Fixing A Poulan Pro Blower That Won't Start, This Was Not Expected

Links to products I have in my tool bag.
Compression tester. amzn.to/2NMgeze
Spark Checker. amzn.to/3bnXjmA
Tygon Fuel Line. amzn.to/3aCGntm
Carb Adjustment tools. amzn.to/3k7cgxe
Fuel Filter. amzn.to/2ZC0T7i
Chemical bottle. amzn.to/3eWcGVs
Above are affiliate links which means we receive a percentage of the revenue made from purchasing products via those links.
Thanks for watching. This blower has fuel, spark, and compression but it still won't start. Fortunately, I found a good reason why it might not be starting.

[@TheDavison72]

Make it a long video I like those

[@HomeGaragechannel]

a regular video takes about 10 to 14 hours to make, so a long video would take over 20 to 30 hours. I simply don't have that sort of time and that's why I try to keep my videos from being too long.

[@TheDavison72]

@@HomeGaragechannel Thank you for explaining this I appreciate it.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem, and thanks for understanding

[@ericrichardson3332]

I don't mind longer videos either , I know editing takes a while though so it's all good multiple shorter videos or one long video doesn't matter as long as we get to learn something new and or see how things work we are happy and keep up the great videos

[@garyalensr]

A real shop??? HG you have way more than enough knowledge and skills to get this blower up and running!!! You are the reason I'm able to fix my equipment. Can't wait for the next upload. Excited to see this blower in action

[@HomeGaragechannel]

lol.. I appreciate that, and yes, the second part of the video is being produced right now, and will be available sooner than later

[@carlrussell89]

Thanks for this video! A neighbor was disposing of one of these blowers because it wouldn't start. I had no experience with small engines, but I thought that with the help of videos like this, I might be able to fix it. I picked it up, and after looking it over, I decided to replace the carburetor. Ordered a new carburetor with fuel lines, fuel filter, air filters, spare primer bulbs, and spark plug. Replaced everything with no problems, but still no joy. It would hit even with starter fluid. I pulled the muffler and looked at the ring and thought it looked okay. Put it aside for a while, then looked again and decided the ring might be stuck. I figured that I had nothing to lose at this point, so I disassembled the blower and engine and found the ring was indeed stuck. I broke it while trying to free it, so I cleaned the grove and piston while I waited for a replacement ring. I installed the new ring, reassembled the blower, and it started right up! 😂 Thanks again for posting this and giving me the chance to learn/do something new!

[@356Rover]

One of your best videos - it's nice seeing an uncommon diagnosis

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks

[@terry987654]

One thing to do is check continuity of the lead of the ignition module with a multi meter and move and pull the lead around while doing it and see if there is a break or loose connection somewhere. I have been caught out with that before where i checked for spark it was fine but when i plugged the lead back into spark plug i had nothing because of the way the lead was bent over to attach to the plug and i couldn't understand why it was not starting. It's not a common problem but i have seen it from time to time and worth taking a couple of seconds to check.

[@ringsidejudge4302]

A super video for me as DIYer . I am at the same stage with a Stihl sh 86 . I have it ten years and have managed to keep it operating . The last time it just stopped suddenly .Checked spark and all OK. Replaced carb. No go Replaced coil. No go Replaced fly wheel No go Replaced spark plug. No go Currently waiting on a compression tester to arrive , but in the meantime I purchased a new one to relieve the stress . Please get the other video up soon as I can not wait to see the result . I hope to hear it running like a song . PS the day before my blower failed I think I heard a sharp crack coming from it but on failure day it ran good for five minutes . Previous failings were repaired by Carb renewal Coil renewal Kill wiring harness renewal , intermittent stops due to faulty harness . Bolt coming loose behind flywheel causing a mechanical seizure I know this is my Stihl history lesson please forgive ,but it may be of help to someone .

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow you've gone thru everything I would have to try and get it running. Yes the video is coming up very soon.

[@revelationhomestead1776]

My favorite how do I fix this channel 🤝

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you !

