Fixing a Stihl backpack blower that won't start

[@freeflight4ever]

Excellent garage sale find! In such good condition. The BR380 / BR400 were probably the most durable blowers ever made, IMHO. I've repaired hundreds of them. An awesome blower, but its biggest issue is they are so very easy to flood. Of all Stihl products, this is the most notorious for hard starting due to flooding. The main reason is users leaving the choke on or not setting the throttle. Most people don't realize you need to set the throttle, by moving the cruise control lever slightly. For a cold motor, two pulls on choke then choke off with throttle set. If it floods, pull the spark plug, close throttle, turn choke off, turn the blower upside down and pull the starter about ten times. Fuel will flow out the spark plug hole. Dry spark plug, reinstall. Restart with choke off, throttle set. B / Stihl tech

[@HomeGaragechannel]

its always nice to hear from a very experience tech. thank you .

[@freeflight4ever]

@@HomeGaragechannel Your videos are awesome, bro. Keep up the good work! B

[@bdyt]

Thanks for the tips on how to clear flooded engine. Wasn't trying to start it the right way and flooded it. Did what you said and it started right up 👍

[@freeflight4ever]

@@bdyt Glad to be of assistance. U-Tube rules!

[@asapnickybars4693]

@@freeflight4ever Just picked up the same blower from a yard sale for 100$. Didn't even bother haggling because it looks like it's never been used and was stored dry. Fired right up and has balls for a smaller blower.

[@Gutterball]

you set the standard for a professional teaching video. thank you

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I appreciate that!

[@8xlaxx]

I have a BR340, purchased new in 2003. A great Stihl blower! It'll flood easy so engage choke with no throttle, pull 3 times and you'll see it turn over and sputter. Disengage choke, minimal throttle and BOOM, she fires after second pull,...like clock work. Nice score!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thanks for the information I appreciate it

[@lukeWiz44]

That is an older unit, yet it looks brand new! Great find.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Yes it was taken care of for the most part

[@LW_Aviation]

@@lukeWiz44 what are you talking about

[@Mike-su8si]

Mine looks well used and stained dirty I've cleaned it up the best i could so its just stained. its all old original except the carburetor because the other person changed it out so it has a replaced carburetor i did get the original carb off the guy and im gonna clean it up and pick all the small holes it says stihl zama on the bottom of it

[@Mike-su8si]

@@LW_Aviation because the newer blowers are more rounded in shape i guess that one in the video is older like my br420 they're both more square in shape

[@LW_Aviation]

@@Mike-su8si ngl I forgot about that comment I don’t even know what I was talking about😂

[@JB-dj1vn]

I don’t ever have any of these products but it’s nice to know someone likes to fix things up and sell them and it’s interesting

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks for the comment I appreciate it.

[@bamapoppy]

Your video is excellent for a non-techy like myself. And a tip of the hat to Brian for his helpful hints. I’m going to check out my plug because I’m suspecting that’s why my Skil won’t fire up. Turns over. Fresh fuel. Not the screen. Plug or fuel/air mixture per your tutorial. Thanks to you and Brian for the instructions.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem!

[@Jouco]

This model is notoriously tricky to start, they flood easily but it is a very reliable blower, used my previous one for several hundred hours

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes If you're not careful they can be a real pain

[@joeandrucyk951]

GREAT Video! Thank you for sharing! Video, Audio, and Content were GREAT without wasting time on needless chatter. It seems I flooded mine yesterday? When it wouldn't start, I replaced Plug, Fuel filter, lines, and both air filters. I even tried starting fluid spared direct into the carb. I was going to rebuild the carb today. After watching to the end, I decided to try a start this morning with no choke. 5 pulls and it started and now runs fine. You saved me a carb rebuild. THANK YOU! I know this blower is 20+ years and needs to be replaced, but it has always been so trustworthy and reliable.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you for the comment I appreciate it. Yes these blowers have a tendency to flood so always try to start it without choke first and it should start most of the time.

