Originally posted on https://canberradiamondblade.com.au/small-engine-troubleshooting/

 

A good cross-skill for any tradie is the ability to troubleshoot equipment on the job.

Some repairs require a professional mechanic. Other repairs are more straightforward; you can do them yourself. This article focuses on basic small engine troubleshooting, in particular, the GX120, the GX160, and the GX200 Honda small engines.

About the GX120, the GX160 and the GX200 Honda Small Engines

In 2011, Honda launched an updated version of its GX engines line. The GX120, GX160, and GX200 are horizontal-shaft, single-cylinder engines that replaced the existing models.

The engines’ designs are for turf and commercial applications and related equipment. Examples are construction and industrial equipment, generators, and agricultural equipment. They are also suitable for pressure washers and water pumps.

The GX series engines have appealing features such as good fuel economy and lower noise levels. They have a reputation for their fuel economy as well as durability and reliability.

Honda Small Engines Troubleshooting

Below are some fundamental Honda troubleshooting issues and their probable causes for the GX120, the GX160 and the GX200 Honda Engines. Keep in mind these are broad small engine troubleshooting tips.

For detailed mower troubleshooting, generator troubleshooting, etc., refer to the Honda small engine manuals for each engine.

Engine Won’t Start, Won’t Stay Running, Runs Poorly, or Is Hard to Start

For these engine issues, the probable causes appear below, beginning with the most common cause.

Spark Plug

Check the spark plug for damage or wear. You may see a cracked insulator, a burned-away or damaged electrode, or heavy carbon buildup. If so, replace the spark plug.

You can also use a spark plug tester to see if the spark plug is defective. You should see a strong spark between the tester’s terminals when the engine is cranking. If you don’t, the spark plug is defective.

Carburetor

If your engine won’t start, starts but stops after a few seconds, the carburetor may be the cause. When you leave fuel in the engine for an extended period, you can clog the carburetor. After some time, parts within the fuel evaporate.

They leave a sticky substance behind that clogs up the carburetor. Clean it with carburetor cleaner and if that doesn’t work, you will have to replace or rebuild the carburetor.

Where you find it hard to start the engine, your engine may be getting too much or not enough fuel.

If your carburetor is clogged, the engine doesn’t get the fuel it needs. The engine receives too much fuel if the carburetor choke isn’t closing as it should.

Fuel Cap

A clogged carburetor is usually the culprit when the engine stops after running a few seconds or more. Another common cause is a faulty fuel cap. A faulty cap keeps the engine from starting or makes it harder to start the engine.

As the engine consumes fuel, pressure rises in the gas tank. The gas cap has a small vent that allows air to enter the gas tank and relieve pressure. If that vent becomes clogged, the pressure in the tank will rise.

When the gas tank pressure exceeds the engine pressure, the engine stalls. Loosen the gas cap before you start the engine. If the engine continues to run with the loose cap, the vent is more than likely clogged.

Ignition Coil

While the engine is running, the ignition coil sends volts to the spark plug. A faulty ignition coil keeps the engine from starting. Check that the spark plug is working.

If it is, use an ignition coil tester to test the ignition coil. Replace the ignition coil if needed.

Fuel Filter

A clogged fuel filter can cause engine problems. If someone leaves fuel in the engine for a long time, some of the fuel’s ingredients evaporate. The sticky stuff left behind clogs the fuel filter and interferes with engine operation.

If you find old fuel in the engine, drain it from the fuel tank. Then, replace the fuel filter.

Flywheel Key

The flywheel key is a small, metal piece. It fits in the crankshaft, where it engages with the flywheel.

If the engine suddenly stops, the flywheel key will break in half. This prevents engine damage. Replace the flywheel key before troubleshooting further.

Recoil Starter

The recoil starter engages the crankshaft, which turns over the engine. If the recoil starter assembly is faulty, your engine will not start. To troubleshoot, remover the starter assembly.

Check that it’s working. Pull the starter rope.

The tabs that extend from the pulley and cam should catch the engine hub. This turns the engine. Release the rope. The tabs are supposed to retract. Then the rope should rewind on the pulley.

Replacing the defective recoil starter assembly should fix your problem.

Start Switch

A faulty start switch will keep the engine from starting. To see if the switch is defective, use a multimeter. Test for continuity.

Also, the switch should have one open contact, which is the ‘on’ position. It will also have one closed contact in the ‘off’ position.

If you have trouble turning the switch, or if the switch only works part of the time, replace it.

Safety Switch and On/Off Switch

Like the start switch, you can test both of these switches multimeter to see if they are defective. Either one can prevent the engine from starting if it’s faulty.

Maintaining Your Small Engine and other Equipment

Sometimes, small engine troubleshooting is something you can handle yourself. Maintaining your equipment yourself can save you a great deal of time and money.

Of course, there are times when a mechanic is needed, especially when your income depends on it. That where we come in. Here at Canberra Diamond Blade Suppliers, we service, repair and sell construction and garden machinery and replacement engines right here in our local workshop in Canberra, ACT.

If the help we have given you today is not enough, it may be time to bring your machine in for us to take a look. We know that the last thing you want is to be loosing time and money because of sick machinery. Don’t hesitate to contact us on 0262428996 if you want us to look at your engine.