[@mattrogalsky1295]

Thanks for making this video… it helped me get my leaf blower running again. Much appreciated!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Glad it helped

[@janovsk1]

I`m voting for weak or intermitant spark since it was running ok with the stuck ring for probably some time.Great instructional video !

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you janovsk1

[@toddosterhout9866]

I’ve learned a ton watching your videos but I’ve always heard of you don’t have at least 100 psi then the blower is no good so I think you are on the right track

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Todd Osterhout. 100 psi is decent, and any lower, it's going to be down on power.

[@josem.2909]

I have 2 of the same blowers and haven’t post them for sale since I couldn’t get them to run in optimal condition, even put a new carburetor and still have very erratic idling, and hardly ever stays running, unless I hit the throttle, already adjusted the carb and when it seems to be right the next day is acting up again, removed muffler and surprisingly there’s very little to nothing scratches, just a slight carbon buildup on the exhaust port, move the piston in a position where the exhaust port can be cleaned, also submerged the muffler in gasoline to clean all carbon, oil buildup, put it together and finally got a great improvement when starting it and now stays running in idle but still a slight erratic idling. I decided to disassemble the other (same model, got them a yard sales) and cylinder had a very slight fine scratch but the piston ring was stuck like yours in the video, I’m pretty sure that was the real culprit in those leaf blowers. My guess, home owners rarely run blowers or weed eaters full throttle, and they either plug up exhaust arresters, exhaust port or even the muffler, what I noticed when there’s buildup in the muffler or exhaust port the engine floods quickly or run rich. The other situation home owners don’t mix fuel and oil in the correct ratio, (worst case) they put in very little oil and that wears their engines and then come saying but it was running fine before it quit or the that before it started and run.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes I agree with you, run it at low RPMs and the likelihood that the piston ring might get stuck it very high on these. Also did you do a compression test?

[@butler386]

Once again I checked with my daughter and she said it has a bad goer. I think you are spot on with your analysis. The only other thing I can think of might be a problem with those reeds that let gas and air to flow into the combustion chamber. Looking forward to the next video.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you D Butler

[@Jim-ie6uf]

No reeds

[@josearzola3070]

A real shop ? Sir you are humble !.Your experience surpasses so called real shops.Dude you fixed it .that stuck ring fix will bring up the compression at least 25 psi.its fixed now.great job and another awesome video.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thanks I appreciate that. you already know the compression going to go up, and spoiler, it goes up A LOT! thank you Jose Arzola.

[@robertlipscomb9741]

Had the same problem, Poulan, wouldn't help, low compression, stuck piston ring. Cleaned piston, freed ring, bought new ring, reassembled. Fired right up, but didn't last long, till it did it again. Bought new head & piston & ring. Runs like new, now! Learned a lot. Great video!!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

really? I'll have to see how long this ones last until it does it again.

[@brucecoleman7412]

I can’t wait for part 2!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

coming up soon

[@TreborNosnibor]

Your videos are fantastic! I appreciate that you don't just narrate while you're working. It's so much more helpful when you record the narration after you've made the video track. Pure pro, man. Pure pro!! I wish you had a tip jar!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks I appreciate that

[@a-b4172]

Make a long video. I thoroughly enjoy these videos. You have a loyal follower.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I appreciate that A -B

[@lloyd4768]

Thanks for the video I took mine apart and found the piston ring stuck also. I wasn't as lucky as you I'm waiting for a new ring in the mail, mine broke into pieces.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it happens, and It looks like you're on your way to getting it working again.

[@user-eh8lg6hh7x]

Had same problem. After considerable checking, found the finest hair line cut in wiring grounding it to block. Repaired and runs good as new.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice work finding the issue

[@donvoll2580]

Good day Yes u are going the right as far I would think, but it is a puzzle, but you are the mechanic & I am the watcher. Good luck & thanks

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Don Voll, I appreciate it!

[@Pinhead_larry265]

I have this same blower that I rebuilt from the ground up and have noticed that when I put it away the next day the fuel tank is completely empty, I believe I have a leak somewhere in the tank.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it's quite possible.

[@deebee3901]

Mate, I think you are 100% on the right path. That piston ring needs to be freed up as not only was the compression low, it can cause the eventual problem of a ceased engine. I look forward to the next episode.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Dee Bee.

