Forest Master Models: FM9DD/FM14DD/FM18DD
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Charging The Battery
The engine will trickle charge the battery when it is running. If however the battery has insufficient charge, use
a trickle charger. Fully charged battery should be more than 12.9 volts. Charging will be easier if the battery is
removed from the battery tray.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
Most problems are easy to fix. Consult the Troubleshooting Table below or the frequently asked questions on
our website https://forest-master.com/faq/ (which is continuously updated) for common problems and their
solutions. If you continue to experience problems, or your problem is not listed, contact our technical line on:
0191 276 6553.
Before performing any maintenance procedure or inspection, stop the engine, wait 5 minutes to allow all parts
to cool, disconnect the spark plug.
Symptom
Possible Cause
The engine won’t start
(Petrol)
• Is the ignition switch in the “ON” position?
• Is the fuel shut-off valve on?
• Are you using fresh, clean fuel? If the fuel is old, change it. Use a fuel stabi-
lizer if you keep fuel longer than 30 days.
• Is the spark plug clean? If the spark plug is dirty or cracked, change it. If
it’s oily, leave it out, hold a rag over the plug hole and pull the recoil cord
several times to blow out any oil in the cylinder, then wipe off the plug and
reinsert it.
• Is there sufficient oil? Check the engine oil level and if necessary top up to
the correct level.
• Is there dirt in the carburettor? Undo the bolt holding the float chamber to
the carburettor, empty out any fuel and clean the inside using fresh, clean
petrol. Remove the jet in the bottom of the carburettor and clean it. Refit
the jet and the float chamber.
• Is the pull start stuck or has more resistance? Check the drum for block-
ages.
• Is the hopper securing bolt tight. If the lower bolt on the hopper is not
tightened then the safety cutout will be in operation and the engine won’t
start.
Pull cord is tight / starter
motor clicks, does not turn
• drum blocked. Refer to removing blockage on Page 14.
The engine lacks power or
is not running smoothly
(Petrol).
• Check that the throttle lever is advanced from the “Idle” position.
• Is the air filter clean? If it’s dirty change it following the procedure in the
engine manufacturer’s manual.
• Is the spark plug clean? If it’s dirty or cracked, change it. If it’s oily, leave it
out, hold a rag over the plug hole and pull your recoil cord several times to
blow out any oil in the cylinder, then wipe off the plug and reinsert it.
• Are you using fresh, clean unleaded fuel? If it’s old, change it. Use a fuel
stabilizer if you keep petrol longer than 30 days.
• Does your engine have the right amount of clean oil? If it’s dirty, change it
following the procedure in the engine manufacturer’s manual.
• Check the oil level and adjust if needed.
