Pruner: Leaks Gas

The O-ring on the carburetor bowl provides a seal between the bowl and the carburetor to prevent fuel leaks. If you notice fuel leaking from around this ring, it must be replaced as it can create a fire hazard. To replace the O-ring, remove the nut holding the bowl on, then simply remove the O-ring and replace it with one of the same size.

The purpose of the fuel filter is to stop foreign objects and dirt from entering the engine. If your unit has an external fuel filter instead of an internal one, it could be causing the leak. To locate the fuel filter, follow the fuel line from tank to the carburetor and you will find a small, round filter. Check for cracks, and inspect the fuel line seals at the entrance and exit of fuel filter. If there are any indications of a leak you must replace the filter. Check for an arrow indicating the flow of fuel as you do not want to re-install it backwards as it may stop or slow down the rate of fuel.

The purpose of the primer bulb is to pull fuel through the fuel line into the carburetor by creating a vacuum. The primer bulb is another common part that would cause your pruner to leak. After a quick visual inspection, you should be able to tell if your primer bulb is leaking. There could be a smell of fuel or fuel dripping from it as you press it as well. The primer bulb can also pull air into the carburetor if it is cracked, and this should be avoided. To replace the bulb, simply pull it off with a pair of pliers. Next, grab a small pick and reach back into where the bulb came off, grab the clip, and pull it out. Next you should clean out the housing. After the housing is clean, put the new clip on the primer bulb with tabs facing out. Then, use a socket that fits over the primer bulb, push it into the housing and tap it gently with a rubber mallet. Make sure the metal clip is as far in as it can go without damaging the primer bulb.

The fuel tank on your pruner stores the fuel, and if the tank is cracked it can cause a leak. Leaks in the fuel tank of products like pruners and other two stroke engines are often found along the seams. If your pruner is leaking, you should inspect the fuel lank carefully. If you see a leak, you will need to replace the fuel tank. Drain the tank first, then remove the fuel lines. The process involved in removing the fuel lines may differ on certain models; some attach on the outside while others are fed through a grommet into the tank. Remove any bolts or clips holding the tank in place and re-assemble with a new tank.

The grommet’s job is to provide a seal for the fuel line and vent line to enter the tank. A quick visual inspection will tell you if the grommet is leaking. Over time, fuel can break down the rubber grommet and when this happens, it will need to be replaced. If you notice a leak or feel dampness around the grommet, replace it. To replace the grommet, simply insert a flat-head screwdriver under the lip of the grommet on the tank and pull up. Remove the gas cap and insert a hook into the tank to pull the fuel line up. Remove the fuel filter then pull the fuel line and fuel vent line out of the grommet. Replace the grommet by pushing a new one into place. Spray the inside of the grommet with a lubricant to allow an easier assembly of the fuel lines.

The fuel line runs from the fuel tank to the carburetor and its purpose is to deliver fuel to the carb. Old, weathered, and cracked fuel lines can leak and should be replaced immediately as they also pose a fire hazard. Loose fuel lines can cause a leak as well, so you should check that the ends of the fuel lines are tight where they connect. If your fuel lines have clamps, they should be tightened, but sometimes fuel lines are just pressure fitted and you can fix them by cutting a small bit of the end off the line with a utility knife, then push them back into the connection.