HD 4/8 X Classic

97688230 (09/22)

97688230 (09/22)
When using this product basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:
Read all the instructions before using the product.
To reduce the risk of injury, close supervision is necessary when a product is used near children.
Know how to stop the product and bleed pressures quickly. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls.
Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating the device.
Do not operate the device when fatigued or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication.
Keep children and bystanders away while operating the device. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
Follow the maintenance instructions specified in the manual.
This product is provided with a Class A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter built into the power cord plug. If replacement of the plug or cord is needed, use only identical replacement parts that include Class A GFCI protection.
If connection is made to a potable water system, the system has to be protected against back flow.
Risk of asphyxiation. Keep packaging film out of the reach of children.
Operation in explosive atmospheres is prohibited.
Risk of injection or injury – Do not direct discharge stream at persons or animals.
High-pressure jets can be dangerous if misused. The jet must not be directed at persons, animals, electrical devices, or the unit itself.
The high-pressure jet must not be directed at other persons or the user him-/herself to clean clothing or footwear.
High-pressure hoses, fixtures and couplings are important for the safety of the device. Only use high-pressure hoses, fixtures and couplings recommended by the manufacturer.
Wear safety goggles.
Before servicing or cleaning the device or removing any parts, shut off power, pull out the power plug and relieve pressure.
Risk of explosion – Do not spray flammable liquids.
Do not use acids, alkaline, solvents or any flammable or toxic liquids or material in this device. These products can cause physical injuries to the operator and irreversible damage to the device.
Risk of electrocution – Inspect cord before using. Do not use if cord is damaged.
Keep all connections dry and off the ground.
Do not touch plug with wet hands.
Do not spray electrical apparatus and wiring.
Do not use extension cord with this product.
Connect to individual branch circuit only.
Gun kicks back – Hold with both hands.
The trigger gun safety lock prevents the spray from accidentally being engaged. This safety feature DOES NOT lock spray in the ON position.
This device has been designed for use with cleaning detergents recommended by the manufacturer. The use of other cleaning detergents may affect the operation of the device and void the warranty.
Indication of an imminent threat of danger that will lead to severe injuries or even death.
Indication of a potentially dangerous situation that may lead to severe injuries or even death.
Indication of a potentially dangerous situation that may lead to minor injuries.
Indication of a potentially dangerous situation that may lead to damage to property.
The owner and/or user must have an understanding of 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 to and discussed with the operator in the operator’s native language by the purchaser/owner, making sure that the operator comprehends its contents.
Owner and/or user must study and maintain the manufacturers’ instructions for future reference.
This device must be grounded. If it should malfunction or break down, grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock.
This device is equipped with a cord having an equipment grounding conductor and ground plug.
The plug must be plugged into an appropriate outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
Improper connection of the equipmentgrounding conductor can result in a risk of electrocution.
Check with a qualified electrician or service personnel if you are in doubt as to whether the outlet is properly grounded.
Do not modify the plug provided with the product - if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
Do not use any type of adapter with this product.
This appliance is supplied with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) built into the power cord plug. This device provides additional protection from the risk of electric shock. If power is interrupted in the line, the GFCI will automatically re-close the circuit to the load after power is restored. Depending on the GFCI model, it may be necessary to operate the reset button to restore power to the GFCI load circuit. If replacement of the plug or cord is needed use identical replacement parts.
When connecting the water inlet with the water supply mains, local regulations of your water company must be observed. In some areas the unit must not be connected directly to the public drinking water supply. This is to ensure that there is no feedback of chemicals into the water supply. Direct connection via a receiver tank or backflow preventer, for example, is permitted.
Dirt in the feed water will damage the unit. To avoid this risk, we recommend fitting a water filter.
Garden hose must be at least 1 inch in diameter.
Flow rate of water supply must not fall below 4 GPM (gallons per minute).
Flow rate can be determined by running the water for one minute into an empty 4-gallon container.
The water temperature must not exceed 140° F/60° C.
Never use the pressure washer to draw in water contaminated with solvents, e.g. paint thinners, gasoline, oil, etc.
Always prevent debris from being drawn into the unit by using a clean water source. Use additional water filter.
Your device must be registered in order to help with any questions or issues that you have. You can register your device at www.karcher-register.com if located in the U.S.A., www.karcher.ca if located in Canada, or www.karcher.com/mx if located in Mexico.
In the case of a warranty claim, you can contact customer support. Please see the contact information listed below for either the USA, Canada or Mexico. You MUST provide your proof of purchase in order to file a warranty claim either via e-mail, phone or fax.
You can contact our Customer Service department by phone at 1-800-537-4129 or via the website at www.karcher-help.com.
You can contact our Customer Service department by phone at 01-800-024-1313 or via the website at www.karcher.com/mx.
You can contact our Customer Service department by phone at 1-800-465-4980 or via the website at www.karcher.com/ca/support.
The scope of delivery for the appliance is shown on the packaging. During unpacking, check the contents for completeness. If any accessories are missing or in the event of any shipping damage, please notify our Customer Service department as stated above either by phone or via the website.
Electrical connection | |
Voltage | 120 V |
Phase | 1 ~ |
Frequency | 60 Hz |
Connection output | 1.4 kW |
Power protection (slow-blowing) | 10 A |
Water connection | |
Feed pressure (max.) | 1.0 (145) MPa (psi) |
Input temperature (max.) | 40 (120) °C (°F) |
Input amount (min.) | 8 (2,1) l/min (gpm) |
Suction height (max.) | 1.0 m |
Device performance data | |
Nozzle size of standard nozzle | 30 |
Water flow rate | 6.5 (1.7) l/min (gpm) |
Operating pressure | 8 (1160) MPa (psi) |
Max. pressure | 12 (1740) MPa (psi) |
Sound power level LWA + uncertainty KWA | 92 dB(A) |
High-pressure gun recoil force | 14.2 N |
Dimensions and weights | |
Weight (without accessories) | 18 kg |
Length x width x height | 350 x 330 x 880 mm |
Read and follow these original instructions and the safety instructions chapter before using the device for the first time. Keep the original instructions for future reference or for future owners.
The high-pressure cleaner with high-pressure jet is intended only for the cleaning of objects, including:
Machines, vehicles, structures, tools, walls, patios and garden equipment.
Dirty water
Premature wear and tear or deposits in the device
Supply the device using only clean water, or recycled water that does not exceed the specified limit values.
The following limit values apply to the water supply:
pH value: 6.5-9.5
Electrical conductivity: Conductivity of fresh water + 1200 µS/cm, maximum conductivity 2000 µS/cm
Settleable particles (sample volume 1 l, settling time 30 minutes): < 0.5 mg/l
Filterable particles: < 50 mg/l, no abrasive substances
Hydrocarbons: < 20 mg/l
Chloride: < 300 mg/l
Sulfate: < 240 mg/l
Calcium: < 200 mg/l
Total hardness: < 28 °dH, < 50° TH, < 500 ppm (mg CaCO3/l)
Iron: < 0.5 mg/l
Manganese: < 0.05 mg/l
Copper: < 2 mg/l
Active chloride: < 0.3 mg/l
Free of unpleasant odors
Missing or modified safety devices
Safety devices are provided for your own protection.
Never modify or bypass safety devices.
The power switch stops you from operating the device unintentionally.
The lock blocks the lever of the high-pressure gun and prevents the device from starting unintentionally.
If the lever on the high-pressure gun is released, the pressure switch switches the pump off and the high-pressure jet stops. If the lever is pressed, the pump switches on again.
The motor circuit breaker shuts off the device if power consumption is too high.
The overflow valve prevents the permissible working pressure from being exceeded. If the lever on the trigger gun is released the pressure switch turns off the pump, the high pressure jet is stopped. If the lever is pulled the pump is turned on again.
This appliance is supplied with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) built into the power cord plug. This device provides additional protection from the risk of electric shock. If power is interrupted in the line, the GFCI will automatically re-close the circuit to the load after power is restored. Depending on the GFCI model, it may be necessary to operate the reset button to restore power to the GFCI load circuit. If replacement of the plug or cord is needed use identical replacement parts.
![]() | Do not aim the high-pressure jet at persons, animals, live electrical equipment or the device itself. Protect the device against frost. |
![]() | According to applicable regulations, the device must never be used with the drinking water network without a system separator. Ensure that the connection to your house water system, with which the high-pressure cleaner is operated, is equipped with a system separator according to EN 12729 type BA. Water that has flowed through a system separator is classified as undrinkable. Always connect the system separator to the water inlet and never directly to the device. |
![]() | WARNINGThe high nozzle outlet speed of the high-pressure water jet results in a high noise level that can cause discomfort or hearing damage (e.g. tinnitus) to persons in the immediate vicinity. A continuously high noise level can result in deafness.
|

