Kärcher K 3.86 M High Pressure Washer Operator Manual

Table of Contents

Refer to the page numbers for detailed information:

1. Model Overview: 3
2. Important Safety Instructions: 4-5
3. Assembly Instructions: 6
4. Operating Instructions: 7-8
5. Using the Accessories: 8
6. Working with Detergents: 9-10
7. Taking a Break: 10
8. Shutting Down & Clean-Up: 11
9. Winterizing and Long-Term Storage: 12
10. Care and Maintenance Instructions: 12
11. Cleaning Tips: 13-14
12. Optional Cleaning Accessories: 15-16
13. Troubleshooting: 17-18

Specifications

Kärcher Customer Support

Mexico: Call 01-800-024-13-13 or visit www.karcher.com.mx

USA: Call 1-800-537-4129 or visit www.karcher-usa.com/home. Register your pressure washer online at www.karcher-usa.com/warranty.

Canada: Call 1-800-465-4980 or visit www.karcher-canada.com

Safety Alert Symbols

⚠️ DANGER indicates "an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.".

⚠️ WARNING indicates "a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or injury.".

⚠️ CAUTION indicates "a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury or in property damage incidents.".

Owner/User Responsibility

The owner and/or user must understand the manufacturer's operating instructions and warnings before using this pressure washer. Warning information should be emphasized and understood. If the operator is not fluent in English, the manufacturer's instructions and warnings shall be read and discussed with the operator in their native language by the purchaser/owner, ensuring comprehension. The owner and/or user must study and maintain the manufacturer's instructions for future reference.

Model Overview

The Kärcher K 3.86 M pressure washer includes the following components:

1. Power cord with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)
2. High pressure outlet
3. ON/OFF switch
4. Water inlet with garden hose connector (not shown)
5. Detergent tank (removeable)
6. Detergent dosing valve and detergent suction tube
7. Transport handle
8. Accessory compartment
9. High pressure hose
10. Trigger gun
11. Trigger gun safety lock
12. Vario Power Spray wand
13. Dirtblaster® (Rotating spray wand)

⚠️ CAUTION: This unit is designed for use with Kärcher-recommended cleaning detergents. Using other detergents may affect machine operation and void the warranty.

This product is for household use only!

Important Safety Instructions

⚠️ WARNING! When using this product, basic precautions must always be followed:

• Read all instructions before use.
• Close supervision is necessary when the product is used near children to reduce the risk of injury.
• Know how to stop the product and bleed pressures quickly. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls.
• Stay alert and watch what you are doing.
• Do not operate when fatigued or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Keep the operating area clear of all persons.
• Do not overreach or stand on unstable support. Maintain good footing and balance at all times.
• Follow the maintenance instructions specified in the manual.
• This product is provided with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) built into the power cord plug. Use only identical replacement parts if the plug or cord needs replacement.
• Risk of Injection or Injury: Do not direct the discharge stream at persons. High pressure jets can be dangerous if misused. The jet must not be directed at persons, animals, electrical devices, or the machine itself.
• Wear safety goggles.
• Do not use acids and solvents in this product, as they can cause physical injuries and irreversible damage to the machine.
• To reduce the risk of electrocution, keep all connections dry and off the ground. Do not touch the plug with wet hands.
• The Trigger Gun Safety Lock prevents the trigger from accidentally engaging but does not lock the trigger in the ON position.
• Do not use an extension cord with this unit.

Grounding Instructions

This product must be grounded. Grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock in case of malfunction or breakdown. The product is equipped with an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be inserted into an appropriate outlet that is properly installed and grounded according to all local codes and ordinances.

⚠️ DANGER: Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electrocution. Consult a qualified electrician or service personnel if you are unsure about outlet grounding. Do not modify the provided plug; if it does not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician. Do not use any type of adapter with this product.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter Protection

This product includes a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) in the power cord plug for added protection against electric shock. If power is interrupted, the GFCI will automatically re-close the circuit when power is restored. Depending on the GFCI model, a manual reset may be required.