[@DD-vf9ow]

I used your advice on my Stihl backpack blower (BR 340 - 2002 model??) to make it run better. I adjusted the fuel mixture to add fuel High and Low and now it runs great. The tip to remove the screw limiters is awesome. Before I did that I had replaced fuel filter, air filter, pre filter and spark plug. This machine has low hours since its a home unit. Still I use it for 15-20 minutes at least 40 times a year, the previous home lot had a huge number of old growth hardwood trees so it got more use there. The old air filter was from 2002!!! I didn’t think it was fully clogged but I replaced it anyway. Now maybe I can get another 20 years😂😂

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice, and you did a great job D D

[@jonathanbenoit8828]

I learned something new today, that is awesome method, about the carb, I've been doing it wrong,those caps get on my nerves, thanks for that,

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Glad to help

[@robertmailhos8159]

I had the same issue with my br 400 then after they starting making ethanol gas it took a few year's but it finally started running funny but now it's up running like it did when I bought back in December 1997 the reason.being I now live in a area where ethanol free gas is easier to get thanks for saving that br 380 young man

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Robert Mailhos these are some awesome blowers.

[@robertmailhos8159]

@@HomeGaragechannel that is most definitely true

[@jimamerica7419]

In the past, I would treat my gas using a little seafoam, Stihl premium 2 cycle oil along with premium BP gas. I never had problems. In fact, I forgot to run the gas out before winter on a few of my power equipment. Never had issues running or starting in the spring. For the past year I use ethanol free fuel 2 cycle mix or purchase the can premium 2 cycle gas in the store. No issues. I even let a leaf blower with ethanol free 2 cycle mix. Again, no problems or issues. BTW, great find on the Stihl blower. Easiest fix.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you Jim America I appreciate it.

[@adrianhinds106]

great vid as always mate im quite good with all my stihl,echo tools but i still enjoy learning

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you Adrian Hinds for the comment I appreciate it.

[@drel9765]

thanks for your clear and methodical approach to solving this problem. I was about to load blower and take to shop. Glad I found your site! Saved me lots of money and time. New sub.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Glad to help and thank you

[@butler386]

I purchase ethanol free fuel for my small engines and add a little sea foam to each tank full. I try to use up the fuel in each tank when I can. I usually use up most of my gas during hurricane season.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

You shouldn't have any problems

[@robstone5333]

Thanks for the video. I have a Stihl BG55. Last time before winter, I run it bone dry. It is stored in my climate controlled basement until spring. Fuel older than 30 days is probably stale, in my opinion.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Yes 30 day old gas can have some issues. Have you considered tru fuel? Very stable even after opening the bottle.

[@lewiemcneely9143]

I'm with you in that I leave the Tru-fuel in all the time and the non-booze gas stays fresh in the mowers so no problem. I think the ones we got were 400's and were life savers. No more hand picking sticky bushes. Thanks and Blessings!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Great point!

[@999thenewman]

That backpack blower is in great shape for its age.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thats what I thought too.

[@glitchedparadox7296]

How old is it

[@cranjismcbasketball2118]

It ate well and exercised!

[@barndogschwartz8370]

I always get great info from these videos keep up the great work!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you Barndog Schwartz for the comment I appreciate it

[@solojohnson8623]

That was a good find!! Looks brand new!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

oh yes its a great blower

[@TomTom-by5sx]

I usually run it empty because I don't use it much off season. I put true fuel mix when I do it. Now that I'm older I started using it for light snow removal last year, be seventy in three month's. That went well and the blower seems to run better this spring. Any way good video, thanks.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow , i appreciate you sharing your years of experience with us. Thank you .

[@AidanRyan458]

They our a very good leaf blower always wanted one but could never afford one tho I used about 15 of them great blowing power

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I would always recommend a stihl blower to anyone who needs it.

[@AidanRyan458]

@@HomeGaragechannel ye I baught a bg55 after you recommend one to me very satisfied

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@AidanRyan458 excellent its a great blower.

[@AidanRyan458]

@@HomeGaragechannel thanks again

[@nonenone8819]

I finally got me a br 430 upgraded from a bg66 and holy smokes the power difference lol

[@nyckoluz]

My leaf blower did have a problem of bogging down, it was the spark arrestor. It was also easy to fix when I new how to clean it. 👍😁

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Good work

[@howarddodson3510]

I have the 340 model by Stihl and have issues with starting. Thanks for the video sand thanks to the responders. I think I can get it running armed with this data.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem Howard Dodson.