[@anthonycorcella7300]

FINALLY you come across a stuck ring! I had this exact thing happen with a RedMax blower I was given from a landscaper who said it just wouldn't start one day.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I'm glad you finally found something that interests you. did you ever fix the redmax?

[@anthonycorcella7300]

@@HomeGaragechannel I love your videos! Yeah, once I freed the ring it ran great. Still use it to this day.

[@lindaosborne1107]

It's great to have tinker time. What it is not important. It's about having something to do. Also you are teaching. The repair is the same regardless what it cost. Sometimes the cheap ones are harder to fix due to quality.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you got that right.

[@jamesturnure9735]

Genuinely a professional quality video; very articulate and thorough! I just went through the exact same gyrations with a Poulan BVM200VS blower that I trash picked. Went through the carb...renewed the fuel lines and freed the piston ring. Noted that it had a new spark plug (clue). Well, I get intermittent spark with the plug grounded but believe that it's likely not sparking when under compression when operating dynamically. Checked air gap and keyway, so I'm condemning the coil. This one's pretty worn out, so likely not worth the $15 for a new coil. Heading to the parts bin!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you and good luck with the repair.

[@fwflyer78]

I think that it will come down to low compression as to the reason why it would not run. Eighty PSI, from my experience, is a bit low for a two stroke to run at all. It will be interesting to see how much the compression increases when you button everything back up. The only other thing that it could be is a weak spark from the coil.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you are correct about the spark from the coil, and yes hopefully the compression increase enough to get it to run

[@mattariechannel4142]

Nice info n tutorial..👍💪😄..greeting from Malaysia..🇲🇾

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Matt Arie Channel, and hello Malaysia!

[@gyroonesix5862]

Great job cleaning that ring! Took piston from one as ring was scored. Installed in another one and the sucker started!! Used 40-1 mix. I have a weed wacker that I bought at Wal Mart, for $99. Never even replaced the plug on it. Use it twice a week in the summer. What I don’t do is rev the crap out of it. That’s what ruins most of them. Oh, it’s over 10 years old already. Let’s see what happens this spring.😊

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very nice, thank you Gyro Onesix

[@mickeykim3559]

Out of all the 2 stroke leaf blowers I've used/repaired, Poulan BVM series were the most troublesome. Mine had over 140psi and didnt have lose outer bolt issue but carb adjustment was extremely sensitive. Utimately, I was able to fine tune the L/H screws on the carb but I spent more time adjusting carb than actually using this leaf blower.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes I know how that feels.

[@edgartobias2406]

I'll be waiting for the next part....

[@HomeGaragechannel]

here you go kzbin.info/www/bejne/h53XdaGQe82NqKM

[@GrowingLittleCountryhomestead]

Great video, hopefully the next video will show it starting. I don’t think your viewers would mind a longer video. I know I don’t mind. Thanks see you on the next one.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

me to, thank you Growing Little Country homestead.

[@Patrick4959]

your most surely on to something and i reckon that crankshaft seal might be part of the culprit from my view seeing all that dirt around where the flywheel sits on that section between the flywheel key and main seal etc.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it's definitely a possibility, thank you Patrick Stapleton.

[@electricannulus8854]

Checking the cylinder compression alone on a 2 stroke, only gives you a small picture because of the way air alone enters the combustion chamber. Two other areas to check are crankcase pressure and crankcase vacuum. Crank vacuum is what air into the engine and unlike a 4 stroke, the air does not enter the combustion chamber from the intake. Air and fuel are drawn into the crank case where it is compressed and "Transferred" to the cylinder for compression and ignition. There are several ways that the crank vacuum and compression are achieved (piston port, rotary valve or reed valve, however all require a good seal between the piston and the cylinder near and to the bottom of stroke. If for any reason, there is a crankcase leak sufficient air and fuel will not be drawn into the engine. Also, there is no float bowl so the main jet fuel supply is governed by a built-in fuel pump and needle valve. All of the fuel pumps are powered buy the fluctuating air pulses in the crankcase and if they are not sufficient, no fuel will enter the engine. The simple task of freeing up the sing may and probably was sufficient to restore proper crankcase seal and and allow the engine to start

