Blog
Why Won’t My Briggs And Stratton Pressure Washer Start
Briggs and Stratton pressure washers are known for their powerful performance and reliability. However, just like any other mechanical device, these machines can sometimes experience problems starting up. If you’re having trouble getting your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer to start, there could be a number of possible causes.
One common reason why a Briggs and Stratton pressure washer may not start is a lack of fuel. It’s important to make sure that your pressure washer’s fuel tank is filled with fresh gasoline and that the fuel valve is open. Additionally, check the fuel filter to see if it’s clogged or dirty, as this can also prevent the engine from starting.
Another possible cause of starting issues could be a problem with the spark plug. Over time, spark plugs can become fouled or worn out, leading to difficulties in starting the engine. It’s a good idea to check the spark plug and replace it if necessary. Additionally, ensure that the spark plug wire is securely connected to the spark plug.
Finally, a malfunctioning ignition system or carburetor can also be to blame for a Briggs and Stratton pressure washer that won’t start. If the ignition system is faulty, it may not be generating the spark needed to ignite the fuel. Similarly, if the carburetor is clogged or damaged, it may not be delivering the proper fuel-air mixture to the engine. In these cases, it may be necessary to clean or repair the ignition system or carburetor.
Overall, troubleshooting a Briggs and Stratton pressure washer that won’t start requires a systematic approach to identify and address potential issues. By checking the fuel supply, spark plug, ignition system, and carburetor, you can diagnose the problem and take the necessary steps to get your pressure washer up and running again.
Common Reasons for Briggs and Stratton Pressure Washer Not Starting
Briggs and Stratton pressure washers are known for their powerful cleaning capabilities, but sometimes they can experience issues that prevent them from starting. Here are some common reasons why your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer may not be starting:
1. Lack of fuel: One of the most common reasons for a pressure washer not starting is running out of fuel. Make sure that there is enough fuel in the tank and that the fuel valve is turned on.
2. Dirty or clogged fuel filter: A dirty or clogged fuel filter can prevent fuel from reaching the engine, causing the pressure washer not to start. Check the fuel filter and clean or replace it if necessary.
3. Spark plug issues: If the spark plug is dirty, worn out, or not properly connected, it can cause the engine to fail to start. Check the spark plug and clean or replace it if needed.
4. Faulty ignition switch: A faulty ignition switch can prevent the engine from starting. Inspect the ignition switch and make sure it is functioning correctly. Replace it if necessary.
5. Engine oil level: If the engine oil level is too low, the pressure washer may not start. Check the oil level and add oil if needed, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
6. Choke position: Make sure the choke is set to the correct position. If the choke is closed when it should be open or vice versa, it can prevent the engine from starting.
7. Carburetor issues: A dirty or faulty carburetor can prevent the engine from starting. Clean the carburetor and its components or have it serviced if necessary.
8. Safety switch problems: Some pressure washers have safety switches that must be engaged for the engine to start. Make sure any safety switches are properly engaged or try bypassing them to see if the engine starts.
Note: Before attempting any maintenance or repairs, always consult the owner’s manual or seek professional assistance if you are unsure.
By addressing these common issues, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve the reason why your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer is not starting.
Insufficient Fuel in the Tank
One common issue that may prevent your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer from starting is insufficient fuel in the tank.
Before starting the engine, check the fuel level in the tank. If the fuel level is low or empty, the engine will not be able to start. Make sure to fill the tank with fresh gasoline, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct fuel type and octane rating.
In addition to checking the fuel level, also inspect the fuel line and fuel filter. Over time, the fuel line may become clogged or the fuel filter may become dirty, preventing the proper flow of fuel to the engine. If necessary, clean or replace the fuel line and filter to ensure adequate fuel supply.
It is also important to remember to mix the correct fuel-to-oil ratio for models that require it. Using an incorrect fuel mixture can cause starting issues and damage to the engine. Consult the owner’s manual for the correct fuel mixture for your specific Briggs and Stratton pressure washer.
If you have checked the fuel level, fuel line, and filter, and the engine still won’t start, there may be other underlying issues causing the problem. It is recommended to consult a Briggs and Stratton authorized service dealer for further assistance.
Clogged Fuel Filter
One possible reason why your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer may not start is a clogged fuel filter. The fuel filter is responsible for removing impurities from the fuel before it reaches the engine. Over time, the fuel filter can become clogged with dirt, debris, and other particles, preventing proper fuel flow to the engine.
