Why won't my log splitter's engine start?

Replace the log splitter carburetor

The log splitter's carburetor mixes air with fuel in the proper proportion to produce a combustible gas. That gas/air mixture is pulled into the cylinder, where the piston compresses it and the spark plug ignites it. Over time, varnish from stale gasoline builds up in the carburetor, decreasing the amount of air/fuel mixture reaching the engine. Replace the log splitter carburetor if it's severely clogged with varnish or if the orifices are clogged with debris and can't be cleared using carburetor cleaner and compressed air.

Replace the log splitter recoil starter

The log splitter's recoil starter engages and starts the engine when the starter rope is pulled. If the pull rope doesn't retract, it's likely that the spring inside the recoil starter is broken. The recoil starter can also fail to engage the engine when the rope is pulled, and the engine won't start. Replace the recoil starter if the spring breaks or if the recoil starter doesn't engage the log splitter engine.

Rebuild the log splitter carburetor

Rebuild kits are available for most log splitter carburetors. The carburetor rebuild kit contains essential components such as jets, pins, seals and gaskets for overhauling the log splitter carburetor. You can sometimes fix a fuel supply problem by disassembling, cleaning and rebuilding the carburetor.

Tune up the log splitter engine

A tune-up restores the log splitter's engine to its peak operating condition. A tune-up includes changing the oil, cleaning the engine, replacing the air filter, checking the ignition system, inspecting the carburetor, adjusting the throttle and choke controls, and adjusting and lubricating all moving parts.