Sprayer Does Not Build or Maintain Pressure

• 1). Check the pressure setting if the sprayer motor runs continuously without building enough pressure to spray. The pressure control knob is usually on the top of the sprayer housing, and turning it clockwise increases the pressure.
  
  
• 2). Release the prime spray valve, usually located on the side of the unit. The primer tube is a separate hose for releasing air and priming the pump. Place the end of this hose in a bucket and let the sprayer run until the paint flows smoothly, without sputtering. Turn off the valve. If the unit simply needed to be primed, it will build enough pressure to spray within 20 seconds.
  
  
• 3). Check the gun, hose and fittings for leaks, and tighten any fittings where the paint may be leaking. If the hose is cracked or split, replace it. Do not attempt to repair it.
  
  
• 4). Using a hammer, firmly tap the metal housing attached to the pickup tube. A ball valve at that site sometimes can get stuck, and a jolt will release it.
  
  
• 5). Turn off the sprayer, release pressure and make sure the intake filter is not clogged with debris or dried paint. The intake filter is the most common culprit. If it appears clean, disassemble the spray gun and check the gun filter as well. Clean or replace the filter. It's a good idea to keep spare filters on hand.
  
  

Gun Does Not Spray, or Sprays Incorrectly

• 1). Check the tip for a clog. If the tip is reversible, twist the lever and blow the clog into a waste bucket. Otherwise, remove the tip using a crescent wrench and hold it up to the light to see whether it's clogged. Never remove a clog with a pin because you can damage the tip. Run the tip under hot water or in solvent and use a toothbrush to remove the clog. If you have to use a pin, remove it from the back of the tip instead of the front to reduce the risk of damage.
  
  
• 2). Make sure the pressure setting is correct. If the pressure is too low, the unit may not spray at all or will result in an uneven pattern with streaks.
  
  
• 3). Replace the tip if it is worn to ensure a proper spray pattern without drips and spatters. Also, make sure you are using the correct tip for the material you are spraying (see Resources).