Craftsman CMXGCAQ108493 Operator's Manual page 23

PROBLEM
Engine smokes.
Engine lacks power or isn't running smooth.
Cutting head won't spin or lacks power.
TROUBLESHOOTING
• Check the oil level and adjust as needed.
• You may be operating the trimmer on too great an incline.
• Check the air filter and clean or replace if needed.
• You may be using the wrong oil - too light for the
temperature. Refer to your engine Owner's Manual for
detailed information.
• Clean the engine cooling fins and the carburetor housing if
they are dirty.
• If the engine still smokes, visit our web site at www.
dirtyhandtools.com or call 1-877-487-8275 for assistance.
• Check the throttle travel. The throttle lever should be in the
most forward position (or RUN position when the engine is
warm).
• Check for debris (hay seed, etc.) clogging the air filter intake
and clean out as required.
• The engine's blower housing, throttle linkage, and cooling
fins should be free of debris. Clean them following the
instructions in the engine Owner's Manual.
• Check that the air filter is clean. If it is dirty, change it
following the procedure in the engine Owner's Manual.
• Remove the spark plug wire and dry the connection with a
clean rag.
• The spark plug may be dirty or cracked, change it. If it's oily,
leave it out, hold a rag over the spark plug hole and pull the
recoil cord several times to blow out any oil in the cylinder,
then wipe off the spark plug and reinsert it.
• You should be using fresh, clean, unleaded gas. If it is old,
change it. Use a fuel stabilizer if you keep gas longer than
one month.
• Check that the engine has the right amount of clean oil. If it
is dirty, change it following the procedure on page
• If your engine still lacks power, visit our web site at www.
dirtyhandtools.com or call 1-877-487-8275 for assistance.
• Check for proper alignment of the v-belt. Check it against
Figure 18 in the "Replacing the Belt" section on page 20.
• The belt may be worn or frayed; if so, replace it.
• If the cutting head still will not spin, follow the procedure
for "Adjusting the Belt Tension through the Cutting head
Control Cable" on page 19.
• If none of the above helps, visit our web site at www.
dirtyhandtools.com or call 1-877-487-8275 for assistance.
23
SOLUTION
19.