Troubleshooting
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Stop using the machine if it is smoking, leaking fuel or hydraulic oil, or making an unusual noise. Contact the workshop.
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Machine-specific fixes
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Engine runs but the plate won't vibrateVibratory Plate Compactor · Compaction EquipmentFirst check: Move the throttle to full. At idle the clutch disengages and the plate stops vibrating — that's normal.Plate bounces or hops instead of moving forwardVibratory Plate Compactor · Compaction EquipmentFirst check: The material may already be fully compacted — stop working that spot.
Hard to steer or drifts to one sideLarge Plate Compactor · Compaction EquipmentFirst check: Plates track straight on level, even material. Drift usually means the surface is uneven or sloped.
Won't change direction or reverse is weakReversible Plate Compactor · Compaction EquipmentFirst check: Push the direction control through its full travel.
Engine cuts out on uneven groundLarge Reversible Compactor · Compaction EquipmentFirst check: The GX390 has a low-oil shutdown. Check the oil with the machine sitting level.
Leaking fuel or oil after transport, or hard to startJumping Jack Rammer (Ele & Kanga) · Compaction EquipmentFirst check: Rammers must travel upright. Laid on its side, the engine floods and leaks fuel and oil.Jumps erratically or won't travel forwardJumping Jack Rammer (Ele & Kanga) · Compaction EquipmentFirst check: Run at full throttle — at part throttle the stroke is uneven.
Vibration won't engageRoller Compactor · Compaction EquipmentFirst check: Make sure the engine is at full working speed. Vibration is usually locked out at idle.Asphalt is sticking to the drumsRoller Compactor · Compaction EquipmentFirst check: Check the water tank level.
Frame wobbles, leans or is out of plumbScaffolding · Scaffolding & PropsFirst check: Check all four castors are locked and sitting flat on the floor.Brace or coupling pin won't lockScaffolding · Scaffolding & PropsFirst check: Check the frames are square and aligned. Don't hammer braces into place.
Collar won't turnAdjustable Steel Props · Scaffolding & PropsFirst check: Clean dried concrete off the thread with a wire brush.Prop is settling or sinkingAdjustable Steel Props · Scaffolding & PropsFirst check: Place a timber sole plate or pad under the base plate on soft ground.
Scaffold rolls or won't stay lockedBaker Scaffold · Scaffolding & PropsFirst check: Engage both the wheel lock and the swivel lock on each caster.Platform won't sit flatBaker Scaffold · Scaffolding & PropsFirst check: Make sure the deck hooks are fully over the rungs.
Drum turns slowly or stallsConcrete Mixer · Concrete EquipmentFirst check: The drum is probably overloaded. Tip out some material and mix a smaller batch.Drum won't tip or won't lock in positionConcrete Mixer · Concrete EquipmentFirst check: Release the tilt lock fully before turning the tilt wheel or handle.
Machine pulls to one side or is hard to controlPower Trowel · Concrete EquipmentFirst check: The concrete may still be too wet. Wait and test again.Leaves swirl marks, burns or gougesPower Trowel · Concrete EquipmentFirst check: Too much pitch too early — flatten the blades.
Motor runs but the head doesn't vibrateConcrete Vibrator · Concrete EquipmentFirst check: Check the flexible shaft is fully connected to the motor.Head is getting very hotConcrete Vibrator · Concrete EquipmentFirst check: Only run the head while it's in concrete. Running it in open air overheats it.
Surface turns soupy or wet after tampingJitterbug Tamper · Concrete EquipmentFirst check: The mix is too wet for tamping. Stop tamping and move on to floating.
Float digs into the slabBull Float · Concrete EquipmentFirst check: Adjust the handle angle so the leading edge is lifted.Handle sections come looseBull Float · Concrete EquipmentFirst check: Check every handle section is fully clicked or twisted together before use.
Load slides off the dollyFurniture Dolly · Lifting EquipmentFirst check: Centre the load over the dolly.A wheel won't roll or swivelFurniture Dolly · Lifting EquipmentFirst check: Clear hair, string or debris wrapped around the axle.
