Fairly new Ryobi whipper snipper rattling loudly in engine when idling. Now won’t start. Help amigos.

The air filter may be clogged. If the air filter is clogged, the engine will get too much fuel and not enough air. As a result, the engine may not start. If the air filter is clogged, replace it.

A blocked or dirty fuel filter

You need air for your initial spark – and if oxygen cannot move readily through the system you will have problems both starting and keeping your whipper snipper running. Wash the air filter in soap and hot water, then allow to air-dry.

Among the first things to check if your trimmer won`t start is the spark plug. In some cases, the spark plug may simply be dirty and need a thorough cleaning. To clean your spark plug, disconnect it and clean the area around it before removing it, advises Briggs and Stratton.

A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the string trimmer for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to stall.

The most common problem with a string trimmer is that the unit runs out of string. The string may also be twisted or loose on the spool. The cutting head may be dirty or the head outlet guide may be bent. An electric trimmer`s power cord, switch, or motor may fail.

A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the string trimmer for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and prevent the engine from starting.

Clean the Exhaust Spark Arrestor Screen

As with plug fouling, too much oil in the gasoline, inferior oil, a dirty air filter and/or continued operation at less than full throttle will plug the screen with carbon deposits. This prevents exhaust gas flow, which leads to power loss.

If the trimmer engine runs, but the trimmer head does not spin when the throttle is engaged, the clutch may be broken. The clutch prompts the drive shaft to start rotating once a certain rotational speed is reached and allows the engine to run without always rotating the drive shaft.