Pressure washer crankcase oil

[DonC]

Probably naive, but on opening the pump of my pressure washer I find the oil to be "silvery gray". My first thought was that it contained graphite, considering the duty required (cam thrust of bare steel piston ends) but then wondered if instead it was simply contaminated with metal wear particles.

Other info on this site suggests rather ordinary oil be used here, while manufacturers specify a specialized (pricey, hard to find)oil. My washer (early Powerwasher) is old and specific info from mfr is no longer available, so I'm on my own as to oil type and quantity.

As a greenhorn, I would appreciate any helpful comments.

 

[Rand]

probably contaminated, wear particles.


but is that oil better than motor/gear oil or whatever you would put in.. is the question

 

[ahoier]

It's the "Powerwasher" brand....? I believe walmart now sells this brand....it's a low-priced (like 80 bucks) pressure washer.....cheaper than the others on the shelf......