Troubleshooting
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Search a symptom, select a category and work through the checks in order.
Stop using the machine if it is smoking, leaking fuel or hydraulic oil, or making an unusual noise. Contact the workshop.
11 matching procedures
Machine-specific fixes
11 results
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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