Grumpy, in the end it will have been a good learning experience (at least for me) in what to expect when fixing or restoring a small engine. It is interesting learning how things function and to see how well you can handle a rebuild with limited knowledge, skills and tools. This is my first attempt at disassembling and repairing a four stroke engine.
The only other time I had a go at fixing an engine, was when a 2-stroke Husky 125LD trimmer wouldn't start, not even after fifty attempts pulling the recoil starter. Then I noticed the primer bulb was cracked, replaced that and it still wouldn't start. I tried replacing the fuel lines, tank grommet, fuel filter and it still wouldn't go. Not wanting to take it to the tip (it did seem in pretty rough shape and quite old, a 93' model), I persisted in completely pulling it apart, cleaning the piston, head, exhaust port and muffler of years of carbon buildup. Purchased fresh gaskets, two new piston rings (bore was in great shape), new Walbro carb kit, deglazed the clutch shoes using a soda blaster and even replaced the bearings (which were quite noisy when running) in the aluminium trimmer head; that houses the bevel gears. Could you imagine the joy I felt after 6 weeks (which included waiting for parts to arrive) when she started after a few pulls (no more than 4 or 5). Anyway, now it starts swiflty, runs really smooth, idles nicely, blows a bit of white smoke when cold (but almost none when warm) and it doesn't bog down one bit with full throttle. Could have easily tasted defeat by scrapping that trimmer and going out and spending good money on a new one that is not half as good, but I am glad I didn't.
