Who makes engines for Westinghouse power washers?

Westinghouse is a well-known brand name when it comes to power washers. Westinghouse power washers are designed for both residential and commercial use, offering high power and performance. A critical component of any power washer is the engine – this is what delivers the power and pressure needed to effectively clean all kinds of surfaces. When considering a Westinghouse power washer, one of the key questions consumers have is – who makes the engines used in these machines?

Major Engine Manufacturers for Westinghouse Power Washers

Westinghouse relies on partnerships with major engine manufacturers to source the engines used in their power washer models. Here are some of the main engine suppliers for Westinghouse power washers:

Briggs & Stratton

Briggs & Stratton is one of the most reputable names when it comes to small engines. This American company has over 110 years of experience in designing, manufacturing and marketing air cooled gasoline engines. They are a leading producer of push lawn mower and small industrial engines. Many Westinghouse power washer models utilize Briggs & Stratton engines, which are valued for their reliable cold weather starting, low oil consumption and long operating life.

Honda

The Japanese company Honda is the world’s largest engine manufacturer, producing a wide range of automotive and power equipment engines. Honda engines are revered for their dependable performance, fuel efficiency and low emissions. Some higher-end Westinghouse power washer models feature Honda GC Series OHC residential engines, which deliver durable and quiet operation.

Simpson

Simpson is an American company that specializes in the manufacture of outdoor power equipment. They have a long-standing relationship with Westinghouse to supply engines for select power washer models. These Simpson branded engines offer convenient features like push-button electric starting.

Westinghouse

In addition to sourcing from external suppliers, some Westinghouse power washer models utilize proprietary Westinghouse engines. These engines are designed and built specifically for use in Westinghouse pressure washers. Using their own in-house engines allows Westinghouse to optimize performance and create differentiated power washer models.

Factors Influencing Engine Selection

When selecting which engine brand and model to use in their power washers, Westinghouse takes into account several considerations:

Machine Power Output

The intended power output of the power washer model influences what engine Westinghouse will specify. More powerful machines require heavier duty engines that can generate higher water pressure and flow rates. Less powerful residential models can rely on standard small engines.

Cost

Westinghouse aims to provide affordable power washers to consumers, so engine selection is partly driven by cost factors. Striking the optimal balance between performance and affordable pricing is key. More expensive commercial-grade engines may be utilized in premium models.

Noise Levels

Engine noise is an important factor, especially for residential power washers used in communities. Westinghouse will select engines designed to minimize noise levels and vibrations. Features like overhead valve designs help reduce noise.

Emissions

As emissions regulations for small engines tighten, Westinghouse will migrate to engine platforms that comply with the latest standards like CARB and EPA. California requires power washers to meet strict CARB emission regulations.

Fuel Type

Gasoline remains the predominant fuel for power washer engines, but Westinghouse also offers models running on propane or diesel for specialized needs. The required fuel type will determine the engine model.

Starting Mechanism

Westinghouse power washers are available with different engine starting mechanisms – recoil pull cord, electric start or both. The starting mechanism necessitates particular engine configurations and components.

Distribution Partnerships

Westinghouse has established distribution relationships with leading engine brands like Honda and Briggs & Stratton. Leveraging these partnerships allows them to source reliable, tested engines on an ongoing basis.

Sourcing and Manufacturing Process

Westinghouse utilizes a global supply chain to source engines for their power washers from external manufacturers as well as building their own models:

Working with Brand Name Manufacturers

For major engine brands like Honda and Briggs & Stratton, Westinghouse will work closely with these companies to specify engine requirements and place procurement orders. The manufacturers are responsible for building the engines to the required specifications.

Coordinating Logistics

Getting the engines from manufacturers to Westinghouse’s factories requires careful supply chain coordination. Shipping and logistics must be arranged taking into account factors like customs, freight movements and warehousing.

Engine Testing

Upon receipt at Westinghouse facilities, a sample of engines from each shipment is tested for performance and quality control. This verifies the engines meet standards before being utilized in power washer assembly.

Inventory Management

Westinghouse utilizes inventory management systems to track engine inventory levels and optimize just-in-time delivery for power washer manufacturing. This minimizes stock holding costs.

Assembly Integration

Within Westinghouse’s power washer factories, the sourced engines are integrated into the final products along with other components like pumps, frames, and accessories. The assembly process is streamlined for efficiency.

Producing Proprietary Engines

For power washers with Westinghouse proprietary engines, the company manages the full design and manufacturing process in-house across their factories. This provides full control over these engine platforms.

Testing and Quality Control

Every Westinghouse power washer model must go through rigorous testing and quality checks before being approved for sale. This includes testing engine performance and operation as part of the completed machine.

