Direct Drive vs Gearbox Pressure Washers: Which Do You Need?
Direct Drive Machines
On a direct drive machine the engine and pump run at the same speed, using a high speed pump.
- Engine and pump speed: around 3,000rpm
- Pump type: typically triplex or axial
- Pistons and valves: 15mm on our machines
- Maximum flow: 15 litres per minute
- Water supply: designed to be fed from the mains, and can struggle to draw water by itself
Gearbox Machines
A gearbox machine has a 2:1 reduction gearbox between the engine and pump. The engine still turns at 3,000rpm but the pump runs at roughly 1,400.
Those slower pistons give the pump time to actually suck water, so it'll draw from a tank, a bowser or a standing source as well as running off the mains.
The slower speed also allows a bigger pump:
- Pistons: 18mm, or in some cases 21mm
- Orifices and channels: bigger, so more water moves through
- Flow: 21 to 25 litres per minute, rather than 15
Why Farmers Choose Gearbox
For farmers, drawing from a tank is usually the deciding factor. Washing down yards, machinery or livestock buildings, a gearbox machine working off a water tank is far more convenient and more economical than being tethered to a mains point.
The supply has to keep up with the pump. If your mains delivers 15 litres per minute and the pump wants 21, direct feed isn't enough. You'll need a buffer tank feeding it.
When Direct Drive Makes Sense
Direct drive isn't just the cheaper option.
- Less to maintain: no gearbox means no gearbox oil to check
- The simpler machine if you're always on a mains supply and 15 litres a minute does the job
Not Sure Which Suits You?
Equip2clean supplies professional pressure washers throughout the UK, with fast delivery and expert advice.
Tell us where your water comes from and what you're cleaning, and we'll point you to the right machine.
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