[@dexietyy7922]

I love these old boxy shape machines I wish they still made them like this

[@HomeGaragechannel]

me too!

[@chrisrichard8194]

Its expensive. I started using engineered fuel. (TRUFUEL). no issues the following year. Starts right up. Keeps carberator clean. and thanks for all the info and great videos. Take care

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes TRUFUEL is very good stuff, thank you Chris Richard

[@sweetlou5902]

I'm in Canada, and I leave the fuel untreated all year, that said i use premium 0 ethanol fuel in all my equipment. Never an issue, but 90% of repairs I make at the start of every season for friends are fuel related, they are so cheap to use good fuel...

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that just shows how bad ethanol fuel is for small engines. Thanks for sharing your experience I appreciate it.

[@sweetlou5902]

@@HomeGaragechannel absolutely, you can use ethanol blend up to 10% during the cutting season here but I reccomend in September october make the last fill ups 0 ethanol premium fuel so it runs through equipment and can be stored over the winter. I use it all year round as I think higher octane and additives are better

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@sweetlou5902 yes that works too.

[@walter2990]

I always stabilize all fuel that I put into any containers, and never have any problems..., yet! I did have one issue of my blower wanting to "bog down" after running fine for a few minutes. Checked the spark arrestor screen (it was clean), air filter (clean), It turned out to be moisture blocking the super fine fuel filter screen.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Nice diagnostic

[@marshallborder9089]

I use my blower / weedeater / hedge trimmer usually just in my peck season but I use 91 octane with fuel stabilizer and sea foam additives ( that's non-ethanol gas ) all year long . Other than replacing the primer bulb , no problem in 20 years . I also use the same 91 octane in my John Deere rider and Honda push mower . My Honda push mower is a 2003 model and my rider is 11 years old . I'm a strong believer in non-ethanol gas and fuel stabilizer and sea foam in all my power equipment .

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you Marshall Border for sharing your experience. I appreciate it

[@rileyisaacs241]

Good blower I would take 15 of them for my business

[@HomeGaragechannel]

me too. Thanks for the comment I appreciate it.

[@WaynesAdventure]

I always run my equipment out of gas at every use and fill up tank when I use it next time. Great find there!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you and yes I like that method too.

[@tiger5551]

That’s an amazing garage sale find congrats

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks

[@watermanone7567]

That was a great find. I had a Mantis tiller like new with the same old fuel issue. I don't use my 2 cycle equipment very often, so I buy my fuel in one gallon pre mix cans, and usually run them dry. Good video, many thanks.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you Waterman One for the comment I appreciate it.

[@appleztooranges]

Found a brand new br800x with similar problem. Going to buy it and see if I can fix it! Thanks

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Good luck and no problem

[@brucecoleman7412]

Hopefully you were the one who bought it at the garage sale! If it’s yours, you have a fantastic blower!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

unfortunately no.

[@bradleygower7181]

I leave a full tank on all of my equipment and run it every couple of weeks so it will take a longer time for the fuel to go stale

[@HomeGaragechannel]

That's also a great method to. Thanks for the comment I appreciate it

[@CalikusherTv]

I have. Stihl be 400 it starts but after first use its hard to start. I replace the coil and it worked fine for a week but now it's back not cranking

[@HomeGaragechannel]

have you inspected the carb for any problems?

[@RussellBooth1977]

I don't own a leaf blower but I fixed a neighbours McCullough leaf blower & it's starting problem was caused by a sheared flywheel key !

[@HomeGaragechannel]

How do you shear a key on a leaf blower? Was it also a vacuum shredder?

[@RussellBooth1977]

The key was aluminium & was a moulded part of the magneto flywheel so fatigue must've broken the key !

[@rtwills7838]

Great video. I've been watching some of your videos recently and have really been enjoying them. For Christmas I got a stihl br800 still no problems. And just recently had to clean out the carb on my echo weed eater witch was having problems running. Got it fixed 👍. Keep up the good work.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Rylan Wills for the comment I appreciate it

[@barndogschwartz8370]

I'd like to see more videos where the machine has problems other than the carburetor. I seem to run into problems where the carb is good , i got spark and compression and I still can't get it to work.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I hate to say it but 99 percent of the stuff I get its always the carb.

