The part(s) or condition(s) listed below for the symptom Edger runs rough are ordered from most likely to least likely to occur. Check or test each item, starting with the items at the top of the page.
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is often caused by leaving fuel in the edger for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel will evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to stall or run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is often caused by leaving fuel in the edger for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel will evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to stall or run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
The fuel filter might be clogged. A clogged fuel filter is often caused by leaving fuel in the edger for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the fuel filter and cause the engine to run roughly. If old fuel was left in the chainsaw, drain the old fuel from the fuel tank and replace the fuel filter.
The air filter may be clogged or dirty. If the air filter is clogged, the engine will get too much fuel and not enough air. As a result, the engine may run roughly. Inspect the air filter to determine if it is clogged. If the air filter is clogged, replace it.
The spark plug ignites the fuel and air mixture in the engine's cylinder to power the engine. If the spark plug is defective, the engine may run roughly. To determine if the spark plug is defective, remove the spark plug and inspect it. If the porcelain insulator is cracked, an electrode has been burned away or damaged, or there is heavy carbon buildup at the electrode, replace the spark plug. Alternatively, if the spark plug hasn’t been replaced in a few seasons, replace it.
The spark arrestor is a small screen that prevents the engine from emitting sparks. Over time, the spark arrestor can become clogged with soot. If the spark arrestor is clogged, the edger may run roughly. To unclog the spark arrestor, remove it and clean it with a wire brush. You can also replace the spark arrestor.
