Troybilt trimmers! I've used a lot of trimmers in 40 years. And I would love to see the grass and weeds I've cut all in one big pile. And a Troybilt is the only one that was shit straight out of the package. Not cheap either. Hell to start and couldn't keep it running. I finally took it to my long time small engine repair guy. He called me the next day to tell me they were checking it out and trying to diagnose when it blew the hell up. It was almost new and never abused in any way. Neither the dealer or Troybilt would make it right. Lesson.
Many years ago, I had one 4 stroke Troy Bilt, that was a present from a friend. Didn't start well, and I asked the person at the local hardware store, super-busy, repairing these trimmers if I should bring it in. She told me, in plain English, that they don't even look at this brand for it is not repairable... After some time, I bought another one thinking that it may be better. It is an unfinished product and should not be in the stores.
I have had the pleasure of dealing with two of these. One of them I owned (sadly), and the other one a friend owned, and I did a lot of yardwork for her. The one I owned lasted about 2 months of weekly use before the pull rope broke. I don't remember how, but I got it fixed before it broke again. I then threw that one in the trash as I didn't want to deal with it anymore, and I have an Echo trimmer which is loads better. The one our friend owned lasted 2 uses before the same thing happened. She bought one of those electric start things and used it for around a year until it quit wanting to stay running. I gave her an old Homelite SX-135 from 1997 which still runs better than that one ever did to this day. It is funny how these have a serious design issue with the pull starter to where almost all of them break, and they just so happen to have that handy electric starter option. It is almost like they design it to break so you then go out and spend more money to buy one. But the companies would never do that right? they just wanted to be helpful and ad this feature because using the pull rope can be exhausting.
Same here. It looked like only a retaining clip was needed for the pull start part. He squirted gas in the spark plug opening , ran it and then squirted it in the intake and then he had a hard time starting it. Could it be because he caused a hydro lock? Loosen/remove spark plug turn over motor and he would have relieved the hydro lock which was caused by too much gas in the cylinder.
I commented on the short covering this machine. I have the craftsman variant of one of these, and it is actually pretty reliable. The downsides being that if you follow the instructions on the side, it’s guaranteed that you will flood the engine, and weight, it’s heavy. A neighbor gave me an Echo SRM-210 recently because the starter was broken, it’s like a feather compared to the Craftsman.
I commented in the wrong thread about these Chinese Honda variants, I see this is old news here. The Craftsman/Senix 4 cycle could be good for a consumer who uses them less than 10 hours a season and needs to swing the heavier grade line but the hot start performance makes them difficult for many people. Parts availability makes them a poor choice for refurbishing and I can only imagine the issues you would have trying to warrant a used one.. On the other and the Husqvarna T35 head is a perfect fit for the Craftsman 74098 if you can find one relatively new for ~$100.
@@thomasaccuntius9946 Thanks for your perspective. Most of this power equipment started being made over seas during the mid aughts, and that is when the quality went to heck on roller skates. Regardless of where it was made you've done a good job taking care of yours.
I absolutely LOVE how sarcastic you were at the beginning XD! I was cracking up watching it. Phew, that trimmer is definitely not worth fixing. Way too expensive, too heavy, just not worth it at all. Hold onto it for parts and use them for other projects. That split boom shaft alone will fit many other engines! Awesome video as usual IHG!
I have a Craftsman 4 cycle trimmer, not the same as Troy bilt / Craftsman illustrated here in the video, but I bought it 5 years ago and STILL use it regularly and I don't have any problems with it
Use it for parts. Poulan, Ryobi, Craftsman, and Troy Bilt hand held equipment I do not enjoy working on at all. It is amazing how many people buy this cheap equipment and then try to keep it going rather than buy something that will work and perform so much better.
There is a timing belt in the back of the front cover and when they go. They jump teeth and cause the engine to go out of time. And make it hard for the unit to run or start the belt for the valves is cheap but the way it's made is there is no TENSIONER
I thought aboutthat too, but it looked right when he turned it over with a rod down the plug hole. Most likely it is just made to be bought and dumped, not to be used for anything.
