Winter storage is the #1 cause of strimmer starting problems in spring. Moisture, stale 2-stroke mix, and neglected carbs turn a reliable tool into a frustrating pull-cord workout.
Paul fixes dozens of these every March and April. Here's the practical checklist he uses on Stihl, Husqvarna, Echo and similar 2-strokes.
Drain Everything Empty the fuel tank and run the engine dry if possible. Old mix separates and gums the carburettor jets and needle. Refill with fresh, correctly mixed fuel (usually 50:1).
Check and Replace the Spark Plug Remove the plug. If it's black, wet or the electrode is worn, replace it. A fresh plug often gets a neglected strimmer running again.
Clean or Rebuild the Carb This is where most "after storage" failures live. Varnish from stale fuel blocks the main jet and idle circuit.
Paul strips the carb, cleans all passages, replaces the diaphragm and gasket if hardened, and tests throttle response.
Inspect Fuel Lines and Primer Bulb Squeeze the primer bulb — it should be firm, not spongy or cracked. Check lines for cracks or leaks that let air in.
Safety First on 2-Strokes Always check the throttle cable returns fully and the kill switch works before any test run. Paul refuses to return a machine that isn't safe.
Paul's note: "A £40-60 carb clean and service now saves buying a new strimmer later. Most of these machines are perfectly good once the fuel system is sorted."
If basic checks fail, drop it off or arrange collection. Same-day or next-day turnaround is normal for strimmer work in the workshop.
Get your strimmer running: 07342 239878 or message Paul on WhatsApp.