Westinghouse Power Washer Engine Warranties

Understanding the warranty coverage provided on the engines used in Westinghouse power washers provides valuable insight:

External Brand Name Engines

For external engine brands like Honda or Briggs & Stratton, the engine manufacturer’s standard warranty applies. This is typically 2 years residential, 1 year commercial. Westinghouse supplements this with their own overall machine warranty.

Westinghouse Branded Engines

Proprietary Westinghouse engines carry a 2 year consumer warranty. This covers defects in materials or workmanship. Some limitations apply – commercial use is only covered for 1 year.

Warranty Support

If an engine issue arises, consumers should first use the engine manufacturer’s warranty process where applicable. Westinghouse provides backup support and may arrange service, provide replacement parts or other remedies if not addressed directly by the engine maker.

Exclusions

Warranties do not cover damage from use of contaminated fuels, lack of maintenance or improper winterization. Consumable parts like spark plugs are excluded after the first scheduled replacement. Commercial use reduces durations.

Documentation

To utilize the warranty, the original proof of purchase from an authorized Westinghouse dealer is required along with the engine serial number. Registration of the machine warranty is recommended.

Costs

Westinghouse engine warranties provide repair or replacement coverage at no charge. Shipping damaged parts to Westinghouse may be required at the customer’s expense. Consumables and normal maintenance are not included.

Common Westinghouse Power Washer Engine Problems

While Westinghouse engines are generally reliable, here are some potential issues to be aware of:

Difficult Starting

Problems like degraded spark plugs, stale fuel or carburetor issues can make the engine hard to start. Basic maintenance and fuel stabilizer use can help.

Low Power Output

Insufficient cleaning pressure may be caused by worn nozzles or water flow problems. But it can also stem from lack of engine power if worn rings, valves, or carburetor faults are present.

High Fuel Consumption

Excessive fuel use points to issues like stuck choke, clogged air filter or carburetor calibration faults. Running on full throttle constantly also impacts fuel efficiency.

Smoke or Backfires

Engines producing excessive smoke or backfire likely have underlying issues with fuel mixture settings, valves, seals or timing. This requires deeper diagnosis and repair.

Oil Leaks

Worn seals and gaskets can cause external oil leaks. Oil consumption can show up as low oil levels. Replacing seals and possibly oil rings may be needed.

Knocking Sounds

Knocking or rattling noises point to engine component failure like bearings or rod bushings. It indicates more serious internal wear and tear.

Maintaining Your Westinghouse Power Washer Engine

With proper maintenance, Westinghouse power washer engines should deliver years of reliable performance:

Check Oil Levels

Frequently check the engine oil level. Top up when low or change oil at recommended intervals. Use detergent motor oils of the proper viscosity.

Inspect Air Filter

Clean or replace the engine air filter periodically as specified in the owner’s manual. Clogged air filters lead to issues.

Use Fuel Stabilizer

Adding fuel stabilizer prevents stale gasoline from clogging carburetors when the machine sits. This aids starting after storage.

Winterize Properly

Prepare the engine for winter shutdown by draining fuel, adding stabilizer, and changing the oil. Removing spark plugs can also help prevent corrosion.

Clean Debris

Keep engine cooling fins and components clean of debris like grass clippings. Buildup of debris can impact engine cooling and performance.

Check Spark Plugs

Inspect spark plugs at scheduled intervals. Replace as needed or set to the specified gap for optimal ignition timing.

Avoid Knocking

Persistent knocking or pinging engine sounds likely mean detonation is occurring. Switch to higher octane gasoline to prevent engine damage.

Test Safety Systems

Ensure engine safety cut-out switches and overpressure valves function properly. Do not disable or bypass these critical systems.

Finding Service and Support

In case of any Westinghouse power washer engine problems, here is how to find assistance:

Consult Documentation

Refer to the engine and machine manuals which provide troubleshooting guidance, routine service instructions and warranty policies.

Contact Westinghouse

Get in touch with Westinghouse support by phone or online to diagnose issues and arrange warranty repairs if applicable.

Utilize Local Dealers

Authorized Westinghouse dealers can assist with maintenance tasks, parts procurement and resolving more complex engine problems.

Tap Factory Resources

For complex warranty issues, the engine may need to go back to the Westinghouse factory for assessment by specialized technicians.

Find Certified Mechanics

Independent outdoor power equipment repair shops with certified small engine mechanics can offer troubleshooting and overhaul services.

Leverage User Community

Consult Westinghouse owner forums and communities to find advice and recommendations on reliable service options from fellow users.

Conclusion

Westinghouse partners with reputable engine brands and produces their own models to deliver reliable power washer performance. Typical issues can be avoided with regular maintenance. If engine problems arise, Westinghouse provides warranty support and numerous service resources are available to restore optimal performance. Keeping your Westinghouse power washer engine well-maintained and running properly ensures you get the most value from these durable cleaning machines.