Love the videos I appreciate it all I have learned alot and started working on my own equipment and my family's thank you I saved alot money and know have some good experience thank you keep up the good work look forward to more videos
I like to use a tiny bit of 2 cycle oil in my equipment. I have been Lucas fuel treatment every time I fill my tank on my crv. It runs smoother. I just believe a tiny bit of lubrication helps with modern fuel
Troy Bilt sells brush cutter blades which some people use to cut overhead branches and hedges. 4 cycle motors have an oil sump that works better operating on the level. I think Stihl has 4 cycle models that also keep the piston rings lubricated with two cycle oil for that kind of duty. The braided metal flex shaft and clutch are reasonably durable on the 74098 Craftsman trimmer but the clutch is not lined like the Husqvarna so shock loads will take their tool in the hundreds of hours not thousands.
I own 2 of these trimmers . They are frustrating and a pain. When they work they work very well, but when they don't it takes a long time to get them to start and run again, no matter what you do. Both coils have broken within a few months of use. It takes the "battery operated{ starter to start them which also can be a pain ( have found using fuel with no ethanol works better in these as well ) Now matter what cleaning, what fuel, what adjustments it is a continued tampering and changing and tinkering to get them to run For example last year after hours of "tinkering" I got one of them an older one with actual "choke and Run" manual switch to run and it did well last year. The one with the auto choke ( no manual switch ) would not start nor run no matter what I tried . This year just a few weeks ago it is the total opposite, the older manual choke one will not start nor run no matter what I do, the one that I could never get to run last year, after a few simple adjustments runs like a top now, but for how long, who knows?!! SO, I go back to old an reliable 2 cycle ones they run for hours with little issue , just give them a little TLC and they will run for years ....Lol
Ha ha 🤣 I remember telling you several days ago about the crazy paw system on these Troy built trimmers. Also the one I had the new pawls broke after about a day's work. Also a big issue I had was I didn't understand the 4 cycle. On the box and everywhere else I saw it being used with a pole saw attached and others. Turns out you can't use it upright and it pisses me off because it was literally advertises as being used that way.
I had someone give me a bunch of trimmers he tried to fix amd one is the same as this one but it is torn apart from the plastic not sure if it runs of not
This might sound stupid, but when you checked the oil there wasn't any on the dip stick? Did you put oil in? Was there any at all in it? Sorry if I sound stupid, just curious.
no it's not a stupid question at all, yes there was oil in it, just not enough to show on the stick. Don't worry, I wasn't going to hurt it anymore than it already was.
personally not a fan of keeping parts off these poorly manufactured pieces of equipment. Because usually the part which broke will be the one you need for the next one you encounter. Note one posted said they had to replace two coils.
I'm working on one of these now. I skip a few steps and use Aero start straight into the carby first. If it fires, I know I have spark, and it will rum. I'll then put some fuel in the tank and see if it will prime and continue to run. If not I then check the fuel tank for muck and check the filter. I usually take off the carb by now, if it won't continue to run, and check the diaphragm for flex and the fine mesh screen for blockage. If it still won't stay running, you need to decide how far you want to go with it. Like you say this model is next to worthless.
only problem with keeping a garbage unit for "parts" is the distinct probability that the next unit like it which you acquire, will ALSO have the very same garbage part broken. Does no good to buy the garbage part new either, because it will soon break as well. I agree though, at least the video was GOOD!
I borrowed one of those from a friend once. The starting procedure was so frustrating that I just got my normal ten year old at the time stihl fixed. Just recently a friend of mine got one of those and it shit out within a few days of use. Complete junk.
Great video! What is your experience on those engines in regards to ease of starting? I'm curious because I have a small sidewalk to edge and got one of those troy built edgers with that similar motor. I love it and I've had it for about 4 years, but its exhausting to start without one of those jump start adapters. Its almost like the rope has such a short pull it doesn't spin the engine fast enough or enough rotations. With the jump start adapter it starts immediately. Just curious if I'm the only one that has that issue?
when they're new they start just like the instructions say, but once they get a few years old they can be a real pain. I'd skip any trimmer that looks like this one. And no, you're not the only one experiencing this.
I have the exact model. Used it last year, put it up for the Winter, and never started again. After a long search for anyone to repair it, I looked answers to why, no repair shop won't touch this thing. Even Home Depot stopped selling them. I feel duped because I only used it 3 times! What brand of trimmer do you recommend, that is easily serviceable?
Unless I missed something, you checked the oil, found it low and then never added any.... Did you seize the engine trying to get it to run without oil?
