Section 6: Troubleshooting - MTD 020 Series Operator's Manual

SECTION 6: TROUBLESHOOTING
Engine fails to
start
Engine runs
erratic
Engine overheats
Occasional skip
(hesitates) at
high speed
Idles poorly
Excessive
vibration
1. Blade control handle disengaged.
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.
3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.
4. Blocked fuel line.
5. Faulty spark plug.
6. Engine flooded
1. Spark plug wire loose.
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
3. Vent in gas cap plugged.
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.
5. Dirty air cleaner.
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Engine oil level low.
2. Air flow restricted.
3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.
1. Spark plug gap too close.
,
2.
3.
1.
2.
1.
2.
Spark plug fouled, faulty, or gap
too wide.
Carburetor improperly adjusted.
Dirty air cleaner.
Cutting blade loose or
unbalanced.
Bent cutting blade.
Wheels not positioned correctly.
Dull blade.
1. Engage blade control handle.
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
4. Clean fuel line.
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
6. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do not prime.
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline
3. Clear vent.
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
5. Refer to engine manual.
6. Refer to engine manual.
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Remove blower housing and clean.
3. Refer to engine manual.
1. Adjust gap to .030". Refer to engine manual.
1. Reset gap to .030" or replace spark plug. Refer to
engine manual.
2. Refer to engine manual.
3. Refer to engine manual.
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.
2. Replace blade.
Uneven cut 1. Place all four wheels in same height position.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above, contact an authorized service dealer,
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