Stihl RB 400 User Manual
STIHL RB 400
WARNING
Read Instruction Manual thoroughly
before use and follow all safety
precautions – improper use can
cause serious or fatal injury.
ADVERTENCIA
Antes de usar la máquina lea y siga
todas las precauciones de
seguridad dadas en el manual de
instrucciones – el uso incorrecto
puede causar lesiones graves o
mortales.
{
Instruction Manual
Manual de instrucciones
Instruction Manual
1 - 27
Manual de instrucciones
28 - 56
Contents
English
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 2
Transporting the Unit 11
Before the First Use 12
Connecting and Removing the
High-Pressure Hose 13
Connecting the Water Supply 14
Inserting and Removing the Spray
Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Nozzle 15
Starting the Engine 16
Working 16
Adding Detergent 17
Shutting off the Engine 17
After Finishing Work 18
Storing the Machine 18
Maintenance and Care 19
Maintenance 20
Main Parts 21
Specifications 22
Troubleshooting 24
Maintenance and Repairs 26
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
Disposal 26
Limited Warranty 26
Trademarks 27
This Manual contains operating and
safety instructions for the STIHL RB
pressure washer, which is powered by a
Kohler gasoline engine. To reduce the
risk of serious or fatal injury, it is
important that you read, understand and
follow the safety precautions and
instructions in this instruction manual
and the accompanying Kohler owner's
manual before using your pressure
washer. For further information you can
go to www.stihlusa.com (for Canada:
www.stihl.ca)
Allow only persons who fully understand
this manual to operate your pressure
washer.
Contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL
distributor for your area if you do not
understand any of the instructions in this
manual.
WARNING
Because the pressure washer is
gasoline-powered and produces a
strong water jet, special safety
precautions must be observed to reduce
the risk of personal injury. Careless or
improper use may cause serious or even
fatal injury.
{
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2017
0458-691-8621-A. VA2.H17.
0000007191_004_GB
RB 400
This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
with electronic systems.
1
English
Guide to Using this Manual Safety Precautions and
Symbols in Text
Many operating and safety instructions
are supported by illustrations.
The individual steps or procedures
described in the manual may be marked
in different ways:
N A bullet marks a step or procedure.
A description of a step or procedure that
refers directly to an illustration may
contain item numbers that appear in the
illustration. For example:
N Loosen the screw (1).
N Lever (2) ...
In addition to the operating instructions,
this manual may contain paragraphs
that require your special attention. Such
paragraphs are marked with the
symbols and signal words described
below:
DANGER
Indicates a hazardous situation that, if
not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury.
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation that, if
not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.
NOTICE
Indicates a risk of property damage,
including damage to the machine or its
individual components.
Engineering Improvements
STIHL’s philosophy is to continually
improve all of its products. As a result,
engineering changes and improvements
are made from time to time. Therefore,
some changes, modifications and
improvements may not be covered in
this manual. If the operating
characteristics or the appearance of
your machine differs from those
described in this manual, please contact
your STIHL dealer or the STIHL
distributor for your area for assistance.
Working Techniques
IMPORTANT
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
Because the pressure
washer is gasoline-powered and produces a
powerful water jet, special safety precautions
must be observed to
reduce the risk of personal injury.
It is important that you
read, fully understand
and observe the safety
precautions and warnings
in this instruction manual
and the warnings and
instructions in the
owner's manual for the
Kohler engine. Read both
manuals before use and
periodically thereafter.
Careless or improper use
may cause serious or
fatal injury.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how
to operate your pressure washer. A first
time operator should obtain practical
instruction before using the pressure
washer. Observe all applicable national,
state and local laws, safety regulations,
standards and ordinances.
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RB 400
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WARNING
This pressure washer is to be used only
by qualified operators. Minors and
untrained persons should never be
allowed to use this pressure washer.
Do not lend or rent your pressure
washer without the instruction manuals.
Be sure that anyone using it
understands the information contained
in this manual and the accompanying
Kohler manual.
