The inlet and outlet connectors on your Karcher pressure washer are prone to gradual wear and tear. This can lead to them not working, which is identifiable by the hoses no longer connecting properly and leaks coming from the connectors. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the connectors to keep your pressure washer in working order.
Fortunately, this is not a replacement you need to rely on a repairman for, but one you can carry out yourself. In this article, we're going to guide you through how to replace the inlet and outlet connectors on a Karcher pressure washer quickly and safely.
What you will need
To successfully replace the inlet and outlet connectors on your Karcher pressure washer, you will need the following:
Finding your model number
When purchasing new connectors, it's important that you know your pressure washer's model number to make sure you buy the correct parts for your particular appliance. You can do this by finding the model number. This will be displayed on a sticker or data plate which can usually be found at the base, side or back of the appliance. The model number may be a combination of letters and numbers and could also include characters such as a dash (-) or a slash (/).
How to Replace the Inlet and Outlet Connectors
Let's get started with the replacement! To learn how to replace the connectors on your Karcher pressure washer, either watch the video or follow our step-by-step guide below.
Safety first!
Before beginning any repairs or replacements, it's important to make sure any appliance is switched off and unplugged from the mains for your own safety.
Step 1: Remove the casing
First, you'll need to remove the pressure washer's casing to access the connectors. To do this, use a Torx head screwdriver to remove the screws that keep the casing in place, then lift the casing away from the pressure washer.
You will then be able to see the inlet cover which connects to the garden hose...
And the outlet cover, which connects to the pressure hose and handgun.
Step 2: Removing the inlet connector
To remove the old inlet connector, remove the metal C clip from underneath the connector using a screwdriver. You can then slide the connector out of the appliance.
When buying a replacement inlet connector, it's important to note that it can come as either one part or two separate parts, depending on your specific appliance's model.
It may also come with a replacement inlet valve. If so, the old valve can be removed with a pair of tweezers, and the new valve can simply be slotted into place.
Step 3: Removing the outlet connector
The outlet connector is removed in the same way; by releasing the metal C clip, this time from the side of the connector, and sliding the connector out of the appliance.
When you get hold of a replacement outlet connector, there's no valve to worry about, unlike with the inlet connector.
With the old connectors removed, you can refit the new ones by simply sliding them into place and re-engaging the C clips for both connectors. Then screw the casing back into place with the screws you removed earlier, again using your Torx head screwdriver.
Step 4: Bleed the pressure washer
Finally, it is recommended that you bleed the pressure washer once the appliance has been reassembled. This is to get rid of any air left inside. To do this, just connect your garden hose to the inlet connector and run it for two or three minutes with the power off.
And there you go! Everything you need to know about safely and securely replacing the inlet and outlet connectors on a Karcher pressure washer.
Now that your pressure washer is back in shape, make sure you're using it as safely as possible too. Our article on important safety checks for your pressure washer will provide you with all the information and guidance you need to stay safe whilst handling your appliance.
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