Pole pruner won't start: Common Causes & How to Fix
1Pole Pruner Spark Plug
Most Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
Check the spark plug to see if it's worn out or damaged. If the white ceramic part is cracked, or the metal part is burned or damaged, or if there's a lot of black carbon build up on the metal part, you need a new spark plug. Use a spark plug tester to check if the spark plug isn't working right. When the engine is trying to start, you should see a bright spark between the parts of the tester. If there's no spark, it means the spark plug isn't working the way it should, and you should get a new one.
How to Replace a Pole Pruner Spark Plug
- Disconnect spark plug wire - Locate the spark plug wire coming from the engine and detach it from the spark plug. This prevents accidental starting.
- Remove cover - Take off the air filter cover and cylinder cover using screwdrivers to access the spark plug.
- Clean debris - Use compressed air to blow away any dirt or debris around the spark plug area.
- Remove the spark plug - Unscrew the old spark plug by turning it counterclockwise using a spark plug socket wrench. Pull it out of the cylinder head.
- Set gap on new plug - Check and adjust the gap on the new spark plug to the specified size (usually 0.024-0.028 inches) using a spark plug gap tool.
- Install new plug - Carefully thread the new spark plug into the cylinder head by hand until snug. Then tighten it with the socket wrench to the recommended torque.
- Replace covers - Put the cylinder and air filter covers back on the pole pruner and secure them with the screws.
- Reconnect wire - Attach the spark plug wire firmly onto the new spark plug. Make sure the connection is tight.
- Test operation - Start the pole pruner to ensure proper installation and function of the new spark plug.
2Pole Pruner Carburetor
Most Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
Your carburetor could be blocked. This often happens when fuel stays in the pole pruner for a long while. As time goes by, parts of the fuel can disappear and leave a sticky, thicker material behind. This sticky material can block the carburetor and stop the engine from starting. If your carburetor is blocked, try using a carburetor cleaning product. If it still doesn't work well after cleaning, you might need to rebuild or replace the whole carburetor.
How to Replace Pole Pruner Carburetor
- Disconnect the spark plug wire - Locate the spark plug wire and detach it from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
- Drain fuel - With the fuel valve off, drain any fuel left in the tank and carburetor into an approved container.
- Remove air filter cover - Take off the air filter cover using a screwdriver to access the carburetor underneath.
- Detach fuel lines - Use pliers to disconnect the fuel supply and return lines from the inlet and outlet on the carburetor.
- Remove carburetor - Take out the two mounting screws to detach the carburetor. Carefully disconnect choke and throttle linkages.
- Install new carburetor - Secure the new carburetor with mounting screws, properly reattaching the linkages and fuel lines in their original positions.
- Replace air filter - Put the air filter and cover back on, securing it with the cover screws.
- Reconnect spark plug wire - Attach the spark plug wire back onto the spark plug. Make sure the connection is snug.
- Test pole pruner - Refill the fuel tank. Try starting the engine to ensure proper carburetor installation and function. Make adjustments as needed.
3Pole Pruner Carburetor Repair Kit
Most Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The pole pruner carburetor may be blocked. This often happens when fuel is left in the engine for too long. As time passes, parts of the fuel can evaporate and leave a thick, sticky material behind. This can block the carburetor and stop the pole pruner engine from starting. If you think the carburetor is blocked, try cleaning it with a special cleaner. If it still doesn't work after cleaning, you may need to rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
How to Replace Pole Pruner Carburetor Repair Kit
- Remove air filter cover - Take off the air filter cover to access the carburetor underneath.
- Drain fuel - With the fuel valve off, drain the tank and carburetor bowl into an approved container.
- Detach fuel lines - Disconnect the fuel supply and return lines from the carburetor using pliers.
- Remove carburetor - Take out mounting screws and detach choke/throttle linkages to remove the carburetor.
- Disassemble carburetor - Take care to organize parts, and disassemble the carburetor by removing gaskets, springs, needle valve, floats, jets, etc.
