I have a Makita 2 stroke grass strimmer, the engine will only tickover on choke when the choke comes off it cuts out.
The only way to get the engine to run is to turn it upside down, then the engine will run reasonably but there is a rattle from the cylinder head.
I have had thehead off and there is discolouring on the side of the piston.
I think the piston and rings are shot? Can you confirm?
Thanks

Brian Macey, August 2010

You almost certainly have a carburettor fault, it may well be that a carb overhaul kit is available - try e-bay. I wouldn't worry too much about the piston discolouration at this stage- as the engine runs- it is probably just varnish buildup and a change of 2 stroke oil in future fuel mix may clean it off. this is common on 2 stroke engines. before you spend money on piston/rings do a compression test - should be around 90 psi peak. Makita technical in UK are helpful tel 01908 211678 ask for Chris Wright

Martyn, August 2010