WARNING
Use your pressure washer only for
cleaning solid surfaces and other items
that will not be damaged by water or the
force of the spray jet. Do not use it for
other purposes, since misuse may result
in personal injury or property damage,
including damage to the machine.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, bystanders,
especially children, and animals should
not be allowed in the work area while the
pressure washer is in use. Close
supervision of children is necessary to
ensure that they do not enter the work
area or play with the machine.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders
and damage to property, never let your
pressure washer run unattended. When
it is not in use (e.g., during a work
break), shut it off and make sure that
unauthorized persons do not use it.
Most of these safety precautions and
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL
pressure washers. Different models may
have different parts and controls. See
the appropriate section of this instruction
manual and the accompanying Kohler
manual for a description of the controls
and the function of the parts of your
model.
Safe use of a pressure washer involves
1. the operator
2. the pressure washer
3. the use of the pressure washer.
THE OPERATOR
Physical Condition
You must be in good physical condition
and mental health and not under the
influence of any substance (drugs,
alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision,
dexterity or judgment.
WARNING
Be alert – if you get tired, take a break.
Do not operate this machine when you
are fatigued. Tiredness may result in
loss of control. Working with any
pressure washer can be strenuous. If
you have any condition that might be
aggravated by strenuous work, check
with your doctor before operating this
machine.
WARNING
The ignition system of the engine
produces an electromagnetic field of a
very low intensity. This field may
interfere with some pacemakers. To
reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury,
persons with a pacemaker should
consult their physician and the
pacemaker manufacturer before
operating this pressure washer.
Proper Clothing
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, the operator
should wear proper protective apparel.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of eye
injury, always wear goggles that are impact-rated
and marked as complying
with ANSI Z87 "+". Wearers of prescription (Rx)
eyewear should wear
goggles that can be worn
over prescription lenses
without disrupting either
the prescription eyewear
or the proper fit of the
goggles.
The noise of the pressure
washer may damage
your hearing. Always
wear sound barriers (ear
plugs or ear mufflers) to
help protect your hearing.
Regular users should
have their hearing
checked regularly.
Be particularly alert and cautious when
wearing hearing protection because
your ability to hear warnings (shouts,
alarms, etc.) is restricted.
Wear boots with non-slip soles.
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THE PRESSURE WASHER
For illustrations and definitions of the
pressure washer parts, see the chapter
on "Main Parts."
WARNING
Never modify this pressure washer in
any way. Only attachments supplied by
STIHL or expressly approved by STIHL
for use with the specific STIHL model
are authorized. Although certain
unauthorized attachments are usable
with STIHL pressure washers, their use
may, in fact, be extremely dangerous.
If this pressure washer is subjected to
unusually high loads for which it was not
designed (e.g., heavy impact or a fall),
always check that it is in good condition
before continuing work. Check in
particular that the fuel system is tight (no
leaks) and that the controls and safety
devices are working properly. Do not
continue operating this machine if it is
damaged. In case of doubt, have it
checked by your STIHL servicing dealer.
THE USE OF THE PRESSURE
WASHER
Transporting the pressure washer
WARNING
Always switch off the engine before
transporting the pressure washer. When
transporting the pressure washer in a
vehicle, properly secure it to prevent
turnover, fuel spillage and damage.
STIHL recommends filling the pump with
antifreeze if the pressure washer is to be
transported or stored at temperatures
near or below 32 °F (0 °C). See the
storage information at the end of this
chapter and the chapter "Storing the
Machine."
WARNING
Use caution when opening or folding
down the pushbar. Avoid pinching
hands or other body parts between the
pushbar and housing.
Fuel
WARNING
Gasoline is an extremely
flammable fuel. If spilled
and ignited by a spark or
other ignition source, it
can cause fire and serious burn injury or
property damage. Use
extreme caution when
handling gasoline or fuel
mix. Do not smoke or
bring any fire or flame
near the fuel or the pressure washer. Note that
combustible fuel vapor
may escape from the fuel
system or gas can during
fueling operations.
WARNING
Incorrect fuels shall not be used as they
may prove hazardous.
Fueling Instructions
WARNING
Fuel your pressure washer in wellventilated areas, outdoors. Always shut
off the engine and allow it to cool before
refueling. Gasoline vapor pressure may
build up inside the fuel tank depending
on the fuel used, the weather conditions
or other environmental conditions and
the use of the machine.
In order to reduce the risk of burns and
other personal injury from escaping gas
vapor and fumes, remove the fuel filler
cap on your pressure washer carefully
so as to allow any pressure build-up in
the tank to release slowly. Never remove
the fuel filler cap while the engine is
running.