Ive got a quick question for you. the grease inside of the shaft where also the bearings are when do you have to replace that grease and bearings? this is in a trimmer.
I have never replaced the grease or the shaft. If you have an old trimmer the has shaft wear or noise, it's just better to replace the entire trimmer or shaft.
Would plastic pawls work for this trimmer? I have a Troy-Bilt TB685EC that I'm fixing for a friend. Just missing starter pawls. I ordered pawls on eBay that are plastic that are SUPPOSED to fit. Rolling the dice right now.
My Dad has this exact trimmer. He accidentally hit something with it at near top speed and it caused the driveshaft to break. He replaced the drive shaft but now it seems to run rough at anything above an idle. He seems to think it's outta time, but he doesn't know how to test his theory and he doesn't know how to adjust the timing. Any help is appreciated.
I have a Cub Cadet 4-cycle weed eater that won't start for the life of me! Even on starting fluid. I cleaned the spark plug. And I notice when I try to start it the pull rope doesn't have much resistance/tension. Nor does it sound like it wants to crank or start. I am lost... Don't know what to do or if it's even worth doing. What are your thoughts?
have you check the valve lash? And no, the way they're designed they won't "Feel Like" they have a lot of compression. Yes it's worth fixing until you figure out of the piston rings are worn out.
I'd have to let that one pass or find another for more parts. The way it was kicking back was not so good and it looked like when it did kick, it stripped the hex out of the end of the crank and killed the adapter too. Can't figure why the timing was that much off with that small of an engine. A 4-mix will do that if the valve clearance is off but that being a 4-cycle, it ought to start a lot easier. Sounds like Troy-bilt strikes again. Blessings
do you think the push rod isn't 100 percent seated right? cause maybe while it's running it slips out and causes it to open the intake valve enough and cause it to backfire. that's all i can think of based off what i know from my troy bilt weed eaters. but i'm basing that off of my 2006 weed eaters. but the parts for them haven't changed much. and maybe that's why it's having issues turning over.
I am about to work on the exact model trimmer. I left fuel in it over a year ago and I think,the carb is bad because it will not run on the fuel tank only by priming with either. I got a new carb and will try it! If all fails, it is bio degradable! Lol
Hey bro, what's up? Knowing you bro, I know that you'll do the best that you can to get this trimmer functional again with the least amount of money spent on replacement parts.
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE knowing what the problem is with this trimmer, logically thinking here, I believe that some more diagnostic will need to be done to this trimmer.
I have 3 four cycle trimmers for my landscaping business and I haven’t had any problems for the 7 years I’ve had my business. I keep up on the maintenance as well. But I do have a 2cycle one brought used I got working but then I sold it cause it didn’t have enough power I should have looked at this video back then before selling it lol
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE yes, a buddy of mines owns a landscaping business as well he always has troubles I told him start your monthly maintenance to yearly maintenance! I’m not saying the machines are perfect but just keeping up on them does help. I try not to stress the machines as well lol
I had a Craftsman 2 cycle one come my way , basically a troybilt. pull cord was screwed up. well needless to say. the pull cord wouldn't retract. it was plastics that warn on it and wasn't worth it to fix. but engine would work. so I decided to sell off the attachments. and kept the engine. since its identical to a Troybilt I have. and carb will work on it and my Murray by MTD.
The Honda gx35-gx50's are really good And the Stihl 4 mix engines And the old Ryobi 890r's That's it on the 4 strokes. All others and offbrands are just pure garbage. I realized bc i can fix anything, but i cannot fix that cheap junk. Idk why they make parts so over priced on something so cheap. But hey i love the vids man, you give very clear explanations. I'm sure you've taught people with no mechanical experience how to fix things. Haha
"Fix it for my amusement" - I like that. I think the compression release is not working. If you can get around that cheaply, please continue to fix it. If no, keep it for parts.
Parts. Not worth the time and money for a "fragile" trimmer! Also, it appears the last owner decided to stop adding oil to the oil tank and opted to use it as a 2 cycle, so there was likely minor damage caused while running it that way. I do use mixed fuel in my older, more abused, lawn equipment. It assists with lubrication, albeit I do a very small mix, not even close to what an actual 2 cycle needs. However I do still fill the oil on them for proper lubrication haha
I wonder if something is internally wrong with the motor, causing it to not turn over easily. With it being low on oil when you got it, I wonder if it damaged the motor. I would keep it for parts and that's it. like you said they arent the most reliable trimmers.
