Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

This review is for the Smith #190285 1 gallon bleach & chemical sprayer. Manufacturers type "ML". Since purchasing this from Amazon in March, 2012, I have used this sprayer without difficulty for about 6 times since then without incident. It is easy to fill, pressurize, adjust, and clean out after use. After thoroughly rinsing out with clean water and flushing the wand, opening and closing the valve, I pump it up with just air and hold the tank and wand upside down to blow out the rinse water. Then remove the pump and store the unit so it will dry out. I would give this sprayer 5 stars except for the - "BUT" - - - During use today, I noticed that the valve was acting sluggish and would not close quickly as it did before. After use and cleaning, I examined the valve and decided to check it out. I first removed the round cap just under the valve by turning it counter-clockwise. This allows access to the spring that closes the valve. Upon removal, the spring was found to be in an advanced stage of rust, but still serviceable. There was considerable debris in this area and I decided to clean the entire valve. The lever has to be removed by using one screwdriver to carefully pull the side over and another screwdriver to pull the lever up and off the sprayer. The valve stem may be seen and pushed down with a non-metallic rod, (wood dowel) to remove it. Be careful of the o-ring seals. Using Q-tips, soft brush and soapy water, clean the valve, chamber, spring, and the cap, which also has an o-ring. Rinse and dry all parts and lightly lube the o-rings with Vaseline and reassemble in reverse order. The valve now should work as new. Note: The spring is made of carbon base steel, (may be picked up with a magnet) and is subject to rust. Why the manufacturer didn't see fit to spend a few cents more and go for stainless steel, is beyond me. I will be replacing this spring as soon as I can find one made of St Steel . "BUT" #2 - - - When new, I had a problem with the handle when trying to turn it to pump up pressure. When turning it to the left, it would unscrew the cover and lose pressure. The latching was too tight and had to be turned with a sharp snap to release it for pumping up. I had to file down the areas where the latching takes place so it would turn with out unscrewing the cap. Filing down the areas where it latches and lubing it with grease it now works as it should have from the factory. If not for the two "BUTS" I would have given this sprayer 5 stars. The consumer should not be expected to modify a new product to make it perform as it should, or have a part that will not stand up to moisture or chemicals. R.E.W. UPDATE: July 3, 2016. After almost 4 years of excellent service from this very well made sprayer, I contacted the Fountainhead Co. and requested a replacement spring for the valve. I promptly received a new spring at no charge. Very good customer service. If this sprayer was supplied with a stainless steel spring, I would definitely rate it 5 stars. REW.