Troubleshooting A Two-Cycle Engine That Won’t Start

[@williamfritz189]

That was perhaps the clearest, best-photographed and well-explained DIY video I've seen. THANKS!!

[@toonybrain]

He did an excellent job. 👍🏼

[@ronsmoak2662]

Excellent breakdown of how to troubleshoot. I wish more videos were this good of getting to the point quickly.

[@Iscaper]

Glad you liked it!

[@colinmcgregor3143]

STIHL 45 won't start, i've watched loads of videos, they all show how to fix something which is fine if the diagnosis is correct !! This guy is best by far. Love the simple diagnostic process, kind of reassuring. Just need to go do it !

[@Iscaper]

Thanks Colin, I appreciate the feedback.

[@MRHEEL-ys2rq]

You sir just earned a sub from me. Im having to repair my father's Stihl hedge trimmer and what you described very may have saved him 150 bucks

[@Iscaper]

Great!

[@Summersblues1]

Just wanted to thank you 🙏 for making such a simple and easy to follow a video , i’ve been having trouble with my hedge trimmer lately , and this video, came in very handy, I hate all the videos were they talk too much ,and run you around in circles! Your video swas short ,to the point ,and very simple ,which is what we all want! Thank you so much for making it sincerely Ericc , ........I am now a new subscriber!

[@Britishcaravans]

Just the starting process fixed it for me! Probably the best instruction video ive ever seen. thank you sir.

[@Iscaper]

Thanks! I'm glad the video helped. What part of the UK are you from?

[@FaffyandJus]

@@Iscaper Norfolk sir

[@Iscaper]

@@FaffyandJus Nice, we lived in Bury St Edmunds for a year. Beautiful country.

[@ngineerd1267]

Outstanding video. Great to see some good 2-stroke troubleshooting

[@steveruegge5504]

I got lost at about 3:15. Instruction said connect vom red lead to the connector going to ignition coil. There are two leads on the ignition coil and the video didnt clarify which connector is correct. A second question is as follows. What if the spark plug isnt getting wet? I replaced carb, filter and checked fuel lines. Still no fuel. Still wont start. Is there a fool proof checklist for no fuel?

[@toonybrain]

That’s my HS45: “The engine acts like it’s not getting any spark.” But I replaced the ignition module and it still won’t start. Step 2... (Excellent video. You share that same steady, comfortable voice as the Essential Craftsman. 🙂)

[@Iscaper]

* Check start/stop switch for continuity. * Remove spark plug and check for spark.

[@toonybrain]

@@Iscaper Thank you! Will do.

[@billm5758]

Great video. Clear concise steps and well videoed. Nice job

[@Iscaper]

Glad it was helpful!

[@nickandnicksconstructionti9508]

I have the hands this brother from another mother has the knowledge. The video was step by step & easy for any handy man to follow ! Thank you going to now put a new fuel one on bc my has rotted too be safe God bless

[@Iscaper]

Thanks, I appreciate the feedback.

[@perrywiggins]

Thank you for your great tips , hope too fix my hedge trimmer with the knowledge you have shared many thanks

[@MrBigbri2011]

Excellent methodical process of elimination. You probably assumed that people would know, but it could have been old fuel that had deteriorated too.

[@xx3868]

Hi, Have a little 26cc engine that runs ok for a short time then dies at idle after warm? I can save it by putting on half choke, so extra air coming from somewhere? So have replaced all gaskets for engine, insulator and carb and the oil seal on crankshaft and put 9 lbs pressure in that engine with no needle movement. Possible case crack only when hot letting air in? Rings and all that ok and can start it ok with no primer bulb so takes 6-10 pulls to get going. Also put 3 carbs on it with exact same running them failure to idle between 10-30 mins. could a worn coil when hot be saved by the choke?? Fuel delivery is gravity fed and 2 carbs i tried had bulbs and they were full when it failed so carb should be full. If i can start it at cranking speed, does that mean it should run above that at idle as the engine is worn and blowby when hot would upset the 2 stroke cycle just enough ? not enough suction to draw up fuel mixture hot?. This barrel has no reed for the pulse hole, just the piston sliding past and i have seen it flood the plug when metering spring was a little weak , so pulse hole pressure seems ok and unblocked. oil spit out when i squirt a little in it and pull cord. One time, it wouldnt go above half power for a few mins, then cleared and i had full power again?? Possessed? haha Nothing left to replace or substitute now, so totally baffled. So all thats left is low compression, weak coil, crack in crankcase? but tests ruled them out except crack?

