Fig. 6-14
Idle Speed Screw
Fig. 6-15
2. Use a needle-nose pliers to grasp the collar of the
spark arrestor and pull it out of the muffler (Fig. 6-14).
NOTE: Use only a needle-nose pliers. Other pliers or
tools may damage the spark arrestor.
3. Clean the spark arrestor with a wire brush. Replace it if
it is damaged or if you are unable to clean it thoroughly.
4. Reinstall spark arrestor. Use the needle-nose pliers
to gently push the spark arrestor back into the
muffler until it snaps into place.
Carburetor Adjustment
The idle speed of the engine is adjustable by the screw
next to the air filter cover (Fig 6-15).
NOTE: Careless adjustments can seriously damage
your unit. An authorized service dealer
should make carburetor adjustments.
Maintenance (continued)
Check Fuel Mixture
Old and/or improperly mixed fuel is usually the reason for
improper unit performance. Drain and refill the tank with
fresh, properly mixed fuel prior to making any
adjustments. Refer to Oil and Fuel Information.
Clean Air Filter
The condition of the air filter is important to the operation
of the unit. A dirty air filter will restrict air flow and change
the air/fuel mixture. This is often mistaken for an out of
adjustment carburetor. Check the condition of the air
filter before adjusting the idle speed screw. Refer to Air
Filter Maintenance.
Adjust Idle Speed Screw
The cutting attachment may be spinning during
idle speed adjustment. Wear protective clothing
and observe all safety instructions to prevent
serious personal injury.
If, after checking the fuel mixture and cleaning the air
filter, the engine still will not idle, adjust the idle speed
screw as follows:
1. Start the engine and let it run at a high idle for a
minute to warm up.
2. Release the throttle trigger and let the engine idle. If
the engine stops, insert a small phillips or flat blade
screwdriver into the screw next to the air filter cover
(Fig. 6-15). Turn the idle speed screw in, clockwise,
1/8 of a turn at a time (as needed) until the engine
idles smoothly.
NOTE: The cutting attachment should not rotate
when the engine idles.
3. If the cutting attachment rotates when the engine
idles, turn the idle speed screw counterclockwise 1/8
of a turn at a time (as needed), to reduce idle speed.
Checking the fuel mixture, cleaning the air filter, and
adjusting the idle speed screw should solve most engine
problems. If not and all the following are true:
•
The engine will not idle
•
The engine hesitates or stalls on acceleration
•
There is a loss of engine power
Have the carburetor adjusted by an authorized service
dealer.
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