After market hose kits are available. Are they any better than the original? Not sure. Mine is rubber, but also, not very flexible when recoiling. Go to Sears or any big box store and compare the quality difference. I really don't use my washer enough to have it really bother me, but when I do use it, I end up trying to untangle the hose more than once to get it to recoil properly. You would think for what even the cheaper gas models cost, they could at least supply them with a hose that remains flexible enough condusive with the working pressure of the washer.

Get a turbo nozzle, you will love it. You will think you have a big pressure washer.

Hmmm, I have learned "too" never leave my pressure washer running when not using it for couple min. or especially when troubleshooting. I also don't start it till I sure I have water flow through the pump. I also cap my hoses and pump inlet and outlet when in storage so I don't have your problems anymore!! Note I said anymore! I also check and change the oil in the pump cause over time moisture can get into it and eventually freeze it up.

Hmmmm sounds to me like there is a problem with the wand. Maybe its clogged. You can read here at the top part on how to clean it . Here is a link that might be useful: Pressure washer tips