Water Supply (Cold Water Only)

⚠️ CAUTION: Observe local regulations of your water company when connecting to the water supply mains. In some areas, direct connection to the public drinking water supply is prohibited to prevent chemical feedback. Connection via a receiver tank or backflow preventer is permitted.

Dirt in the feed water can damage the unit. A water filter is recommended to prevent this risk.

• Garden hose must be at least 5/8 inch in diameter.
• Water supply flow rate must not fall below 2 GPM (gallons per minute).
• Flow rate can be measured by running water into an empty 5-gallon container for one minute.
• 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).
• Always use a clean water source to prevent debris from being drawn into the unit.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!!

Assembly Instructions

Required tools:

• A: Philips Screwdriver, medium size (not supplied) for final assembly.
• B: Screwdriver, small size (not supplied) for connecting high pressure hose and trigger gun.

STEP 1: Mount cover to backside.

STEP 2: Attach the handle and secure with 2 screws.

STEP 3: Place detergent tank into compartment and attach cap with detergent dosing valve and detergent suction tube.

STEP 4: Attach the high pressure hose to the trigger gun. Pull out the locking slide from the right side of the trigger gun handle (A), insert the small end of the high pressure hose into place (B), and push the locking slide back to lock the hose (C).

Operating Instructions

STEP 1: Connect the high pressure hose to the unit's high pressure outlet.

STEP 2: Insert the spray wand of your choice into the trigger gun. Press in against the spring tension and twist into the locked position.

STEP 3: Connect garden hose to the unit's water inlet.

STEP 4: Connect garden hose to the cold water source and turn water on completely.

STEP 5: Plug the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) into a receptacle. Press RESET button; indicator should be "ON". Press TEST button; indicator should be "OFF". Press RESET button for use.

⚠️ WARNING: Do not use if the above test fails.

STEP 6: Unlock the trigger gun safety lock. Trigger the gun to eliminate trapped air, wait for a steady flow of water to emerge from the spray nozzle.

STEP 7: Turn on the high pressure washer (I). The motor starts only if the trigger of the gun is pulled and shuts off when the trigger is released.

Using the Accessories

⚠️ WARNING: To avoid serious injury, never point the spray nozzle at yourself, other persons, or animals.

Vario Power Spray Wand

The Vario Power Spray Wand allows you to adjust the cleaning pressure. For maximum pressure, position the wand to the high pressure setting (Max). For lower pressure, turn the wand collar in the minus (Min) direction. To apply detergent, the wand must be positioned to the lower pressure setting (Min).

Dirtblaster®

This nozzle features a 0° pencil jet that rotates 360° for maximum dirt cutting action, increasing cleaning performance by up to 50%. It combines the cleaning power of a 0° pencil jet with the surface coverage of a wide angle nozzle. Not recommended for soft materials, siding, painted surfaces, decks, or autos. Always test an inconspicuous area before cleaning with the Dirtblaster®.

Working with Detergents

Detergents can only be applied at low pressure (Min.).

STEP 1: Install the Vario Power Spray Wand. Set the spray wand to the low pressure setting (Min.).

STEP 2: Fill the Detergent Tank with the selected Ready To Use detergent.

STEP 3: Adjust the detergent dosing valve to the desired dosage.

STEP 4: Turn on the pressure washer (I). Pull the trigger to operate; liquid detergent is drawn into the unit and mixed with water. Apply detergent to the work area. Do not allow detergent to dry on the surface.

STEP 5: Cleaning up: Always draw fresh water through the detergent tank when done to flush any remaining detergents from the injection system.

For best results, see Cleaning Tips for specific information on how to clean different surfaces.

Always Use Kärcher Detergent for Best Results

Kärcher biodegradable detergents are specially formulated to protect the environment and your pressure washer. Their formula prevents clogging of the suction tube filter and protects internal parts for a longer life. For Kärcher Detergents, check your retailer or visit www.karcher-usa.com/home.

