Ryobi strimmer (i know)

[harvey b davison]

Hi, i need help with rectifying the same problem with 2 ryobi strimmers.

 

The problem is that they both start fine from cold, but refuse to start when hot. I know they are only ryobi but they are only used to strim the allotments etc, so they are ok for what they are used for. However, when starting from scratch they start and run ok. But if you switch off after 10 /15 mins say, they just refuse to start again until sufficent time has passed for them to cool down.

 

Any ideas ?

 

cheers

H.

[harrythecat178]

Possibly a scored cylinder or ignition coil problem. try using easy start when hot, if it still fails to start then its a coil

[mikerecike]

Are the - . fuel tanks venting properly?

[mikerecike]

Some machines need choke even if they're hot I have an FS200 that's like that

[bobh]

I've got a ryobi here that the Mrs uses round the garden, the only way to start it when it's not is to use choke.

Runs perfectly when it's going, just won't start hot without choke.

[Stubby]

Have a Hondalike motor on one of my log splitters that is the sme . Needs choke even if you turn it off and leave it for 30 seconds .

[spudulike]

It is possible that the unit has a drop in compression when warm and when hot, it is causing poor starting.

 

Try measuring the compression when cold - one big pull then take note and then 5-6 pulls and take note. You should have 70psi+ on one pull and around 130+ when hot. Very generally, if you double the first pull reading, it should give you the maximum reading after 5 pulls.

 

It is the first pull reading that will dictate if the engine will start and anything much lower than 70psi will stop it firing.

[phedders]

Is it the four stroke 430?

 

The first few years they sold it with a **NYLON** cam.

 

Yes the cam melts and the timing goes. First symptoms are that it wont start from hot and loses power.

 

Other models might use cheese.

 

Ryobi never acknowleged the problem or would fix it for people. They wont even supply replacement parts!

 

They changed the design to a metal cam I believe.... but too late - never a Ryobi or homelite for again.

 

Once bitten.

[harvey b davison]

Hi all,

Its a 2 stroke variant about 5 years old. Roughly the same model as b&q are now selling for about £90. Its just i hate not knowing what is wrong and how to fix it.

 

I have tried starting with the choke on, but the machine just stubbornly refuses to start.

 

Spud, i only have a basic kit, looks like im going to have to invest in some gear if i'm going to be any good at repairing stuff. Where/what is the best place to start for a compression tester and is there owt else i need to start looking out for, to add to a basic kit.

 

cheers.

[spudulike]

Hi all,

Its a 2 stroke variant about 5 years old. Roughly the same model as b&q are now selling for about £90. Its just i hate not knowing what is wrong and how to fix it.

 

I have tried starting with the choke on, but the machine just stubbornly refuses to start.

 

Spud, i only have a basic kit, looks like im going to have to invest in some gear if i'm going to be any good at repairing stuff. Where/what is the best place to start for a compression tester and is there owt else i need to start looking out for, to add to a basic kit.

 

cheers.

 

I use the Gunson Hi Gauge as it works on small kit. Some cheaper ones use standard schrader valves and will only work on larger car engines. There is lots of kit you can buy but it may be cheaper buying a new strimmer.

 

You need to check you have fuel, spark and compression, the plug will be wet after pulling it over, you may have flooded it by now so turn the plug hole so it faces downwards (with the plug removed) and pull it over fast to expel any excess fuel. check the plug is sparking by earthing it on the cylinder AWAY from the plug hole and pulling it over and look for a spark.

 

You can try this when it fails and it will rule out a faulty coil if it has a strong spark!