How to Troubleshoot a Toro Trimmer Model 51911

Trimmer Will Not Start

• 1

  Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” to confirm it's on the proper setting. The switch is located above the handle that features the throttle trigger.

• 2

  Check the fuel and fill the tank with regular unleaded gasoline mixed with two-cycle engine oil if necessary. The fuel tank cap is located on the top of the engine.

• 3

  Switch to fresh gasoline. The trimmer may not start if the gasoline is more than 60 days old.

• 4

  Press the priming bulb all the way into the engine five to seven times before attempting to start the engine to ensure that the carburetor has an immediate supply of fuel. The priming bulb looks like a large rubber button, and is located below the spark plug on the back of the engine.

• 5

  Move the choke lever, located below the priming bulb, properly during the start-up process. Put the lever in the “CHOKE” position before attempting to start the engine. Pull the starter rope until the engine sounds like it is close to starting, then move the choke lever to the “PARTIAL” position. Allow the engine to idle for between five and 10 minutes before moving the choke lever to the “RUN” position.

Engine Lacks Power or Stalls

• 6

  Check the air filter; a clogged filter will prevent proper operation. Stop the engine and allow it to cool and then move the choke lever to the “CHOKE” position. Remove the air filter and immerse it in clean water mixed with a small amount of liquid dishwasher detergent. Squeeze the air filter to remove the water and repeat the process until the water is clear when squeezed out. Allow the filter to dry, then saturate it with SAE 30 oil. Reinstall the filter.

• 7

  Check the fuel and fill the tank with regular unleaded gasoline mixed with two-cycle engine oil if necessary. The fuel tank cap is located on the top of the engine.

• 8

  Switch to fresh gasoline. The trimmer may not run well if the gasoline is more than 60 days old.

Cutting Head Will Not Advance

• 9

  Install a new prewound cutting line reel if the trimmer has run out of line. Install a reel equipped with cutting line that is 0.080 inches in diameter.

• 10

  Replace the reel and the spool if they are damaged. Turn the trimmer off and pull the spark plug wire off. Hold the line spool stationary and turn its large knob in a counterclockwise direction to remove it and to detach the line reel from the spool. Slide the spool out of the reel and inspect the indexing teeth for wear.

• 11

  Separate the spool from the reel and clean both components with a clean cloth if they are clogged with debris.

• 12

  Press and hold down the reel’s large knob and pull approximately 4 inches out of the reel, as the line may have been stuck within the reel.