The following Kärcher detergents are available:

• One Gallon ready to use
• All Purpose & Vehicle Cleaner
• Deck & Patio Cleaner
• Heavy Duty Degreaser
• Exterior House Cleaner

⚠️ CAUTION: Never use:

• Bleach, Chlorine products, and other corrosive chemicals
• Liquids containing solvents (e.g., paint thinners, gasoline, oils)
• Tri-sodium phosphate products
• Ammonia products
• Acid-based products

These chemicals will harm the unit and damage the surface being cleaned. Use of these items will void the warranty.

Taking a Break (five minutes or more)

STEP 1: Release trigger and engage gun safety lock.

STEP 2: Turn pressure washer to OFF (O) position.

Shutting Down & Clean-Up

STEP 1: Turn the switch to OFF (0) position and unplug the cord from the outlet.

STEP 2: Turn off the water source.

STEP 3: Press trigger to release water pressure.

STEP 4: Disconnect the garden hose from the water inlet on the unit.

STEP 5: Disconnect the high pressure hose from the high pressure outlet.

STEP 6: Release trigger and engage gun safety lock.

Winterizing and Long-Term Storage

1. Disconnect all water connections.
2. Turn on the machine for a few seconds until water exits the pump, then turn off immediately.
3. Do not allow the high pressure hose to become kinked.
4. Store the machine and accessories in a room that does not reach freezing temperatures. Do not store near a furnace or other heat sources, as this may dry out the pump seals.

⚠️ CAUTION: Failure to follow these directions may result in damage to the pump assembly and accessories. Kärcher recommends using a pump protector like "Kärcher Pump Guard" for storage during winter months.

Care and Maintenance Instructions

Cleaning the Water Inlet Filter

STEP 1: Pull out washer from the water inlet.

STEP 2: Pull out water inlet filter with flat-nose pliers.

STEP 3: Rinse out water inlet filter in warm water.

STEP 4: Reinsert water inlet filter and washer into the water inlet.

Maintenance

The unit is maintenance-free.

Cleaning Tips

Deck Cleaning

(with or without detergent). Pre-rinse deck and surrounding area with fresh water. If using Kärcher Deck Wash, apply to surface at low pressure. For best results, limit work area to sections of approximately 25 square feet. Allow Deck Wash 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 to a new section, overlap the previous section to eliminate stop marks and ensure an even cleaning result.

House Siding

(with or without detergent). Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water. If using Kärcher Pressure Wash, apply to surface at low pressure (for best results, limit work area to sections of approximately 6 feet and always apply detergent from bottom to top). Allow Pressure Wash to remain on surface 1-3 minutes. Do not allow detergent to dry on surface; if it appears dry, wet down with fresh water. If needed, use a special wash brush attachment (not included) 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 Pressure Wash or Degreaser, apply to surface at low pressure. For best results, limit work area to sections of approximately 25 square feet. Allow Pressure Wash or Degreaser 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. For extremely stubborn stains, use the Dirtblaster Nozzle.

Cars, Boats & Motorcycles

(with or without detergent). Pre-rinse vehicle with fresh water. If using Kärcher Touchless Vehicle Wash, apply to surface at low pressure. For best results, clean one side of the vehicle at a time and always apply detergent from bottom to top; do not allow detergent to dry on surface. If needed, use a special wash brush attachment (not included) to remove stubborn dirt. Rinse at high pressure in a sweeping motion, keeping the spray nozzle approximately 6-8 inches from the cleaning surface (increase distance 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.

Barbecue Grills, Outdoor Power Equipment & Gardening Tools

(with or without detergent). Pre-rinse cleaning surface with fresh water. If using Kärcher Pressure Wash or Degreaser, apply detergent at low pressure. Allow Pressure Wash 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 extremely stubborn dirt, it may be necessary to move the spray nozzle closer to the surface for greater dirt cutting action.