[@RolandMitchell]

Kerry here's One for you; Although a different Petrol Machine Mine is a J C B It is always Kept empty when not in use so when I Decided to use it I Took the Spark plug out of the Head and then Reconnected the Spark plug to the Cable where there was a a constant spark every time I Pulled on the Rope so there was no issue there: Putting the Spark plug Back into the Head and also the Cap Back onto the Spark Plug I Then Filled the Tank up with the recommended 2 Stroke Oil: I Primed the Car by Using the Bulb Pump : I Switched it on at the switch and after Pulling the Cord about thirty times It Started up on full revs where then It Idled when I Released the Throttle and then Reved it up to cut down the weeds and it worked: I was just trying it out as I was going to Do a Massive Job; But when I Pressed the Kill switch it would not cut out: It Kept Revving Up it did stop after I Used the Choke to Cut it out and it Stopped: I to the Strimmer apart to get at the switch and Tested it out with a Volt Meter and when on the off Position it was off and on on the On Position it was on:( I Had disconnected the switch from off the strimmer to try it out ) Leaving the Switch disconnected I Took out the Spark Plug and Connected the Spark Cap on and Pulled the Cord there was a Very Powerful Spark even though the wires were Now Cut In Half I Soldered the Cables Back up: I Believe that there is a direct Short but where I Don't Know {Any Ideas?}

[@Iscaper]

I would ask a small engine mechanic. If you have a short wouldn't that keep power from getting to the spark plug?

[@jamesardwan6160]

Thank you for your tips, they were the most informative I've been able to see.

[@mickdog2]

very good editing and narrating. the timing and information was excellent.

[@marshallborder9089]

Thanks very informative video , have the same Hedge trimmer . If I ever need this video I'll revert back to this great informative video . Thanks again for people like you that make life easier and cheaper to live with these self help videos .👍

[@Mark-xk1ec]

Excellent video and very well explained. I'm at the getting a new Sparkplug stage, but will follow your guidance to try and resolve my similar issue - thanks very much.

[@simonhughes9449]

Evening iScaper1 - I hope this finds you well! Thanks for this video, I have the same machine purchased brand new from the dealer last week but showing no signs of life, which is odd. Never had this issue with a two-cycle engine, especially brand new out of the box, so this is all very good info for trying to determining the issue.

[@Iscaper]

Where your trimmer is that new I would take it back to the dealer and have them try to start it. If it doesn't fire right up I would have them exchange it for a new one that does.

[@williamgreen176]

My HS 45 hedgetrimmer will start on the first pull, but stalls when throtteling up,. I decided to pull engine cover and clean the spark arrester. In the process of replacing the cover I did not realize there were different size screws and broke a larger one in the smaller hole. My local repair shop told me to junk the trimmer and buy a battery powered trimmer. I would like to repair this one myself as it has less than 50 hrs on it and cost over 3 bills. Can I back out that broken screw and then consider replacing the carburator ? l love your page

[@mrsmith906]

For a machine that will not start or cuts out after a few minutes, first check that the fuel pipes have not perished and split allowing air to be sucked in. E10 Petrol/Gas that has bioethanol content will destroy some plastic fuel pipes. I have just diagnosed & repaired this problem with a Titan multi-strimmer.

[@mohamedsimo6502]

Thank you for continuing your work

[@johnkosheluk1041]

hey Kerry my brother works 4 a lawn repair company is that a brand new timer it is clean in and out I have never seen a hedge trimmer that clean

[@Iscaper]

+john Kosheluk No the hedge trimmer is around 8 years old.