[@barndogschwartz8370]

Thanx for replying in always appreciate the feedback

[@aeson33]

I use by Stihl BG86 during winter, Nebraska. Great on snow.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes I've heard that before. Thank you J G

[@bobbeckett5103]

I have a br600 backpack blower with a cracked PVC elbow in the blower tube. Got it removed, have a new part but now cannot per the hard PVC elbow into the flexible blower tubing... any tips or tricks? Thanks!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Sure use some lube like wd40 , some dull flathead screwdrivers and if possible a spare hand to hold at least two of the screwdrivers.

[@nashguy207]

I use fuel stabilizer I have a stihl br400 made in the 90's and back then all of stihl's 2 cycle enghines didn't have a primer bulb mine has been finiky since new you have to be careful starting it it floods very easily my dad is using it now but it still runs greatnas long as you don't flood it trying to start it.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I would love to have one of those.

[@jamesaydelott6888]

I stabilize the gas in my blowers when I put them away for the winter! And come spring time they far right up no trouble!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice!, Do you use ethanol gasoline?

[@PimSchouten]

First question I ask to people when their stuff doesn’t work properly or doesn’t start. Do you run ethanol free fuel? No, carb rebuild, new fuel lines, fuel filter and a complete flush thrue the systemz

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that makes sense. Thanks for the comment I appreciate it.

[@mgwaite10]

Nice one, keep it simple. Like your style.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thanks!

[@jimmyramirez2009]

I got the BR420 and I have same problem so thank you I will let you know if it works for me

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you and please do

[@AidanRyan458]

Cool to see all that was wrong was the petrol thaught she was trouble at the start when you took out the compression tester but thankfully she had good compression I'd say that yoke will blow leafs for another 20 years good vid by the way

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I totally agree with you.

[@SonicBoomC98]

I hadn't used my echo in a year and a half, and I only probably used it once in the year before that. Given its limited use, I decided to first just replace the spark plug. It started one time, then it stopped. I noticed the fuel line had come loose just near the primer bulb, and the primer bulb had cracked, so I replaced it. It wouldn't start. I didn't really need it. I had just tried to start it to keep it from just sitting there too long without being started. A couple days ago, I tried to start it, and it did the same thing. It started, ran for a few seconds, then wouldn't start again. I hadn't thought about adjusting the Carb. I was actually thinking about replacing it. I've had this one for at least 10 years.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

That's a good idea. I would also replace all the fuel lines and the fuel filter too. It comes in a kit that way too, carb, spark plug, air filter , and fuel lines with a connected fuel filter.

[@SonicBoomC98]

@@HomeGaragechannel What's the best place to get the parts

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@SonicBoomC98 Try Ereplacementparts dot com.

[@jonathanbenoit8828]

The best back pack blower Sthil made, good work 👍👍👍👍

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Its extremely powerful

[@DD-vf9ow]

How well does fuel stabilizer work in Michigan, about 5-6 months not running the equipment. I use it summer and winter for seasonal equipment.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

from what I've seen, it works great in the far north, but you have to pick the right one

[@Jaze2022]

My question is why the unit needed to be adjusted past the limiter. More air than fuel. Are the fuel lines gunked up?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks for the question. what's happening is that the carburetor is less efficient at delivering fuel over time. The metering diaphragm more than likely is showing some signs of stiffening. To make up for it, we can make minor adjustments to make up for the carbs inefficiencies.

[@Jaze2022]

@@HomeGaragechannel thanks for the reply! That makes sense. I have an opportunity to buy 20 br600/700 at $50 each. None of them work. Would you go for it? I've tuned up stihl equipment before and have raised small engines from the dead. But I've read that these blowers seize up or the engine gets completely destroyed because of a rod failure.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@Jaze2022 I wouldn't buy all 20 maybe 5. To much risk

[@Jaze2022]

@@HomeGaragechannel you think so too? I was wondering why I was hesitating. If it was one I would buy it in an instant.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@Jaze2022 I had the same opportunity but they were at a large repair shop. So many stihl blowers but all were worn out that they didn't even want to repair it.

[@KL4life]

Anytime you have smoke coming like that whether it clears up or not it's a sign of too much fuel and not enough air to ensure a proper mix ratio.

