How to Best Apply Caustic Strippers? Shurflo Backpack or Downstream?

fireandrain

New Member
Hi Guys!

As most of you know by now, im fairly new to the use of caustic strippers. It was me who posted the F-18 vs. Hd-80 poll, so thanks for all of your brilliant input! MUCH appreciated!

So know Im faced with the question as to how to best apply this hot stuff!
I did one deck last week using a cheap 2gal pump sprayer and it took FOREVER to get the stuff on the deck. Was far from pleased with the results.

So... I bought a shurflo 4gal batt. op'd BACKPACK SPRAYER and it arrived yesterday! I figured i would be using it for applying deck cleaner, seals/stains, but am still vexed as to if i can use it for spraying on strippers like f-18 max?

Not good to have caustics in a backpack sprayer? I would be careful to make sure the lid was tight and the unit rinsed off throughouly after filling it up with the stripper, but is this safe enough procedure? Seems like a really effecient way to get the stuff on my decks?

Any opinion on the subject guys? As always, I'd really appreciate your input on this one as I have 5 decks to strip later in the week...

THANKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - Matt
 

Larry L.

PWN TEAM - Moderator Emeritus
Read the labels on your chemicals and see ifen you want to carry them on your back,I'd rather fight a live rattlesnake as to do so.
 

Aplus

New Member
I wouldn't want caustics in a tank on my back. Not a chance. Look at a battery powered pump unit left on the ground with a long hose attached, and a spray nozzle on the end. Much safer.
 

fireandrain

New Member
Thanks for the tips... I actually have a battery powered backpack unit from shurflo, you suggested adding more hose and leaving it on the ground when i spray strippers... can i add 50ft of hose and not experience any loss of pressure to the sprayer? also, where can i find the right type of hose? Home Depot maybe? Thanks!
 

jgoolsby

New Member
As suggested earlier you should go with the deckster with the plastic pump, it will do you a good job and last for a long time if you take care of it. Jim
 

Aplus

New Member
fireandrain said:
Thanks for the tips... I actually have a battery powered backpack unit from shurflo, you suggested adding more hose and leaving it on the ground when i spray strippers... can i add 50ft of hose and not experience any loss of pressure to the sprayer? also, where can i find the right type of hose? Home Depot maybe? Thanks!


If this is the unit you will be using, if only temporarily, then go ahead down to the HD and pick up 40-50 feet of either rubber fuel line, or rubber airline. Either will work fine, just don't get the cheapo plastic stuff. Use small worm drive style clamps for your connections.

In the mean time, save up to buy a proper sprayer setup, like the deckster, or something similar. If you use the search features, you may even find information on building your own and saving lots of $$.

Good luck.
 

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