Build Your Own Custom Pressure Wash Skid for a Mobile Cleaning Business

Building Your Own Pressure Wash Skid

If you're looking to start your own pressure washing business, one of the most important pieces of equipment you'll need is a reliable pressure wash skid. Investing in a quality skid customized to your exact needs can improve efficiency, capacity, and ultimately the profitability of your operations. Here's a guide to building your own diy pressure wash skid perfect for getting your mobile cleaning business up and running.

Designing Your Pressure Wash Skid Frame

The foundation of every pressure wash skid is the frame. This provides a solid, stable base to mount all other components including the pump, reel, tanks, and engine. When designing your pressure wash skid frame consider:

• Material - steel, aluminum, or stainless provide durability and withstand corrosion
• Weight capacity to support equipment
• Mobility - easy to maneuver with handles and quality tires
• Storage - space to safely transport tanks, tools, and accessories

A well-constructed steel frame with an open back design allows for versatility in customizing your setup. Make sure to reinforce high stress areas and implement features to prevent vibration.

Selecting Your Pressure Wash Components

Once you have your pressure wash frame built, it's time to outfit it with components that match your cleaning application and performance needs including:

• Pump - industrial triplex pumps provide durability, pressure, and flow rates for intensive cleaning
• Engine - choose gasoline or diesel engines that deliver adequate horsepower
• Hose reel - contain lengthy hoses keeping work areas hazard free
• Chemical injection - incorporates soaps or cleaning solutions into the pressurized water stream
• Water tank - stainless steel tanks with 100+ gallon capacity for extended runtimes

Be sure to size and match components appropriately so that your pump, engine, and accessories operate efficiently together without overloading the system.

Customizing Your Skid to Your Needs

One of the biggest advantages of building your own diy pressure wash skid is the ability to fully customize it. Consider specific accessories that will maximize productivity for your applications:

• Hose reel brake to control hose speed
• Thermal relief valve to prevent overheating
• Multiple quick connect spray nozzles
• Integrated tool boxes or cabinets
• Fuel tank for gasoline engine supply
• Generator for operating power washers in remote areas

Take time planning exactly how you intend to use your pressure washing system and outfit it accordingly. Don't overlook ergonomic considerations either - well placed reels, handles, switches and storage make a unit safer and less fatiguing for extended use.

Assembling Your Pressure Wash Skid

Once you have all the necessary parts and components, it's time for assembly. Making sure to follow instructions closely on equipment like pumps and engines is crucial. Some tips for smoothly assembling your own pressure wash skid include:

• Allow adequate workflow space around the skid during assembly
• Have necessary tools available - wrenches, drill, grinder, screwdrivers
• Follow torque specs when tightening fittings and connections
• Use thread sealant on pipe and hose fittings
• Anchor heavier components low and centered on the skid
• Make sure engine and pump shafts are properly aligned
• Reinforce joints between frame components
• Use hose clips and tie downs to prevent dragging or snagging

Taking it slow and methodically piecing together your skid will help ensure all parts integrate smoothly and safely. Don't be afraid to get creative routing hoses and accessories in ways that improve overall functionality.

Testing and Troubleshooting Your System

Before putting your diy pressure wash skid into full duty operation, be sure to test thoroughly inspect for leaks, vibrations, overheating or other problems including:

• Check fuel, oil and water levels
• Inspect hoses and connections for leaks
• Confirm adequate pump pressure and flow
• Ensure stable water temperature during operation
• Validate all accessories work properly
• Monitor for abnormal noise or vibration

Address any issues immediately to prevent bigger problems down the road. Fine tuning adjustment on valves, fittings and alignments may be needed as components break-in.

Operating and Maintaining Your Skid

Once your custom pressure wash skid is assembled and operating smoothly, implement practices to maximize performance, reliability and longevity:

• Stick to routine maintenance on pump, engine, accessories
• Use fuel stabilizer during storage to prevent gumming
• Frequently check and change oil, filters, seals
• Use pump saver when storing to prevent internal corrosion
• Check tire air pressure and wheel bearings often
• Inspect fittings, valves and connections for wear
• Clean out tanks and wash downstream injectors
• Touch up paint on the frame to prevent rust

Your custom built pressure wash skid is a significant investment so taking steps to properly care for components will pay dividends through years of productive service. Don't hesitate to replace worn parts when needed either.

Building your own professional grade pressure wash skid takes planning, skill and effort but allows you to end up with a highly efficient, customized cleaning system perfect for your mobile washing business needs. Paying attention to critical framework, components, accessories, assembly and maintenance will keep you happily power washing for years to come!