Graco Paint Sprayer Spitting: What to Do

If you're asking, "Why is my Graco paint sprayer spitting?", the most common causes are a clogged spray tip, a worn spray tip, air entering the pump, low paint supply, a clogged inlet filter, or worn pump packings. Any of these problems can interrupt the paint flow, causing the sprayer to spit, sputter, or produce an uneven spray pattern instead of a smooth finish.

In many cases, the solution is straightforward. Cleaning the spray tip, removing trapped air, tightening loose connections, replacing worn components, or using properly filtered paint can restore normal spraying performance. Identifying the exact cause early also helps prevent unnecessary wear on the pump and reduces downtime.

blog Graco Paint Sprayer Spitting What to Do

This guide explains why your Graco paint sprayer is spitting, how to diagnose the most common causes, step-by-step solutions, maintenance tips, and the replacement parts that may be needed to restore consistent performance.

Before Troubleshooting Your Graco Paint Sprayer

Before replacing parts or disassembling the sprayer, perform a quick inspection. Many paint sprayer problems can be identified within a few minutes, saving time and avoiding unnecessary repairs. Before you begin:

  1. Turn off the sprayer and relieve system pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  2. Check the paint level to make sure the suction tube remains fully submerged.
  3. Inspect the spray tip and tip guard for clogs, excessive wear, or damage.
  4. Examine the inlet filter and suction tube for dried paint or debris.
  5. Tighten all fluid connections to eliminate possible air leaks.

These simple checks often identify the source of the problem before more advanced troubleshooting is required.




What Causes a Graco Paint Sprayer to Spit?

A Graco paint sprayer depends on a continuous, pressurized flow of paint to produce an even spray pattern. When that flow is interrupted by air, restrictions, worn components, or contaminated paint, the sprayer may begin to spit or spray unevenly.

Possible Cause How It Affects the Sprayer
Clogged Spray Tip Restricts paint flow, causing the sprayer to spit, sputter, or produce an uneven spray pattern.
Worn Spray Tip An oversized or worn tip delivers inconsistent paint flow, resulting in poor spray quality and excessive overspray.
Air Leaks in the System Air entering through loose fittings or the suction tube interrupts the paint flow and causes sputtering.
Low Paint Level If the suction tube is not fully submerged, the pump can draw air instead of paint, causing intermittent spraying.
Clogged Inlet Filter Dirt or dried paint reduces paint flow to the pump, resulting in pressure fluctuations and spitting.
Worn Pump Packings or Seals Damaged internal seals reduce pump pressure and prevent a steady flow of paint.
Improper Priming Trapped air inside the pump or hose can cause sputtering until the system is fully primed.
Thick or Contaminated Paint Paint that is too thick or contains debris may clog the spray tip or restrict paint flow through the system.

How to Fix a Graco Paint Sprayer That Is Spitting

Most spitting problems can be resolved with a systematic inspection. Start with the easiest components before moving on to the pump and internal seals.

Step Action What to Do
1 Clean the Spray Tip Remove the spray tip and clear any dried paint or debris that may be restricting paint flow.
2 Inspect the Spray Tip Check the spray tip for excessive wear. Replace it if the orifice has become enlarged or the spray pattern is uneven.
3 Check the Inlet Filter Clean or replace the inlet filter if it is clogged with dried paint or debris.
4 Inspect the Suction Tube Ensure the suction tube is fully submerged in paint and free from cracks or loose connections that could allow air into the system.
5 Prime the Sprayer Prime the pump according to the manufacturer's instructions to remove trapped air from the fluid system.
6 Tighten Fluid Connections Inspect hoses, fittings, and fluid connections for leaks that may introduce air into the pump.
7 Replace Worn Pump Components If spitting continues, inspect the pump packings, seals, and other internal components for wear and replace them if necessary.
8 Test the Spray Pattern Spray onto a piece of cardboard or scrap material to confirm that the paint flows evenly before returning to your project.

Keep Your Graco Paint Sprayer Performing at Its Best

Preventing your Graco paint sprayer and stop from spitting starts with regular maintenance and proper operating habits. Keeping the fluid system clean and replacing worn components before they fail can help maintain a smooth spray pattern, improve finish quality, and extend the life of your equipment.

Maintenance & Best Practices

Follow these recommendations to reduce spray problems and keep your Graco paint sprayer operating efficiently.

✓ Clean After Every Use
Flush the sprayer thoroughly to remove paint residue before it dries inside the system.
✓ Replace Worn Spray Tips
A worn spray tip produces an uneven spray pattern and increases overspray.
✓ Filter Your Paint
Strain paint before spraying to prevent debris from clogging the spray tip or inlet filter.
✓ Inspect Filters Regularly
Clean or replace inlet filters and gun filters to maintain consistent paint flow.
✓ Check Hoses and Fittings
Inspect fluid connections for leaks that could allow air into the system.
✓ Store the Sprayer Properly
Follow the manufacturer's storage recommendations to protect seals, packings, and internal components.

Final Thoughts

A Graco paint sprayer that spits is usually the result of a clogged spray tip, air entering the system, worn components, or improper maintenance. By inspecting the sprayer, cleaning the fluid path, and replacing worn parts when necessary, you can restore a consistent spray pattern and achieve a professional-quality finish.

If you need a Graco spray tip, tip guard, inlet filter, suction tube, pump packing, seals, or other replacement parts, explore our selection at Paint Sprayers Parts. For additional maintenance guides, troubleshooting advice, and repair resources, visit our Help Center to keep your paint sprayer performing at its best.

Aug 7th 2026 Ivan Lozano Llanos

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