Troubleshooting
Problem
Possible Cause
Corrective Action
1. The power cord is disconnected at the
outlet or the machine.
1. Connect the power cord to the outlet
and/or the machine.
2. The power cord is worn, corroded, or
damaged.
2. Replace the power cord.
The electric starter does not turn
(electric-start models only).
3. The power outlet is not energized.
3. Have a qualified electrician energize
the outlet.
1. The key is not in the ignition or is in the
S
TOP
position.
1. Insert the key into the ignition and turn
it to the O
N
position.
2. The choke is in the O
FF
position and
the primer has not been pressed.
2. Move the choke to the O
N
position and
press the primer 3 times.
3. The fuel-shutoff valve is not open.
3. Open the fuel-shutoff valve.
4. The throttle is not in the F
AST
position.
4. Move the throttle to the F
AST
position.
5. The fuel tank is empty or the fuel
system contains stale fuel.
5. Drain and/or fill the fuel tank with
fresh fuel (not more than 30 days old).
If the problem persists, contact an
Authorized Service Dealer.
6. The spark-plug wire is loose or
disconnected.
6. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
7. The spark plug is pitted, fouled, or the
gap is incorrect.
7. Check the spark plug and adjust the
gap if necessary. Replace the spark
plug if it is pitted, fouled, or cracked.
8. The fuel-vent cap is restricted.
8. Remove the vent restriction or replace
the fuel cap.
The engine does not start or starts hard.
9. The engine-oil level in the engine
crankcase is too low or too high.
9. Add or drain oil to adjust the oil level in
the engine crankcase to the Full mark
on the dipstick.
1. The choke is in the O
N
position.
1. Move the choke to the O
FF
position.
2. The fuel-shutoff valve is not completely
open.
2. Open the fuel-shutoff valve.
3. The fuel tank is nearly empty or
contains stale fuel.
3. Drain and fill the fuel tank with fresh
fuel (not more than 30 days old).
If the problem persists, contact an
Authorized Service Dealer.
4. The spark-plug wire is loose.
4. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
5. The spark plug is pitted, fouled, or the
gap is incorrect.
5. Check the spark plug and adjust the
gap if necessary. Replace the spark
plug if it is pitted, fouled, or cracked.
The engine runs rough.
6. The engine-oil level in the engine
crankcase is too low or too high.
6. Add or drain oil to adjust the oil level in
the engine crankcase to the Full mark
on the dipstick.
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