I have a used Craftsman 2100 PSI pressure washer that is acting up. I received this pressure washer from a relative who was having problems with it and just decided to buy a new pressure washer instead of messing with it and getting it fixed. The engine starts right up and runs good and smooth, I also have good water pressure from the bib connection. The pressure washer will lose pressure while I am using it. The engine seems to be running fine the entire time. Sometimes I will lose pressure and I will just have to shut it off and try another day other times the pressure will come back after a minute or two. I am assuming it is some sort of problem with the pump but I have no idea what I need to check as I have never messed with a pressure washer pump before. Can anybody direct me in what I need to be checking for, or should I just trash the entire unit? Thanks for any help that you can give!

If the water inlet or filter screen is blocked, clogged or damaged, then disconnect the water supply; clean the water inlet and filter screen. If that screen is damaged, replace it.

If the nozzle orifice obstructed, shut off the engine; purge air from the pump; remove the orifice from the adjustable nozzle or remove the spray tip from the nozzle extension; clean the orifice or spray tip.

If your high pressure hose is leaking, check the O-rings. If damaged, pry off the old O-ring with a flathead screwdriver, and replace it with a new one.

If the water supply is too hot, that could cause such a problem too. So could an inadequate supply water pressure and flow rate.

If the pump oil level is low, add oil to the pressure washer pump.