Leaf blowers are essential tools for outdoor maintenance, but they can be frustrating to use when they don’t start. If your leaf blower is giving you trouble, don’t despair! There are several common reasons why leaf blowers fail to start, and most of them can be easily fixed.
1. Check the Fuel
The most common reason why leaf blowers don‘t start is a lack of fuel. Make sure that the fuel tank is full and that the fuel is fresh. Old fuel can lose its potency and become difficult to ignite.
2. Inspect the Spark Plug
The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel in the combustion chamber. If the spark plug is faulty, the engine will not start. Remove the spark plug and check for signs of damage or wear. Replace the spark plug if necessary.
3. Clean the Air Filter
A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, making it difficult to start. Remove the air filter and clean it with soap and water. Allow the air filter to dry completely before reinstalling it.
4. Check the Fuel Line and Carburetor
The fuel line and carburetor are responsible for delivering fuel to the engine. If either of these components is blocked or damaged, the engine will not start. Inspect the fuel line for leaks or cracks. Clean the carburetor with carburetor cleaner.
5. Examine the Starter Cord
The starter cord is used to pull the engine over and start it. If the starter cord is broken or frayed, it will not be able to engage the engine. Inspect the starter cord and replace it if necessary.
6. Check the Ignition Coil
The ignition coil provides the spark that ignites the fuel in the combustion chamber. If the ignition coil is faulty, the engine will not start. Test the ignition coil with a multimeter. Replace the ignition coil if necessary.
7. Inspect the Flywheel Key
The flywheel key is a small piece of metal that connects the flywheel to the crankshaft. If the flywheel key is sheared or damaged, the engine will not start. Remove the flywheel and inspect the flywheel key. Replace the flywheel key if necessary.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If your leaf blower is electric, make sure that it is plugged into a working outlet. Check the power cord for damage.
- If your leaf blower is gas-powered, make sure that the fuel is mixed with the correct ratio of oil.
- Try starting the leaf blower with the choke on. This will help to prime the engine with fuel.
- If the leaf blower starts but then stalls, check the fuel filter. A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow to the engine.
Wrapping Up
If you have tried all of these troubleshooting tips and your leaf blower still won’t start, it may be time to take it to a qualified repair technician.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Why does my leaf blower start but then stall?
A: This could be caused by a clogged fuel filter, a dirty carburetor, or a faulty ignition coil.
Q: Can I use regular gasoline in my leaf blower?
A: No, you should use a fuel mixture that is specifically designed for two-stroke engines.
Q: How often should I clean the air filter in my leaf blower?
A: You should clean the air filter every few months, or more often if you use the leaf blower frequently.
Q: What are the signs of a bad spark plug?
A: A bad spark plug can cause the engine to misfire, run rough, or not start at all.
Q: How do I know if the flywheel key is sheared?
A: If the flywheel key is sheared, the flywheel will not be able to turn the crankshaft. This will prevent the engine from starting.