[@jackmanus2582]

How or what is the adjustments when it only runs spraying carb

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I would replace the carburetor

[@rdking8001]

How do you clean screen in carb?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I use something small and sharp to pull out the screen and put it into a small container. Then I spray the screen with carb cleaner and let it soak for a while.

[@johngodd5405]

I leave fuel in with stabilizer Right now I'm preparing for spring Chainsaws hedge cutter weed Wacker all started ....... But not my BR400 BLOWER carb was clean, spark is fine. Changed fuel pump diaphragm NO START not even a cough. Just aggravated now Ran great last November will change fuel and noticed when removing gas tank cap it sucked air?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

It's normal for the air in the tank to do that and it actually pressuresized. Try starting it next time but put the choke to "run" and squeeze the throttle when pulling on the rope. It might be flooded.

[@Patrick4959]

i use fuel stabiliser in my fuel in my motors that run on a 50:1 40:1 and 25:1 and a 30:1 ratio and the one that runs on a 30:1 is my backpack leaf blower as it has a big engine on it but yeah worth the usage etc

[@HomeGaragechannel]

what brand and model is your backpack blower?

[@Patrick4959]

@@HomeGaragechannel well my backpack leaf blower is a Gardenline type and it,s from Aldi Australia and it,s a 51.7cc 2 stroke aka 2 cycle engine and it,s a product as the sales product number 60099 and it,s Model Number is EB-500-E

[@jt71chevelleman]

Great video very helpful thank you one question what does a wet air filter mean motor flooded? Mine was wet removed attempted to start without filter as I didn’t hav a replacement it started now I just need to get new filters thanks again for your helpful video.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

typically it means your carb is leaking a small amount of fuel, while the engine isn't running. you can either rebuild the carb or replace it.

[@Helmsteroni]

I use fuel stabilizer called Sta-Bil and it keeps fuel fresh for up to 2 years as well as cleans the carburetor and everything else as well. I also use marvel mystery oil in all my fuel cans for all my engines and it keeps everything to run a little cooler as well

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Justin Helms.

[@albertosanchez3350]

Great video!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@724bg]

like you i use my stuff enough there is only a couple of months of risk, i like to run non ethanol gas in everything that is not a car or truck, worth the extra price in my experience, about to tune one up for my buddy just like this one, thanks for sharing

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you 724bg.

[@EddieLindsay681]

All my 2stroke tools have fuel in them always but if I know they are not going to be used for a long period of time I put some kind of premix fuel in it like TrueFuel or Motomix and run it for a few minutes and I have never had an issue ever.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow that's a great way to make sure your 2 strokes last. thank you Eddie Lindsay

[@kevinbushell2746]

I leave fuel in it but empty it first after a long lay off

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks for the comment I appreciate it.

[@philb9608]

great video on the exact blower I have .....MY problem is the blower is bogging down after running wide open for about 10 min and then it struggles along full throttle for 10 seconds , then bogs down, then wide open for 10 sec and then bogs again..... I cleaned the actuator , checked the air filter, and the fuel was fresh with stabilizer in it... I always run 100% gas............Sooooo, what's STILL causing the bogging down? Thanks for any help you can give....

[@HomeGaragechannel]

sure try replacing the fuel tank vent.

[@josem.2909]

Can you post the info about that compression tester, I'd like to get me one of them. There is a cheap kit at HF tools but Not sure if it's worth it. I need one for small engines only.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

The compression tester i used is almost a decade old so I don't think I can any info on it. As long as the one from harbor freight has two adaptor lengths, short and long, then you should be okay.

[@ljubofekajankovic6524]

the cannon from STIHL is short ... and you extended it by 20cm ... Great! the problem with these automizers is that they can’t spray tall trees enough

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks for your time a appreciate it

[@wayditay9288]

Really interesting an concise video. So, my decade-old Echo handheld PB250LN now won't start (let alone run), even with a dozen pulls. Tried injecting fuel or starting fluid directly into spark plug hole but still no kick. Compression @ 120 psi, healthy spark with new plug, (stop switch works), clean spark arrestor screen, new carb, flywheel and key ok, fresh hi-octane mix, new lines and filters. What else is there to look at ?? ..about ready to beat it with a sledge hammer!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

the first thing I would do is remove the spark plug, pull the rope a few time, and let it air out for a day or two, the next time, do the same thing, and let it sit. Then the next attempt, I would use a drill to try and start it on the impeller side, with NO CHOKE, and the throttle wide open. I want to make sure the engine is not flooded. Then if it does't start, physically put some fuel into the carbs throat, not the spark plug, NO choke and use the drill again, let me know happens.