[@itspaintosee]

Spark plug wasn't connected to the wire properly for me. I had to compact the rubber casing around it to make it connect. Thanks very much for the info.

[@Iscaper]

Glad I could help.

[@minamcconnell9932]

Best video I've seen!!! Thank you!!

[@Iscaper]

Thanks!

[@dave_in_florida]

Excellent discussion, great instruction!!

[@Iscaper]

Thank you!

[@Pterocarpous]

Thank you! Very instructive. Will extrapolate to troubleshooting my Echo SRM-225 start issue. Ty for the spark plug gap info as well.

[@Iscaper]

Good luck!

[@jason82180]

You just set the standard for a DIY video. Thanks!!!

[@zoologicalmilitia2241]

iScaper1 I got a 2 stroke GT80 66cc motor bike replace the CDI 3 times magneto 3 times sparkplug 3 times I got spark when doing the test but when I put the plug back in it does not ignite, what in hell is keeping it from running? Also got a wet plug so its getting gas.

[@levoochka]

Homelite UT10520 Chainsaw has a spark, compression is 90 PSI. If I put some starting flued into the spark hole and put a spark back, should I have a crank (firing) even if fuel tank is empty?

[@michaeljdestefano1208]

Excellent, very informative video! Thank you for taking the time to make it.

[@harper626]

good clear explanation and video. well done.

[@Iscaper]

Thanks Paul, I appreciate the feedback.

[@tradinggames3836]

Clean the muffler spark arrester?

[@trem136]

Can you help me to fix the throttle release switch on my hs45 stihl it sits on top it doesn’t spring back I can’t figure out what to remove to repair ?

[@johnrichardson1373]

Brilliant....so clearly explained.

[@Iscaper]

Glad you think so!

[@matttaylor4498]

Do you have a video showing how to clean the carb? I have an HS 46 C and I need to clean mine.

[@Iscaper]

I have one on a Stihl string trimmer which would be similar. Here's the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/goXPgGiNg5mFjK8

[@frundlemud]

Clear as William said. thanks.

[@vanhanhhoang2246]

The video sound is pretty good, beyond my imagination

[@maxtait6112]

Hi, that was an excellently presented and informative video - well done. I have the same trimmer only a different but possibly related issue- it will start but dies the moment throttle is applied - what is a likely problem and how is it cured please?

[@Iscaper]

If the motor will run at an idle it sounds like a fuel or carburetor problem.

[@tontobb8956]

Jets are blocked or diaphragm has become hard. Needs replacing

[@johndough9187]

I just use a feeler gauge to set the flywheel/module gap. I also use anti-seize on the plug threads because it's usually screwing into an aluminum head or block.

[@expatconn7242]

I have no prime issue. On HS 46 C stihl . Prime button no holes . I pulled the fuel line and switched it to the prime and it ran for a bit. Then stoped . WhT can I do to fix this ?

[@Mike-su8si]

Buy a husqvarna

[@phillipkramer6638]

What if I just stick my finger in the boot since that is my method whenever I come across a small engine I am interested in. If the shock in a small lawnmower goes past my wrist it during a half force pullstart and so far shows if it will probably has enough spark. I do get some strange looks doing this and don't do it on anything larger than around 70 ccs. If the two wires are swapped it will still run right? I dont see why not?

[@markbrad675]

That's all I do,I use the mighty finger to check for spark,,just a small zap,no big deal. To much work doing all of that,just to check for spark,,,Yee Haw...

[@henryalvares7672]

good video thanks

[@markmills7643]

Excellent video. Thank you!!!

[@Iscaper]

Glad it was helpful!

[@miguelanaya2190]

When it is time for replace the blades for a echoo hex trimmer?

[@allgaming4045]

2:10 the ignition switch is off

[@anthonyhenchey7631]

Nice work 👍

[@Iscaper]

Thanks 👍

[@stripymccatpuss]

I bought the same model a few weeks ago, good information for the future

[@joeeccher7183]

outstanding video I have a leak in the fuel it just drains out

[@nadaone82]

Totally awesome, clear concise video

[@Iscaper]

Thanks.

