Troubleshooting - MTD 550 Series Operator's Manual

Troubleshooting
Problem
Engine fails to start
Engine runs erratic
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
1,
2.
Cause
Spark plug wire disconnected. 1.
Fuel tank empty or stale fuel. 2.
Choke not in CHOKE position. 3.
Faulty spark plug. 4.
Blocked fuel line. 5.
Throttle control lever not in correct starting 6.
position.
Log Splitter running with CHOKE applied. 1.
Spark plug wire loose. 2.
Remedy
Connect w_re to spark plug.
Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
Move choke to CHOKE position.
Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
Clean fuel line.
Move throttle lever to FAST position.
Move choke lever to OFF position.
Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
3. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
3. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh
gasoline.
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.
5. Dirty air cleaner. 5. Clean or replace air cleaner.
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
6. Carburetor notadjusted properly. 6. See authorized service dealer.
Engine Overheats
Cylinder rod will not move
1,
2.
3.
1.
2.
3,
4.
Engine oil level low. 1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
Dirty air cleaner. 2. Clean or replace air cleaner.
Carburetor not adjusted properly. 3. See authorized service dealer.
Broken drive shaft. 1.
Shipping plugs left in hydraulic hoses. 2.
Set screws in coupling not adjusted properly. 3.
Loose shaft coupling. 4.
See authorized service dealer.
Disconnect hydraulic hoses, remove shipping
plugs, reconnect hoses.
See Service Section for correct adjustment.
Correct engine/pump alignment as
5. Gear sections damaged.
6. Damaged relief valve.
7. Hydraulic lines blocked.
8. Incorrect oil level.
9. Damaged directional valve.
10. Blocked directional valve.
necessary.
5. See authorized service dealer.
6. See authorized service dealer.
7. Flush and clean hydraulic system.
8. Check oil level.
9. See authorized service dealer.
10. Flush and clean hydraulic system
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