Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Snapper trimmer wont start, carburetor body, adjustment screws

Question
Hi!  I've a Snapper S31SST string trimmer that won't start. The plug smells like it's getting at least some fuel but the new plug doesn't seem to fire when I take it out and ground it.  I bought the trimmer a year and a half ago. Last summer it missed a lot until it motor warmed up.

Thanks

Answer
Hello Cliff:

1- Remove the Spark Plug and Wrap the Threaded Section of the Plug with Wire, then Attach the Other End of the Wire to the Engine Block. Now, Remove the Coil Shut Off Wire at the Shut Off Switch. Check for Fire. If No Fire, then Remove the Cut Off Wire from the Coil (removal of the blower housing required) and Check for Fire.  Turning the Engine By Hand (giving a Quick Twist with the Wrist) is Enough to Make the Coil Fire the Plug. If Still No Fire, then the Coil/Ign Module is Bad. If the Plug is Firing, then Reconnect the Shut Off Wire. If the Plug Does Not Fire Now, then you have a Bad Wire or Shut Off Switch. If the Ign Check Good, then 2- Remove the Muffler and Inspect the Exhaust Port for Carbon Blocking the Exhaust Port. Check the Muffler and Spark Arrestor Screen (in the muffler) for Blockage Also. If the Exhaust is Clear, then 3-  **Remove, Disassemble and Soak the Carburetor Overnight in Carburetor Cleaner (I Use Gunk). I have Found that Most People can Use a Breakdown/IPL and Disassemble the Carburetor Enough for Proper Cleaning. You Only have to Remove the Bowl (if Applicable), Float Pin (if Applicable), Float (if Applicable)  and Needle Valve and Any Adjustment Screws that Go Into the Carburetor Body. The Welch Plugs Do Not have to be Removed. Then Soak the Carburetor Body and Parts in a 1 Gallon Can of Gunk Carburetor Cleaner Overnight. The Can has a Parts Tray Inside it for the Small Parts. Once the Carburetor and Parts are in the Cleaner, you can Replace the Lid for Safety and to Prevent Accidental Spillage. Then Blow Out the Passages with Compressed Air. Install New Parts if Required.** You can View a Breakdown of the Mower at this Site Addy; http://www.snapper.com/manuals/ Select your Model from the List in the Model/Part Numbers Section. Select Parts Manual from the Manual Type Section and Click Find Manuals. Now Download the Manual for your Unit from the List Provided. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John