Mast won't raiseMaterial Lift · Lifting EquipmentFirst check: Check the winch cable is wound neatly on the drum and not jumped off the pulleys.Lift feels unstableMaterial Lift · Lifting EquipmentFirst check: Extend the legs or outriggers fully and pin them.
Pumping but the boom won't riseFolding Crane · Lifting EquipmentFirst check: Close the release valve fully (usually clockwise).Load slowly creeps downFolding Crane · Lifting EquipmentFirst check: Lower the load to the ground immediately.
Forks won't lift when pumpingPallet Jack · Lifting EquipmentFirst check: Set the handle lever to the LIFT position (not neutral or lower).Forks lower by themselvesPallet Jack · Lifting EquipmentFirst check: Release valve may need adjusting, or seals are worn.Hard to pull or steerPallet Jack · Lifting EquipmentFirst check: Check the wheels for wrapped plastic film, strapping or debris.
Low or pulsing pressurePressure Washer · Pressure WashersFirst check: Turn the water tap fully on and check the supply hose isn't kinked.Starter rope is very hard to pullPressure Washer · Pressure WashersFirst check: Squeeze the gun trigger to release trapped pressure, then pull the starter.Water dribbles from the pump when idlingPressure Washer · Pressure WashersFirst check: The pump is overheating from idling with the trigger released. Spray for a moment to cool it.
Surface cleaner leaves stripes or swirl marksPressure Washer Attachments · Pressure WashersFirst check: Slow down and overlap your passes.Spray bar won't spinPressure Washer Attachments · Pressure WashersFirst check: Check for a clogged nozzle.Wand or cleaner won't click onPressure Washer Attachments · Pressure WashersFirst check: Pull the quick-connect collar fully back, push the fitting in, then release the collar.
Engine runs but no water comes outTrash Pump · PumpsFirst check: Stop the engine and fill the casing with water through the priming port.Flow drops off while pumpingTrash Pump · PumpsFirst check: Clear the strainer of leaves and debris.
Motor hums but no water movesSubmersible Pump · PumpsFirst check: Unplug the pump first.Pump keeps shutting offSubmersible Pump · PumpsFirst check: The thermal overload trips when a pump runs dry. Unplug it, let it cool and make sure it's fully submerged.Trips the GFCISubmersible Pump · PumpsFirst check: Stop using it. A GFCI trip on a submersible pump can mean water in the cord or motor.
Engine is running but the lights won't come onLight Tower · Construction LightingFirst check: Switch on the main breaker and each light breaker on the control panel.Mast won't raiseLight Tower · Construction LightingFirst check: Lower the outriggers/stabilisers fully. Many towers won't raise the mast until they're down.Engine shuts down on its ownLight Tower · Construction LightingFirst check: Check the fuel level.
Engine runs but nothing gets powerPortable Generator · Generators & WeldersFirst check: Switch the generator's main breaker ON.Breaker keeps trippingPortable Generator · Generators & WeldersFirst check: You're overloading it. Add up the watts and drop some loads.
Shut down and the CO light is onInverter Generator · Generators & WeldersFirst check: The carbon monoxide sensor shut the engine down — exhaust is building up.Overload light on, outlets deadInverter Generator · Generators & WeldersFirst check: Unplug some loads — you're over the generator's rating.
Won't startIndustrial Generator · Generators & WeldersFirst check: Pull out the emergency stop button.Engine running but no power outIndustrial Generator · Generators & WeldersFirst check: Switch on the main output circuit breaker.Shuts down with an alarmIndustrial Generator · Generators & WeldersFirst check: Read the alarm on the controller display (for example low oil pressure, high coolant temperature or low fuel) and note it.
A track has come off or looks looseExcavator · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Stop immediately and lower the bucket to the ground.Quick hitch warning or bucket won't lockExcavator · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Re-engage the hitch following the in-cab procedure and check the lock indicator.
Boom stops extending or raising, with a warningTelescopic Handler · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: The load moment indicator has stopped the lift — the load is too heavy at that reach.Won't driveTelescopic Handler · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Release the parking brake.
Loader arms or drive won't respondSkid Steer Loader · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Lower the safety bar and fasten the seat belt.Attachment won't lock onto the quick-attach plateSkid Steer Loader · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Tilt the plate back to seat the attachment fully.