[@wayditay9288]

@@HomeGaragechannel Thanks for the advice. Sounds like a lot less work than forever pulling that rope (especially when fuel is injected with each rotation). So please tell me what's your trick with using a drill (cordless or electric) without screwing up my body or wrecking the drill's guts?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes using a drill will save your shoulder from getting hurt. I use a socket adapter 3/8 to drill, and I use a chorded drill. I would open the Inlet flap on the blower, hopefully yours has one, and then spin the impeller clockwise for a few seconds.

[@wayditay9288]

@@HomeGaragechannel It's only a simple Echo 250 blower. Depending on what side of the motor looked at, it's either clockwise at the pull cord or counter-clockwise at the fan/flywheel. If counter-clockwise then that could loosen the hold-down bolt for the fan. Anyway, with the shrouds now off I'll have access to both sides. But I now have another problem to solve before continuing with the spinning -- I inadvertently got a piece of rope jambed into the top of the cylinder at the piston's edge. I was trying to fashion a piston stop so the nut on the flywheel could be tightened up. Now what to do? Argh!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

let me know how it goes.

[@Mike-su8si]

My used br420 like that one doesn't have the sprak arrestor screen and i don't really know which one to buy for it i found one replacement for it but how is it gonna stay in place unless it snaps in the muffler hole Im thinking about just buy the one that screws into the muffler hole and make it work on the old br420 well ones gonna be better than none

[@HomeGaragechannel]

hope you find one that works for you.

[@DavidJones-pl6qe]

Good video. Thanks. I run ethanol free fuel. So, no chance of polymerization of the fuel in the tank.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you David Jones

[@jesterr7133]

I am the same. I use my blower year round, so it rarely sits more than a few days.

[@Ahch.]

Good video. You gave me and idea regarding the carb on my blower

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Donnie.

[@stvpls]

At work at our town hall we have a 2002 br420 in service since then, very reliable, it's probably got maybe not even 60 psi of compression but it still has at least 60 70%of its blowing power probably, that blower has. Surely over 1 thousands hours I treat it properly when using it (like warming it up for a min at idle then starting slow and not full throttle until it's been going for a couple of mins ecc) But im probably the only one to have treated it that well so yeah it's a survivor and a good one I also fine tuned it and gave the max speed just a tiny bit richier to make it last longer since the engine is very worn out (doesn't fight back much) Also it gets basically used all year round, it's not very powerful from new and being worn out doesn't help but it's very light and still holds its own, we also have the biggest echo blower and it's quite the difference in power haha

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you stv pls, and that's one great blower you've got there!

[@Patrick4959]

if use my leaf blowers i use them at the correct ratio and and with a fuel stabilizer in mine and hardly any problems with me

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Your method is spot on. Unfortunately this person wasn't as diligent

[@Patrick4959]

@@HomeGaragechannel yes never mind at least you and me are smarter than others

[@jorgevlogs2884]

He just earned a subscribe button love the info

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Jorge VLOGS for the sub I appreciate it.

[@sentuhankecundang7351]

thanks for tip..i've put new fuel,pull start 8 times until it spews white smoke and walla..good as new

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Nice work!

[@Corvette1658]

I might be getting a STIHL BR400 but it might need a new ignition coil because the guy says when it gets hot some times. It won’t start again until he lets it cool off.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice, I would replace the spark plug first.

[@Corvette1658]

@@HomeGaragechannel update it’s getting there I got it to fire. But it could use a tune up. So I will give it a full tune up.

[@johnkosheluk1041]

It looks brand new

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it looks it but its actually pretty old. Thanks for the comment I appreciate it.

