Starting fluid is a chemical spray product containing a blend of volatile hydrocarbons, diethyl ether, and carbon dioxide (as a propellant).
What is the Purpose of Starting Fluid?
Its name suggests its use – to assist you in starting a stubborn engine. It’s especially helpful with equipment that rarely gets used and on cold-starts for snow blowers and even lawn mowers late in the fall season. Since the engine does not need to be cranked so much, starting fluid has the added benefit of prolonging the life of your battery.
It can be used as a diagnostic tool as well. If your machine’s engine does not start, and starting fluid helps it start momentarily before quitting, you know that the engine isn’t getting its proper fuel delivery and it’s likely the carburetor may need to be cleaned and/or rebuilt.
How do I use Starting Fluid?
In 4-stroke applications, the easiest location is the intake. After removing the air cleaner, the fluid should be sprayed directly into the intake port. Another location is directly into the spark plug port of the cylinder. A short burst is all that should be necessary for either location. Depending on the equipment you’re trying to start, there are some cautionary instances that should be considered before using.
When Not to Use Starting Fluid
It’s generally not recommended for some equipment with diesel engines that use glow-plugs or have a preheating system. Using ether spray in this application can lead to engine damage due to its highly flammable properties.
Some 2-cycle engines can also be damaged by using starting fluid since most contain no lubricating properties. It would be like using ‘straight’ (unmixed) gasoline. For the purpose of cold-start in a 2-cycle snow blower, a short burst will suffice. A recommendation would be substituting starting fluid with a carburetor cleaner since most carburetor cleaner products contain lubricants, but please refer to the contents before use!
What Product Would You Recommend?
We would recommend “John Deere’s 80% Premium Ether Starting Fluid”. It’s a colorless, odorless fluid that contains just the right amount of diethyl ether, petroleum gas, and upper cylinder lubricant that can be safely used in all of our equipment. Even in 2-cycle applications like your snow blower!
Do not use starting fluid on your machine over and over again. Again, use this fluid as a diagnostic tool. It is for temporary use until you can bring your machine in for service.
Exercise extreme caution when using starting fluid. It is a highly flammable substance. Do not use it when your machine’s ignition is on or the engine is running. Store this fluid away from heat and only use in a well-ventilated area. Wear a mask or properly fitted respirator to avoid the harmful vapors.
You May Also Enjoy These Articles:
Fuel Stabilizers: Sta-bil or Sea Foam
How to Store Small Engine Equipment
5 Reasons Pre-Mixed Fuel is Best
How to Mix the Correct Ratio of Fuel and Oil
Why Weingartz?
Weingartz, family owned and operated, began in 1945 as a farm supply store for local Michigan families. In the 1970s, we began to focus exclusively on outdoor power equipment. Over time, we morphed into the “power equipment superstore” that now defines all of our locations. The staff and experts at Weingartz work diligently to provide the best service possible and give honest and helpful advice to each and every customer.
Weingartz also sells parts for all outdoor power equipment at https://weingartz.com/parts-lookup.
Weingartz
11875 Northland Dr.
Cedar Springs, MI 49319
(616) 696-2913
info@weingartz.com
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