Select bare ground for fueling and move
at least 10 feet (3 m) from the fueling
spot before starting the engine. Refuel
slowly. Avoid spilling fuel. Wipe off any
spilled fuel before starting your machine.
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WARNING
Always refuel slowly and
take care to avoid fuel
spillage which may cause
a risk of fire.
Check for fuel leakage
while refueling and during
operation. If fuel leakage
is found, do not start or
run the machine until the
leak is fixed and any
leaked fuel has been
wiped away. Take care
not to get fuel on your
clothing. If this happens,
change your clothing
immediately.
Do not overfill the fuel
tank. Leave 5/8 inch
(16 mm) of space at the
top of the tank to allow for
fuel expansion.
To reduce the risk of fuel spillage and
fire from an improperly installed fuel cap,
correctly position and tighten the fuel
cap in the fuel tank opening.
WARNING
Unit vibrations can cause
an improperly installed
fuel cap to loosen or
come off and spill quantities of fuel. In order to
reduce the risk of fuel
spillage and fire, tighten
the fuel filler cap by hand
as securely as possible.
See the Kohler owner's manual for
additional warnings and instructions
related to fuel and fueling.
Connecting the water supply
Do not connect the pressure washer directly to a
potable water system.
If hooking up the pressure washer to a
potable water system, a backflow
preventer must be installed between the
water tap and the hose. The design of
the backflow preventer must comply with
the applicable country-specific
regulations.
WARNING
If potable water has passed through the
backflow preventer, it can no longer be
regarded as potable water.
Follow the rules laid down by the local
water supply company to prevent water
flowing back from the pressure washer
into the drinking water main.
Do not use the machine with dirty water
(i.e., water that contains sand, dirt or
other particulate matter). If there is a risk
that the water supply is dirty, use an
appropriate water filter or find an
alternative water source.
Before Starting
WARNING
The machine may only be used when all
parts are in proper working order. Never
operate your pressure washer if it is
modified, damaged, improperly adjusted
or maintained, or not completely or
securely assembled. Never run the
pressure washer with a modified or
disconnected governor. Never attempt
to modify the controls or safety devices.
WARNING
Check the fuel system for leaks,
especially the visible parts, e.g., filler
cap, hose connections. To reduce the
risk of personal injury or property
damage from fire, do not start the engine
if the unit is leaking or showing other
signs of damage. Have the machine
repaired by an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer before using it.
WARNING
Check that the spark plug boot is
securely mounted on the spark plug – a
loose boot may cause arcing that could
ignite combustible fumes and cause a
fire.
WARNING
Check the on-off switch, choke lever,
fuel shut-off and throttle lever for proper
function. The throttle lever must move
freely.
WARNING
Ensure that the high-pressure hose is in
good condition and not frayed, cracked,
deformed or damaged in any way. Never
operate the machine with a damaged or
worn high-pressure hose – replace it
before further use. Using a worn or
damaged hose, or one that does not
meet the high pressure requirements of
the pressure washer, can result in
personal injury. If using a replacement or
extension high-pressure hose, ensure
that it is rated for the maximum PSI of
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the pressure washer. STIHL
recommends using a STIHL-branded
high-pressure replacement/extension
hose that is marked for use with your
specific model pressure washer.
Protect the high-pressure hose against
heat and oil. It must never be crushed,
kinked or twisted. Check that all
connections are secure and tight before
starting work.
WARNING
Inspect the spray lance and spray gun
for damage before starting work. The
trigger on the spray gun must move
easily and automatically return to its
starting position when released. The
trigger lockout must be in proper working
condition. Keep the gripping surfaces
clean at all times; it is particularly
important to keep them free of pitch, oil,
fuel, grease or resin in order for you to
maintain a firm grip and properly control
your pressure washer.
If using a replacement spray gun or
lance, ensure that it is rated for the
maximum PSI of the pressure washer.
STIHL recommends using STIHLbranded replacement parts that are
marked for use with your specific model
pressure washer.
To prevent overheating and permanent
damage to the pressure washer, always
check the engine and pump for proper
oil levels before starting work. See also
the "Maintenance" chapter in this
instruction manual and the appropriate
section in the Kohler owner's manual for
additional information about maintaining
the proper oil level.
