FAQ's

Bigger jobs require higher water pressure, typically 2,000 – 4,000 Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) to effectively cut through roots, clogs and deposits, and at least 15 Gallons Per Minute (GPM) of water flow to wash away resulting debris. Higher pressure and flow, however, require more water, so make sure your system has the on-board capacity to work through the types of jobs you have in mind. Remember, while 300 gallons of water may sound like a lot, at 15 GPM that’s only 20 minutes of total run time. O’Brien’s units provide water pump options between 2,000 and 4,000 PSI pressure, and 18 and 40 GPM flow, backed by 350 to 700 gallons of water capacity, combining big job power with the most capacity on a trailer frame.

While axle ratings matched to the trailer total net weight is obvious, the number one overlooked factor is frame design. Many smaller trailers use generic commercially available trailer frames to cut cost. When paired, however, with a useful water supply in excess of 300 gallons (that’s over 1,100 lbs in water weight alone), light-duty frames can start to bend, distort, and break apart. For long-term durability in every use condition, a purpose-built frame design, with all-welded heavy-gauge steel construction, is the only way to go. O’Brien’s trailer jetter frames are all built in-house, engineered specifically for the application’s loads and stresses. This costs a bit more but is the only way to provide the extended lifespan our customers expect.

Diesel’s only downside compared to gas – more expensive up-front acquisition cost. Diesel engines, however, typically last longer than their gas equivalents, with less maintenance, and lower fuel costs. A key positive to note about trailer-unit diesels; costly and maintenance-intensive Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) and its corresponding Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, as required on most truck engines and large generators, are not required for any diesel engine rated at or under 75 horsepower. Virtually all trailer-mounted diesel jetter powerplants fall under this rating. O’Brien’s Tier 4 diesels, at 74 horsepower, provide the maximum power without requiring DEF use.

While we always recommend regular unit maintenance, long-life components combined with protective enclosures will reduce both maintenance time and cost. Heavy-duty low-maintenance triplex pumps with dry-run and cold weather protection are one of the best investments to reduce operating expense. Protective enclosures for electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems are another important feature. Trailer jetters with pumps, wiring, and electrical components left exposed to the elements have increased risk of failure due to water intrusion and corrosion, and accumulating road dirt and leaves will make them more difficult to service. Depending on the unit’s storage location, vandalism or component theft may even be an issue, with exposed parts providing easy targets. For maximum life and minimum upkeep, controls should be located in a sealed and weatherproof compartment, and systems should be covered by a full housing with security features. O’Brien’s controls are located in a NEMA 4 box, and all systems, including engine, PTO, and pump, are housed under an all-steel locking enclosure.