How Do You Start a Stubborn Small Engine?

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Starting Instructions

  • Set throttle to high revs.
  • Turn manual choke on, if fitted.
  • Press primer button about eight times.
  • Pull starter rope quickly.
  • Allow engine to reach top speed before using.

Cold Start Procedure

  • Squeeze primer bulb firmly.
  • Advance throttle in neutral to 2/3s.
  • Turn key on, push choke on, crank same time.
  • Release choke, return throttle to neutral after ignition.

Troubleshooting Starting Issues

  • Checklist to start stubborn engine:

    • Check oil level.
    • Fuel and spark needed to start.
    • Gummed up seals and valves prevent starting after winter storage.

  • To start flooded engine:

    • Remove air filter.
    • Insert screwdriver into inlet valve.

  • To start stubborn chainsaw:

    • Move choke lever to full position.
    • Pull starter rope 3-4 times.

  • What causes a small engine to be hard to start?

    • Set the throttle to high revs or the choke position.
    • If the engine has a manual choke turn it on.

  • Will an engine start with bad gas?

    • Contaminated gas doesn’t provide enough power to start the engine.
    • However – if your engine doesn’t start, you shouldn’t automatically assume you have bad gas.

  • How do you start a stubborn engine?

    • Set the choke.
    • Open up the automatic choke by pressing the gas pedal all the way down and then raising it halfway up before starting the engine.

  • What makes a small engine hard to start?

    • Common solutions for a small engine being hard to start include inspecting the spark plug for wear or damage.

  • Why won’t a small engine start?

    • A small engine might fail to start due to issues with the fuel, ignition, or compression systems. Contaminated fuel, a fouled spark plug, or worn piston rings are common culprits.

  • Tips to Ensure Engine Starting

    • Use starting fluid carefully.
    • Allow the engine to reach operating temperature before use.
    • Premixed gas can prevent cylinder wall drying and WD-40 can clean dirty engine parts.
    • Replace worn spark plugs.

  • Key Factors for Engine Starting

    • Fresh fuel.
    • Unclogged tank vent.
    • Properly timed ignition.
    • Good compression.

Additional Information

  • Consider running the engine dry before storage.
  • Remove sticks and debris from the area before mowing.
  • B checking for backfires and black smoke.

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