I have a Troy Built similar to yours but mine has a primer bulb, Anyways I have never had any of my lawn equipment be such a pain in my butt as this one has just to get it started!
I came across same situation, fortunately I had a parts trimmer and was able to use the recoil off it. Only regreat is that this crap messed up my drill chuck, when I was trying to start with the drill adapter, hated it. If you by the recoil it might last a year or more, but with a $10 dollar profit 😂
you'll have to buy it used. www.ebay.com/itm/375716784577?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=evqa-JfHTUW&sssrc=2047675&ssuid=CRSArgw4RRu&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
That a tough call. Based on the condition of the machine, I would say to save it and wait for a parts machine with a good recoil. At the same time, the owner clearly had no idea how to properly maintain this machine, so it is highly likely that the engine is not in the best shape internally. The cosmetic condition is good enough to make this one worth saving if you can find a donor machine.
Thanks for posting this, now know to avoid this brand name and rebadged store brand in 4 cycle trimmers. At one time the original company by this name made great tillers, sadly like a long list of other names in outdoor power equipment, it too has been ruined. Plastic starter pawls, REALLY? Wonder how much they saved at the factory over metal? What isn't known here is how the previous owner treated it. Maybeee if you were very gentle on the starter, engage pawls first prior to pulling fast, they might last for a little while. Can't expect them to last anytime if the trimmer is going to have its cord yanked / drop started.
Listen a lot of this breaks down to 2 factors: 1. Crap QC at factories or 2. Poor ownership maintenance and operation. Most people buy these things and pull the string till it maxes. That’ll break them fast. 2 cycle is bad enough when people are putting oil in a 2 gallon container when the bottle is meant for 2.5. Now talk 4 stroke and expect people to check or god forbid change the oil? Or people leaving fuel in them over the winter… the issue is less the brand, and more the population of people going to the local Ace My Troybilt is 10yrs old and gets used daily for landscaping biz. I prefer 2 stroke, but got a steal on it and went for it.
I think they should have made a timing belt tensioner and a lip on the end of the cam pulley on the ryobis I like the Troy bilt engine design way bette
I think you're the 2nd or 3rd person to mention a timing belt on this model. I'm going to have to look at the diagram for this one, but I wasn't aware that they had one.
@INSIDE HOUSE GARAGE I might be mistaken i just took a look at a Troy bilt and they have a cam gear and crank gear no belt involved so I may be wrong but I as well seen the comments so I wasn't sure
Time to think out of the box here. In your local community look for what's called a maker community. Often these people get together and form a club (hive). Often someone in the club will have a 3d printer for metal. Ask them to print you one. Something similar happened to me when i lived in Allentown and the club there actually had a clubhouse. To have it printed only cost me $15,to buy what I needed new was $80.
I have one and like a mindless meathead I keep repairing it. I love the engine,, just can't stand everything else. I found a donor from my local lawnmower shop where several of these units were abandoned.
Also just like modern diesel engines/trucks - EPA keeps adding ridiculous regulations making them less and less reliable with more complicated, expensive parts replace. Multiple of those systems will also damage your engine in the long run.
Yikes! I'm happy to work on almost anything, but those 4T trimmers are the top of my $#!% list. I won't touch one with out that easy start. You have far more patience than me. I'd part out that pig in a hurry.
I have a 5 pull maximum on the MTD hand-held junk. If it doesn't start and run in 5 pulls, it gets thrown in my scrap pile - I don't even part them out. A new or like-new one of these brands here is a struggle to get $100. Echo/Stihl/Husquvarna, I'll keep plugging away. They move easily, but not these POS machines lol
@@mattwickert736 yeah know what you mean. Bought a C. brand trimmer at auction, suspect is an MTD made unit. Seller probably gave it three pulls before tossing on the auction bound trailer, lol. It took me about 15 pulls and surprise it started! Now starts and runs about as well as can be expected for an inexpensive emissions controlled trimmer.
fix it up and i,d get the recoil fixed up as it,s an easy fix and as for one of those starter paws i,d put a brand new E-Clip on there as it,s an easy fix etc.
