How to Troubleshoot a Weed Eater Model XT20T

Set the trimmer on a flat, open area of ground so the head won't contact anything if the trimmer starts accidentally. Lift the rubber boot off the tip of the spark plug. Loosen and take the spark plug out using the socket wrench and socket.

Inspect the tip of the spark plug. Replace the spark plug if the tip is covered in carbon, rusted, bent or damaged in any way. Tighten the spark plug back into the engine.

Connect the ignition tester to the rubber boot and to the tip of the spark plug. Set the choke lever into the "Run" position. Crank hard on the starter rope four times and check for a blue spark in the tester's window. Repair the ignition system if a blue spark doesn't appear.

Unhook the ignition tester from the rubber boot and spark plug. Take the spark plug out of the cylinder again. Fit the compression gauge into the spark plug hole and tighten it only with your fingers.

Pull hard on the starter rope again until the compression needle reaches its maximum point. Check the reading on the gauge. Repair the air and compression systems if the reading is below 90 psi.

Take the air filter cover off the air filter box. Lift out the air filter. Unscrew the air filter box from the side of the Weed Eater. Pull the two fuel hoses off the carburetor with just your fingers.

Lift the engine up slightly and look at the fuel hoses. Clean and service the fuel system if no fuel exits the fuel hoses.