Ryobi weed sprayer not working

[philt]

I purchased a battery weed Sprayer back in 2016 or thereabouts. I only ever used it once or twice before the battery drained.

It’s a long story but suffice to say I only returned to use it in the last few weeks. 

The problem I have is it’s not pumping any spray out. I cleaned the hose and nozzle and even bought a new hose but still nothing comes out.

Its not blocked because I can feel air coming out.

The hose from the motor unit into the tank is also clear. So for some reason it’s just not pumping any liquid out.

Given its age it’s obviously out of warranty. I only used it once or twice and would like to get it going again.

Any ideas? I’d happily take it to an authorised repair place but I wonder if the cost of repair would be as much as it’s worth, given I probably only paid $120 or thereabouts.

If it’s still worth taking it to a repair place any recommendations for one in the Moonee Ponds area? Or is there a simple fix I can try myself?

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @philt. It's fantastic to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about the Ryobi weed sprayer.

It sounds like the issue might be with the pickup line not being able to draw fluid from the tank. Since you mentioned that air is coming out, it suggests that the motor is pressurising the tank, but the fluid isn't being pushed through. One possibility is that if there is a pickup line inside the tank, it may have become disconnected or detached. I would recommend checking inside the tank to ensure the pickup line is securely connected and hasn't become loose or disconnected. If everything looks fine there, it might be worth checking the pump mechanism for any blockages or malfunctions. 

There might also be a filter in the tank to prevent debris from entering the system. Check that this filter has not become blocked.

If you're not able to identify the issue, you could still take the unit back with your proof of purchase to the store and discuss the limited use you've had with a manager. A helpful team member might also be able to take a look at the unit for you to see if there is anything obviously wrong.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[philt]

Thanks so much for the quick response. I’ll do as you suggested and see if that resolves the problem. If not I might have to come in but the problem is I no longer have the proof of purchase. I know where I bought it (Maribynong) but without it I’m probably stuffed. And as I said taking it to someone to repair it will likely be more than it’s worth. Shame really, I’d expect more than one or two uses. But I accept ignoring it for 8 years, my stupidity as it turned out, isn’t helpful.

[MitchellMc]

Due to the infrequent use, I wonder if some residual chemical has dried up and gummed up the filter or internal pickup @philt. Even if you can't find the receipt, it might be worth taking it to a store for a team member to look at. 

Mitchell

[Nailbag]

Hi @philt 

Some chemicals can have an adverse effect on the plastic/pvc tubing causing it to collapse internally. Typically this will happen to the pickup line as @MitchellMc mentioned. The owners manual I think from memory has a list of chemicals not suited for use or long term storage without flushing the lines out afterwards. Its not a fault of the unit and unfortunately if the manual isn't followed (very common with most users) then this type of issue is common across many brands of sprayers.

Bunnings have a range of PVC tubing in the internal garden aisle that you might be able to match as a replacement DIY repair. Its available by the meter/cut to length.

Nailbag

[philt]

Thanks @Nailbag  that’s interesting. I’m going to do as @MitchellMc initially suggested first. I’m also going to open up the unit and see if I can see any obvious issues. Perhaps it is clogged up inside. It’s currently got 8 year old leftover Roundup mixed with water still in it. I’ll drain it away and have a good look around inside. I suspect it’s clogged up inside somewhere.

cheers

[Nailbag]

Hi @philt 

if your going to pull it apart, this video may help. And here is the mention of not storing chemicals from the manual. The idea is you're supposed to flush the system out with fresh water then store empty and dry. But they don't give you that level of detail in the manual. But I do know thats whats required for this machine. It had been a very common issue and hence why the hand-held sprayer has gone to a completely different design.

Nailbag

 

 

[philt]

@Nailbag thank you this video is exactly the kind of thing I reckon will fix it. I’ll let you know how I go. Also the tips on storing it after use are very good, I don’t think I recall seeing that. 

[Nailbag]

Good luck keen to know how you go @philt 

Nailbag