Track keeps coming offCompact Track Loader · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Avoid sharp counter-rotating turns, especially on slopes and kerbs.
Won't start or won't moveForklift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Sit in the seat and fasten the belt.Forks won't lift or lift slowlyForklift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Check the load weight against the data plate.
Won't startToro Dingo Mini Loader · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Lower the attachment and put the controls in neutral.Auger stalls in hard or rocky groundToro Dingo Mini Loader · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Lift the auger slightly to clear the spoil, then feed down more slowly.Trencher chain stops in the cutToro Dingo Mini Loader · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Raise the boom slightly and reduce ground speed.
Platform won't raiseScissor Lift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Pull out the emergency stop buttons at both the ground and platform controls.Drives very slowly or won't drive when raisedScissor Lift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: That's by design — drive speed is limited while elevated, and driving is disabled if the machine is out of level.
Boom won't move from the platformBoom Lift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Press and hold the foot switch (enable pedal) while using the controls.Won't drive with the boom upBoom Lift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Many boom lifts disable or slow driving outside the stowed position — that's normal.
Nothing moves from the platform controlsManlift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Press and hold the foot switch (enable pedal) while using the controls.Will not drive, or crawls, with the boom raisedManlift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Most manlifts cut or slow driving once the boom leaves the stowed position. That is by design.Tilt alarm sounds and the boom stopsManlift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Lower the boom and move the machine to level ground.
Nail jammed in the noseNail Gun · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Disconnect the air hose first.Nails not sinking fullyNail Gun · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Adjust the depth-of-drive setting.Fires but no nail comes outNail Gun · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Reload the magazine and make sure the follower/pusher is engaged behind the strip.
Bit is stuck in the concreteAir Jack Hammer · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Don't pry with the hammer — it bends the bit and damages the tool.Bit falls out or won't stay inAir Jack Hammer · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Close the retainer latch fully over the bit collar.Hitting weaklyAir Jack Hammer · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Check the compressor delivers enough air (CFM) for this size of hammer.
Won't build pressureAir Compressor · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Close any open service valves and check hoses for leaks.Tools run weakAir Compressor · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Too many tools on one compressor — add up the CFM.Water spitting from toolsAir Compressor · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Drain the tank or moisture separator.Engine shuts downAir Compressor · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Check fuel.
Line won't feed outString Trimmer · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Tap the head firmly on the ground at full throttle.Grass keeps wrapping around the headString Trimmer · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Stop the engine and pull the wrapped grass off.
Uneven cut or scalpingLawn Mower · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Set every wheel to the same cutting height.Mower suddenly vibrates heavilyLawn Mower · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Stop the engine immediately and pull the spark plug cap off.Grass isn't collecting in the bagLawn Mower · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Empty the bag — a full bag stops collecting.
Constant beeping or false signalsMetal Detector · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Move away from power lines, fences, phones and radios.No response at allMetal Detector · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Fit fresh batteries.
Chain isn't cutting — makes dust instead of chipsPole Pruner · Lawn & GardenFirst check: The chain is blunt. Swap it for a sharp one.Bar is smoking or the chain is dryPole Pruner · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Top up the bar-and-chain oil.
Blades jam or stallHedge Trimmer · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Release the throttle and stop the engine.Tearing leaves and twigs instead of cutting cleanlyHedge Trimmer · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Clean sap off the blades and apply blade lubricant.
Bit binds, stalls or kicksPost Hole Digger · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Release the throttle immediately.Bit won't bite into hard groundPost Hole Digger · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Soak very dry ground with water and try again later.
Fence line is leaning or blowing overTemporary Fence · Fencing & BarricadesFirst check: Add bracing stays on the downwind side.Panels won't line up to clampTemporary Fence · Fencing & BarricadesFirst check: Level the stands on uneven ground.
Barricades separate or drift apartBarricade · Fencing & BarricadesFirst check: Seat the hooks fully in the neighbouring barricade's loops.Barricades tipping overBarricade · Fencing & BarricadesFirst check: Make sure the feet point in the right direction.
