The END is near (California guys)

[Nessism]

Another power outage hit. This time, surging power. It was scary. Light bulbs dimming and brightening...then...POP! Unplugged everything, before getting smart, and turning off all the breakers.

No problem, I thought, pull out the generator. Did so and dang, the carburetor was gunked up! MY BAD! Thought I had staybil in the gas last time I used it? Apparently not! Went to bed, hoping Edison shows up soon. Morning time, nothing. Went to work on the generator. It took me way too long to learn the unit, and how much disassemble was needed to get the carb off. Got it all sorted just in time, because the power came back on. Oh well, now I know my machine better!

Over last weekend, I fired up the echo 2 stroke trimmer for the first time. I've been using the Honda, but it's too heavy, so I bought a sidewalk trimmer attachment, and it will be dedicated for that purpose. And the Echo is one fine piece of kit. Light, powerful, and idles smooth as silk. This is not your granddads 2 stroke! Used a can of TrueFuel 40:1 and the machine ran perfect, and didn't stink! So NICE!

 

[Nessism]

Got me another gas powered power tool coming my way. This time, a pressure washer. Ordered from Home Depot. [STRIKE]Either they are not paying attention to the California ban, or this unit was made before the ban.[/STRIKE] Anyway, I'm excited. Was considering electric, but reviews suggest most units are weak sauce, or they require more than 15A's, which is a big ask through a long extension cord.

Edit: learned after posting that CA has a ban on gas pressure washers, but not starting until 2028. Just like gas generators.

Oh, and loaded up with a 5 gallon jug of stabilized gas in the garage. This, in addition to the normal 2.5 gallon jug. This should last through most common power outages we get in my area, times 3. It's good to be prepared.


Screenshot 2025-11-07 055555 by nessism, on Flickr

 

[trevor]

I bought my Honda power washer from a buddy that owns an equipment rental place....$250cdn....pro tip...if you want things like this Rental places are great because they are constantly replacing stuff with new....and they maintain to equipment for obvious reasons.
I learned from my dad buying riding lawn mowers etc from Fire Halls was a good idea too because they take care of their shlt.

 

[ptegsotic]

Got me another gas powered power tool coming my way. This time, a pressure washer.

if you're hitting any 'open' surfaces (driveways / wide walkways) ... don't forget a disc attachment (two nozzles spinning in a circle)
friggin' godsend
I think 2700psi is adequate (?) ... I's given a 3100PSI / 2.5 GPM and the spinning nozzles are a game changer

slow and steady wins the race. A great tool for sprucing up a place!

 

[Nessism]

if you're hitting any 'open' surfaces (driveways / wide walkways) ... don't forget a disc attachment (two nozzles spinning in a circle)
friggin' godsend
I think 2700psi is adequate (?) ... I's given a 3100PSI / 2.5 GPM and the spinning nozzles are a game changer

slow and steady wins the race. A great tool for sprucing up a place!

The Westinghouse unit I bought comes in a lot of different power levels. I got the 2700, but they also have a 3000, 3200, and 3400, all within a price range of only $60. They all seem to use the same gas engine, and weigh the same, too. I assume it relates to the pump, and/or, the drive ratio they are spinning the pump at. A review on youtube of the 2700 suggests the machine is quite powerful. Many reviews of other machines typically show the unit unable to meet specs. Anyway, I decided to go for the lower output unit, with the hopeful assumption that it will be durable. I've seen those spinning disc cleaner things, and I may grab one. I don't see myself using this machine more than a few times a year, though.

 

[Vmass]

I bought a Ryobi 3300 psi with Honda Engine. For some unknown reason, I typically stay away from Ryobi. However, I decided on this one primarily due to Honda and the multi-tip nozzle that has three options plus soap. Very happy with it.

With regard to battery operated yard toys, Ego trimmer and hedge trimmer have exceeded every expectation.

 

[ptegsotic]

The Westinghouse unit I bought comes in a lot of different power levels. I got the 2700, but they also have a 3000, 3200, and 3400, all within a price range of only $60. They all seem to use the same gas engine, and weigh the same, too. I assume it relates to the pump, and/or, the drive ratio they are spinning the pump at. A review on youtube of the 2700 suggests the machine is quite powerful. Many reviews of other machines typically show the unit unable to meet specs. Anyway, I decided to go for the lower output unit, with the hopeful assumption that it will be durable. I've seen those spinning disc cleaner things, and I may grab one. I don't see myself using this machine more than a few times a year, though.

great ... looks like the 2700psi would be fine for disc operation
the advantage is not only do you cover way more real estate with each pass ... but there's also the consistency of the 'finish'. You can imagine doing a driveway swinging the gun back & forth (individual nozzle) / even walkways ... you'll inevitably get some streaking. The individual nozzles are great for corners and vertical applications.

I lent this Ryobi to a neighbor who was stoked with the disc ... but it was hilarious watching him start out, as he was simulating using a broom ... pushing back and forth, as I had initially done LOL. BUT just a slow crawl in one direction and the disc kicks butt. It actually does great with edges too (eg where concrete meets grass. You can audibly hear when you're getting the edge done. Again, I highly recommend, even if it's only a couple times a year.

 

[bccap]

The Westinghouse unit I bought comes in a lot of different power levels. I got the 2700, but they also have a 3000, 3200, and 3400, all within a price range of only $60. They all seem to use the same gas engine, and weigh the same, too. I assume it relates to the pump, and/or, the drive ratio they are spinning the pump at. A review on youtube of the 2700 suggests the machine is quite powerful. Many reviews of other machines typically show the unit unable to meet specs. Anyway, I decided to go for the lower output unit, with the hopeful assumption that it will be durable. I've seen those spinning disc cleaner things, and I may grab one. I don't see myself using this machine more than a few times a year, though.

How's that " I love gas powered stuff " working out for you California ?

​

 

[Nessism]

How's that " I love gas powered stuff " working out for you California ?

It's working out GREAT! Thanks for asking!

I've got a gifted 1995 Homelite Super 2 chainsaw that I'm starting work on. It's a homeowner grade saw, but that's all I need. Low mileage, but the rubber fuel lines are shot. I replaced them a few years ago, but the lines the shop sold me are too thin, and they kink really easy. I'm trying to figure out what line to buy, and also buy a new chain. Homelite sold a crap ton of saws back in the day, and they changed them often, also. It's hard to figure out what I need to buy. I'll get it, though. All part of the fun!

BTW, it's been awhile since the last rain in my area. Coming soon though, through the next few days. My back yard has turned GREEN! Love it. It costs too much money to water both the front and back, so the back is left to fend for itself. I've come to learn that my specific area in So Calif has exceptional weather. All year, I only needed to turn on the AC three times. Heat is needed this time of year, but it's minimal. And that's a good thing, because my house is not very well insulated!

 

[LAB3]

The thing that kills any old chainsaw I've ever worked on is the seals, once those dry out from lack of use it's cheaper to buy another saw as opposed to the parts to fix the one you have.

 

[ptegsotic]

'round-the-house pruning? ... my chainsaws no longer get used ...

Cordless Reciprocating tool baby! esp with all the diff blades you can get.