Starting a petrol brush cutter (cold engine)
- Fuel and safety. Check there's fresh fuel, place the machine flat on the ground, and make sure the cutting head is clear.
- Switch on. Set the on/off switch (stop switch) to the on position.
- Prime. If it has a primer bulb, press it 4–6 times until you see fuel.
- Choke on. Move the choke to the closed (cold-start) position.
- Pull to first fire. Hold the machine down and pull the starter cord firmly 2–4 times until the engine "coughs".
- Choke off. Move the choke to the run (open) position.
- Pull to start. Pull again — it should start. Let it idle for 20–30 seconds to warm up before cutting.
Tip: machines with an easy-start system (Stihl ErgoStart, Husqvarna Smart Start) need much less effort — the same steps, just a gentler pull.
Starting a warm petrol engine
If the engine is already warm, skip the choke: switch on, prime if needed, leave the choke in the run position, and pull. Forcing the choke on a warm engine floods it.
Starting a cordless brush cutter
- Slide in a charged battery until it clicks.
- Press the safety lock-off button.
- Squeeze the trigger — it runs instantly. Many models have a speed dial for grass vs brush.
When it won't start
- Stale fuel is the number-one culprit — drain and refill with fresh (or alkylate fuel).
- Flooded engine (you smell petrol): move choke off, hold full throttle, and pull several times to clear it.
- Fouled spark plug — clean or replace it.
- Clogged air filter — clean or replace.
For more, see our maintenance guide.