- Clean carb parts - Use carburetor cleaner spray and wire brushes to remove varnish and deposits from all parts and passages.
- Install new parts - Referring to kit instructions, replace worn gaskets, needles, seals, and jets with matching parts from the repair kit.
- Reassemble carburetor - Carefully reassemble the carburetor with the new parts, replacing all gaskets and reattaching linkages.
- Install carburetor - Mount the carburetor back on the engine, reconnecting fuel lines and linkages properly.
- Replace air filter - Put the air filter cover back on and secure it with mounting screws.
- Test pole pruner - Reconnect spark plug wire. Add fuel to the tank. Start the engine to test for proper carburetor function.
4Pole Pruner Rewind Spring
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The rewind spring in the pole pruner could be damaged. This spring is responsible for pulling back the starter rope onto a wheel, or pulley, after you pull and let go of it. If the spring is broken, the rope won't go back onto the pulley, which means the engine won't start. If you find that the rewind spring is broken, it needs to be replaced. While some springs can be replaced on their own, it might be simpler to change the entire recoil starter set.
How to Replace Pole Pruner Carburetor Repair Kit
- Remove air filter cover - Take off the air filter cover to access the carburetor underneath.
- Drain fuel - With the fuel valve off, drain the tank and carburetor bowl into an approved container.
- Detach fuel lines - Disconnect the fuel supply and return lines from the carburetor using pliers.
- Remove carburetor - Take out mounting screws and detach choke/throttle linkages to remove the carburetor.
- Disassemble carburetor - Take care to organize parts, and disassemble the carburetor by removing gaskets, springs, needle valves, floats, jets, etc.
- Clean carb parts - Use carburetor cleaner spray and wire brushes to remove varnish and deposits from all parts and passages.
- Install new parts - Referring to kit instructions, replace worn gaskets, needles, seals, and jets with matching parts from the repair kit.
- Reassemble carburetor - Carefully reassemble the carburetor with the new parts, replacing all gaskets and reattaching linkages.
- Install carburetor - Mount the carburetor back on the engine, reconnecting fuel lines and linkages properly.
- Replace air filter - Put the air filter cover back on and secure it with mounting screws.
- Test pole pruner - Reconnect spark plug wire. Add fuel to the tank. Start the engine to test for proper carburetor function."
5Pole Pruner Rewind Pulley and Spring
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The rewind spring in the pole pruner could be damaged. This spring is responsible for pulling back the starter rope onto a wheel, or pulley, after you pull and let go of it. If the spring is broken, the rope won't go back onto the pulley, which means the engine won't start. If you find that the rewind spring is broken, it needs to be replaced. While some springs can be replaced on their own, it might be simpler to change the entire recoil starter set.
How to Replace Pole Pruner Rewind Pulley and Spring
- Remove starter cover - Unscrew and remove the starter cover to access the recoil components.
- Take out the old spring - Note the winding direction then detach the old rewind spring from the pulley and guide posts. Remove it.
- Extract pulley - Take out the center screw and extract the old pulley from the starter shaft, sliding it off the rope guide bushing.
- Clean components - Use compressed air and a rag to clean dust and debris from the starter housing and components.
- Install new pulley - Slide the new pulley into place over the rope guide bushing and onto the starter shaft. Replace and tighten the center screw.
- Attach new spring - Following the winding direction, hook the new rewind spring over the pulley and onto the guide posts.
- Check tension - Gently pull the pulley/rope to ensure proper spring tension and recoil.
- Replace cover - Put the starter cover back on and securely fasten it with the mounting screws.
- Test operation - Start the pole pruner and pull the recoil rope several times to verify the smooth operation of the new pulley and spring.
- Maintain regularly - Lubricate the spring and inspect the pulley/rope for wear to prevent starting issues.
6Pole Pruner Recoil Starter
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
If the pole pruner isn't starting, the problem might be with the recoil starter assembly. This part should connect with the crankshaft to get the engine running. To check if it's working correctly, you need to take off the starter assembly.