[@rickpaul4383]

Tip, always empty fuel, restart and dry out carburetor, their is a small flap in carburetor that pump gas ,if it stuck ,game over,good luck,

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Rick Paul

[@jdmDC2ftw]

What are people supposed to do with bad gas?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

You mean after getting out of the tank? I'm not sure.

[@tcisraels8566]

Put it in your car. The small amt won't hurt the car.

[@IvanOchoa461]

I have a Remington weed wacker every time I rev up the engine blue smoke comes out every time I use it what is the problem

[@HomeGaragechannel]

check and confirm that your oil mixture is correct. either 40:1 or 50:1. if it still smokes then the carb might be flooding the engine making the engine burn extra oil

[@IvanOchoa461]

@@HomeGaragechannel it's a 40 to 1 but i use 50 to 1 gas

[@CarlosRamirez-kv7sl]

I kept my stihl blower br400 last year empty and in good shape and then I try using last week and it doesn't work what do think it happens please let me know. Thanks

[@HomeGaragechannel]

since it didn't start, I'm guessing it's flooded now. I'd take out the spark plug, and let it sit for a couple of days, then reinstall the plug, lock the trigger, and use no check and try to start it, after that I would then use the choke. after that I would check for spark.

[@terrythemoose]

Great video, but unfortunately I still can't get it to run. It was for a bit, then when I gave it gas it would run for about 4 seconds and die. I rebuilt the carb, fuel filter, spark pug... wits end. :-(

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I understand your feelings. I would replace the carb with a new one next.

[@harryerhart5978]

Always use fresh fuel and K 100 fuel stabilizer (non ethanol) you will never have any problems make sure you use all your fuel in 30 days or use canned fuel like Stihl sells or echo 👍

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very good advice. thank you Harry Erhart

[@harryerhart5978]

@@HomeGaragechannel your quite the 2 cycle guy I'm like you I'm a mechanic and a landscape contractor take care my friend that formula works well for me especially the k100 and I use canned gas in the equipment that l don't use every day 😇

[@Cinder2008]

What luck! I’m working on the same blower today. It looses power after about 10 minutes. It behaves as if the choke is on. Eventually it quits. Fresh fuel, clean spark arrestor, dirty air filter (can’t see light through it, no change in operation when removed), plug looks “iffy”. I’m leaning towards a bad coil. Agree? BTW, I run my equipment dry each fall.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I would replace the spark plug first. When it dies next time check for spak.

[@Cinder2008]

@@HomeGaragechannel My local mower shop said Stihl coils don’t go out. He suggested it was fuel related. The vent on the top of the fuel tank was clogged. Thanks

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@Cinder2008 thanks for the update

[@eugeneoreilly9356]

Had a coil go out on a Stihl FS 55.Its possible.

[@charlieosborne3042]

I just keep my fuel in a smaller container so I refresh the fuel more often.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thats exactly what i do. thanks for the comment

[@glenewing3713]

This has to be one of the best videos on the subject. And a great find. I have this same blower and just keep filling the tank. It always starts on the third or forth pull. My problem is once I turn it off I can't get it to start again. With your video I'll give it the once over, maybe a little rich? What do you think?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Glen Ewing.

[@manofsteel423]

Just curious why don’t you lock the throttle in full throttle while trying to start it.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I forgot to, thanks for noticing.

[@rickpaul4383]

Thanks for actkn,,my input, mix gas has lubes,can cause hard starts, don't over mixed, engine runs good when not smoking, that's the trick,, use only stihl mixture, for reliability, Guyanese ,rice Farmer,,

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Rick Paul for the information I appreciate it

[@BkLiveWire]

I got an older ECHO blower (PB 200 2005 or 2006 era) working but I noticed it was smoking for awhile after I got it running. Is that normal if it’s been sitting for years? It did stop after about 3-5 mins though.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I'm guessing it was leftover oil in the engine finally dissolving and being burned... this blower did about that same thing.

[@clarkgarrison7091]

Ok I picked up a stihl BR340. Started and ran even with bad gass. Replaced with fresh gas and cleaned carb. No start and hasn't started sense other then a weak start on starting fluid. Blew out gas filter. Clean air filter. Went to carb and cleaned again. Diaphragm is ok could be changed. Muffler is clear. Has spark. Checked head and clean piston and cylinder. Put back together and still wont start. IDK what else to do.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks Clark Garrison, I would replace the carb and make sure your have the fuel line going to the right ports, and that the carb to intake gasket is facing the right way.