Gaps or misalignment between sectionsCrash Barricade · Fencing & BarricadesFirst check: Re-seat the connecting pins or clamps between each section.Barrier shifts under crowd pressureCrash Barricade · Fencing & BarricadesFirst check: Check the audience is standing on the base plates.
Tarp is tearing at the grommetsFence Tarp · Fencing & BarricadesFirst check: Fix it at every grommet so the load is spread.Fence leans after the tarp goes upFence Tarp · Fencing & BarricadesFirst check: Add bracing stays and sandbags to the fence line.
Weak suction or carpet left very wetCarpet Vacuum Extractor · Floor CareFirst check: Empty the recovery tank — a float shuts off suction when it's full.No spray from the wand or jetsCarpet Vacuum Extractor · Floor CareFirst check: Fill the solution tank.Foam filling the recovery tankCarpet Vacuum Extractor · Floor CareFirst check: You're using a high-foam detergent. Switch to low-foam extraction detergent and add defoamer to the recovery tank.
A ring or watermark is left around the spotSpotter Vacuum Extractor · Floor CareFirst check: Too much solution was used — rinse the area with plain water.Little or no suctionSpotter Vacuum Extractor · Floor CareFirst check: Empty the recovery tank.
Suddenly stops picking up waterWet/Dry Vacuum · Floor CareFirst check: The float has shut off the suction because the tank is full. Switch off and empty it.Dust blowing out of the exhaustWet/Dry Vacuum · Floor CareFirst check: The filter is missing, wet or torn. Fit a dry, undamaged filter for dry pickup.Weak suctionWet/Dry Vacuum · Floor CareFirst check: Clean or replace the clogged filter.
Suction drops offHEPA Vortex Vacuum · Floor CareFirst check: Replace full collection bags.Dust escaping from the machineHEPA Vortex Vacuum · Floor CareFirst check: Stop immediately.
Machine jumps or runs awayFloor Polisher · Floor CareFirst check: Check the pad is centred on the drive block.Leaves swirl marksFloor Polisher · Floor CareFirst check: Clean or change the pad.
Tooling wears out very quicklyFloor Grinder · Floor CareFirst check: Check whether the concrete is soft: sandy, dusting and easy to scratch (typically under 3,500 PSI, below 4 on the Mohs scale).Tooling glazes over and stops cuttingFloor Grinder · Floor CareFirst check: Dense, smooth concrete that resists scratching is hard (typically 5,000–8,000+ PSI) — use tooling rated for hard concrete (red).Coating smears or gums up the toolingFloor Grinder · Floor CareFirst check: Stop grinding. Soft glue, adhesive, mastic and flaking paint should be stripped with Magna-Blades (CSP 0).Surface is too rough or has gougesFloor Grinder · Floor CareFirst check: Dyma-Segs (18 grit) are aggressive and leave medium scratches (CSP 2).Tooling won't fit the grinderFloor Grinder · Floor CareFirst check: Right-hand Magna-Blades and right-hand PCD segments are for dual-disc grinders only.Grinder hops or chattersFloor Grinder · Floor CareFirst check: Check all tooling segments are fitted and evenly worn.
Machine bounces or vibrates hardFloor Planer · Floor CareFirst check: Raise the cutting depth — you're cutting too deep.Motor stalls or trips the breakerFloor Planer · Floor CareFirst check: Reduce the cutting depth.
Leaving dirty water behindFloor Washer · Floor CareFirst check: Empty the recovery tank.No clean water reaching the brushesFloor Washer · Floor CareFirst check: Fill the solution tank.
Chatter marks or waves in the floorFloor Sander · Floor CareFirst check: Always lower the drum while the machine is already moving forward.Belt keeps running off to one sideFloor Sander · Floor CareFirst check: Adjust the belt tracking knob as shown on the machine.
Weak airflowAir Blower · Floor CareFirst check: Clear the intake grille of lint and debris.Trips the breaker when running severalAir Blower · Floor CareFirst check: Spread the units across different circuits.
Odour is still there after treatmentOzone Generator · Floor CareFirst check: Find and remove the source (soaked carpet pad, smoke residue on walls).Unit runs but seems to produce nothingOzone Generator · Floor CareFirst check: Check the timer is set and running.
