How to Troubleshoot a Pull Cord Weedeater

Check the fuel supply. Empty and refill the tank if the fuel is contaminated with water or debris. Clean blockages in the fuel line. The machine will be unable to start, run well or run constantly if it doesn’t have access to fuel. Ensure the oil fuel mixture is the right ratio.

Check the spark plug. Replace the spark plug if it is damaged or no longer sparks. Clean and reinstall the spark plug if it is dirty or installed incorrectly, reattach the spark plug wire if it is loose or has come off. The weed eater will refuse to start, run poorly or stall if the spark plug is malfunctioning.

Start the weed eater properly. Each machine has its own start sequence. For example, the Troy-Bilt requires the user to prime the engine, set the throttle to “Fast," disengage the control lever and pull the starter rope. For engines that are warm you won’t need to prime the engine. If the engine is flooded wait for a few minutes before attempting to start.

Check the pull cord. If the cord is more difficult to pull than when you first got the machine call for service.

Check the throttle and choke when running the machine. Set the throttle to “On” and set the choke to “Off” or “Closed” so the trimmer cuts.

Check the airflow. Clean the fuel tank cap so the vent is clear and airflow is unrestricted otherwise the engine can overheat. Clean or replace the air cleaner to keep the engine from idling or running poorly.

Check the trimmer string or blade. Adjust the length or the string or replace the spool. Untangle the string if it is tangled. Sharpen or replace dull or damaged trimmer blades. The weed eater can’t trim without string or blades.