Always connect and turn on the water
supply to the pump before starting the
engine. Do not operate the pressure
washer without water. Running the
pressure washer without water will
cause the pump to overheat, which may
result in permanent damage.
Be thoroughly familiar with the controls.
Know how to stop the pressure washer
and relieve pressures quickly.
Starting
To reduce the risk of fire and burn
injuries, start the engine at least 10 feet
(3 m) from the fueling spot, outdoors
only.
WARNING
Your pressure washer is a one-person
machine. To reduce the risk of eye or
other injury from water spray and blown
or sprayed objects, keep bystanders out
of the working area. Engage the trigger
lockout on the spray gun and stop the
engine immediately if you are
approached.
For specific starting instructions, see the
appropriate section of your manual.
Place the pressure washer on a flat and
firm ground or other solid surface in an
open area. Maintain good balance and
secure footing.
WARNING
When you pull the starter grip, do not
wrap the starter rope around your hand.
Do not allow the grip to snap back, but
guide the starter rope slowly back to
permit the rope to rewind properly.
Failure to follow this procedure may
result in injuries to your hand or fingers
and may damage the starter
mechanism.
For specific starting instructions, see the
"Starting" chapter in this instruction
manual and the appropriate section of
the Kohler engine manual.
During Operation
Holding and Controlling the Spray
Attachment
WARNING
The spray jet causes reactive forces on
the spray attachment in a direction
opposite to the direction of the spray
(recoil or kickback). Hold the spray
attachment firmly with both hands in
order to control the reactive forces,
including any additional torque
produced when using angled spray
attachments or an angled spray lance.
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WARNING
To reduce the risk of serious personal
injury, always hold the spray attachment
with one hand firmly gripping the spray
gun and the other hand firmly wrapped
around the spray gun or spray lance
while you are working. Keep your hands
in this position at all times while working
in order to help maintain control.
Keep hands and feet and other parts of
your body away from the water jet at all
times. Severe laceration and fluid
injection could result from contact with
the water jet.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of loss of control and
personal injury, never operate the
pressure washer with the spray gun
trigger wired in the open position. To
prevent accidental discharge, engage
the trigger lockout when not in use.
WARNING
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing
and balance at all times. Special care
must be taken in slippery conditions and
when working on slopes or uneven
ground.
To reduce the risk of stumbling and loss
of control, do not walk backward while
operating the pressure washer.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control, never operate the pressure
washer while standing on a ladder or on
any other unstable support.
0000-GXX-0290-A0
Detergents
WARNING
This pressure washer was designed for
use with water alone or with a detergent
specifically designed and approved for
use with pressure washers.
Use of unsuitable detergents or cleaning
agents can cause personal injury and
damage the machine and/or the surface
being cleaned.
Always use detergent in the specified
dosage – follow the detergent
manufacturer´s instructions for proper
preparation and dilution, as well as safe
use and disposal.
Chemical detergents may contain
harmful (toxic, caustic, irritant),
flammable or explosive substances. In
the event of skin or eye contact with
detergent, flush the affected body parts
with plenty of clean water immediately. If
detergent is swallowed, seek medical
attention immediately. Follow all of the
detergent manufacturer´s warnings and
instructions.
Working Conditions
WARNING
As soon as the engine is
running, this machine
generates toxic exhaust
fumes containing chemicals, such as unburned
hydrocarbons (including
benzene) and carbon
monoxide, that are
known to cause respiratory problems, cancer,
birth defects, or other
reproductive harm and
other injuries. Some of
the gases (e.g., carbon
monoxide) may be colorless and odorless and
can cause asphyxiation
or death very quickly. To
reduce the risk of serious
or fatal injury/illness from
inhaling toxic fumes,
never run the machine
indoors, in confined
spaces, or in or near
areas that are poorly ventilated. If exhaust fumes
become concentrated
due to insufficient ventilation, move the machine
or take other steps to
achieve proper ventilation
before proceeding.
Maintain adequate distance between
the machine and open windows, doors,
air intake vents or other openings to
prevent exhaust gases from entering
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buildings or other confined spaces.
Position the machine so that exhaust
fumes are directed away from buildings
openings.