[@ramonmotos7869]

J

[@chenglo8999]

Thank you for the great video! Hope i get my hs45 up n running!

[@yomommajumprcables]

Thank you for detailed video I have same trimmer used only twice. It's always hard to start I've been using gas in can I might have same problem as you

[@JewishJuice]

Well made video! Thank you.

[@Iscaper]

Glad you liked it!

[@jm641]

That's some bloody good content brother, thanks!!! 😃😃😃👌

[@Iscaper]

Thanks for watching!

[@victorsalas494]

It was very helpful

[@Iscaper]

Thanks!

[@yomommajumprcables]

Out the box hard to start if it starts at all

[@Carlos-cn6gq]

Thanks. This is about as good as it gets, clear and concise.

[@joaquinaguirre2976]

Thank you very much! I like your video and I appreciated that you share it with people.

[@shaneadamiak2153]

Where is the best place to order Stihl parts?

[@Iscaper]

You'll need to find a Stihl dealer in your area.

[@shaneadamiak2153]

@@Iscaper Thank you. I see a bunch of after market parts on Amazon are those parts any good?

[@Iscaper]

@@shaneadamiak2153 I've only bought Stihl parts, but after market parts are usually okay.

[@dbdb9334]

Is this the same for the hs 81t. Business card trick i mean.

[@Iscaper]

Not sure, but I would try it.

[@fredbair]

Which model of stihl hedge cutter is it please ? I want one.

[@Iscaper]

HS 45.

[@f296877]

Excellent video 👍

[@johnkosheluk1041]

I am s stihl tech that is a very clean hedge trimmer all most new just so you know Kerry if you are the registered owner the sign/ coil is life time warranty

[@rodgrainger3038]

I have a HS 45 hedge trimmer that backfires through the carb. Any thoughts? I replaced the flywheel,coil and gaskets from the cylinder out and even the coil.Why?

[@TheBlackGreatWhite83]

Good deal, much appreciated

[@Iscaper]

Thanks for watching.

[@robertbowman3406]

One must understand that it take three things for an engine like this to run. Fuel, air and an ignition source. The ignition module can fail on any engine at any time. Lets not blame Stihl. I have one of their 010 chain saws now for over 25 years. All it takes it fresh fuel and I am off to the chores at hand. Its hard to beat a Stihl. And they are assembled at a plant on I-5 near Chehalis, Washington.

[@sallyjohnson5985]

Good job! Thanks!

[@Iscaper]

Thanks for watching.

[@jamesrumrill2174]

I have spark. I tested the ignition module switch on got 1 on 1st test while switch to on. When I switch to off, I still get 1. But, when I test just the switch leads, I get 1 in 1 position then near 0 in the other. What gives? Still does not start.

[@Iscaper]

If you have spark then maybe there is a fuel issue.

[@jamesrumrill2174]

@@Iscaper I just ordered a new carb... this was a great video!

[@Iscaper]

@@jamesrumrill2174 Thanks and good luck.

[@Mike-su8si]

stihls replacement carburetors high and low screw tip ends are a whole different shape and width from the original's and they don't work because they're different

[@barriejones15]

Could you not have checked the primary and secondary windings in the ignition module before replacing it with new? Not everybody would go straight out and buy a new module/coil, presuming the old one to be the problem. Otherwise a clear, well photographed video.

[@moto6ixmoto83]

Should always try a new spark plug if you have no spark. If you still get no spark with a new plug then do what this guy explained

[@williamclements273]

In my experience, a spark plug is rarely the problem but manufacturers are glad you don't know that.

[@kenostubbs5356]

Very detailed and informative,thank you sir

[@setht.1181]

Thanks for the video. Your video looks so easy to follow.

[@Bathurst_1000]

hi just watched yr video iv put new coil & plug in to my motor yet still wont fire up

[@1543martin]

Very good informative video.

