Ok, I’ve been following multiple posts since joining this group and I’m pretty sure I have figured out which machine I’m starting out with. I’m still about 3-4 weeks out from dropping the money, but here is what I’m thinking.
I know y’all are saying 8GPM, but I’m looking to keep my buffer tank (and trailer) a little smaller. Based on what I’ve read the 5.5GPM is the “sweet spot” for PW. This won’t be my full time job either, but I will be washing around 10-12 days a month. Thoughts?
Go 8 and thank me later.
@DisplacedTexan how big of a tank will I need to run? I really don’t want to go north of 50 gallons right now.
@DisplacedTexan this one is $525 more, but they’re suggesting a 200 gallon or more tank. I would have to buy another trailer to do that, and with buying a PW in the $3k range that doesn’t leave me a ton of money to buy everything else, as I’m trying to stay around $5k for everything (I already have a small utility trailer) to start out.
Are you planning on doing any concrete?
Yessir
You’re going to have a hard time with a 50gal tank then. Unless you’re fine with standing around a lot. Let’s say you’re putting out 5gpm at the surface cleaner. Most residential spigots only put out around 4-5gpm. So you’re either going to have to work in short increments or be very mindful of your water level.
I guess I’ll have to wait until after the first of the year to get a new trailer. I priced a 6x12 single axle enclosed trailer, w/ a 5200# torsion axle on 15" wheels, extended tongue, 6’6" interior (I’m 6’5"), upgraded thickness for the aluminum on the trailer, extra tie downs everywhere, extra side vents, and all LED lights @ $3900. For their basic 6x12 w/ a 3500# axle and none of the other upgrades I mentioned they’re $2300. I would have to get creative in the meantime to go 8GPM and have a big enough tank. I have a lot to think about!! Thank you for your input!
You can run an 8gpm off of a 125 gallon tank no problem. You don’t really need to worry about the Wright because you should never be hauling around a full tank anyhow. Roll with 30 gallons and throw your hose in as soon as you pull up to the job. With small trailers you have to get creative.
What size trailer are you using now?
After reading your comments, I assumed you already had a trailer. If your starting from scratch, what is the problem. I made the switch to 8gpm’s this year and had to increase my buffer from a 65 gallon to a 125 gallon. Yes, its bigger than the 65 but it didn’t cause me to go out and buy a new trailer because of it. Just confused after reading some of your comments I guess.
So you do have a trailer? Or no? You changed your response so now I’m even more confused.
@SurfaceMedic I misread the question at first and then did an edit. I do have a 4x6 utility trailer right now. My plan is to pick up a 6x12 enclosed just before spring.
Gotcha. A 4x6 is small, but I have seen some small set ups posted on here and other places. To answer your original question, 5.5 is the minimum I would go and I was happy with mine. The 8 is definitely faster on flat work for sure, so if your able to make that jump I would recommend it. But obviously there are a lot of factors that each person has to consider and make the decision on which is right for you and your goals. Stay with at least a 5.5 and you will be fine.
@SurfaceMedic I’m starting my business from scratch and I have a 4x6 trailer. I know it’s not ideal, but after reading several topics in here I would rather drop my money on the PW and equipment, and then after a few months working (I’m in FL so we can pretty much work year round) I can get the new trailer. I apologize for the confusion when I did the edit on my response. I’m trying to read daily and not rush into anything and make a crap purchase. I’ve learned a ton just reading these threads.
Sweet machine
No worries man! I understand what your saying. I don’t see any problem with trying to make what you have work. Just keep in mind that starting out you want to start with good equipment so your not replacing it sooner than later. But starting with at least 5.5 @3500 is a good starting point and nothing wrong with it. I wouldn’t go any smaller, but that is a 5.5 is a good machine for sure. Do what you have to do and what is right for your business, but buy good equipment. Good luck to you sir!
Thank you!
My daughter just started college in Raleigh. Next time I plan on going I can pick the machine up and you can come get it from Columbia, SC.
