QuestionI've been pressure washing for a couple days. Engine started dying with gas still in tank. It would restart easy, but then die again. Third time, it died with metallic sounds. I checked oil, and oil dipstick was loose for some reason. Oil was gone either by hook or by crook. I can't restart it and suspect engine damage.
I've removed pump and engine from housing. Now I want to know how to tell if suspected damage is actual, and if it is only in engine, but not in pump. How do I go about this? Is there any chance the engine can be cleaned or fixed? What exactly should I look for? Thanks.
AnswerRemove the pump and spark plug. See if you can turn the engine. If not, start taking off external engine parts to access the flywheel. Once you know there are no external parts causing the problem try to turn the engine again using the flywheel and your hand.
If you still can not turn the engine, in either direction, remove the valve cover and see if you can see any signs of lack of lubrication. Usually parts will be blue, dis-colored or they maybe shine and really wore.
If you are certain there's nothing outside the engine causing the problem then it's time to remove the head and check the cylinder/piston.
You will have to determine which part are bad inside, if there is internal damage, to determine if the engine is worth fixing.
FYI, we rarely fix anything inside these days as the labor and parts often cost more than a new engine or entire new piece of equipment.
Eric
