The bottom line is that motor oil is not suitable for pressure washer pumps. Because pumps do not have oil filters hence risk damage due to impurities in motor oils; always use non-detergent oils. And when it comes to replacing used lubricant that has become less viscous, do not overfill the pump.
Can you use SAE 30 in a pressure washer?
Protect your pressure washer investment with high-performance pump oil from STIHL. Our non-detergent SAE 30 Pump Oil is blended from selected premium base oils and is designed to provide good wear protection and resistance to oxidation, rust and foaming.
Do you put oil in pressure washer pump?
Pressure washer water pumps need relatively low oil recommended by the manufacturer, as specified in the owner's manual. (Purchase pre-measured bottles of pump oil for water pumps without dipsticks.) Never use special oil additives or detergents, unless specified in the owner's manual.
What kind of oil do I put in my pressure washer?
Most pressure washer pumps use a 30w non-detergent oil. This is because most pressure washer pumps use splash lubrication. This is a process that includes rotating “dippers” that throw oil into the pistons and cylinders.