I’d keep it and keep my eye out for other Troy Builts. After you get 2-3 (or more) maybe cannibalize the parts to get one that works. Then sell it...FAST😂
Now there should be oil at the end of the dipstick, but I'm not seeing any either XD. So the previous owner definitely took that hoopty to jiffy lube for the oil changes. They probably had a 50% off coupon and jiffy lube only filled it halfway. I can't believe both the jump starters broke. I wonder if it has backfired on startup before and that's what broke the recoil. What a piece of junk. I'd rather use my 9in cordless black and decker than one of these things lol
A fragile Troy-Bilt trimmer?! Say it ain't so! 😜 Not really sure what to recommend on this one...perhaps see if you could find a used pull starter? Is it possible that the woodruff key had partially sheared off? 🐺🔧
I agree with you spending money and time in these case it's not worth because these machine is 80%of 100% is dead to me if you spend all that time and money in it and it's not guaranteed to work
Troy Bilt is Built For Death nowadays, despite Built For Life promise, which is total bullshit. This is why I miss the good old Weed Eater GTI 15 days. I have a 30 year old WEED EATER GTI-15T and it still runs like day one. Yes I run it on 40:1 truffle premix. And still works like brand new. I had a troy bilt that didn't even last me close to two years prior to failure where I couldn't get it serviced.
That’s the whole thing with Troy Built.. IF you can get it started. IF you do, it’s gotta warm up for 10 minutes. Supposing it stays running the entire 10 minutes, you’ve basically got a small car engine. Then if you shut it off and try to restart it … within a few minutes- forget it. The 4 cycle has more power- I won’t dispute that- but you won’t get the speed like a 2 cycle and you’re gonna have this headache to deal with regularly. I’m not even sure why they make a 4 cycle small engine but I’d advise to stay away
I have 6 of the units you have in the video, 2 are operational. Shame on Troy-Bilt for such a "mickey mouse" starter design. What was wrong with the original? I believe they have returned to that original design. At least you have an alternative to electric start it & get some use out of it. I do like the curved shaft attachment on your unit.I have 2 of those & they make using that trimmer easier to use because it is longer than most other curved attachments & counter balances the weight. Also the head is easy to load because it is the Speed Feed design, just line the marking on the bump knob up with the arrows pointing to the eyelets, have 8-10 feet of line to push through the head & line equal amounts of line, then turn bump knob CCW to load the head. Also your electric srarter device, I have one of those too. Instructions on mine says to use only 4 sec at a time then a 120 sec cool down between uses. Very time consuming but you will notice there are no vent holes on that device so it can get hot quickly. Everyone have a blessed day.
Troybilt trimmers! I've used a lot of trimmers in 40 years. And I would love to see the grass and weeds I've cut all in one big pile. And a Troybilt is the only one that was shit straight out of the package. Not cheap either. Hell to start and couldn't keep it running. I finally took it to my long time small engine repair guy. He called me the next day to tell me they were checking it out and trying to diagnose when it blew the hell up. It was almost new and never abused in any way. Neither the dealer or Troybilt would make it right. Lesson.
thank you Brad Lane!
Many years ago, I had one 4 stroke Troy Bilt, that was a present from a friend. Didn't start well, and I asked the person at the local hardware store, super-busy, repairing these trimmers if I should bring it in. She told me, in plain English, that they don't even look at this brand for it is not repairable... After some time, I bought another one thinking that it may be better. It is an unfinished product and should not be in the stores.
I wouldn’t waste my time on a 4 cycle trimmer. Cost, weight and the noise they make is good enough to drop it.
I hear ya
If it was a Honda tho…
Maybe you need to send me a few of these I would take it 😂 seriously
Do a craftsman 4 cycle full tear down and re build your video are very informative
I have had the pleasure of dealing with two of these. One of them I owned (sadly), and the other one a friend owned, and I did a lot of yardwork for her. The one I owned lasted about 2 months of weekly use before the pull rope broke. I don't remember how, but I got it fixed before it broke again. I then threw that one in the trash as I didn't want to deal with it anymore, and I have an Echo trimmer which is loads better. The one our friend owned lasted 2 uses before the same thing happened. She bought one of those electric start things and used it for around a year until it quit wanting to stay running. I gave her an old Homelite SX-135 from 1997 which still runs better than that one ever did to this day.
