I can't start my Craftsman 200 mph gas blower to start. It is about 3 years old & was sold with a Special Edition Label. Last year I had Sears replace the pull chord since it pulled right out of the blower. At that time it was still under warranty, but that has since expired. I used the blower last year after the chord was replaced, but when I went to use it a couple of weeks ago, I couldn't get it started. I just changed the spark plug and I also rinsed out the foam pad (which I assume serves as an air filter). Sears now wants $70 just to look at the problem which is hardly worth the cost at this point. I thought that if this is something I could repair on my own I could avoid the expense of buying a new blower. Any suggestions???

Jack Ryan, September 2005

As with any engine, you need to determine if it is getting spark. Take out the sparkplug, hook the wire back up and hold the plug against the motor, next pull the cord while looking at the end of the plug. (When doing this, make sure you are only touching the wire when holding the plug. If not you will get a shock). If you have spark, then chances are you are not getting fuel. Remove air filter and spray in some starting fluid then try to start. If it starts and then quits, you may either need to adjust the carb or replace the diaphram in it. Another tip is to remove the air filter and blow air into the carb while trying to start. let me know what happens

cholbach, October 2005