Can you put 87 gas in a pressure washer?
Yes. For the Craftsman CMXGWAS021023 gas pressure washer, regular unleaded gasoline with an 87 octane rating is the standard, safe choice for normal operation. Use fresh fuel and avoid mixing oil into the gas (this is a 4-cycle engine).
Use clean, fresh unleaded gasoline; higher octane does not increase cleaning power, it only changes knock resistance.
- Use unleaded 87 octane for everyday use
- Higher octane (89 to 93) is fine, but usually unnecessary
- Do not use old gas (more than 30 days is a common cutoff without stabilizer)
- Do not use gasoline mixed with 2-cycle oil
- Avoid fuel contaminated with water or dirt (it causes hard starting and surging)
| Situation | What we recommend | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Normal cleaning | 87 octane unleaded | Best balance of performance and cost |
| Hot weather, heavy load, or knocking/pinging | 89 to 93 octane unleaded | Helps reduce detonation in some engines |
| Unit stored for weeks | Fresh gas plus stabilizer | Reduces varnish and carburetor clogging |
Fuel issues often show up as surging, stalling, or low power. Check these basics first:
- Drain and replace old fuel with fresh 87 octane
- Confirm the water supply is fully on and the inlet screen is clear
- Try a different spray tip; a partially clogged tip can load the pump oddly (see nozzle 707480 or nozzle 706518)
- Inspect for air leaks at hose connections and replace worn seals (see Craftsman kit-o-ring 706619)
- If pressure is still low and the engine runs normally, the pump may need service (see pressure washer pump assembly 706607)
Using the correct gasoline helps your Craftsman pressure washer start easily, run smoothly, and protect the carburetor and engine from deposits that lead to hard-start and performance problems.
Last updated: February 2026
How many PSI for my pressure washer?
For your Craftsman CMXGWAS021023 gas pressure washer, the right PSI depends on what you’re cleaning: most homeowner jobs are handled well in the 1,300 to 2,800 PSI range, while tougher concrete and heavy grime typically need higher PSI and the correct nozzle.
- 1,300 to 1,900 PSI: cars, patio furniture, grills, light siding rinse
- 2,000 to 2,800 PSI: decks, fences, most home patios and walkways
- 2,900 to 3,500 PSI: heavier concrete cleaning, deep-set dirt (use extra care)
- 3,500+ PSI: pro-level work; easy to damage wood, paint, and seals
Nozzle orifice size and spray angle control impact force at the surface. If your washer feels weak or surges, a worn or partially clogged nozzle is a common cause.
| Symptom | Common cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Low pressure but engine runs fine | Clogged/worn nozzle | Clean or replace the nozzle (example: nozzle 707480 or nozzle 706518) |
| Pressure pulses/surges | Air in water supply, inlet restriction, nozzle issue | Purge air, confirm full-flow hose, check nozzle |
| Good pressure then drops | Water supply not keeping up | Use a shorter, larger-diameter supply hose; fully open spigot |
- Use a steady water supply; fully open the spigot before starting
- Inspect the inlet screen and fittings for debris
- Purge air: squeeze the trigger with the engine off until flow is steady
- Confirm your high-pressure hose and quick-connects are fully seated
- Replace flattened or leaking seals; keep a spare set on hand (example: Craftsman kit-o-ring 706619)
Using more PSI than you need can etch concrete, shred wood fibers, and force water behind siding. Using the correct PSI and nozzle cleans faster and protects your pump, hose, and surfaces.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I find the model number on my CMXGWAS021023?
The model number for your Craftsman gas power washer is printed on the unit’s model-data label. On CMXGWAS021023 pressure washers, that label is typically on the frame near the engine or pump area; match the full model number exactly before ordering parts like a pump or nozzle.
Check these common label locations first:
- On the main frame rail near the wheels or handle
- Near the pump mounting area (close to the water inlet/outlet)
- On or near the engine shroud
- Under the handle area where the frame tubing meets
- Near the detergent/chemical pickup hose routing
Record the model number exactly as shown, including all letters and numbers. For this unit, you want:
- Model number: CMXGWAS021023
- Brand: Craftsman
- Product type: Gas power washer
- Wipe dirt and oil off the label so every character is readable
- Use your phone camera zoom to confirm characters like 0 vs O
- If the label is damaged, compare your unit to the parts diagrams and common assemblies (pump, hose, nozzles)
Craftsman pressure washers often have similar-looking frames and engines across multiple models. Using the exact model number prevents ordering the wrong fittings, O-rings, or pump hardware, and it helps ensure correct compatibility for items like the pressure washer pump assembly 706607 or Craftsman kit-o-ring 706619.
| Part type | What it affects | Example part on this model |
|---|---|---|
| Pump | Pressure output, leaks, mounting | Pump assembly |
| Nozzle | Spray pattern, cleaning power | Nozzle |
| O-rings/seals | Leaks at hose and fittings | O-ring kit |
Last updated: March 2026





