My Snapper Trimmer Is Hard to Start

Fuel

• Gasoline has a limited useful life. If fuel is left in the trimmer's tank, carburetor and fuel lines for more than 30 days or so, it can become stale. Stale fuel is a major cause of hard starting, and may additionally form gummy deposits inside the fuel system. Never store fuel inside the trimmer without adding fuel stabilizer according to the manufacturer's directions. If you suspect stale fuel, drain the tank into a safe storage container and purge the fuel lines by pressing the primer bulb 15 times. Check and clean the fuel filter.

Spark

• The spark plug ignites the fuel inside the engine, powering your Snapper trimmer. Check that the spark plug wire is attached to the plug and shows no obvious signs of wear. Try to start the trimmer and remove the spark plug. Smell the plug; if you can detect gasoline, then fuel is getting to the engine. Reattach the wire and crank the engine while watching the spark plug. A spark should be visible as long as the surrounding light is not too bright. If it is not, replace the spark plug.

Carburetor

• The carburetor is responsible for mixing the correct ratio of air and fuel and injecting it into the engine cylinder. Ensure that the air filter is clean so that air can reach the carburetor. Check the carburetor's idle speed screw setting and adjust it to make the fuel mixture richer or leaner if needed. If the carburetor is still not working, the flexible diaphragm inside may be torn, preventing the carburetor from sucking up fuel. Replace it if necessary, or replace the whole carburetor.

Exhaust

• Once the spark plug ignites the fuel mixture in the engine, the exhaust gases need a clear avenue to escape or the trimmer will be difficult or impossible to start. Over time, the particulate matter in the exhaust can build up around the holes in the muffler until it is partially or completely clogged. If this is the case, simply wipe away the black carbon buildup to open up the exhaust port. Clean any dust or buildup from around the cylinder fins and fan cover at the same time.