Petrol Rotavator Troubleshooting

This article covers the soft fixes you can perform if your petrol rotavator has starting issues.

Before starting the engine, it is imperative you have read and understood the manual, failure to do so could result in damage to the machine, injury to the user and could invalidate the warranty. It is important you understand the nature of the machine and its usage, taking in to account all safety information, including PPE, and use in confined spaces, care should be taken with petrol machines as petrol is highly flammable.

1. Check and confirm the rotavator has the correct amount of SAE30 oil by checking the oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick.
2. Make sure that there is plenty of petrol in the tank. We recommend using unleaded petrol that is no older than 30 days.
3. If the engine is cold, set the throttle handle to choke, if the engine is warm set to maximum rotational speed (rabbit symbol on the HST1003A).
4. Slowly pull the starter until the starter engages and then pull firmly.
5. Once the motor has started, set the desired motor speed using the throttle.
6. To stop the engine set the throttle to 'stop'.

• Pull the starter out no more than 50cm and slowly guide it back using your hand.

This article covers the soft fixes of your petrol rotavator if it starts smoking.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Black Smoke
• Checking and Cleaning the Air Filter
• Other Coloured Smoke

Black Smoke

• Black smoke is almost always caused because of a dirty air filter.
• Please check to see if the air filter is dirty, if this is the case, please clean.

Checking and Cleaning the Air Filter:

1. Please check the air filter is clear of any dirt or debris.
2. A clean sponge air filter would be either grey or yellow.
3. If you have a sponge air filter which is dirty, you may clean the air filter using warm soapy water.
4. To remove the air filter, unclip the filter cover on the side of your engine.
5. Some models may use a securing screw which can be removed by hand or using a screwdriver.
6. Please ensure you leave the filter to fully air dry before reinstalling.

Other Coloured Smoke

• Other coloured smoke can be caused by oil levels, spilt/leaked oil on the engine or a dirty oil filter.
• Check and confirm the lawnmower has the correct amount of SAE30 oil by checking oil level is between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick.
• Has the machine been tilted? This often causes oil to run onto the engine, in turn, causing smoke.
• Please ensure that the air filter is not soiled and clean the air filter if dirty.

1. Ensure that the tines are not damaged.
2. If damaged they will need to be replaced.
3. Ensure that you have enough gearbox oil in the gearbox shaft. There should be approx. 200ml. 
4. Please check that the drive belt is intact and in place.
5. If the belt is damaged or has excessive wear then it will need to be replaced.

Please check whether the fuel lines from the fuel tank are secure and undamaged.

If the leak persists, please contact our customer support helpline.