QuestionHi John,
I have a Weed Eater GTI trimmer (not sure of exact model number). It's pretty old, that's all I know. Gas/oil recommended ratio is 15:1. I don't know much about engines in general - just what I try to learn from the Internet - so bare with me.
I can get it to start, but only under certain circumstances:
1. Remove the choke cover (only starts with the removed)
2. Put choke to full.
3. Pull start cord until engine "pops".
4. Move choke to half or off.
5. Engine will now start, but it either dies after a few seconds, even with full throttle, or dies under load.
The spark plug looks fine. Fuel line OK - I can see it's getting gas, (though fuel filter is questionable - I plan on cleaning it or replacing).
I tried adjusting the speed screw, but that doesn't seem to help. That's another thing: all references online refer to 2 screws - one for high and one for low speed. But mine only has 1 screw. Not sure how I'm supposed to adjust it.
It ran OK last year, but gas was left in it over the winter, so I suspect it may have gotten gummed up. I plan to try cleaning the carb, spark screen, muffler, etc. Any specific suggestions on what I should look for or do?
Thanks for your help,
Alison
Answer Hello Allison:
You threw a Monkey Wrench into an otherwise simple Problem. I see you said ONLY STARTS WITH THIS REMOVED. You need to Check the Gasket/Gaskets Between the Carb and the Engine. With the Filter On you Draw Air from the Wrong side of the Carb. It doesnt Draw Fuel Because of the Broken/Blown Gasket. By Removing the Filter you are allowing the Carb to Draw Unrestricted and it Draws Fuel to start but not enough to continue running. Other than that the Carb would need Cleaning and Overhauling. Hope this Helps.
Good Luck
Respectfully
John