Never operate the pressure washer in
the presence of flammable vapors or
combustible dust, gases or other
combustible materials.
Exhaust fumes are hot. To reduce the
risk of fire, never operate the machine
near flammable or combustible
materials. Position the machine so that
exhaust fumes are directed away from
such materials.
WARNING
Aerosols may form while working with a
pressure washer. The inhalation of
aerosols can be hazardous to health. In
order to determine the necessary
measures to protect against aqueous
aerosols, a risk assessment must be
carried out before work starts dependent
on the surface to be cleaned and its
environment. Class FFP2 or higher
respirators are suitable for protection
against aqueous aerosols.
WARNING
Hazardous substances (e.g., asbestos
or oil) must not be allowed to escape into
the environment when working with the
pressure washer. Follow all
environmental regulations when using
your pressure washer.
WARNING
Never spray asbestos-containing
materials such as asbestos cement or
asbestos siding. Hazardous, breathable
asbestos fibers may be released in
addition to the dirt.
Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous
and can cause severe or fatal injury,
respiratory illness or cancer. The use
and disposal of asbestos-containing
products are strictly regulated by OSHA
and the Environmental Protection
Agency. If you have any reason to
believe that you might be spraying or
otherwise disturbing asbestos, or if you
cannot be sure, immediately contact
your employer or a local OSHA or EPA
representative.
WARNING
Never spray any surface containing lead
paint. Disturbing lead-based paint is
hazardous to human health and can
harm the environment. The use and
disposal of lead-containing products is
strictly regulated by OSHA and the
Environmental Protection Agency. If you
have any reason to believe that you may
be spraying a surface containing lead
paint or another lead-containing
product, or if you cannot be sure,
immediately contact your employer or a
local OSHA or EPA representative.
Do not operate the pressure washer at
temperatures below 32 °F (0 °C).
Protect the pressure washer from
freezing temperatures, which can cause
cracking of the pump or damage to the
high pressure hose or the spray gun.
Operating Instructions
WARNING
In the event of imminent danger or in an
emergency, switch off the engine
immediately – move the on-off switch to
OFF and engage the trigger lockout on
the spray gun.
WARNING
Even though bystanders should be kept
away from the running pressure washer,
never work alone. Keep within calling
distance of others in case help is
needed.
Stop the engine immediately if you are
approached and engage the trigger
lockout on the spray gun.
WARNING
Never modify your muffler. Any
modification could cause an increase in
heat radiation, sparks or sound level,
thereby increasing the risk of fire, burn
injury or hearing loss. You may also
permanently damage the engine. STIHL
recommends having your muffler
serviced and repaired by a STIHL
servicing dealer.
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WARNING
The muffler and other
parts of the engine (e.g.,
fins of the cylinder, spark
plug) become hot during
operation and remain hot
for a while after stopping
the engine. To reduce
risk of burns, do not
touch the muffler and
other parts while they are
hot. Keep the area
around the muffler clean.
Do not allow the high
pressure hose to make
contact with the muffler.
WARNING
An improperly mounted or damaged
cylinder housing or a
damaged/deformed muffler shell may
interfere with the cooling process of the
muffler. To reduce the risk of fire or burn
injury, do not continue work with a
damaged or improperly mounted
cylinder housing or a
damaged/deformed muffler shell.
WARNING
Do not operate your pressure washer if
the muffler is damaged, missing or
modified. An improperly maintained
muffler will increase the risk of fire and
hearing loss. Your muffler is equipped
with a spark-arresting screen to reduce
the risk of fire; never operate your
pressure washer if the screen is missing,
damaged or clogged. Some state or
federal laws or regulations may require a
properly maintained spark arrester for
certain uses. See the "Maintenance,
Repair and Storing" section of this
instruction manual. Remember that the
risk of a brush or forest fire is greater in
hot or dry weather.
When connecting the water supply to the
water inlet, always follow local
regulations. If connection to the drinking
water main is permitted, never operate
the pressure washer without a properly
functioning back-flow preventer.
During work
WARNING
To reduce the risk of
fire/explosion resulting in
serious or fatal injury or
property damage, never
spray flammable or combustible liquids.
