Distance from paint with pressure washer?

[dmayer]

Does anyone know of any kind of chart that would show safe distances from paint for various force pressure washers?

I just picked up a 3100 psi pressure washer and I don't want to damage my paint. If anyone knows of anything like this I would appreciate if you could share.

Maybe there is some type of formula/calculation?

Thanks.

[Breese147]

I would stay at least a foot away IMO.

[custmsprty]

I'd stay more than a foot with a 3100 psi pressure washer. Personally I never ever use a pressure washer on any of my vehicles or clients vehicles. A foamer with a quality soap has always worked fine for me.

[tw33k2514]

Green tip, 2 feet away. Can't go wrong

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[ShaunD]

The paint isn't really the major concern unless it's damaged. The major concern is the badges, emblems , and decals. Just be smart and use caution.

[Beavis]

If it has a pressure adjustment turn it down. I have a 3000psi washer and I just adjust it down.

[dcjredline]

I would say it depends on the tip you are using. 0degree I wouldnt come anywhere near a foot from the paint. 55 or what ever I would say you may be fine inside of a foot.

[Ragas]

Have a Karcher K3.550 which is approximately 1750 PSI which comes only with a fanning lance which would not harm the paint even if distance is less than a feet

Earlier had a Bosch Aquatak which was 1450 PSI but had a 0 degree lance which would throw the water jet like a needle. This ripped the paint apart when i was a noob and bit over enthusiastic of using the pressure washer to remove stubborn dirt.

So its not just the PSI that matters but a combination of the PSI and the type of lance

[d33p]

If you can put your hand in front of it, its safe. Test it out from 2 ft and go closer...once it hurts you know the distance.

[dcjredline]

I would recommend against putting your hand in front of a pressure washer stream of any kind. Thats why they make the lances so long and not make a button for always on.

JMO