How to Repair Weed Sprayers

Weed sprayers commonly feature a tank capable of holding 2 to 5 gallons of water or chemical for weed control. An applicator hose is attached to the tank with a trigger control at the end with an applicator wand. A large handle attached to a plunger on top of the tank is used to pressurize the contents so it is forced out through the hose and wand. When problems arise with weed sprayers, they can often be resolved with a few troubleshooting steps.

• 1

  Place the weed sprayer on the ground in an area that is flat and level. Release pressure from the tank by pulling or turning the pressure relief valve on the side of the tank.

• 2

  Grasp the plunger handle on top of the tank and turn to the left or counterclockwise to loosen and remove. Pour the contents of the tank into a plastic storage container and secure with a lid or cap. Inspect the plunger for signs of damage, paying attention to the gasket in the lid through which the plunger fits. Wipe debris from the gasket or replace if necessary.

• 3

  Locate the knurled compression nut at the base of the hose and turn to the left to remove. Pull the siphon from the tank and clean under running water to remove any accumulations of debris, then wipe clean with a rag. Insert the siphon back into the tank and secure with the compression nut.

• 4

  Hold the sprayer hose and loosen the nut, holding it to the flow control handle. Remove the wand from the front of the handle by loosening the nut on the front of the flow control. Rinse the wand thoroughly under running water. Inspect the O rings at both nuts and wipe with a rag to clean.

• 5

  Remove the cap from the bottom of the handle control and allow the spring to fall straight out. Rinse the handle under running water, replace the spring and tighten the cap in place. Assemble the wand, handle and hose. Tighten the nuts securely.