank as shown below in
Figure 4b. (This will aid pump priming on initial start-up.)
Figure 4b
The easy start valve is located below the Unloader – see "Component Identification"
section of this manual for location of Unloader.
The tank is now ready to be filled.
CAUTION: To protect the pump, do not add cleaning chemicals directly to the tank
water. Use the quick couple chemical injector provided and follow all instructions and
precautions for chemical spraying see: "Operation Instructions, Step 2. Set Up for
Chemical Spray" section in this manual.
Reroute hose to
water feed tank
Assembly and Initial Set-Up
Step 3. Initial Pump & Engine Preparation
Verify pump oil level.
Note: The pump is shipped with oil. *Change oil after first 40 hours, then every 3
months or 500 hours
1. Verify oil level:
a. Remove shipping tape
from oil fill cap.
Verify that oil level is
half way up the sight
glass (or at the
indicator line on the
dip stick, if equipped).
2. If oil level is low, fill
using SAE30 nondetergent oil or Cat Pump
Oil Item #22158.
3. Replace oil fill cap.
Fill the engine with oil.
Note: The engine is shipped without oil.
Refer to the Engine Manual to locate oil-fill port and for instructions on filling.
Use the oil grade and quantity specified in the Engine Manual.
Assembly and Initial Set-Up
Step 4. Battery Installation
Install a 12-volt standard automotive battery (Group 75) with a minimum 18 amp-hour rating.
The engine will run but the burner will not fire unless a battery is installed.
The battery is to be supplied by the customer and should be installed in the protective battery
compartment located near the engine. The inside dimensions of the battery compartment are 111/8"L x 7-3/4"W x 10-1/8"H.
Follow the steps below for connecting and disconnecting the battery.
WARNING: Battery Hazards
Batteries are hazardous because they contain caustic acid, can emit explosive gases, and can
cause electric shock. Caution must be exercised when making connections to a battery to
avoid shock and contact with the acid, and to prevent any sparking that could lead to an
explosion. ALWAYS follow the general battery safety rules and instructions listed below.
General
Battery
Safety Rules
ALWAYS use eye protection and protective clothing when handling
batteries.
NEVER smoke or work near sparks or other sources of ignition.
NEVER touch both battery terminals at the same time with your hand or any
non-insulated tools.
If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, flush immediately with water and
neutralize with baking soda.
Always connect the cables in the following sequence to avoid possible shock:
1. Find the battery cables located inside the battery compartment.
2. Connect the red cable to the positive (+) terminal of the battery.
3. Then connect the black cable to the negative (-) terminal of the battery.
Disconnecting
the battery
Always disconnect cables in the following sequence to avoid possible shock.
1. First, disconnect the black cable from the negative (-) terminal of the
battery.
2. Next, disconnect the red cable from the positive (+) terminal of the battery.
3. Remove the battery from the battery compartment.
Moving and Handling
The pressures washer is heavy. You can be injured when trying to lift it without
mechanical assistance. It can crush and cause serious injury if it drops on someone.
Follow the instructions below for safely moving the pressure washer.
To reduce risk of injury, use a hoist to elevate or lower the pressure washer. Lift from the lifting eye
when using a hoist.
Before Each Use
Steps to Follow Before Each Use
Step 1. Check Equipment
Step 2. Add Fuel(s)
Step 3. Select Suitable Worksite
Check/add pump oil. *Change oil after first 40 hours, then every 3 months or
500 hours
Caution: Never run the pump without sufficient lubrication!
1. Check oil level. Verify that oil level is half way up the sight glass.
2. If oil level is low, fill using SAE30 non-detergent oil or Cat Pump Oil Item
#22158.
3. Replace oil fill cap.
Check the engine oil level and add oil as needed.
Use the recommended oil type for your engine and expected ambient conditions.
(See engine Owner's Manual for oil type and capacity, and more detailed oil
check/fill instructions.)
WARNING: Burn hazard
Never open oil port while engine is running. Hot oil can spray over face
and body.
˙
Notes:
o Low oil shutdown feature prevents the engine from starting or running
without sufficient oil.
o Engine is shipped without oil. You must add oil before first use.
Always inspect spray system for damage and leaks before each use.
Do not start pressure washer until all needed repairs have been completed.
WARNING: High pressure fluid injection hazard
High-pressure fluid discharge from leaks (even pin-sized) or ruptured
components can pierce skin and inject fluid into the body. Injection
injury can result in blood poisoning and/or severe tissue damage leading
to infection, gangrene, and possibly amputation.
Never use a finger or skin to check for leaks.
Never operate machine with damaged or missing hoses/parts.
Never attempt to repair a high-pressure hose or component – Always
Follow the steps below prior to each use of the pressure washer.
Before Each Use
replace it with a part that is rated at or above the pressure rating of this
machine.
1) Check hoses, fittings, wand, trigger gun and connections for signs of wear,
cracks, looseness, or leaks. Replace as required.
2) Check and clean the nozzle orifice.
3) Clean inlet filter. (See Maintenance instructions)
Always inspect (engine and burner) fuel systems & check for leaks
BEFORE starting pressure washer.
Do not start pressure washer until all needed repairs have been completed.
WARNING: Fuel leak hazard
Gasoline and burner fuels are highly explosive and fuel leaks can result in
fire or explosions. You can be burned and seriously injured if the fuel
system is not properly hooked up or there is a fuel leak when you start the
engine.
Inspect the entire fuel system. Look for:
signs of leaks or deterioration,
chafed or spongy fuel hose,
loose connections,
loose or missing fuel hose clamps,
damaged gasoline tank, or
defective gasoline shut-off valve.
Perform other
scheduled
maintenance as
needed
Make sure that any other regular maintenance has been performed as
prescribed in this manual in the "Maintenance & Repair" section.
1. Refer to the engine owner's manual for engine maintenance instructions.
2. Make sure battery is charged. Charge as needed according to your battery
manufacturer's instructions.
WARNING: Fuel fire/explosion hazard
Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. Burner fuels are
combustible at warm temperatures. Heat, sparks, and flames can
ignite fuel vapors, which can become widespread during fueling. A
flash fire and/or explosion could result and cause serious injury or
death. Always use extreme care when handling fuels. Carefully
follow all instructions to avoid the following conditions which could
result in fuel ignition:
gas vapor collection inside enclosures
static electric sparks
sparks from electric wiring, batteries, or running engines
sources of heat (such as a hot engine, burner or exhaust)
open flames, including pilot lights