To check if the fuel filter is clogged, you can remove it and inspect it for any signs of blockage. If you notice a layer of dirt or other debris on the filter, it is likely clogged and needs to be cleaned or replaced.
To clean the fuel filter, you can use a small brush or compressed air to remove any dirt or debris. If cleaning does not solve the issue, it is recommended to replace the fuel filter with a new one.
If the fuel filter is clogged, it can restrict the flow of fuel to the engine, preventing the pressure washer from starting. It is important to regularly check and clean or replace the fuel filter to ensure smooth operation of your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer.
Dirty or Clogged Spark Plug
One common reason why a Briggs and Stratton pressure washer won’t start is due to a dirty or clogged spark plug. The spark plug plays a crucial role in the engine’s ignition process by creating a spark that ignites the fuel and air mixture in the combustion chamber. Over time, the spark plug can become dirty or clogged with carbon deposits, which can prevent it from sparking properly.
To check if the spark plug is dirty, you’ll need to remove it from the engine. Start by disconnecting the spark plug wire and removing any debris around the spark plug area. Use a spark plug wrench to carefully loosen and remove the spark plug. Inspect the electrode and center porcelain insulator for any signs of dirt, oil, or carbon buildup.
If the spark plug is dirty, you can clean it using a wire brush or spark plug cleaner. Gently brush away any deposits, being careful not to damage the electrode or insulator. Alternatively, you can replace the spark plug with a new one if cleaning doesn’t solve the issue.
Preventing Spark Plug Issues
To prevent spark plug issues in the future, it’s important to perform regular maintenance on your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer. This includes checking and cleaning the spark plug at least once a year or every 100 hours of use. It’s also a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for spark plug replacement intervals.
In addition, using the proper fuel and oil mixture and keeping the air filter clean can also help prevent spark plug problems. Using old or stale fuel, as well as using the wrong oil or fuel mixture, can lead to carbon buildup on the spark plug and other engine issues. Regularly inspecting and cleaning the air filter can also prevent debris from entering the combustion chamber and affecting the spark plug.
By maintaining the spark plug and following proper maintenance procedures, you can ensure that your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer starts reliably and continues to perform at its best.
Old or Bad Fuel
One common reason why a Briggs and Stratton pressure washer may not start is due to old or bad fuel. Over time, gasoline can degrade or become contaminated, causing it to lose its effectiveness as a fuel for your pressure washer.
If you have left fuel in the tank for a long period of time, it is possible that the gasoline has gone stale. Stale gasoline can clog the fuel system of your pressure washer, preventing it from starting.
In addition to becoming stale, fuel can also become contaminated with water or debris. Water can enter the fuel tank if it has been left outside or if you accidentally pour water into the fuel tank.
To determine if old or bad fuel is the cause of your pressure washer not starting, start by checking the fuel tank for any signs of contamination or debris. If you notice any water or debris in the fuel tank, you will need to drain the tank and clean it out.
Additionally, if you suspect that the fuel in your pressure washer is old or stale, consider draining the fuel tank and refilling it with fresh gasoline. Doing this can often solve the problem and allow your pressure washer to start and run smoothly.
| Common signs of old or bad fuel include: |
|---|
| – Difficulty starting the pressure washer |
| – Rough running or stalling |
| – Smoke or strong odor coming from the exhaust |
| – Poor performance or loss of power |
Faulty Ignition Coil
One common reason why a Briggs and Stratton pressure washer may fail to start is due to a faulty ignition coil. The ignition coil is responsible for generating the electrical spark that ignites the fuel in the engine’s combustion chamber. If the ignition coil is faulty or damaged, it may not be able to provide the necessary spark to start the engine.
To determine if the ignition coil is the issue, you can perform a simple test using a spark tester. Disconnect the spark plug wire and remove the spark plug. Attach the spark tester to the spark plug wire and ground the tester to the engine. Have someone pull the starter cord while you observe the tester. If there is no spark or a weak spark, the ignition coil may need to be replaced.
To replace the ignition coil, first, locate the coil on the engine. It is typically mounted near the flywheel. Disconnect the wire from the ignition coil and remove any mounting screws or bolts. Install the new ignition coil and reconnect the wire. Make sure to tighten the mounting screws or bolts securely.