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks

[@ToyotatechDK]

You did it the correct way. It’s not that often you see a ring get stuck on a two stroke unless it’s the vertical scratch marks the keeps it pushed back into the groove. Great video as always

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I appreciate that, thank you Lasse Kviesgaard

[@watermanone7567]

Good job cleaning the ring and groove, make sure to clean the carbon out of the exhaust port as this can make issues with low power or not starting. Also try a different spark tester, I like the jump the gap type as sometimes the orange glow type will give you a false test. Thanks for the video.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes I should have cleaned the port better, thank you Waterman one.

[@tyroneclarke1666]

Hi mate. Well done finding that the piston ring was stuck. Looking forward to see if the compression will increase. Cheers 🦘🇦🇺

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you won't have to wait long, I'll be releasing it sooner than later, thank you Tyrone Clarke.

[@kaaraa-mardha1977]

@@HomeGaragechannel where's the video showing that after you cleaned the rings the engine started!!! Can you share that video with me please

[@jerrysoutherland662]

I had a trimmer,that had spark compression fuel still would not start,it was the gasket between the insulator and engine had to replace.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes that's a good reason a blower, wouldn't start. thank you Jerry Southerland.

[@mattwickert736]

I had 2 partially stuck piston rings this year on different equipment. They were both from the company that cuts my grass. New rings, gaskets, seals, and they ran like they were brand new. I probably could have just done the rings or cleaned the carbon and put the rings back on. But, considering their use, it's better to just replace those while the block is apart. Both machines had compression readings in the 75-80 range, so when I saw that on yours, my first guess was piston ring if not a scored piston/cylinder. As long as the ring wasn't too worn on the outside, the cleanup should get sufficient compression for it to start and run again. It looked like there was some carbon in the exhaust built up too (hard to tell on camera), which I try to clean up a little as well for better air flow.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice work! and yes after freeing the ring, the compression does improve quite a bit.

[@lewiemcneely9143]

ANY lead is a lead and you'll never know unless you follow it up. Good deal and Blessings!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you are correct

[@curiosity2314]

This/you is a real shop!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Curiosity

[@heathwak3030]

that piston has been through hell

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it's not as bad as running straight gas thru it.

[@heathwak3030]

@@HomeGaragechannel very true but it has still got a lot of use on it

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very true.

[@bobn8865]

I had the exact same problem from start to finish of this video. Mine was a Husqvarna. Mine ring was also carboned stuck and I replaced the ring and cleaned the groove. Reassembled and it fired up.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice work Bob N

[@danielpagel4272]

Check the ring for a flat spot. Years ago I took two Poulan blowers of this type apart and in each case I found a flat spot worn on the outer circumference. I bought a new ring for each blower and fixed the compression problem.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you for that information

[@haneyoakie14]

I recently had one of these and the ring was very carbon jammed. Jug was nice, not scored, so I soaked it in pb blaster. 36 hours later, I destroyed the ring. Good thing I ordered the ring initially. I cleaned the piston and installed new ring and Psi jumped from 36 to 120. You showed this model in a previous video and it was very helpful.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes I've done this job more than once, unfortunately , but I'm glad it worked out for you .

[@haneyoakie14]

@@HomeGaragechannel $8 ring delivered, it it fun to get them running again.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes sir.

[@haneyoakie14]

@@HomeGaragechannel not worth it for profit, but I enjoy the challenge. Sometimes. And sometimes I wonder why I bothered.

[@Nukemann64]

phew, that's a LOT of work, for a cheap blower. IDK if i'd have went to the extent you did, sir. I commend you on your diligence and perseverance though! Who'd have though that a stuck piston ring would have caused all of those issues. Great video IHG!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I know right, if I was charing for my time, they would never have agreed to it.

[@ericrichardson3332]

What I am wondering is there a way to clean the stuck ring with out disassembling said blower like a solvent that could be added and left in for a little while then emptied out but it may not work well so just a thought I had

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes you could but you'd have to fill the engine with it too, and it would damage all the seals.

