PAGE 32 — MVH408GH PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #0 (03/25/14)
Troubleshooting (Engine) - continued
Symptom
Possible Problem
Solution
Weak in power, compression is proper and
does not misfi re.
Air cleaner dirty?
Clean or replace air cleaner.
Improper level in carburetor?
Check fl oat adjustment, rebuild carburetor.
Defective spark plug?
Clean or replace spark plug.
Improper spark plug?
Set to proper gap.
Weak in power, compression is proper but
misfi res.
Water in fuel system?
Flush fuel system and replace with correct
type of fuel.
Dirty spark plug?
Clean or replace spark plug.
Ignition coil defective?
Replace ignition coil.
Engine overheats.
Spark plug heat value incorrect?
Replace with correct type of spark plug.
Wrong type of fuel?
Replace with correct type of fuel.
Cooling fi ns dirty?
Clean cooling fi ns.
Intake air restricted?
Clear intake of dirt and debris. Replace air
cleaner elements as necessary.
Oil level too low or too high?
Adjust oil to proper level.
Rotational speed fl uctuates.
Governor adjusted incorrectly?
Adjust governor.
Governor spring defective?
Replace governor spring.
Fuel fl ow restricted?
Check entire fuel system for leaks or clogs.
Recoil starter malfunctions. (if applicable)
Recoil mechanism clogged with dust and dirt?
Clean recoil assembly with soap and water.
Spiral spring loose?
Replace spiral spring.
Starter malfunctions.
Loose, damaged wiring?
Ensure tight, clean connections on battery
and starter.
Battery insuffi ciently charged?
Recharge or replace battery.
Starter damaged or internally shorted?
Replace starter.
Burns too much fuel.
Over-accumulation of exhaust products?
Check and clean valves. Check muffl er and
replace if necessary.
Wrong spark plug?
Replace spark plug with manufacturer's
suggested type.
Exhaust color is continuously "white".
Lubricating oil is wrong viscosity?
Replace lubricating oil with correct viscosity.
Worn rings?
Replace rings.
Exhaust color is continuously "black".
Air cleaner clogged?
Clean or replace air cleaner.
Choke valve set to incorrect position?
Adjust choke valve to correct position.
Carburetor defective, seal on carburetor
broken?
Replace carburetor or seal.
Poor carburetor adjustment, engine runs too
rich?
Adjust carburetor.
Will not start, no power with key "ON". (if
applicable)
ON/OFF device not activated ON?
Turn on ON/OFF device.
Battery disconnected or discharged?
Check cable connections. Charge or replace
battery
Ignition switch/wiring defective?
Replace ignition switch. Check wiring.
TROUBLESHOOTING (ENGINE)
