Q: I have a new handheld leaf blower. A friend advised me to mix the gas and oil on the thicker side for better lubrication. After running a couple of tanks of this mixture, my blower seems to have lost power and bogs down at high speed. What’s wrong?
A: Mixing your gas and oil on the thicker side can cause oil residue to collect on the exhaust screen, leading to it becoming plugged. This blockage prevents exhaust gases from exiting the engine, resulting in low power and bogging at high speed.
Check the exhaust screen, which is located on the muffler behind the exhaust opening. You may need to remove a small screw to access it. Clean the screen with a small wire brush or replace it if necessary. Reinstall the screen to protect interior parts.
If the issue persists after cleaning or replacing the screen three times, remove the muffler completely and clean the engine’s exhaust ports. Frequent need to clean or replace the spark arrester screen indicates a likely problem with your gas and oil mixture. Always follow your owner’s manual for proper mixing instructions. For more tips on mixing the correct ratio, click here.
You May Also Enjoy These Articles:
How to Sharpen the Blade on Your Lawn Mower
Buyer’s Guide to Walk Behind Lawn Mowers
How to Replace a Toro Walk Behind Mower Blade
8 Best Practices for Effective Mowing
5 Lawn Mower Tune-up Tips for Spring
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
5436 Jackson Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
(734) 239-8200
info@weingartz.com
Connect With Us!
https://www.facebook.com/WeingartzLawnToSnow
http://pinterest.com/MrWeingartz