[@ericrichardson3332]

@@HomeGaragechannel makes sense it would damage some seals so there's no way around good old fashioned taking it apart and cleaning / soaking the piston and rings on there own and then reassembling with a little assembly lube when needed

[@christophermarshall5765]

I've seen a similar problem in a car. Turned out the coil was no good. It can show spark in a tester, but still not fire the plug.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

ah.. now that makes sense

[@petefroud5308]

Think your on the right track . Did the piston have arrow point to the muffler side.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes it was on the inside of the piston. near the wrist pin.

[@ethanmiller3935]

While 80 psi isn't ideal, I find it hard to believe that is the issue. I have an echo es210 with 60 psi compression (new ring and I ball honed the cylinder with no increase in compression) but it starts and runs well. I would lean more toward a coil issue/weak spark or an air leak somewhere. I would also use a better oil to prevent that carbon build-up. I run Echo Red armour @ 50:1 in some equipment, and Amsoil Saber @ 80:1 in all my new Echo's (pas2620, hc2210, and pb9010) . Whether or not that was THE issue for the lack of start it certainly was a issue for that blower Hopefully, you got it fixed and great video!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I hear what you're saying. If this doesn't work, I'm going to look into maybe getting a new ignition coil. Thank you Ethan Miller.

[@ethanmiller3935]

​@@HomeGaragechannel Do you have any ideas on how to get the compression up on that es210? (I run echo red armor in that) I rebuilt the motor completely, ring, gaskets, seals etc., so I am stuck on why it has so little compression. I have used multiple gauges, and it feels weak on compression as well (It doesn't have an easy start feature). I tried removing/deleting the base gasket and just using permatex motoseal and it didn't do anything on the compression either. Thanks!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

hmm.. you didn't do any porting right? Did you take any measurements on the cylinder bore, before and after honing? To only thing I could come up with is milling the cylinder base, a couple thousandths .

[@ethanmiller3935]

No l didnt do any porting or measuring. Measuring the bore would have been a good idea. I also only used echo parts on it, so l dont think l got a part (mainly a ring) that doesn't play nice with the rest of the motor. All l can say next time it comes apart the engine might be getting some modifications to increase compression. Thanks so much for your advice!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem thank you for your time.

[@MikeJones-jr5hb]

I think you covered all the bases but it might be an intermittent coil problem. I've got one for you, i got a brand new old stock Tecumseh tc 300 series engine that runs great but i put my compression tester on it' just to see how good a new one would read and all its got is 37psi. i've checked my tester hooked it up on my air compressor adjusted it to 80psi and that is what the compression tester read. I know it doesn't make sense & it left me scratching my head.😂😂Good video & good luck. I'm looking forward to see what you find out.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Mike Jones

[@aholejoe5594]

Cracked housing.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks

[@williamsnow1531]

Hmmm good question. I’m not really sure how to answer that. I guess if it runs at you do what your doing it might show it was a compression problem.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I'm hoping the compression is the problem otherwise I'm not sure what to do.

[@jct300m]

Think your in right direction, but would have replaced ring while it was out...I've seen this before on that engine..I changed the ring...still no start...but way better comp....I went back to the Spark again..& with the spark tester showed spark like yours...however I felt the the light wasn't strong enough "Bright enough" so while I had it apart I changed out the coil assembly with a Known functioning unit I also had...Put it together & it started right up...So I think the coil was going or gone even thou it still produced spark on my spark tester..I have same tester as you!! Also check that the crankcase plastic cover seal looks good and the cover itself has no hairline cracks...ran into that once before too with low comp...Keep up the good work!! Always enjoy your video's!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

ah, you make good point about the spark, I might have to get a new one, just in case this doesn't work, thank you jct300m.

[@jct300m]

@@HomeGaragechannel Pretty common coil...Poulan/Craftman/weedeater 25cc are all the same coil Featherlite/P1500-P2500-P3500...Etc...