How to Replace Pole Pruner Recoil Starter
- Remove starter cover - Unscrew and take off the starter cover to access the recoil components.
- Disconnect spark plug wire - Detach the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
- Extract pulley/spring - Note the winding direction, then remove the pulley and spring from the starter housing.
- Detach starter - Remove the starter mounting screws or nuts and detach the starter from the engine crankcase.
- Install new starter - Attach the new recoil starter assembly using the mounting screws/nuts. Make sure it aligns properly.
- Replace pulley/spring - Following the winding direction, hook the pulley and spring back into place inside the starter housing.
- Check movement - Gently pull the pulley/rope to ensure proper spring tension and recoil.
- Replace cover - Put the starter cover back on and securely fasten it with the mounting screws.
- Reconnect spark plug wire - Firmly push the spark plug wire back onto the spark plug.
- Test operation - Start the pole pruner to verify proper starter installation and function.
7Pole Pruner Fuel Filter
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The problem could be that the fuel filter is blocked. This often happens because old fuel was left in the pole pruner. Over time, some of the chemicals in the fuel can evaporate. This leaves a thick, sticky substance. This sticky material can get stuck in the fuel filter. When the filter gets clogged, it stops the engine from starting properly. If you leave old fuel in the pole pruner, first drain it out of the fuel tank. Then replace the fuel filter. This should allow fresh fuel to flow correctly again so the engine will start up.
How to Replace Pole Pruner Fuel Filter
- Locate fuel filter - The fuel filter is typically found along the fuel line running from the tank to the carburetor. Note its orientation.
- Pinch fuel line - Use pliers to clamp off the fuel line on both sides of the filter to prevent fuel drainage when detached.
- Remove filter - Slide the fuel line off the old filter's inlet and outlet nipples to remove it.
- Install new filter - Slide the fuel line over the nipples on the new filter, orienting it the same way as the old one.
- Secure clamps - Tighten the clamps on the fuel line around the filter nipples using a screwdriver to prevent leakage.
- Check for leaks - Turn on the fuel valve and check for leaks at the filter connection points before starting.
- Prime the system - Pump the fuel bulb several times to fill the new filter and purge any air from the fuel system.
- Start pole pruner - Pull the starter rope to start the engine. Let it run for several minutes to confirm proper fuel flow.
- Change regularly - Replace the fuel filter every 50 hours of operation or seasonally.
8Pole Pruner Spark Arrestor
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The spark arrestor is a tiny mesh screen that stops sparks from coming out of the engine. It can get blocked up with carbon buildup called soot. When the arrestor gets clogged with soot, it can prevent the engine from starting. To fix this, take the spark arrestor off and scrub it clean using a wire brush. This should unclog it so it works properly again. If scrubbing doesn't get rid of the clog, the spark arrestor may need to be replaced. Putting in a new spark arrestor will ensure no soot blocks the exhaust again and allow normal starting.
How to Replace Pole Pruner Spark Arrestor
- Allow engine to cool - Let the engine cool completely before servicing the muffler/exhaust system to prevent burns.
- Disconnect spark plug wire - Detach the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
- Remove muffler cover - Take off the muffler heat shield using a screwdriver to access the spark arrestor screen inside.
- Extract old screen - Carefully remove the old spark arrestor screen from the muffler outlet using pliers.
- Inspect and clean - Check the old screen for damage or clogging. Use a wire brush to remove carbon deposits if reusing.
- Install new spark arrestor - Place the new spark arrestor screen into the muffler outlet opening and gently tap it completely into place with a rubber mallet.
- Replace muffler cover - Reattach the muffler heat shield using the screws removed earlier.
- Reconnect spark plug wire - Attach the spark plug wire firmly back onto the spark plug.
- Test operation - Start the pole pruner and let it run for several minutes to ensure proper exhaust flow.
- Maintain regularly - Check and clean the new spark arrestor as part of periodic maintenance.