WARNING
Never draw fluids into the pump that
contain solvents or undiluted acids (e.g.,
gasoline, heating oil, paint thinner or
acetone). These substances damage
the materials used in the machine. The
spray is highly combustible, explosive
and poisonous.
WARNING
Because of the high pressure and spray velocity,
fluids can penetrate the
skin and cause fluid injection and/or severe cutting
injury. If an accident does
occur and the spray
appears to have penetrated the skin, seek
emergency medical care.
Do not treat as a simple
cut.
Keep hands and feet and other parts of
your body away from the water jet at all
times. Severe laceration and fluid
injection could result from contact with
the water jet.
To reduce the risk of severe laceration
or other personal injury, shut off the
pressure washer, relieve system
pressure and lock the spray gun trigger
before changing or adjusting any spray
nozzle or accessory.
WARNING
Never direct the highpressure jet toward yourself or other persons, not
even to clean clothing or
shoes. If an accident
does occur and the spray
appears to have penetrated the skin, seek
emergency medical care.
Do not treat as a simple
cut.
Do not direct the highpressure jet toward
animals.
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To reduce the risk of
short-circuiting, fire and
electrocution, never
direct the spray at electrical appliances and
equipment, sockets or
power cords.
Do not direct the high-pressure jet into
places you cannot see.
Never direct the high-pressure jet
toward the pressure washer itself or any
of its components.
To reduce the risk of property damage,
start work at the greatest effective
distance from the surface being cleaned.
Do not move so close that the surface is
damaged by the force of the spray.
Be especially careful when spraying
softer materials such as fabric. Caution
should be used when directing spray
toward fragile materials such as glass.
Shattering could result in serious injury.
The machine must not be covered
during use or while the engine is still
warm. Ensure that the engine is cooled
sufficiently before covering.
If you feel sick, if you have a headache,
vision problems (e.g., your field of vision
gets smaller), hearing problems,
dizziness or inability to concentrate, stop
work immediately. Such symptoms may
be caused by an excessively high
concentration of exhaust emissions.
After finishing work
Shut off the engine after finishing work.
Then turn off the water supply and
squeeze the spray gun trigger to release
trapped pressure. Engage the trigger
lockout when not in use.
Disconnect the water intake hose
between the machine and water supply.
MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND
STORING
If you make a warranty claim for a
component which has not been serviced
or maintained properly, STIHL may deny
coverage.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal
injury, STIHL recommends using only
authorized STIHL or Kohler replacement
parts for maintenance and repair. Strictly
follow the maintenance and repair
instructions in this instruction manual
and the Kohler owner's manual.
WARNING
High-pressure hoses, fittings and
couplings are important for machine
safety. STIHL recommends using only
high-pressure hoses, fittings, couplings
and other accessories that have been
approved by STIHL for this machine, or
technically equivalent parts. Contact
your authorized STIHL servicing dealer
for a list of authorized parts and
accessories.
The high-pressure hose and all fittings,
couplings, spray nozzles and
accessories must be approved for the
permissible excess pressure of the
machine.
The permissible excess pressure, the
maximum permitted temperature and
the date of manufacture are stated on
the cladding of the high-pressure hose.
WARNING
Before performing any inspection,
maintenance, cleaning or other work on
the machine, shut off the engine, turn off
the water supply and squeeze the spray
gun trigger until the pressure in the
system has been fully released. Do not
attempt any maintenance or repair work
not described in this instruction manual.
STIHL recommends that you have such
work performed by your STIHL servicing
dealer.
Do not clean your machine with a
pressure washer. The solid jet of water
may damage parts of the machine.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury
or property damage, use only spark
plugs authorized by STIHL or Kohler.
Always press the spark plug boot snugly
onto the spark plug terminal of the
proper size. (Note: If terminal has
detachable SAE adapter nut, it must be
securely attached.) A loose connection
between spark plug terminal and the
ignition wire connector in the boot may
create arcing that could ignite
combustible fumes and cause a fire.
10
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0000-GXX-0299-A0
Keep the spark plug clean and make
sure the ignition lead is in good
condition.
WARNING
Never test the ignition system with the
boot removed from the spark plug or
with an unseated spark plug, since
uncontained sparking may cause a fire.
