Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): weed whacker not running..., gasket material, intake leak

Question
QUESTION: Hello,
I have a 5 yr old Snapper weedwhacker SJ31SST. It has spark for sure and fuel I think. I've taken it apart and re-assembled it a dozen times now. It pulls over and has the sound like it has good compression, but I am getting no start, not even a sputter. Any ideas on what it could be? I was thinking intake leak, but put new gasket material on and doesn't seem to make a difference. Thank you.

ANSWER: Hello Mike:

Have you Checked the Compression with a Gauge? Is the Muffler and Spark Arrestor Screen Clear? What Happens if you Pour a Small Amount (1 oz) of Fuel Mix Into the Carburetor Throat While Holding the Throttle at Full and then Still Holding the Throttle at Full Try to Start the Engine? Thanks.

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 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi John,
Thanks for replying. I have cleaned the spark arrestor, but it wasn't really dirty much. Unfortunately I don't have a compression guage, just my own intuition which isn't accurate. I have poured gas etc in the carb and tried to start it, but still not even a sputter. All I can say is that when I tried starting it numerous times, it was leaking gas from somewhere. A puddle was accumulating beneath when trying to start it. I put a new gasket material on the intake and the bolts go tight. It's the rest of the bolts etc that hold the carb on....they don't get too tight because they are seated in plastic and getting stripped. But shouldn't I still be able to get the darn thing to fire atleast once anyway? Thanks again for responding.
Mike

Answer
Hi Again Mike:

If the Compression is Good, the Plug is Firing and the Engine is Getting Gas (either poured in or through the Carburetor) and the Engine Still Does Not Respond, then Check the Flywheel Key. If the Key is Damaged it Upset the Timing of the Plug Firing During Compression (Power) Stroke. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John