[@markharris4260]

I haven't seen the next video yet but your going in the right direction , compression is low , 80 % forget it , you need at least 100 psi minimum and 120 to 140 psi would be great ! As foe a real shop , your doing great ! Someone ran that blower with less than adequate premix ratio , yes it probably states 50.1 mix but never ever run a poulan blower like that one on anything less than 40.1 ratio premix and make sure it's synthetic premix oil , echo red armor or my personal choice mercury quicksilver 2 cycle marine premix at 40.1 ratio , as for checking the ignition timing thats not a bad idea but I have never saw a flywheel that stripped or jumped keyway on that type of set up !

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks, and the next video pretty much sums it up.

[@jasonlillis3437]

I'm having the same issue with my Dad's old craftsman. spark, fuel, and low compression but still enough. Not really worth fixing anymore, it had the carb replaced last year.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you're right, this one was not really worth fixing either but I had a few hours on my hands, so I gave it a shot.

[@gilpicard6024]

Got 3 of these with no run issue , replaced rings in all and cashed out.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice work!

[@grungemunkey]

I'm just as asshole who doesn't know what he's doing, since you've asked. I think you're making logical steps to fix it.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Curtis Frost.

[@paddyman9603]

I would say spot on with the low compression causing non-start, however the cause is probably using the wrong type 2-stroke oil, some people will mix in any type they can find and if its castor based or racing spec it needs higher temperatures to burn off cleanly, if the engine is running cooler than the oil was designed for the unburnt oil turns into a gummy mess and cause ring sticking & port clogging.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Paddy Man .

[@Furrowx]

That's a tough call I would have gone the same way You did to save some money Understandable that it is extremly frustrating .

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you for understanding Christopher Furrow.

[@kyotocrimeclub6406]

i wouldnt say you went in the wrong direction sometimes engines are just complicated rabbit holes. but the only thing i thought to check that i didn't hear you say was fuel pump/sending unit

[@aeson33]

I have taken my 15+ year old Poulan apart so may times to fix shit. Luckily never that. Have to say, I had no money when I bought that thing and it still is useful as a backup blower.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

to be honest, I really do like this style of blower, and I don't have an issue using one everyday.

[@tughillplateau2129]

That was some nasty deposits on that piston. Oil related failure from deposits.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

very possible

[@tommyhanlon8012]

Is there enough primary compression, are the crank seals ok ?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

the primary compression is a bit weak and the front crank seal is good.

[@tommyhanlon8012]

@@HomeGaragechannel it's the descending piston that creates primary compression & transfer, if the stuck ring is causing low primary & secondary ? 60 psi on a 4 stroke is enough to get the engine to cycle, perhaps a 2 stroke may need a little more pressure with their configuration ?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

oh I see you what you're saying.

[@tommyhanlon8012]

@@HomeGaragechannel while we're talking, why don't I see you on the live streams even in the chats ? Top Conker Saturday 7.30 GMT or Ken's small engine on Sunday mornings ? It's good sport, even just being in the chat.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice idea but I am not free, during that time slot.

[@manuelmaldonado4951]

hi...love your vids! i have the same blower. it will start and run good but only if i put gas on the carb..it dont start with out putting gas on the carb. any ideas?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

hmm, it's definitely something going with the carb. I would replace the carb, and reason is it's only $16.

[@manuelmaldonado4951]

@@HomeGaragechannel thank you! i will do that

[@robertwilliams3983]

I've got a poulan pro trimmer pp446et that's annoying me similar to your blower. I've got spark, got gas. The spark arrestor screen is clean. I don't have a compression tester. I've changed the coil & a new carburetor & spark plug. I've seen gas come out the carburetor & muffler even after I replaced the carburetor. Dried the plug & did the unflooding stuff. There's a coat of carbon on top of the piston. I'd hate to take it all apart again to check the timing key. I'm about ready to sell it for parts or throw it away.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I know it's frustrating, but do you have a friend who works on cars? if so, have them do a compression test on it, and see what the reading is.

[@revelationhomestead1776]

👍

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Revelation Homestead.