[@cadenbronson2762]

That’s why I prefer echo! Never have had this problem with all my echos!

[@billbaber6653]

Good class

[@Iscaper]

Thanks!

[@dondayton6603]

Good repair

[@mickowen568]

r u able 2 replace a spark plug boot

[@Iscaper]

Yes.

[@mickowen568]

lol

[@gordonwilliams3975]

I have spark,fuel and compression. Engine still wont start even with starting fluid.Any ideas?

[@Iscaper]

I wonder if you may have carburetor issues.

[@TiggerNyeah]

Same problem here man. I heard that I may not have enough compression. Should be at least 90 or higher.

[@markbrad675]

Probably not enough compression,,(((,Stuck piston ring)))),,Need to use the good gas like BP,something with out all that Ethanol in it,,No aftermarket gas station,,Use BP,and a higher octane for better starting and the engine will last longer,if you take care of it and drain all the fuel out and run it dry before winter.Good luck..

[@bfg762]

@@markbrad675 Same problem. Changed coil and plug- good spark now, will not start even if starting fluid sprayed inside of the cylinder... I am lost

[@jstump1972]

My primer bulb was pressed once now it wont come back out full so i can push again

[@amana1480]

Thanks for this video

[@Mike-su8si]

Thats because its a stihl brand thats what those are good at doing if it was a husqvarna it would start right up i set my plug gap to .030 to .035 works good starts right up my friends stihl kept dying out while i was trying to use it i got his to stay on by keeping the throttle on part way

[@seventiesandbeyond]

great video..keep up the great work

[@duckhunter8203]

Great review, really thorough, cheers

[@Iscaper]

Thanks Duck Hunter.

[@cusoonmyfriend3738]

i bought a brand new carburetor stihl and they come now with only 1 setting screw , still my hs45 fireup and dies no matter what setting i have on the screw ...i m bored

[@Iscaper]

I wonder if you have an obstruction in the fuel line or a dirty fuel filter.

[@cusoonmyfriend3738]

@@Iscaperafter i ve installed the new carb i did have to use the pump like 10 times and the fuel gets in, could still be the fuel filter ? i will buy a new in case, thank you

[@craigwest4601]

really appreciate the helpful video.

[@yomommajumprcables]

5 stars for video

[@roadwarrior8560]

Thanks, subbed.

[@Iscaper]

Thanks for the sub!

[@danielolmedo2821]

I have a 2cycle engine but will not stay on it will come on but went I run it just goes off any ideas thks

[@Iscaper]

I would look at the carburetor if the engine will start but doesn't run well after that.

[@priscillawells8077]

R

[@ss-wb1tr]

VERY helpful..

[@midwestsirens]

You gotta tighten your ignition coil mounting bolts a lot tighter than that. In the video it looked like you barely snugged them.

[@waiting4aliens]

you should have checked the hi side of the module as well

[@charlesbutler4909]

What mix is the engine

[@charlesbutler4909]

What fuel mix is it

[@ms38wr1]

50:1

[@charlesbutler4909]

Ok thanks

[@SteveGruver]

Very well done!

[@togamac]

Great video! I like the voice-over and the pace of the steps. One suggestion: use the correct terminology for the engine. It's a 2-stroke, not a 2 cycle. The spark plug fires and the piston goes down with the power stroke. The piston then goes up and exhausts the burned gas and compresses the incoming gas to complete the cycle. Therefore 2 strokes = 1 cycle.

[@farasatalitoor5950]

Engine of my machine shuts down frequently after starting ????

[@Iscaper]

Sounds like it's getting spark, maybe you have a fuel issue.

[@kaneapps5959]

Great advice , cheers 👍

[@jovanovskidaniel]

nice work

[@JM-mx8dr]

Pretty good video but it would have been nice if you had given the part number.

[@AsifAnsari-me1pc]

I need over all..this engine maintanice

[@panchogonzales6409]

THANKS.

[@jasonhughes2305]

Stihl no luck