A good maintenance regimen will help keep even the best weed eater free of rust, dirt and grass clippings. It’s no fun executing repairs, especially after a strenuous afternoon cutting and clearing your garden. Constant breakdowns and other malfunctions can take the joy out of yard work.
Regular performance checks and cleaning will help extend the life of your gas string trimmer. Your manual contains a maintenance schedule that outlines how often your weed eater should be serviced.
The guidelines stress the critical areas that need to be checked and the steps needed to correct any issues that arise.
The critical components susceptible to wear and tear on you whacker include:
- Gas and air filters
- Spark plugs
- Engine parts
Here is a more detailed guide to each component and how to care for them.
Air and Fuel Filters
Air and fuel filters can get clogged by dirt, debris, and dust. These particles can impair your weed eater’s overall performance. If they are clogged, it’s best to replace them.
To keep filters in ship shape, simply remove them and give them a thorough washdown. For some filters, a good coating of oil may be needed after they have been cleaned.
Spark Plugs
If your weed eater frequently starts and stops, you may need to check the spark plugs. Before tackling your spark plugs, make sure is engine is completely cooled.
Clear the area around the plug and slip it out of position. Check for any defects or replace them where needed. Always check your manual to reinstall the spark plugs in the engine correctly.
Engines, Oil, and Fuel
Engines may vary, depending on the make and model of your weed eater, and may require a separate maintenance program. Some engines operate on a 2-cycle or 4-cycle basis.
Your manual will describe the type of ratios needed for oil and gas. Routine oil and gas checks may be similar to your motor vehicle.
If your garden maintenance extends beyond 2 months, it’s best to drain the old fuel from your gas tank.
Cleaning and Performance Issues
A basic cleaning regimen can be done with a damp cloth and some liquid dish soap. However, the drive shaft that supports the weed eater attachments may need regular oiling to prevent corrosion. And always make sure the battery is charged if your unit has one.
Your manual is your best guide to service these components to minimize damage.
If you need to clean out your carburetor, be sure to bring it to a professional if you aren’t sure of the process.
Repairing your Weed Eater
Before you attempt to carry out any repairs to your whacker, please check your product warranty.
If your warranty has expired, take it to the nearest maintenance shop or opt to do the repairs yourself. Your manual is the best guide if you plan to repair it on your own.
#1: Learn as much as you can about the repair process before you attempt any repairs on your weed eater. Any wrong move may damage components or compromise your product warranty.
#2: Check your manual for lists of parts and diagrams with step by step instructions to execute repairs effectively. Where possible, order replacement parts directly from the manufacturer or a reputable parts dealer.
Tackle with the right Tools
Before you begin, assemble all your tools, their correct sizes, and any replacement parts.
- Keep a careful note of every part and where they will need to be reconnected. Constantly check your manual to guide you as you go along.
- When the defective parts are out, attach the replacement parts in reverse order.
Start the weed eater to ensure the engine is running well before you resume work.