[@NerfCraft]

I think freeing the ring will get this engine working again. Definitely not supposed to be stuck, and 80psi of compression really is on the low side. I don't necessarily think that 80 is enough compression to make this engine run, probably depends on the engine, but I'm guessing this one is set up in such a way that it needs more than 80 psi to work properly. The only other things I can think of are that either fuel or air got blocked off somehow, but you bypassed the fuel system by putting fuel directly into the engine, and it didn't appear to have anything keeping air out, so not sure what else could cause it. Maybe exhaust/spark arrestor clogged somehow? Any mention of how well it ran the day before it wouldn't start?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

unfortunately no, I wasn't given that information

[@FahQMan]

Check the trigger. Make sure it’s opening up enough

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks for the tip

[@willdubeast88]

Can you explain more about what the other method of removing the fly wheel is and what the risk associated with it is please?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

screw the nut back onto the shaft, but leave it flush with the shaft. Then use a pry tool under the flywheel and "sharply" strike the nut with a hammer. the shock will loosen the flywheel

[@willdubeast88]

@@HomeGaragechannelthanks for the reply. I assumed this was the method. Does this method run the risk of damaging the crank shaft in any way?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes there's a small chance and you could also hit something on the engine if you should miss.

[@Amedeus1756]

Do you think that Sea Foam or any fogging product might have worked on the stuck piston?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

at the point it's at, No. It would require something stronger, like saoking in b12 carb cleaner or a strong acid.

[@andreworli4117]

WOW! Sherlock Holmes lives!👍

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks

[@DevonFerguson.]

I have the exact same mcculloch leaf blower, I’m trying to find the right size pvc pipe to attach to make it a leaf sucker.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

good luck, do you have the model number?

[@DevonFerguson.]

@@HomeGaragechannel mcculloch gbv 345

[@HomeGaragechannel]

unfortunately they no longer make the part you need, you'll need to find it used.

[@DevonFerguson.]

@@HomeGaragechannel thanks, I was planning to make a pipe fit rather then buying a very expensive oem one

[@brucelewis1017]

I've got one of the older poulan 2000 blower/vac it starts easy when it's cold but after it runs and get warm when you shut it off it won't start back I'm ready to throw it in the trash

[@HomeGaragechannel]

sorry to hear that.

[@harrygregory6227]

This "blows" me away

[@HomeGaragechannel]

lol.. nice

[@djtrainman2]

Could it be something to do with the stop switch

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no the ring was stuck to the piston.

[@WillsSmallEngines]

I have pretty much the same blower

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice, do you like it?

[@douglashaight24]

Just as a question, when storing two stroke equipment, leaf blower weed eater and chainsaws, should I empty all the fuel out of them and run until completely empty?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I think it's the best method and it's what I do, but It's up to you.

[@douglashaight24]

@@HomeGaragechannel thank you, keep putting out great content! You’ve helped me fix my leaf blower and my push mower

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I will thank you

[@mikegregory7844]

Sorry to be a pain but I think my problem is the spark arrestor. Could you give me any advice on how I remove it or do I clean it while it’s in the muffler? Thank you so much for your help.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

unfortunately I won't be able to help you on this one. But if you get creative you can bypass it. I however won't be able to tell you how though

[@mikegregory7844]

Thank you for responding. I will see.

[@mikevessels164]

What is in the spray bottle what kind of cleaner works better

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it's either LA Awesome cleaner or harbor freight's degreaser

[@josephsfields]

This one is going full send. My guess was bad gas almost before the video started. Then I got tired after several jumps to a conclusion. At this point a recall buying a cheap Poulan chainsaw for ≈ $99 on Amazon. I used it for about an hour to cut down a tree and it crapped out on me, never to run again on the next use five minutes later. I took it to the shop because it was brand new and was told the cylinder was scored so bad it could not be repaired. I was so mad at that chainsaw that I used it like a horseshoe all over the backyard is an effort to feel better about the loss.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

man that sucks sorry to hear that.

[@rickthelian2215]

Okay, let’s see what is reviewed in the follow up video, but you did the right thing but it may be carburettor related when it comes to troubles but compression is a major factor.? It would of been replaced if you had to repair at shop

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes you are correct

[@johndavis3231]

I don't know if that blower ran but I have an identical blower with identical non run situation. I am stumped. short of replacing the cylinder and piston, I can find no other solution. I am open to suggestion.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

did you watch the entire video? I fixed the blower and the problem Is very common on this model

[@dickwhitmore5878]

Hey did you know that if a 2strok says it takes 40 to 1 you can put 50 to 1 in it and it won't hurt it at all

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes I did know that!

