Finally got the weed eater running!!!

VaTom

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I like to fix things myself. Being retired I have the time. My Stihl FS45 weed eater was giving me fits for several weeks. Hard to start. After watching numerous you tube videos I finally found the culprit after replacing a couple of small items and.
1. Replaced the primer bulb
2. New spark plug
3. Fuel lines and filter OK. Air filter ok.
4. Took off carburetor and sprayed it with cleaner and blew out with air.
5. Cleaned spark arrestor on muffler.
Still would not start. Seemed to be flooding out. Plug wet, primer bulb working. Finally a video this am solved the problem. The fuel metering diaphragm gets hard over time. Sits under the primer bulb. Will cause the machine to stay flooded. Easily replaced. The video guy gave another fix that works sometimes. Oil the diaphragm to soften it up. Rubbed some REM Oil on it, wiped it off, reinstalled and started right up. Will order a new diaphragm from Amazon for $3.
😎
 
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My lawn mower was getting impossible to start, figured out it was a carb problem. no luck cleaning but found a new carb complete with air filter, and spark plug for $16. Took about 15 minutes to R&R the old one, runs like a champ..
 
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As a longtime homeowner I fought with my gas-powered yard equipment for years. I finally got tired of all the fighting. A few years ago I went all electric and it's the best decision in power equipment I've made...
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As to ethanol-free gas, we can't get it here now. Best is Chevron 94 octane.

BTW I had a problem with the clutch on the Stihl after not using it for a while and went online for help. Found an excellent YT channel from a gal in Arkansas who goes under the name "Chickanic". Clear and informative.
 
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