Understanding a Flooded Weed Eater
Flooding in a weed eater, which is also known as a string trimmer or lawn trimmer, occurs when too much gasoline has entered the engine’s cylinder, making it difficult or impossible to start. This usually happens when you’ve tried to start the engine multiple times without it turning over. Here’s a step-by-step guide to fix your flooded weed eater.
Step 1: Discontinue Attempting to Start the Weed Eater
As soon as you realize that your weed eater is flooded, stop trying to start it. Continuously pulling the start cord can make the problem worse and over-saturate the spark plug with fuel.
Step 2: Allow the Weed Eater to Rest
Set the weed eater aside in a safe, well-ventilated area and wait for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This short period allows the excess gasoline to evaporate.
Step 3: Check and Clean the Spark Plug
If waiting doesn’t help, you will need to check the spark plug. This is how:
- Locate the spark plug on your weed eater.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire: Carefully pull the spark plug wire off of the spark plug.
- Remove the spark plug using a spark plug socket. Inspect the spark plug for signs of wetness, which is indicative of flooding.
- If the spark plug is wet, dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel. If it’s dirty or shows signs of wear, consider replacing it.
- Leave the spark plug out for a few minutes to let the fuel in the combustion chamber evaporate.
Step 4: Drain Excess Fuel
With the spark plug removed, turn the weed eater over and drain any excess fuel from the cylinder. Be sure to catch any fuel properly and dispose of it according to local regulations.
Step 5: Clear the Carburetor
Try to start the engine with the spark plug removed to clear out any remaining fuel from the carburetor. Pull the start cord a few times.
Step 6: Reinstall the Spark Plug
Once the cylinder is cleared, and the spark plug is dry (or replaced if necessary), reinstall it. Do not over-tighten the spark plug, as this can damage the threads or the plug itself.
Step 7: Start the Weed Eater
Attempt to start your weed eater as you would normally by following the manufacturer’s recommended starting procedure. When doing so, make sure the choke is set to the “run” position if the engine has been flooded, as additional choking can cause the engine to flood again.
Step 8: Troubleshoot Persistent Issues
If the weed eater still won’t start after following these steps, consider other possible issues such as a dirty air filter, bad gasoline, a clogged carburetor, or ignition problems. Maintenance or repairs might be needed beyond the scope of simply addressing a flooding issue.
Preventing Future Flooding
To prevent your weed eater from flooding in the future, always use fresh fuel and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for starting the engine. Use proper starting techniques—usually, a short, quick pull on the start cord is more effective than slow, strong pulls. Additionally, regular maintenance like cleaning or replacing air filters and spark plugs will help keep your weed eater in top working condition.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it might be time to take your weed eater to a professional for service or consider if it’s time for a replacement.