How to Troubleshoot a Toro Gas Trimmer

A Toro gas trimmer will eventually break down and quit working properly. In these events, the problem can vary widely, from simple to complicated, easily fixed to ruined. Understanding and identifying the difference will help save a lot of time and a lot of money. A few simple tests can be performed quickly to determine the gravity and the area of the problem, which, under other circumstances, could be very difficult to locate and determine.

Socket wrench
Spark plug socket
New spark plug
Spark plug tester
Compression gauge
Screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Lift off the rubber boot attached to the end of the spark plug. Unscrew the spark plug and remove it from the engine. Replace the spark plug, screwing the new plug back into the cylinder.
- 2
  Clip the spark plug tester onto the spark plug and into the rubber boot. Set the trimmer on the ground away from any objects it could hit. Turn the ignition switch to “On.”
- 3
  Pull on the starter rope and look for a spark in the tester’s window. Allow a professional to service the ignition system if no spark appears in the tester’s window.
- 4
  Take the spark plug tester off and unscrew the spark plug from the cylinder. Screw the compression gauge into the spark plug hole finger tight. Pull on the starter rope until the gauge’s needle reaches its maximum.
- 5
  Allow a professional to service the compression and air systems if the compression needle drops below 90 psi or doesn’t hold steady.
- 6
  Unscrew the air filter box cover. Take the air filter pad out and unscrew the filter box, removing it from the engine. Gain access to the carburetor and unhook the rubber hoses with your fingers.
- 7
  Tilt the engine back slightly and look for a small amount of gas to come out near the carburetor. Service the fuel system if no gas leaks out of the hoses.

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