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HomeRepair HelpToro RepairToro Small engine runs poorly Repair
Toro Small engine runs poorly
If your Toro small engine runs poorly, runs rough, surges, sputters, hesitates, or loses power, start with the carburetor. A clogged carburetor is the most common cause, especially when stale or ethanol-blended fuel has been left in seasonal equipment. As fuel ages, it can leave a sticky residue that restricts the main jet, pilot jet, or other internal passages. Clean the carburetor with carburetor cleaner, then rebuild or replace it if cleaning does not restore smooth operation. A Toro small engine carburetor repair kit can provide the gaskets, needle valve, and other parts needed for an overhaul. Next, inspect the spark plug for a cracked insulator, burned electrode, or heavy carbon buildup, and test it for a strong spark while the engine is cranking. A clogged fuel filter is another possible cause, particularly after old fuel has been stored in the tank. Drain the fuel and replace the filter if necessary. Enter your Toro engine's model number to find the exact replacement carburetor, repair kit, spark plug, or fuel filter for your specific engine.
01 - Toro Carburetor
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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02 - Toro Carburetor Repair Kit
The carburetor might be clogged. A clogged carburetor is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the carburetor and cause the engine to run roughly. If the carburetor is clogged, try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If cleaning the carburetor isn’t effective, rebuild or replace the entire carburetor.
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03 - Toro Spark Plug
Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear or damage. If the porcelain insulator is cracked, an electrode is burned away or damaged, or there is heavy carbon buildup at the electrode, replace the spark plug. To determine if the spark plug is defective, use a spark plug tester. You should see a strong spark between the tester’s terminals when the engine is cranking. If there is no spark, this indicates that the spark plug is defective and should be replaced.
Highly Likely
04 - Toro Fuel Filter
The fuel filter might be clogged. A clogged fuel filter is most commonly caused by leaving fuel in the engine for a long period of time. Over time, some of the ingredients in the fuel may evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, stickier substance. This sticky fuel can clog up the fuel filter and cause the engine to run roughly. If old fuel was left in the engine, drain the old fuel from the fuel tank and replace the fuel filter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Toro small engine running rough or surging?
Can a dirty fuel filter make a Toro engine run poorly?
How do I test a Toro small engine spark plug when the engine runs rough?
How do I find the correct replacement part for my Toro small engine?
What should I check before replacing expensive Toro engine parts?