[@clarkgarrison7091]

Unfortunately i can only find 2 carbs that even look close to what is on it. May have been replaced previously. What came on machine was an HD-28A. Picture of one just like it is an HD-45 for around $100. Parts breakdown that I can find is an WT-580( i believe). Nothing else i have found looks like carb I have that did function as stated before. I do have a rebuild kit on the way. Will check the gasket placement tomorrow. Thank you for your reply

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem and good luck

[@rabbitfootedkitty1339]

I have an old BR400, and for the most part, I hate it. There isn't a primer bulb on the carburetor, so you have to pull it like a million times to start, even with the choke on, it's hard to tell when it's flooded, and I've had to replace the pull cord like 4 times because it keeps breaking for some reason. I've also had an issue when it was hot, it's been almost impossible to start for some reason. I'm not a fan, lol. Great video, by the way.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thanks for the comment. Have you thought about replacing the carburetor ?

[@rabbitfootedkitty1339]

Home Garage I’ve cleaned the carburetor a while ago, I’ve probably had the thought of replacing it, but it still ran decently just from cleaning it. But I still recommend a different blower, even if it’s another Stihl.

[@freeflight4ever]

For a hot start, don't choke it...just set the throttle by moving the cruise control lever up slightly. B / Stihl tech

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@rabbitfootedkitty1339 thanks for the comment I appreciate it and agree with you

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@freeflight4ever thanks again for the comment I will

[@Mike-su8si]

I always end up with people's broken yard tools that always need a little work done on them. Anyhow that yardman 12av829c755 i have is working fine other than the gas leak out of the bad primer bulb it works like new it still needs front plates on each side of the wheels so the whole axle doesn't fall off the frame its still rolls ok how it is but I'll get to fixing it soon once parts come in for now though im going to finish checking the old br420 stihl backpack blower

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks for the update.

[@rodbell6512]

I got br340 an it's not getting spark

[@HomeGaragechannel]

try disconnecting the kill switch wires and check for spark again. if it doesn't work then the coil might be bad.

[@freeflight4ever]

A common issue on Stihl products is that the spark plug connector (looks like a spring with a barb), on the end of the coil wire gets pulled out of the wire when removing the spark plug. Its an odd, funky connection, but Stihl favors it. The spike of the connector must pierce the ignition wire to make the connection. I usually wrap a bit of electrical tape around it after reinstalling through the lead to hold it better. I've made this repair about 100 times. B / Stihl tech.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@freeflight4ever thanks for the information I appreciate it

[@juanagustincarrion1497]

I always run dry any 2 stroke machine in order to avoid carburetor issues.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Excellent work. To bad a lot of other people don't.

[@lionheartbullies]

What type of fuel you put in it

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I use no ethanol 89 octane , with a synthetic 2 stroke , and also a stabilizer.

[@raycanelo3773]

I’ve watched a lot of videos and this is an awesome one you went at it a whole other way and exposed some info thank you very much very helpful my blower on the other hand is a hasqvarna And my problem is it will start run on choke but when I throw it in idle it turns off It’s about four years old I don’t use it very much just during leave season and during the summer I blow the deck of the pool if you get a chance and have some advice let me know in a reply

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Sure. Most of the time it's the carb thats the problem. You can rule it out by buying an inexpensive aftermarket carb and replacing it.

[@raycanelo3773]

Thanks for getting back to me I really appreciate it When I swap out the carburetor will I need to bring it somewhere to have the carburetor adjusted

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@raycanelo3773 it's a 50/50 chance that it will need a "slight" adjustment to run. Let me know it it goes and I will probably be able to talk you thru it.

[@MohanSingh-ln2dw]

My still motor blower wouldn't start.I replace new spark plug, service carburetor. What is the problem?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I would try and Replace the Carburetor, and also use a compression tester to see if the engine is worn out .

[@24space310]

do you stil have this blower or sold?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

this was never mine, it was a coworker's

[@Joe-gi8bv]

All my fuel cans have stabil added in year around.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Great choice!

[@petefroud5308]

I do both .

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks for the comment I appreciate it