Risk of injury!
Control elements for the cleaning process are yellow.
Check package content when unpacking.
In case of shipping damage, inform dealer immediately.
Install the nozzle with the nozzle barrel at the spray lance.

Connect the spray lance to the high-pressure gun.

Screw the high-pressure hose to the high-pressure gun.
Push the hand crank into the hole of the hose reel and make sure the hand crank is secure.

Risk of injury from electric shock
Use a plug (GFCI) to connect the device to the mains grid. Permanent connection to the mains grid is prohibited. The plug (GFCI) is used for disconnection from the mains.
See the type plate or technical data for the connection values.
Unwind the mains cable and place it on the ground.
Plug the mains plug (GFCI) into the socket.
Health risk from return flow of contaminated water into the drinking water network.
Observe the regulations of your water supply company.
Check the feed pressure, input temperature and input amount of the water supply.
Connect the system separator and water connection of the device with a hose (minimum length 7.5 m, minimum diameter 3/4”).
The supply hose is not included in the scope of delivery.
Open the water inlet.
Open the water inlet.
Remove the high-pressure nozzle.
Switch on the device.
Allow the device to run until the escaping water is free of air bubbles.
Switch off the device.
Fit the high-pressure nozzle.
Risk of explosion!
Do not spray flammable liquids.
If the device is used in hazardous areas (e.g. filling stations), the corresponding safety regulations must be observed.
Push back the safety lock and actuate the trigger.

