This is a photograph of my gas powered cultivator. I was about to use is yesterday to start the rehabilitation of our lawn, little by little. But it wouldn't start. Or, rather it would start and run for 10 seconds and then quit. It is a Sears cultivator that I have owned for probably 40 years, and has always been difficult to start. I solved that problem by using winter starter fluid in a spray can - one squirt of the ether into the air intake, and the cultivator would start instantly. So, yesterday I reluctantly got out all my tools, and began disassembling the cultivator. Because it would start and run for 10 seconds, I knew that it had to be fuel, and that means the carburetor. So I took everything apart and disassembled the carburetor. I cleaned out the passages and checked for dirt and found nothing. So I put it all back together. It took the better part of the afternoon, which is not what I wanted to do. I put gas in it, gave it a sprtiz of starter fluid, and it started... for 10 seconds, and then quit again! That was maddening! So this morning I started all over, and took it all apart again, and carefully looked at every part of the carburetor. I got out my air compressor and blew out all the passages again and double checked everything. Reassembled it, gassed it up, and, put, put, put, and it died. So frustrating.
Have you looked at the spark plug and associated wiring? My dad has one of these, same age, and very frustrating at times. Good luck. BTW, I think,your lawn is fine!
ReplyDeletePlease refer to my second comment to yesterday's blog.
ReplyDeleteDid you carefully inspect the diaphragm for pin holes? Sour gas (old gas) can degrade the nitrile rubber coating.
ReplyDeleteI love your determination to fix everything, but sorry you are frustrated. Walk away!
ReplyDeleteThe stubborn yankee in us wants to get to the bottom of the problem. Hop on your bike and go for a ride on this gorgeous cool day. Before you know it your lawn will be covered in snow. :-)
Joan
Primo! I looked at the diaphragm but not with a magnifying glass... I am pretty conscientious about using fresh gas and oil, and of running all machines dry at the end of the season. But thanks for this tip!
ReplyDeleteYou sure were determined!! Sorry it didn't work after all your efforts. Walk away, take a break. Then go back and try again... I know you'll fix it :-) betsey
ReplyDeleteWow, I see where I get this from!
ReplyDelete