If the ignition coil replacement does not resolve the starting issue, it is recommended to consult a professional technician or contact Briggs and Stratton customer support for further assistance.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Relatively easy to diagnose using a spark tester | Requires some technical knowledge to replace |
| Reasonably affordable replacement part | May not solve the starting issue if the coil is not the problem |
| Can be a common issue in older or heavily used pressure washers |
Carburetor Issues
If your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer won’t start, the problem may lie with the carburetor. The carburetor is responsible for mixing the correct amount of fuel and air to create a combustible mixture that powers the engine. Over time, the carburetor can become clogged with dirt, debris, or old fuel, preventing it from delivering the necessary fuel to the engine.
One common issue with the carburetor is a clogged jet or fuel passage. This can result in a lean fuel mixture, causing the engine to struggle or fail to start altogether. To fix this problem, you can try cleaning the carburetor using a carburetor cleaner. Remove the carburetor from the pressure washer and disassemble it carefully. Soak the parts in carburetor cleaner, ensuring that all the passages and jets are thoroughly cleaned. Reassemble the carburetor and reinstall it on the pressure washer.
Another possible issue with the carburetor is a stuck or faulty float. The float is a small device that controls the fuel level inside the carburetor. If the float gets stuck or fails to work properly, the fuel supply to the engine may be disrupted. In this case, you may need to replace the float or the entire carburetor.
Things to check:
- Check if the carburetor is clogged with dirt or debris.
- Inspect the fuel passages and jets for any blockages.
- Ensure that the float is functioning correctly.
- Consider cleaning or replacing the carburetor if necessary.
By addressing any carburetor issues, you can increase the chances of your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer starting properly and running smoothly.
Questions and answers
Why is my Briggs and Stratton pressure washer not starting?
There are several possible reasons why your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer won’t start. It could be due to a clogged carburetor, a faulty spark plug, a dirty air filter, or low oil levels. Check these areas and make sure they are clean and in good working condition.
What should I do if my pressure washer engine cranks but won’t start?
If your pressure washer engine cranks but doesn’t start, it could be a sign of a clogged carburetor or stale fuel. Try cleaning the carburetor and using fresh fuel. You should also check the spark plug and replace it if necessary.
Why won’t my Briggs and Stratton pressure washer start after winter?
After a period of winter storage, your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer may have difficulty starting due to stale fuel or a clogged carburetor. Drain and refill the fuel tank with fresh gasoline, and clean the carburetor to ensure proper fuel flow.
What could be the cause if my pressure washer engine starts but quickly shuts off?
If your pressure washer engine starts but shuts off shortly after, it could be due to a dirty carburetor or a clogged fuel line. Check these areas and clean or replace any clogged components. It’s also possible that the spark plug is faulty and needs to be replaced.
How do I troubleshoot a Briggs and Stratton pressure washer that won’t start?
To troubleshoot a Briggs and Stratton pressure washer that won’t start, begin by checking the fuel level and quality, cleaning the carburetor, and replacing the spark plug if necessary. Also, inspect the air filter and ensure there are no clogs. If the issue persists, it may be necessary to seek professional repairs.
Why won’t my Briggs and Stratton pressure washer start?
There are several potential reasons why your Briggs and Stratton pressure washer won’t start. First, check the fuel level and make sure you have enough gasoline in the tank. If the fuel level is low, fill it up. Another possible reason is a clogged fuel filter. Check the fuel filter and clean or replace it if necessary. Additionally, check the spark plug and make sure it is clean and properly connected. If the spark plug is dirty or faulty, clean it or replace it. Finally, check the oil level and make sure it is at the appropriate level. If the oil level is low, add more oil. If none of these solutions work, it may be necessary to take it to a professional for further diagnosis and repair.
What should I do if my pressure washer engine won’t start?
If your pressure washer engine won’t start, there are a few steps you can take to try and resolve the issue. First, check the fuel level and ensure there is enough gasoline in the tank. If the fuel level is low, add more gas. Next, check the spark plug and make sure it is clean and properly connected. If the spark plug is dirty or faulty, clean or replace it. Additionally, check the oil level and make sure it is at the appropriate level. If the oil level is low, add more oil. If these steps do not solve the problem, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance to diagnose and repair any underlying issues with the engine.
Recent Posts
-
How To Connect Soap To Honda Pressure Washer
June 28, 2024 -
A To Z Pressure Washing Scam
June 27, 2024 -
How To Pressure Wash Your Home With A Garden Hose
June 27, 2024 -
Where Can I Buy Honda Pressure Washer Parts
June 25, 2024 -
