Maintenance (continued)
2. Use a needlenose pliers to grasp the collar of the
spark arrestor and pull it out of the muffler (Fig. 6-14).
NOTE: Use only a needlenose pliers. Other pliers or
tools may damage the spark arrestor.
3. Clean the spark arrestor with a wire brush. Replace
if damaged or unable to clean thoroughly.
4. Reinstall spark arrestor. Use the needlenose pliers
to gently push the spark arrestor back into the
muffler until it snaps into place.
Fig. 6-14
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.
Check Fuel Mixture
Old and/or improperly mixed fuel is usually the reason
for the unit not running properly. Drain and refill the tank
with fresh, properly mixed fuel prior to making any
adjustments. See Section 4, Oil and Fuel.
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. See Section 6, Maintenance.
16
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:
•
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.
Idle Speed Screw
Fig. 6-15