Running but not collecting waterDehumidifier · Floor CareFirst check: Clean the air filter.Leaking waterDehumidifier · Floor CareFirst check: Straighten kinks in the drain hose.Fan runs but compressor won't startDehumidifier · Floor CareFirst check: Wait a few minutes — many units delay the compressor after being switched off and on.
Load keeps tipping forwardHand Truck · Floor CareFirst check: Push the nose plate fully under the load.Tyre is flat or softHand Truck · Floor CareFirst check: Pneumatic tyres can be topped up with air.
Ladder wobblesStep Ladder · LaddersFirst check: Lock the spreader bars fully.
Lock tabs won't engageLittle Giant Ladder · LaddersFirst check: Line up the holes by sliding the section slightly until the lock snaps in.Ladder sits unevenlyLittle Giant Ladder · LaddersFirst check: Check both sides are set to the same rung — unless you're deliberately setting it up on stairs.
Fly section won't extend or lockExtension Ladder · LaddersFirst check: Pull the rope straight down and let the rung locks ride over the rungs.Feet slippingExtension Ladder · LaddersFirst check: Set the angle using the 4-to-1 rule.
Disc wobblesAngle Grinder · Power ToolsFirst check: Unplug, remove the disc and re-seat it with the flange the right way round.Cuts slowly or the disc glazesAngle Grinder · Power ToolsFirst check: Use a disc suited to the material.
Motor runs but won't hammerBreaker Jackhammer · Power ToolsFirst check: Press the bit firmly against the work — some breakers only hammer under load.Chisel won't come outBreaker Jackhammer · Power ToolsFirst check: Unplug, rotate the retainer fully to its release position, then pull the chisel out.
Rough finish or tear-outPower Planer · Power ToolsFirst check: Slow down your feed rate.Dips at the start or end of the boardPower Planer · Power ToolsFirst check: Shift your pressure from the front shoe to the rear shoe as you move through the pass.
Runs but won't hammerDemolition Jackhammer · Power ToolsFirst check: Press it firmly into the work.Tool gets very hotDemolition Jackhammer · Power ToolsFirst check: Clear dust from the motor vents.
Bit won't lock into the chuckRotary Jackhammer · Power ToolsFirst check: Pull back the chuck collar, push the bit in and rotate it until it drops into the slots.Drills but doesn't hammerRotary Jackhammer · Power ToolsFirst check: Check the mode selector.Tool jerks and stops rotatingRotary Jackhammer · Power ToolsFirst check: That's the safety clutch slipping because the bit bound up. Release the trigger, free the bit and start again.
Swirl marks in the finishOrbital Sander · Power ToolsFirst check: Ease off the pressure.Sanding disc won't stickOrbital Sander · Power ToolsFirst check: The hook-and-loop pad is worn — ask for a replacement pad.
Burn marks on the woodRouter · Power ToolsFirst check: Feed a little faster — lingering burns the wood.Bit creeping out of the colletRouter · Power ToolsFirst check: Unplug, then insert the shank at least three-quarters of its length without bottoming it out.
Blades bending or snappingSawzall · Power ToolsFirst check: Keep the shoe against the work.Blade won't releaseSawzall · Power ToolsFirst check: Unplug, then rotate or lift the blade clamp lever fully while pulling the blade out.
Bit binds or gets stuckCore Drill · Power ToolsFirst check: Release the trigger immediately.Drilling very slowlyCore Drill · Power ToolsFirst check: Glazed diamond segments — sharpen by drilling briefly into an abrasive block.Water leaking into the motor areaCore Drill · Power ToolsFirst check: Stop and unplug.
Bends come out at the wrong angleRebar Bender · Power ToolsFirst check: Re-set the angle stop.Bar slips during the bendRebar Bender · Power ToolsFirst check: Fit the correct pins or rollers for the bar diameter.
Doesn't cut all the way throughRebar Cutter · Power ToolsFirst check: Check the bar size is within capacity.Blade doesn't return after the cutRebar Cutter · Power ToolsFirst check: Release the trigger fully and wait for the piston to retract.