Patio & Lawn Furniture

(with or without detergent). Pre-rinse furniture and surrounding area with fresh water. If using Pressure Wash, apply to surface at low pressure. Allow Pressure Wash to remain on surface 1-3 minutes. Do not allow detergent to dry on surface. If needed, use a special Wash Brush Attachment (not included) 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, clean an inconspicuous area to test spray pattern and distance for maximum cleaning results.
• If painted surfaces are peeling or chipping, use extreme caution as the pressure washer may remove loose paint.
• When using on surfaces that might come into contact with food, flush surfaces with plenty of drinking water.
• For additional cleaning tips, visit our website at www.karcher-usa.com/home.

Optional Cleaning Accessories

Optional accessories are available to enhance cleaning capabilities. These are accurate as of the printing date of this manual. Check www.karcher-usa.com/home for pricing and up-to-date information.

Pump Guard

Specially formulated to protect your pressure washer from freezing, corrosion, and premature wear. Adds lubrication to valves and seals to prevent sticking. Highly recommended for all Kärcher pressure washers! Part No. 9.558-998.0

Water Pumping Kit

Attaches to your pressure washer to quickly pump large quantities of water from a standing source (e.g., barrel, bucket). Fits most Kärcher pressure washers up to 2300 PSI. Part No. 2.637-214.0

25 Ft. Extension /Replacement High-Pressure Hose

Replacement hose fits Kärcher pressure washers with screw-on type gun connections from 2400psi to 2500psi. Extension Hose for all Kärcher high pressure washers between the original equipment hose and machine up to 2500 psi. Part No. 2.640-850.0

66" Extension Wand (Four piece)

Increases reach by up to 66" for cleaning second-story windows or high areas. Includes 4 aluminum sections for variable length. Fits most Kärcher pressure washers up to 2300 PSI. (bayonet) Part No. 2.640-746.0

Rotating Wash Brush (bayonet)

For effortless cleaning of smooth surfaces (painted, glass, plastic). Use on automobiles, house siding, or windows. Water pressure spins inner brushes. Adjustable brush head helps reach difficult areas. Excellent for detergent application. Designed for Kärcher pressure washers up to 2300 PSI. Part No. 2.640-743.0

Soft Clean Washing Brush

Made with soft bristles that won't harm painted surfaces. Attaches directly to the trigger gun. Ideal for stubborn dirt on cars, boats, patio furniture, and other surfaces. Great for applying detergent. Fits most Kärcher pressure washers up to 2300 PSI. (bayonet) Part No. 2.640-740.0

25 ft. Pipe Cleaning Kit (bayonet)

For cleaning blocked pipes, drains, or downspouts. The pipe cleaner propels itself forward while flushing out debris. Insert the cleaning nozzle into the base of a downspout, pull the trigger, and the nozzle shoots out debris while climbing upward. Connects directly to the trigger gun of most Kärcher pressure washers up to 2300 PSI. Part No. 2.640-747.0

Wet Sandblasting Kit (bayonet)

Strips old paint and rust without harsh chemicals. Attach the kit, add abrasive material, and attack rust and paint. An eco-friendly alternative. Fits most Kärcher pressure washers up to 2300 PSI. Part No. 2.638-792.0

Detergent Foamer Attachment

For applications requiring thick foam. Fill the reservoir cup with liquid pressure washer detergent to generate a foam spray. Connects directly to the trigger gun. Fits most Kärcher pressure washers up to 2300 PSI. (bayonet) Part No. 6.964-507.0

T 100 Wide Area Surface Cleaner

For cleaning surfaces like patios, terraces, and driveways without splash-back. Cleans a one-foot wide area gently as it hovers, providing consistent, streak-free cleaning. Remove the wand to use the handle for cleaning garage doors and vertical surfaces. Includes two high-speed spinning nozzles. Top-selling accessory for Kärcher pressure washers up to 2300 PSI. (bayonet) Part No. 2.640-959.0

Troubleshooting

⚠️ CAUTION: Disconnect the machine from the power source before making any repair.

Kärcher Customer Support USA: Call 1-800-537-4129 or visit www.karcher-usa.com/home

Kärcher Customer Service CDN: Call 1-800-465-4980 or visit www.karcher.ca