What to do Just in Case, Starting a Flooded Engine

What to do Just in Case

If you follow the normal starting procedure, you should have no problem starting your Tiller/Cultivator. But, just in case you do have problems, here’s what to do.

Make sure the start/stop switch is on “start.” You’d be surprised how many people forget to push the switch into the “start” position.

If the switch was on “stop” when you pulled the cord, you may have flooded the engine.

•First, examine the spark plug. Use a 3/4" (19 mm) inch spark plug wrench.

•Remove the cap over the spark plug. (Picture 1)

IMPORTANT NOTE:

To avoid possible damage to the threads, do not try to remove the plug from a hot aluminum cylinder head.

• Unscrew the spark plug. (Picture 2)

Starting a Flooded Engine

1.If the end of the spark plug is wet, the engine may be flooded. Make sure the switch is in the stop position, disconnect spark plug wire and remove plug. Use a paper towel or a clean rag to dry the spark plug, then, with the spark plug out of the engine, pull the starter cord several times. Shake the fuel out of the inside of the plug and air dry. Next, replace the spark plug. Use the wrench to tighten it and replace the

Picture 1

cap. Next, put the switch in the start position and pull the choke button out. Pull the starter cord three or four times until the engine coughs or sputters. Open the choke (push the choke button in) and pull the cord a few times. The engine should start and run.

2.If the end of the spark plug is dry, check to see if the fuel line is blocked. The fuel line runs from the fuel tank to the carburetor. Pull it off at the carburetor end. Fuel should drip slowly from the line. Wipe off any excess or spilled fuel.

If fuel does not drip from the line, check the line for any bends or pinches. (Picture 3) Kinks in the line restrict the flow of fuel to the engine. Just straighten out the line. Reconnect. Then follow the normal starting procedure.

If fuel drips too freely, the line may be disconnected from the fuel filter. You’ll find the fuel filter inside the fuel tank. Just re-attach the line to the filter, and put the filter back in the tank. Then follow the normal starting procedure.

WARNING DANGER

MAKE SURE THE START/STOP SWITCH IS

IN THE STOP POSITION.

KEEP PLUG WIRE AWAY FROM ENGINE TO

AVOID UNINTENTIONAL SPARK.