Tool won't runHydraulic Beaver · Hydraulic ToolsFirst check: Move the flow control lever on the pack to ON.Tool is slow or weakHydraulic Beaver · Hydraulic ToolsFirst check: Let the oil warm up.Hoses won't connectHydraulic Beaver · Hydraulic ToolsFirst check: Trapped pressure. Stop the engine and switch the flow lever off and on to relieve it.
Spits or sputtersHopper Spray Gun · Painting & WallpaperFirst check: Thin the mix slightly and strain out lumps.Nothing sprays outHopper Spray Gun · Painting & WallpaperFirst check: Open the air valve on the gun.Pattern is heavy or splatteryHopper Spray Gun · Painting & WallpaperFirst check: Try a smaller orifice.
Cutting slowly and making dust, not chipsChainsaw · SawsFirst check: The chain is blunt — swap it.Bar is smoking or the chain looks dryChainsaw · SawsFirst check: Top up the bar-and-chain oil.Chain comes off the barChainsaw · SawsFirst check: Tension the chain correctly.Chain moves at idleChainsaw · SawsFirst check: Stop using it — this is dangerous.
Diamond blade cuts slowly or glazesCut-Off Saw · SawsFirst check: Open up the diamonds by making a few cuts in soft, abrasive material such as a cinder block.Saw stops mid-cutCut-Off Saw · SawsFirst check: The battery's overload or temperature protection has kicked in. Ease off the pressure and let it cool.Blade wobblesCut-Off Saw · SawsFirst check: Remove the battery, then re-seat the blade on the correct arbor bushing and tighten the flange.
Cuts aren't straightBlock Saw · SawsFirst check: Check the cutting cart runs freely on its rails.No water to the bladeBlock Saw · SawsFirst check: Fill the water tank.Blade slows or stalls in the cutBlock Saw · SawsFirst check: Feed more slowly.
Saw wanders off the linePavement Saw · SawsFirst check: Line the pointer up with the blade.No water reaching the bladePavement Saw · SawsFirst check: Fill the water tank or connect the supply.Blade overheating or losing segmentsPavement Saw · SawsFirst check: Stop immediately.
Cuts aren't squareMiter Saw · SawsFirst check: Check the blade against the fence with a square.Blade binds or burns the woodMiter Saw · SawsFirst check: Cut more slowly.Blade guard sticksMiter Saw · SawsFirst check: Unplug and clean sawdust from the guard pivot.
Blade binds or the saw kicks backCircular Saw · SawsFirst check: Support the board so the cut doesn't close on the blade.Burning or slow cuttingCircular Saw · SawsFirst check: Swap a blunt blade.Cut isn't at 90°Circular Saw · SawsFirst check: Check the bevel lock is set to 0° and tightened.
Tile chipping along the cutTile Saw · SawsFirst check: Feed more slowly.Water spraying everywhereTile Saw · SawsFirst check: Fit the splash guards.Blade isn't cuttingTile Saw · SawsFirst check: The diamonds may be glazed — dress the blade on a dressing stone or soft brick.
Won't strike an arcWelder · Generators & WeldersFirst check: Check the earth clamp is on clean, bare metal close to the weld.The rod keeps sticking to the workWelder · Generators & WeldersFirst check: Amperage is usually too low for the rod size.Cuts out part way through a jobWelder · Generators & WeldersFirst check: Engine-driven welders have a duty cycle. Let it idle and cool before starting again.
The digging arm is slow or will not moveBackhoe Loader · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Check the hydraulic oil level with the machine level and the arm down.The loader arms drift down when parkedBackhoe Loader · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Lower the loader to the ground whenever the machine is parked — never leave it raised.
The chain turns but does not dig inTrencher · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Lower the boom more slowly and let the teeth bite.The engine bogs down or stalls in the cutTrencher · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Ease back on the travel speed — the chain is taking too big a bite.The chain is loose or jumps the boomTrencher · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Stop the engine before touching the chain.
The platform will not raisePersonnel Lift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Check the outriggers or stabilisers are down and the machine is level.It will not push along the floorPersonnel Lift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Lower the platform fully. Most units brake the wheels when raised.