WARNING
In California, it is a violation of § 4442 or
§ 4443 of the Public Resources Code to
use or operate gasoline-powered tools
on forest-covered, brush-covered or
grass-covered land unless the engine’s
exhaust system is equipped with a
complying spark arrester that is
maintained in effective working order.
The owner/operator of this product is
responsible for properly maintaining the
spark arrester. Other states or
governmental entities/agencies, such as
the U.S. Forest Service, may have
similar requirements. Contact your local
fire agency or forest service for the laws
or regulations relating to fire protection
requirements.
For maintenance items please also refer
to the maintenance chart in this
instruction manual.
Store the pressure washer in a dry and
locked location out of reach of children.
WARNING
Store fuel in an approved and properly
labeled safety-type canister only. To
reduce the risk of personal injury or
property damage, take care when
handling gasoline. Avoid direct contact
with the skin and avoid inhaling fuel
vapor.
SAVE THESE
INSTRUCTIONS!
Transporting the Unit
Pushing the pressure washer
N Press down pushbar (1) with both
hands
N Steady the pressure washer with
your foot on the kick plate (2)
Folding down the pushbar
WARNING
Do not allow the unit to be used or stored
in freezing temperatures. If the pressure
washer must be transported or stored in
freezing conditions, the pump must be
filled with antifreeze to prevent cracking
due to water expansion. See the chapter
"Storing the Machine" in this manual.
RB 400
The pushbar can be folded down for
compact transport and storage.
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English
0000-GXX-0300-A0
1
N Loosen the star knob (1) on both
sides
2
Lifting the pressure washer with a crane
To lift the pressure washer with a crane,
secure the straps to the following points
on the frame.
Pushbar open
0000-GXX-0292-A0
Pushbar folded down
Before the First Use
Installing parts and accessories
Dashboard
1
N Attach the dashboard (1) to the
frame (2)
Spray lance
1
0000-GXX-0301-A0
2
2
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N Swing the pushbar (2) down as far
as possible
WARNING
Use caution when opening or folding
down the pushbar. Avoid pinching
hands or other body parts between the
pushbar and housing.
12
0000-GXX-0295-A0
0000-GXX-0306-A0
N Attach the spray lance (1) to the
spray gun (2)
RB 400
English
Suction hose for detergent
2
1
N Attach the suction hose for
detergent (1) to the low-pressure
connector (2) on the pump
Storing accessories
Connecting and Removing
the High-Pressure Hose
WARNING
To reduce the risk of severe injury from
high pressure spray, always shut off the
pressure washer and relieve any
remaining pressure in the line by
0000-GXX-0307-A0
squeezing the spray gun trigger before
attempting to remove the high-pressure
hose from either the pump or the spray
gun.
N Remove all sand and debris from
the connections
Connection to the high-pressure pump
Connecting
1
Connection to the spray gun
Connecting
1
2
0000-GXX-0318-A0
N Push the high-pressure hose into
the coupling on the spray gun (1)
N Attach the union nut (2) and screw it
on and tighten by hand
Removing
N Unscrew the union nut
N Pull the high-pressure hose off the
coupling on the spray gun
N Place the spray attachment in the
holder on the frame
N Hang the high-pressure hose on the
holder on the frame
N Insert the high-pressure nozzles in
the holders on the frame
RB 400
2
N Push the high-pressure hose into
the high pressure connector (1)
N Attach the union nut (2) and screw it
on and tighten by hand
0000-GXX-0311-A0
Removing
N Unscrew union nut
N Pull the high-pressure hose off
pressure connector
0000-GXX-0315-A0
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English
Connecting the Water Supply
The pressure washer is equipped with a
thermal pressure relief valve, which
automatically lets hot water escape from
the high-pressure pump. Never use
water with a temperature more then
52 °C (125 °F) to run the pressure
washer. See the "Working" Chapter in
this manual for more information to the
thermal pressure relief valve.
Always comply with the water supply
requirements in the "Specifications"
chapter in this manual.
NOTICE
Insufficient water supply can damage
the high-pressure pump. Only start the
engine when the water hose is
connected and the water supply is
turned on and delivering the minimum
water requirements in the
"Specifications" chapter in this manual.
