Backpack Leaf Blower quits in Run Mode

[kirkintilloch]

I pulled out my leaf blower that I bought refurbished a few years ago. I last used either last fall or the year before.

I can get it started just fine, and I can use it with the Choke on but as soon as I take the Choke off the engine stops.

I even used it in half choke mode for about ten minutes see if warming it up would do anything, but once again it quit.

I don't know anything about engines but wonder if I should try a fuel additive, like Sea Foam, or something before I take it to a shop.

Any suggestions on what I can try?

Thank,

Kirk.

 

[synthetic_crazy]

Sounds like you might need to adjust the carburetor. Also, it may be of no consequence, but check and see if the exhaust port needs to be cleaned.

 

[kirkintilloch]

Is adjust the carburetor something almost anyone can do, or would I be better off taking it into a shop.

I have very little experience working on an engine, and probably couldn't tell you what the Carburetor is with out looking at a photo.

Just wondered if there was a few things I might try before spending more money on it.

 

[Donald]

I would make sure the gas is fresh, (I like premix) and add in double or triple strength StaBil Blue Marine and run a tank through. Even if you just let it sit running.

Walmart had the Stabil.

If you want to look further, look into the fuel tank with a flashlight and see if you see a filter hanging by a hose in the tank. Using a bent coat hanger retrieve the filter and get a new one. Bring the old filter to a shop, they go by size and fuel line size.

I would store it with premix fuel.

 

[RTexasF]

Check the air filter and confirm it is clean. If questionable then replace it.

 

[kirkintilloch]

I added the sea foam and now it doesn't die when i turn the choke off.

I will see if I can find the OM to see how to check the air filter.

 

[99dej]

I had a similar experience 3yrs ago with my snowblower (Briggs) and hedge trimmer (Deere 2 stroke). Hard starting as well on the hedge trimmer. I happened to be at the local Polaris dealership and telling my woes of how my year old snowblower (and I had always used stabilizer in) was hard starting and wouldn't run without the choke on. The tech said to throw some Polaris Carbon Clean into the fuel tank at twice the recommended, then continue using it in the fuel. And, most importantly, to switch from regular gas and not store it in a poly container. His rationale was the ethanol gummed up the carb, and it started to degrade almost immediately when stored in the poly.

I used the Carbon Clean, and after about a tank and a half, both started to run properly. And, I switched to premium fuel, stored in a metal fuel can. Was blown away that this worked, as I am NOT a guy who uses much in the way of additives.

Fast forward to today, and I now use only premium or av gas (when I can get it) and everything starts on first pull, and runs like they should.