The Jack's Small Engines Forum - Join Our Online Community
Reply to post

AnsweredRyobi leaf blower won't start

Author
kcantrel
New Member
  • Total Posts : 2
  • Scores: 0
  • Reward points: 0
  • Joined: 2023/06/02 16:06:40
  • Status: offline
2023/06/02 16:21:00 (permalink)
0

Ryobi leaf blower won't start

I have an old Ryobi leaf blower (Model # RY08554) that seemed to be losing power (i.e. not revving up as much as it used to) so I tried adjusting the carburetor. Unfortunately, that just made it worse, to the point when I got it started, it would only run for about 5 minutes before dying. I tried resetting the flow screws (1 & 3/4 turns from close on both the high and low needles) no help. After further adjustments, taking it apart and cleaning it, I gave up and purchased a new carburetor that came with a spark plug, fuel lines and fuel filter, which I used all of. Unfortunately that didn't make any difference at all. Even though I had fairly fresh gas, I went out and got some new gas, but again, it didn't help. I tried loosening the gas cap, didn't help. The only way I can get run for a second or two (proving that it is getting spark), is to spray some "engine starting fuel" down the carburetor. At this point I don't know what else to try.

I would appreciate any ideas on what to try next.

Thanks!
SRTsFZ6
Super Member
  • Total Posts : 2055
  • Scores: 74
  • Reward points: 0
  • Joined: 2018/11/18 07:20:58
  • Status: offline
Re: Ryobi leaf blower won't start 2023/06/02 19:48:18 (permalink) ☼ Best Answerby kcantrel 2023/06/04 10:54:29
5 (1)
A clogged muffler (spark arrester screen specifically) can make your engine behave as you describe. Remove it or check/clean.  
 
Check that the cylinder to block bolts are tight, no seepage visible where they meet.  Those bolts DO loosen and being a 2 stroke, fuel may  not be sucked in.
 
You did replace the fuel lines, correct?
 
.
SRTsFZ6
Super Member
  • Total Posts : 2055
  • Scores: 74
  • Reward points: 0
  • Joined: 2018/11/18 07:20:58
  • Status: offline
Re: Ryobi leaf blower won't start 2023/06/02 19:54:03 (permalink)
0
Also, I've found maybe 50% of the time, the aftermarket carbs just don't work like the OEM carb.
 
And, they require MUCH tuning...  As it sounds like your not getting fuel, open the high speed screw (closest to the air filter) CLOCKWISE TO RICHEN and get it fired up.
 
Once running, set the throttle to WIDE OPEN and adjust that screw (H.S.) for the highest RPMs.
 
Adjust the Low speed screw for a good idle and quick throttle response.  
 
Often, when you adjust one, it throws the other adjustment out so you'll likely have to bounce back and forth adjusting.   That is if the cylinder isn't leaking, muffler clear, etc..
 
.
kcantrel
New Member
  • Total Posts : 2
  • Scores: 0
  • Reward points: 0
  • Joined: 2023/06/02 16:06:40
  • Status: offline
Re: Ryobi leaf blower won't start 2023/06/04 11:12:03 (permalink)
0
SRTsFZ6
A clogged muffler (spark arrester screen specifically) can make your engine behave as you describe. Remove it or check/clean.  
 
Check that the cylinder to block bolts are tight, no seepage visible where they meet.  Those bolts DO loosen and being a 2 stroke, fuel may  not be sucked in.
 
You did replace the fuel lines, correct?
 



SRTsFZ6 I owe you a beer! You saved me from having to buy a new blower! The cylinder had come lose, quite a bit actually (i.e. I could rock the cylinder and see a small gap) Once I tighten it, and sprayed more Engine Starter fuel down the carburetor, it fired up and stayed running (as long as I kept the throttle fully engaged). I did my typical "blow the sidewalks off" and noticed the RPMs would somewhat oscillate. Also, when I let off the throttle it would die immediately, and not start again without more engine starting fuel. I tried adjusting the L mixture needle but it didn't help. The final step to get this blower to working like new again, was putting the old carburetor back on! Apparently that $16 carburetor was garbage.
 
Thanks again!
SRTsFZ6
Super Member
  • Total Posts : 2055
  • Scores: 74
  • Reward points: 0
  • Joined: 2018/11/18 07:20:58
  • Status: offline
Re: Ryobi leaf blower won't start 2023/06/04 19:14:33 (permalink)
0
I've had them loosen in the past and blow out the lower gasket.
 
Make sure the gasket is good and re-assemble with LOTs of RED LOCTITE..
It's good up to, as I re-call 400F .
 
 
Jump to:
Copyright © 1994 - 2016 Jacks Small Engine & Generator Service, LLC
© 2025 APG vNext Trial Version 5.5