Harbor Freight Tools 5.5 HP ENGINE 96156 - Manual (Page 15)

Page 15 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. SKU 96156
Problem Possible causes Probable solutions
Engine misfires
Spark plug wire loose. 1.
Incorrect spark plug gap or 2.
damaged spark plug.
Defective spark plug wire. 3.
Old or low quality gasoline. 4.
Incorrect compression. 5.
Check wire connections. 1.
Re-gap or replace spark plug. 2.
Replace spark plug wire. 3.
Use only fresh 89+ octane unleaded 4.
gasoline.
Diagnose and repair compression. (Use 5.
engine will not start: coMPressIon
reLated section.)
engine stops
suddenly Low oil shutdown. 1.
Fuel tank empty or full of impure or 2.
low quality gasoline.
Defective fuel tank cap creating 3.
vacuum, preventing proper fuel flow.
Improper idle speed.
4.
Brake cable broken. 5.
Faulty magneto, incorrect timing, or 6.
clogged carburetor.
Fill engine oil to proper level. Check engine 1.
oil before EVERY use.
Fill fuel tank with fresh 89+ octane unleaded 2.
gasoline.
Test/replace fuel tank cap. 3.
Properly adjust idle speed. 4.
Repair brake cable as needed. 5.
Have qualified technician diagnose and
6.
service engine.
engine knocks Old or low quality gasoline. 1.
Engine overloaded. 2.
Incorrect spark timing, deposit 3.
buildup, worn engine, or other
mechanical problems.
Fill fuel tank with fresh 89+ octane unleaded 1.
gasoline.
Do not exceed engine’s load rating. 2.
Have qualified technician diagnose and
3.
service engine.
Engine backfires
Impure or low quality gasoline. 1.
Engine too cold. 2.
Choke not open after engine warm. 3.
Engine not properly adjusted for 4.
high altitude operation.
Intake valve stuck, choke stuck, 5.
incorrect timing, clogged carburetor,
or overheated engine.
Fill fuel tank with fresh 89+ octane unleaded 1.
gasoline.
Use cold weather fuel and oil additives to 2.
prevent backfiring.
Move choke to run position after engine
3.
warms up.
Qualified technician must adjust engine at
4.
altitudes greater than 5,000 feet above sea
level.
Have qualified technician diagnose and
5.
service engine.
Follow all safety precautions whenever diagnosing or
servicing the engine.