Connecting the water hose
N Remove all sand and debris from
the connections
N Connect the water hose to the water
supply
N Open the water tap and rinse the
water hose so that sand and other
particles of dirt cannot get into the
high-pressure pump
2
1
N Turn off the water supply and
connect the water hose (1) to the
high-pressure pump (2)
Venting the system
Before starting the engine, the highpressure pump and hose system must
be vented:
N After connecting the water supply
and high pressure hose to the
pressure washer, unroll the highpressure hose fully and lay it out flat
and free from loops
N Turn on the water supply
N Point the spray attachment (without
the high-pressure nozzle installed)
downward to the ground
1
2
0000-GXX-0321-A0
N Release the trigger lockout (1)
N Squeeze the spray gun trigger (2)
and wait until a uniform water flow
emerges from the spray lance
N Release the spray gun trigger and
engage the trigger lockout
NOTICE
Lack of water can damage the highpressure pump. Only start the engine
when the water hose is connected and
the water supply is turned on.
0000-GXX-0330-A0
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RB 400
English
Inserting and Removing the
Spray Nozzle
Selecting the appropriate spray nozzle
The pressure washer is offered with a
range of high-pressure nozzles that can
be connected to the spray lance.
1
0 15 25 40
2
3
4
5
1 Narrow jet nozzle (red) jet angle 0°
Nozzle for removing stubborn dirt
from concrete and metal.
Do not use narrow jet nozzle on
wood or other soft surfaces. The
concentrated water jet can damage
the surface. (Not sold with RB 400,
RB 600)
2 Fan-jet nozzle (yellow) jet angle 15°
Nozzle for removing stubborn dirt.
3 Fan-jet nozzle (green) jet angle 25°
Universal nozzle for cleaning large
surfaces.
0°
15°
25°
40°
65°
4 Fan-jet nozzle (white) jet angle 40°
Nozzle for cleaning sensitive
surfaces.
5 Low-pressure nozzle (black) jet
angle 65°
Nozzle for use with a detergent.
Use the low-pressure connector
and suction hose to draw detergent
from a detergent container. The
detergent is added to the water in
the high-pressure pump.
Inserting the spray nozzle
WARNING
To reduce the risk of severe laceration
and other personal injury from fluid
injection, shut off the pressure washer,
relieve system pressure and lock the
spray gun trigger before removing,
installing or adjusting any spray nozzle
or accessory.
WARNING
Confirm that the nozzle is fixed securely
0000-GXX-0328-A0
in the quick-action coupling. If the highpressure nozzle is not secure, it can fly
out of the spray lance during operation
and cause injury.
N Shut off the pressure washer and
squeeze the spray gun trigger to
relieve system pressure
N Lock the spray gun trigger
N Remove all sand and debris from
the connection
21
0000-GXX-0329-A0
N Pull back the coupling sleeve (1) as
far as it will go and hold it there
N Push the high-pressure nozzle (2)
as far as it will go into the coupling
N Push the coupling sleeve forward as
far as it will go
N Pull the high-pressure nozzle and
confirm that it is seated securely
Removing
N Pull back the coupling sleeve (1) as
far as it will go and hold it there
N Pull the high-pressure nozzle (2)
out of the coupling
N Release the coupling sleeve
RB 400
15
English
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Starting the Engine Working
NOTICE
Lack of water can damage the highpressure pump. Only start the engine
when the water hose is connected and
the water supply is turned on.
N Connect the high-pressure hose
N Connect the water supply hose and
turn on the water supply
N Vent the system
See the sections in this instruction
manual on Connecting the Water Supply
and Venting the System.
See the Kohler owner's manual for
complete starting instructions.
Actuating the spray gun
N Direct the spray attachment towards
the surface to be cleaned
N Release the trigger lockout (1)
N Squeeze the spray gun trigger (2)
Standby mode
NOTICE
Running the engine for more than
2 minutes without active spraying can
cause serious damage to the pressure
washer.
Shut off the engine:
– before taking a break
– if leaving the machine unattended
– any time active spraying will be
interrupted for more than 2 minutes
Thermal pressure relief valve
1
2
If the engine is running in standby mode
without active spraying, the water in the
high-pressure pump heats up to 60 °C
(140 °F). The thermal pressure relief
valve automatically lets the hot water
0000-GXX-0330-A0
escape from the high-pressure pump so
that fresh and cool water can flow into
the system.
16
RB 400
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