[@JADEYWADEYMAKADEYPATADEY]

What hex key did you used? And would adding some MMO to the mix would help prevent carbon build up?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

can you give me a time stamp on what key you're referring to? no MMO, won't help in that regard.

[@JADEYWADEYMAKADEYPATADEY]

@@HomeGaragechannel Thanks for the reply. Hex Key aka Allen Key.

[@RealWickedAlliance]

It not starting because the stuck ring makes sense if that's not it that not sure the direction you should go. But in my personal life my dad gave me a nice Stihl fs38

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Matt and a Rachet

[@tylerkratz7]

What are you spraying and rinsing to clean the outside of the blower?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I'm using the gallon size degreaser from Harbor Freight and using water to rinse

[@ralphnolan3187]

Test the ignition coil

[@HomeGaragechannel]

turns out piston ring was stuck

[@cptyler150]

I know you have made videos short and it's mostly because of the editing that you have to do takes a lot. But like a previous user on here says too I like long videos also... Yes freeing up the ring was a fantastic thing to do... A little break home down the cylinder walls would have done another clean up too and make it slide easier...

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Christopher Tyler, if I have enough time, and I can produce longer videos I will, but unfortunately this time didn't work out.

[@sgslimy4179]

Does it just use gas?

[@Ron0963]

I believe it'll run after this repair

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you already know what's going to happen, thank you Ron0963

[@Ron0963]

@@HomeGaragechannel I'm guessing 2 to 3 pulls and it's going

[@josem.2909]

What type of cleaner did you use on it? Seems like a good one

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it's a degreaser from Harbor Freight

[@josem.2909]

@@HomeGaragechannel thanks I will definitely look for it

[@aholejoe5594]

The cap removed at 6:40 is probably cracked.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks

[@mikespain8655]

Compression testers on handle held equipment are not accurate, unless you have an expensive compression tester specifically for chainsaws, blowers, trimmers. 90 psi on a 2-stroke is a good normal minimum reading to start and run. This is a $50-$60 blower starting and running in decent shape if selling used. A shop would charge more than you can buy a comparable blower for new to do what you did with stuck ring, diagnosis, and tune uo.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you are correct

[@Windows98R]

This one definitely is the blower equivalent to "Its just cheaper to go get a junkyard engine" rather than diagnose if this was in a car.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you got that right, this is better used to keep doors propped open.

[@ryanhamilton9709]

I just started watching this video and 1 thing I noticed right away is that the spark plugs boot says to twist to be on and work correctly! If you have a blower u can look for urself or just zoom in on this video and u will see it clearly written!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

really? I'm going to look at it now and see, thanks

[@josephmeadows8521]

I got the same blower

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice, do you like it?

[@Ket4ekifan]

@@HomeGaragechannel I don’t like mine BUT it might be da air filter

[@alexandercosta1777]

Not a big fan of the poplin pro, what brand are you least fond of? Oh and ive been trying to send you comments o videos but for some reason they haven’t been sending, pretty weird, sorry if i went quite for a few months

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that's weird, I check the "held" section all the time and I haven't seen any of your comments there, so they should be showing up , like normal. As for the least favorite brand, I don't have one, but I do have a "STYLE" of engine, that I don't care for, and it's the one with the spark plug, on the bottom.

[@robertmailhos8159]

I have the same one that you are going to fix the one that I have won't start ethier

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I wonder if your has the same problem

[@robertmailhos8159]

@@HomeGaragechannel there's no telling what is going on with it I'm considering giving it to the scrap man

[@SPIDERNED6482]

check the carborater

[@hosta3199]

What did you use to clean the carbon off

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you mean on the piston? Carb cleaner seems to do a good job otherwise oven cleaner

[@charliee7142]

When you tried to start it with the drill you were going backwards ?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no I was not, confirmed it twice, besides going the other direction, pulls on the rope for the recoil, and won't allow you to turn it over. Thanks for trying tho.