The high-pressure gun opens.
Release the trigger and push the safety lock forward.
Then the high-pressure gun closes.
The device can be operated vertically.
The device is equipped with a pressure switch. The motor only starts up when the high-pressure gun is open.
The high-pressure hose should be kept away from sharp edges.
Unfold the high-pressure hose completely from the hose reel.
Open the water supply.
Set the power switch to "1".
Open the safety lock of the high-pressure gun.
Aim the high-pressure gun at the object to be cleaned .
Open the high-pressure gun and start the cleaning operation.
A foam lance (optional) is needed for operating with detergent.
Incorrect handling of detergents
Health risk
Adhere to the safety instructions stated on the detergent packaging.
Unsuitable detergents
Damage to the device and the objects to be cleaned
Use only detergents approved by KÄRCHER.
Observe the dosing recommendations and notes provided with the detergent.
Use detergents sparingly to help conserve the environment.
KÄRCHER detergents ensure fault-free operation. Please feel free to request a consultation, our catalogue or our detergent information sheets.
Fill the detergent into the container of the foam lance. (Follow the dosage instructions on the detergent bottle.)
Spray the detergent sparingly on the dry surface and let it work for while (do not let it dry).
Rinse off the loosened dirt with the high-pressure jet.
Flush the foam lance with clear water for approx. 30 seconds.
Risk of injury!
Switch the device off prior to replacing nozzle and do not activate hand spray gun until the device is pressureless.
Secure the high-pressure gun. To do so, push the safety lever towards the front.
Unscrew nozzle screws and remove the nozzle.
Put on a new nozzle.
Screw on the nozzle barrel and tighten them by hand.
Release the lever of the high-pressure gun.
The device switches off when the lever is released. The high pressure in the system is retained.
Lock the lever of the high-pressure gun.
Switch the device off "0/OFF" during work breaks longer than 5 minutes.
Shut off the water supply.
Open the high-pressure gun.
Set the power switch to "1" and let the device run for 5 to 10 seconds.
Set the power switch to "0" .
Close the high-pressure gun.
Unplug the power supply from the device with dry hands.
Remove water inlet.
Push the safety lock forward.
Failure to observe the weight
Risk of injury and damage
Be aware of the weight of the device during transportation.
Place the spray lance with the high-pressure gun on the hooks.
Wind the power cable around the cable hooks.
Without hose reel: Wind up the high-pressure hose and hang it over the hook.
With hose reel: Wind the high-pressure hose onto the hose reel.
When transporting the device in vehicles, secure the device against shifting and tipping over.
For short distance transportation, pull the telescopic handle to drag the device.

When going up stairs, hold the additional handle and lift the device up.

Failure to observe the weight
Risk of injury and damage
Be aware of the weight of the device during storage.
Store the device indoors only.
Frost destroys the device if it is not completely drained of water.
Store the device in a frost-free location.
If frost-free storage is not possible:
Drain excess water.
Pump commonly available anti-freeze through the device.
Allow the device to run for a maximum of 1 minute until the pump and lines are empty.
Use commonly available, Glycol-based vehicle anti-freeze. Observe the handling instructions of the anti-freeze manufacturer.
Specially formulated to protect your pressure washer from freezing, corrosion, and premature wear. The Pump Guard also adds lubrication to valves and seals to prevent sticking. Highly recommended for all Karcher pressure washers!
Part Number - 9.558-998.0
Inadvertently starting up the device
Risk of injury, electric shock
Switch off the device immediately and unplug the mains plug before performing work.
Check the connection cable for damage, have a damaged cable replaced immediately by the authorized Customer Service or a qualified electrician.
Check high-pressure hose for damage, replace damaged high-pressure hose immediately.
Check the device for leaks. 3 drops of water per minute are permissible. Contact Customer Service in case of more serious leaks.
Clean the water filter, see ChapterCleaning the water filter.
Damaged water filter in the water connection
Damage to the device through contaminated water
Check the water filter for damage before inserting it into the water connection.
Pull the water filter out.
Clean the water filter under running water.
Re-insert the water filter into the water connection.
Risk of injury due to inadvertently starting up device and also due to electric shock.
Switch off the device immediately and unplug the mains plug before performing work.
Have electrical components checked and repaired by authorised Customer Service.
In case of any malfunctions not mentioned in this chapter, contact Customer Service when in doubt or when you have been explicitly advised to do so.
Device does not start
Remedy:
Reset GFCI plug.
Check the power cable for damage.
Check the mains voltage.
If the device overheats:
Set the power switch to "0".
Allow the device to cool for at least 15 minutes.
Set the power switch to "1".
Contact Customer Service in case of electrical faults.
Device not building up pressure
Remedy:
Fit the standard nozzle.
Clean / replace the high-pressure nozzle.
Vent the device.
Clean the water filter.
Clean all inlet pipes to the pump.
Check the water supply volume.
Pump leaking
Up to 3 drops of water per minute are permissible.
Remedy:
In case of more serious leaks, have the device checked by Customer Service.
Pump knocking
Remedy:
Clean the water filter.
Check the water supply line for leaks.
Vent the device.
Contact Customer Service if necessary.