Complete Guide to the Suttner ST-164 Dual Foam Injector
Complete Guide to the Suttner ST-164 Dual Foam Injector
The Suttner ST-164 is the next evolution in professional downstream injection—offering a dual chemical draw system that streamlines your wash process without sacrificing performance. Designed for users who frequently switch between two soaps (like Chem-X Stars + Stripes) or alternate between a pre-soak and a degreaser, this injector simplifies chemical management and maximizes efficiency.
Whether you're operating a fixed bay, mobile rig, or industrial wash station, the ST-164 is engineered to give you fast transitions and consistent foam output—all with a single high-quality injector.
What Is the ST-164 Dual Foam Injector?
The Suttner ST-164 is a dual-line downstream chemical injector, meaning it allows you to switch between two separate chemical sources without swapping lines, nozzles, or equipment. It's built for high-pressure systems and designed to operate with hot or cold water in a wide range of flow rates.
This injector shines in systems using touchless wash processes or setups that require multiple chemical stages with zero downtime.
Key Features
- Dual chemical draw ports – independently labeled and color-coded (usually red and blue)
- Rotary selector knob – choose between Chemical A, Chemical B, or Water Rinse
- Rated up to 4,000 PSI
- Flow range: 2.0–5.0 GPM
- Stainless steel ball and spring for corrosion resistance
- Brass and nickel-plated housing for durability
- Adjustable metering on both chemical ports
- Compatible with hot water up to 180°F
How It Works
The ST-164 uses a selector valve to control which of the two chemical ports is active:
- Position 1: Draws from the red (Chemical A) side
- Position 2: Draws from the blue (Chemical B) side
- Center Position: Fully shut off—no chemical draw, just high-pressure rinse
It relies on downstream pressure differentials created by a low-pressure nozzle, foamer, or soap gun to activate the suction process and pull chemical into the line.
How to Set Up the ST-164
Install After the Pump:
The ST-164 must be plumbed into the high-pressure line downstream of the pump. It can be mounted inline or with quick connects.
Attach Chemical Pickup Tubes:
Connect each pickup port (red and blue) to separate chemical containers. Use weighted filters and check valves to prevent backflow and contamination.
Connect Your Soap Nozzle or Foamer:
Use a Chem-X Chrome Cannon 2.0, Freedom Foamer Lance, or QC Soap Nozzle with a large enough orifice to activate the injector.
Adjust Your Ratios:
Fine-tune chemical draw on each port using the metering adjustment screws located on both sides of the unit.
Select Your Soap or Rinse:
Simply rotate the selector knob to switch between Chemical A, Chemical B, or a rinse cycle.
Why Choose the ST-164 Over the ST-160?
Feature | ST-160 | ST-164 |
---|---|---|
Chemical Inputs | 1 | 2 |
Chemical Selection | Fixed | Selectable (Red / Blue / Off) |
Best Use Case | Single soap or degreaser | Multi-stage or touchless wash |
Flexibility | Moderate | High – switch instantly on the fly |
Metering Control | Single | Dual (individual control) |
If your workflow includes alternating between Stars + Stripes, or switching from a degreaser to a ceramic soap, the ST-164 saves time and reduces error by keeping both products pre-loaded and ready to go.
Best Practices
- Label your pickup tubes clearly to avoid chemical confusion
- Flush with clean water regularly, especially after using high-viscosity products
- Use enlarged orifice soap nozzles for proper injector activation
- Mount the ST-164 in a visible, accessible location to quickly rotate the selector during a wash
- Use a check valve or Mezzo Valve upstream if combining with a multi-gun setup or lance system
Ideal Pairings
Pair your ST-164 with:
- Chem-X Stars (Red) and Stripes (Blue)
- Snake Oil (Red) and Heavy Duty Degreaser (Blue)
- Old Glory (Red) and Eagle Guard (Blue)
This setup is especially popular for:
- Commercial fleets
- Touchless wash bays
- Trailer washouts
- Industrial cleaning
- Mobile rigs handling multiple surface types
Maintenance Tips
- Inspect metering screws and selector knob monthly for buildup
- Replace pickup tubes when they become brittle or discolored
- Lubricate O-rings and seals during seasonal tune-ups
- Keep your check valves clean to avoid cross contamination
Final Thoughts
The Suttner ST-164 Dual Foam Injector is built for professionals who demand speed, flexibility, and precision. If you’re tired of swapping tubes, wasting time between chemical stages, or risking cross-contamination, the ST-164 is your all-in-one solution.
With Chem-X soaps designed specifically for downstream foam systems, you can count on rich, effective foam every time—with zero hassle and maximum control.