Trimmer small engine running poorly

DocHeb · Mar 19, 2010

I have a Ryobi weedwacker that uses multiple attachments such as a blower, edger, trimmer, etc. I am having problems with keeping the motor running. It is a 4-stroke engine that will start with full choke and runs about 1/3 speed. If I open the choke about 5%, the engine will run a little faster, but never comes up properly to full speed. If I open the choke just a hair more, the engine dies. I am using fresh gas. I'm not very familiar with small engine repair, so I am looking for suggestions.

Thanks.

jinman · Mar 19, 2010

Chris, since it's a 4-stroke, I think you probably need a carb kit installed with new seals and jets. Methanol in our gas seems to make carb seals and components fail with regularity. I'd take it to a Ryobi authorized shop and let them have a look at it. I love my IDC/Ryobi 2-cycles, but I've never owned one of the 4-cycles. It just sounds to me like you have some restriction in fuel delivery if you have to choke it to make it run. It also might be a pinhole in fuel pump diaphragm as well.

mostly_gas · Mar 19, 2010

Try running some gas with Seafoam or equivalent. Sound like the jets are a little gummy and some form of injector cleaner will usually clear it up in a tank or of gas.

kyspartan · Mar 30, 2010

a carb kit and new fuel lines will get her purring again, i have troybilt big red version, man i hate that p.o.s, motor seems bullit proof, but the fuel delivery isn't worth a wooding nickel.

i wish they would remove those primer bulbs

DocHeb · Mar 31, 2010

A tank of 20% Seafoam didn't help. I can't find a carb kit from Ryobi for this Model 1079 trimmer head. This is a homeowner model that cost ~$150, and the first hour at the Ryobi shop is $75. I think it is designed to be used for 50 hours, then thrown away. Thanks all for your suggestions.

MarkV · Mar 31, 2010

Doc you might also check the fuel pickup in the gas tank. They have a filter on the end of the line that when clogged can cause symptoms you describe.

MarkV

DocHeb · Mar 31, 2010

Yeah, I was looking at that... I will be out of town for 10 days so I will try switching that out when I get back. Thanks for the reminder.

FallbrookFarmer · Apr 2, 2010

DocHeb said:
A tank of 20% Seafoam didn't help. I can't find a carb kit from Ryobi for this Model 1079 trimmer head. This is a homeowner model that cost ~$150, and the first hour at the Ryobi shop is $75. I think it is designed to be used for 50 hours, then thrown away. Thanks all for your suggestions.

Agreed

I've gone thru 3 or 4. They are great while they last, but pretty much like a BIC lighter, use and discard

Scooby074 · Apr 2, 2010

Your right chris, theyre disposable. i wasted 75$ on parts for a ryobi blower....never again. no more ryobi for me. ill keep to my huskvarnas and hondas.

my best advice is to save your money and put it towards a husky (make sure its made in sweeden, thats their better line). youll then have a lifetime machine that can be rebuilt if necessary