Instruction Manual for Craftsman 186085-B Backpack Sprayer

Quick guide from the manual

This document provides critical instructions for priming the pump of your Craftsman 186085-B backpack sprayer. Priming is necessary before the first use or after extended storage if the pump runs but does not spray water. Always wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including goggles, gloves, and protective clothing when handling chemicals.

How to check if manual priming is needed

Before performing manual priming, verify if it is actually required:

• Fill the tank with approximately one gallon of water (no chemicals).
• Install the battery and turn the sprayer ON.
• Aim the shut-off in a safe direction and squeeze the trigger lever.
• If water sprays, the pump is primed; turn the unit OFF and empty the tank.
• If the pump runs but no water sprays, proceed to the manual priming procedure.

Manually priming the sprayer pump

Follow these steps to prime the pump manually:

1. Ensure the tank is empty and rinsed of any residual chemicals.
2. Remove the red cylindrical filter from inside the tank by rotating it 1/8 turn counterclockwise and pulling it up.
3. Turn the power switch to ON. If your model has variable flow, set it to the highest setting.
4. Squeeze and lock the trigger lever to keep the valve open.
5. Press the end of a garden hose (without a nozzle) firmly against the pump inlet where the filter was located, minimizing gaps.
6. Spray water directly into the pump inlet while the power is on. The sprayer should begin working within 10-20 seconds.
7. Once spraying starts, stop the hose, unlock the trigger, and turn the power OFF.
8. Reinstall the red filter before use.

Safety and support

Always release pressure from the sprayer before performing any maintenance to avoid high-speed ejection of components. For further assistance, contact customer service at 1-800-311-9903 or email [email protected].