Troubleshooting

Find the fix

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.

won't start no water low pressure won't lift overheating tripping leak won't move stalls

9 matching procedures

Machine-specific fixes

5 results

Won't startIndustrial Generator · Generators & WeldersFirst check: Pull out the emergency stop button.

Won't start or won't moveForklift · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Sit in the seat and fasten the belt.

Won't startToro Dingo Mini Loader · Heavy EquipmentFirst check: Lower the attachment and put the controls in neutral.

Won't build pressureAir Compressor · Air Tools & CompressorsFirst check: Close any open service valves and check hoses for leaks.

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.

Standard checks

Apply to every machine with that power source.

Petrol engine

Engine won't startShared · Petrol engine

Likely causes

Fuel valve or switch off
Stale fuel
Low oil sensor
Choke position
Spark plug cap loose

Checks to try, in order

Turn the fuel valve ON and the engine switch to ON.
Cold engine: close the choke. Warm engine: leave the choke open.
Check there is fresh petrol in the tank — stale or water-contaminated fuel is the most common cause.
Check the engine oil. Many engines have a low-oil shutdown that stops them starting when oil is low or the machine is on a slope — top up and set the machine on level ground.
Make sure the spark plug cap is pushed fully onto the plug.
Pull the starter rope with a smooth, firm pull — don't let it snap back.

If the starter rope is locked or unusually hard to pull, stop — don't force it. Tag the unit and return it to the workshop.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Applies to Vibratory Plate Compactor, Large Plate Compactor, Reversible Plate Compactor, Large Reversible Compactor, Jumping Jack Rammer (Ele & Kanga), Concrete Mixer, Power Trowel, Pressure Washer, Trash Pump, Portable Generator, Inverter Generator, Lawn Mower, Floor Grinder, Block Saw, Pavement Saw, Trencher, Stump Grinder, Garden Tiller, Brush Cutter.

2-stroke petrol

Engine won't startShared · 2-stroke petrol

Likely causes

Wrong fuel mix
Flooded engine
Stop switch
Fouled spark plug

Checks to try, in order

Confirm the fuel is 2-stroke mix (petrol with 2-stroke oil at the ratio on the tool's label). Straight petrol will seize the engine.
Set the stop switch to RUN.
Press the primer bulb until fuel is visible, then set the choke for a cold start.
After the first 'pop', move the choke to half/off and pull again.
If it's flooded (strong fuel smell): choke off, throttle fully open, pull several times to clear it.

If there's no compression or the rope won't pull, return it to the workshop — don't keep pulling.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Applies to String Trimmer, Pole Pruner, Hedge Trimmer, Post Hole Digger, Chainsaw, Backpack Blower.

Diesel machine

Cranks but won't startShared · Diesel machine

Likely causes

Out of fuel / air in fuel
Glow plugs not preheated
E-stop engaged

Checks to try, in order

Check the fuel gauge. Diesel engines that run dry often need the fuel system bled before they'll start.
Turn the key to the preheat position and wait for the glow-plug light to go out before cranking.
Check the emergency stop button isn't pressed in.
Crank for no more than 10–15 seconds at a time, then let the starter rest.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Applies to Roller Compactor, Excavator, Telescopic Handler, Skid Steer Loader, Compact Track Loader, Welder, Backhoe Loader.

Electric (corded)

Applies to Concrete Vibrator, Submersible Pump, Carpet Vacuum Extractor, Spotter Vacuum Extractor, Wet/Dry Vacuum, HEPA Vortex Vacuum, Floor Polisher, Floor Planer, Floor Washer, Floor Sander, Air Blower, Ozone Generator, Dehumidifier, Angle Grinder, Breaker Jackhammer, Power Planer, Demolition Jackhammer, Rotary Jackhammer, Orbital Sander, Router, Sawzall, Core Drill, Rebar Bender, Rebar Cutter, Miter Saw, Circular Saw, Tile Saw, Floor Edger, Upright Carpet Vacuum, Hybrid Air Dryer, Portable Water Pump, Sump Pump, Drill, Drywall Driver, Jigsaw, Metal Shears, Belt Sander, Table Saw, Chop Saw.

Air powered

Weak, slow or won't cycleShared · Air powered

Likely causes

Pressure too low
Leaking coupler
Undersized hose
Water in the line
Dry tool

Checks to try, in order

Set the compressor's regulator to the pressure printed on the tool.
Check couplers are fully seated and listen for leaks along the hose.
Use the right hose size — long, narrow hoses starve heavy tools like breakers.
Drain water from the compressor tank.
Unless the tool is marked oil-free, add a few drops of air-tool oil into the inlet at the start of the day.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Applies to Nail Gun, Air Jack Hammer, Hopper Spray Gun, Air Scaler.

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