It barely cutsStump Grinder · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Check the teeth. Worn or chipped carbide polishes the wood instead of cutting.The wheel stops turning but the engine runsStump Grinder · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Stop the engine and check the drive belt for slack or glazing.
It hops across the surface instead of digging inGarden Tiller · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Ground is too hard or too dry — soak it and come back.The tines clog with soil and grassGarden Tiller · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Stop the engine before clearing anything.
Will not startBackpack Blower · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Check the fuel is fresh two-stroke mix. Stale or wrongly mixed fuel is the usual cause.The air blast is weakBackpack Blower · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Check the intake screen at the back of the unit for leaves and debris.
The engine bogs down in thick growthBrush Cutter · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Raise the cut height and take it in two passes.It flattens growth instead of cutting itBrush Cutter · Lawn & GardenFirst check: The blade is blunt. Stop and have it changed.It shakes badlyBrush Cutter · Lawn & GardenFirst check: Stop the engine immediately. A bent or damaged blade is the usual cause.
Runs slowly or in burstsAir Scaler · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: The compressor cannot keep up. Check it delivers enough cfm at 90 psi.The needles stick or splay outAir Scaler · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Pull the needle holder off and clean out the debris behind the needles.
It leaves hollows or swirl marks at the edgeFloor Edger · Floor CareFirst check: The machine was held in one place. Keep it moving at all times.Dust escapes everywhereFloor Edger · Floor CareFirst check: Check the dust bag is fitted and not more than half full.
Poor pick-upUpright Carpet Vacuum · Floor CareFirst check: Check and empty the bag or bin — pick-up falls off well before it is full.The brush roll does not turnUpright Carpet Vacuum · Floor CareFirst check: Unplug it, then clear string and hair wound around the roll.
Drying is taking far too longHybrid Air Dryer · Floor CareFirst check: Add a dehumidifier — moving wet air around a closed room dries nothing.Trips the breaker when several are runningHybrid Air Dryer · Floor CareFirst check: Spread the units across different circuits.
Runs but no water comes outPortable Water Pump · PumpsFirst check: Check the inlet is under water and not blocked.Flow is much weaker than expectedPortable Water Pump · PumpsFirst check: Shorten the hose run and lower the discharge height if you can.
Does not start when it hits the waterSump Pump · PumpsFirst check: Check the float is free to rise — it switches the pump on.Runs but moves no waterSump Pump · PumpsFirst check: Unplug it and clear the inlet screen. Leaves and grit block it quickly.
Makes no progress in concreteDrill · Power ToolsFirst check: Switch to the SDS rotary hammer — it is a different tool for this job.The drill grabs and twists out of your handsDrill · Power ToolsFirst check: Fit and use the side handle.
Screws go straight through the paperDrywall Driver · Power ToolsFirst check: Back the depth stop out a little and test on an offcut.Screws sit proud of the surfaceDrywall Driver · Power ToolsFirst check: Wind the depth stop in a little.
The cut wanders or bevels off squareJigsaw · Power ToolsFirst check: Slow down and stop pushing — the blade is flexing.The surface chips and tearsJigsaw · Power ToolsFirst check: Turn the material good-face-down, or use a down-cutting blade.
The shears stall in the cutMetal Shears · Power ToolsFirst check: The material is thicker or harder than the tool's rating.The cut edge tears or distortsMetal Shears · Power ToolsFirst check: Keep the tool square to the sheet.
It digs hollows into the surfaceBelt Sander · Power ToolsFirst check: The machine was tipped or held still. Keep it flat and moving.The belt runs off to one sideBelt Sander · Power ToolsFirst check: Adjust the tracking knob with the machine running and held clear of the work.
The workpiece kicks backTable Saw · SawsFirst check: Stop. Check the riving knife is fitted — this is what it prevents.The cut burns or the blade bogs downTable Saw · SawsFirst check: Feed more steadily — hesitating in the cut burns the timber.
It cuts slowly or the wheel glazesChop Saw · SawsFirst check: The wheel has worn down or glazed — fit a fresh one.The work moves or the wheel bindsChop Saw · SawsFirst check: Clamp the piece properly in the vice, square to the wheel.No machine-specific fixes match. Check the standard checks or try fewer words.
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