9Pole Pruner Air Filter
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The issue could be that the air filter is blocked or dirty. When the air filter gets clogged up, it prevents enough air from getting into the engine. Without enough air, the engine won't be able to burn the fuel properly. This can stop the engine from starting. If your air filter looks dirty or clogged, you should replace it with a new one. Putting in a clean air filter will allow the right amount of air to mix with fuel again. This will help the engine start up normally.
How to Replace Pole Pruner Air Filter
- Locate air filter - The air filter is housed in a plastic cover mounted on the side of the engine.
- Remove cover - Unscrew or unlatch the clips securing the air filter cover and remove it.
- Extract old filter - Gently pull out the old foam or paper air filter element from the cover.
- Inspect filter - Check the condition of old filter. Replace if excessively dirty or clogged with debris.
- Clean air filter area - Use a small brush or vacuum to remove any dust buildup in the air filter cavity.
- Install new filter - Place the new air filter securely into the air filter cavity, ensuring it is fully seated.
- Replace cover - Put the air filter cover back on and reattach the retaining clips or screws tightly.
- Check alignment - Confirm the air filter area is sealed properly before operating the pole pruner.
- Change regularly - Inspect and change the air filter every 25 hours of runtime to maintain proper airflow.
- Prevent issues - Always use Genuine Manufacturer parts to ensure proper fit and filtration.
10Pole Pruner Ignition Coil
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The ignition coil gives power to the spark plug when the engine is running. If the ignition coil isn't working right, the engine might not start. Before you get a new ignition coil, make sure the spark plug is working as it should. If you're sure the spark plug is okay, use a tool called an ignition coil tester to check the ignition coil. If the ignition coil isn't working right, it's time to get a new one.
How to Replace Pole Pruner Ignition Coil
- Disconnect spark plug wire - Locate the spark plug wire coming from the ignition coil and detach it from the spark plug. This prevents accidental starting.
- Remove recoil cover - Take off the recoil starter cover using a screwdriver to access the ignition coil.
- Detach wiring - Unplug the primary ignition wire from the coil terminals. Remove any brackets or screws securing the coil.
- Remove the ignition coil - Using a socket wrench, unscrew the two mounting bolts and carefully lift the coil off the engine. Note its position.
- Install new coil - Place the new ignition coil in the same location as the old one, attaching it to the engine with the two mounting bolts.
- Reconnect wiring - Plug in the primary ignition wire to the proper coil terminal. Reattach any brackets or screws.
- Replace recoil cover - Put the starter cover back on the pole pruner and ensure it is fitted properly.
- Reconnect spark plug wire - Push the spark plug wire back onto the spark plug. Confirm the connection is snug.
- Test operation - Try to start the pole pruner to verify the proper installation and function of the new ignition coil.
11Pole Pruner Recoil Starter Pulley
Common Solution
Repair Instructions:
The recoil starter pulley's job is to wind up the starter rope when it's not being used. If this pulley is damaged or unable to move, it can't wind up the rope. This means the engine won't be able to start. If you find that the recoil starter pulley is broken, it needs to be replaced.
How to Replace Pole Pruner Recoil Starter Pulley
- Remove starter cover - Unscrew and remove the starter cover to access the recoil components.
- Extract old pulley - Note in which direction the rope is wound, then remove the center screw and slide off the old pulley.
- Clean components - Use compressed air and a rag to remove any dirt or debris from the starter housing.
- Install new pulley - Slide the new starter pulley into place over the rope guide bushing and onto the starter shaft.
- Replace center screw - Insert and tighten the center screw to secure the new pulley in place.
- Wind new rope - Wrap the new starter rope in the proper direction around the pulley grooves. Refer to the manual for proper technique.
- Check pulley - Gently pull the rope to ensure the pulley rotates smoothly without binding.
- Replace cover - Put the starter cover back on and securely fasten it with the mounting screws.
- Connect spark plug wire - Reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
- Test operation - Start the pole pruner to verify proper pulley installation and operation.