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Common Airless Sprayer Issues and Solutions

Looking to work more efficiently and save time? You’ve chosen the Graco Mark VII Airless Sprayer, known for its 40% higher productivity compared to the Mark V, allowing you to coat and paint surfaces faster while reducing effort.

However, before using your brand-new machine for the first time, you need to know how to start it properly. Follow these step-by-step instructions from our technical expert Jeremy.

First Startup of a Graco Mark VII Airless Sprayer

Before using your Airless sprayer, follow these instructions precisely to ensure optimal performance in coating mode.

Step 1: Remove the Filters

Unscrew the filter cap and remove the filter and black part to create more space for the coating material.
Store the filter safely, as it will be needed when using the Graco Mark VII Airless Sprayer in paint mode.
Close the filter cap securely.

Step 2: Unscrew the Suction Strainer

The suction strainer is a cylindrical component at the bottom of the machine, designed to prevent foreign particles from entering the hose.
Tilt the machine backward, remove the protective cap, then unscrew the suction strainer.
Store both parts carefully, as they will be essential for paint applications.

Step 3: Check the Ball Valve

After removing the suction strainer, check that the ball valve (which filters foreign particles) is not stuck.
You can manually test it by pressing lightly with your finger.
In most cases, the ball valve will be free-moving, especially on a new machine. This step is a precautionary check.

Step 4: Add TSL Oil

The Graco pump lubricant (TSL oil) is supplied with the Graco Mark VII Airless Sprayer.
Before each use (including the first), add a small amount of TSL oil to the machine.
Place the TSL oil container in its designated location above the piston (refer to the manual if needed) and press once to apply the oil.
This lubrication ensures the piston moves smoothly throughout the spraying process.

Step 5: Immerse the Machine in Water

Tilt the sprayer forward until the end of the piston is submerged in a bucket of water (prepared in advance).

Step 6: Connect and Turn On the Machine

With the piston still in the water, plug in the Graco Mark VII Airless Sprayer and turn it on.
A blue indicator light will illuminate.

Step 7: Prime the Machine

Set the machine to “purge mode”.
When activated, the piston will draw water from the bucket and expel it through a separate hose.
Important: Direct the purge liquid into an empty bucket.
Turn the pressure control knob to start purging.
Once enough water has flowed through, stop the purge and proceed to the next step.

Step 8: Flush the Hose

Remove the spray tip holder from the coating gun. ⚠ Keep it in a safe place!
Aim the gun at the purge bucket, press the trigger, and keep it held down.
Switch the machine to “spray mode” and adjust the pressure control knob to regulate the flow.