It is funny how these have a serious design issue with the pull starter to where almost all of them break, and they just so happen to have that handy electric starter option. It is almost like they design it to break so you then go out and spend more money to buy one. But the companies would never do that right? they just wanted to be helpful and ad this feature because using the pull rope can be exhausting.
you are correct this are simply not worth it.
I bought a 4 stroke TB trimmer in 2009. It has been flawless every year. Sits from oct to may and has never failed to start and run. It's 2024.
nice!
Same here. It looked like only a retaining clip was needed for the pull start part. He squirted gas in the spark plug opening , ran it and then squirted it in the intake and then he had a hard time starting it. Could it be because he caused a hydro lock? Loosen/remove spark plug turn over motor and he would have relieved the hydro lock which was caused by too much gas in the cylinder.
I commented on the short covering this machine. I have the craftsman variant of one of these, and it is actually pretty reliable. The downsides being that if you follow the instructions on the side, it’s guaranteed that you will flood the engine, and weight, it’s heavy. A neighbor gave me an Echo SRM-210 recently because the starter was broken, it’s like a feather compared to the Craftsman.
I completely agree with you on this one.
I have a Troy Bilt 4 cycle, 15 years old and still runs. I have put a new carb on last year. I like it so there.
@@thomasaccuntius9946 It’s not a bad trimmer, it’s just on the heavy and kind of weak side.
I commented in the wrong thread about these Chinese Honda variants, I see this is old news here. The Craftsman/Senix 4 cycle could be good for a consumer who uses them less than 10 hours a season and needs to swing the heavier grade line but the hot start performance makes them difficult for many people. Parts availability makes them a poor choice for refurbishing and I can only imagine the issues you would have trying to warrant a used one.. On the other and the Husqvarna T35 head is a perfect fit for the Craftsman 74098 if you can find one relatively new for ~$100.
@@thomasaccuntius9946 Thanks for your perspective. Most of this power equipment started being made over seas during the mid aughts, and that is when the quality went to heck on roller skates. Regardless of where it was made you've done a good job taking care of yours.
My 4 cycle Troybilt is 16 years old. I have had some problems thru the years, but nothing I could not fix. IT STILL RUNS
very nice
I absolutely LOVE how sarcastic you were at the beginning XD! I was cracking up watching it.
Phew, that trimmer is definitely not worth fixing. Way too expensive, too heavy, just not worth it at all.
Hold onto it for parts and use them for other projects. That split boom shaft alone will fit many other engines!
Awesome video as usual IHG!
I really appreciate that, Jacob Feather!
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE hey mate do you have an email i could contact you about the blower carb you have
Just like Sears/Craftsman, they can engineer something cool/innovative, but then its all downhill once the penny pinchers get ahold of it.
true
The troybbilt 4 cycle and craftsman 4 cycle are the same. I have one of these and had the same problem
I have a Craftsman 4 cycle trimmer, not the same as Troy bilt / Craftsman illustrated here in the video, but I bought it 5 years ago and STILL use it regularly and I don't have any problems with it
@@samuelvelez1643nice, you must take care of it then - also using them regularly is good too, its when they sit is bad.
Use it for parts. Poulan, Ryobi, Craftsman, and Troy Bilt hand held equipment I do not enjoy working on at all. It is amazing how many people buy this cheap equipment and then try to keep it going rather than buy something that will work and perform so much better.
I know right, I'd love to ask them why they bought it.
There is a timing belt in the back of the front cover and when they go. They jump teeth and cause the engine to go out of time. And make it hard for the unit to run or start the belt for the valves is cheap but the way it's made is there is no TENSIONER
I thought aboutthat too, but it looked right when he turned it over with a rod down the plug hole.
Most likely it is just made to be bought and dumped, not to be used for anything.
Depending on how much time you spend to do a regular maintenance routine, 4 cycle trimmers can be good or bad....
you couldn't have it it any better
You could make a power starter using the freewheel part from an old style bike rear wheel.
yes you could
Love the videos I appreciate it all I have learned alot and started working on my own equipment and my family's thank you I saved alot money and know have some good experience thank you keep up the good work look forward to more videos
thank you I appreciate this comment Awesome JJ
@@ElectronicMusicUnderground haha I should do that great idea haha 🤣🤣🤣
I like to use a tiny bit of 2 cycle oil in my equipment. I have been Lucas fuel treatment every time I fill my tank on my crv. It runs smoother. I just believe a tiny bit of lubrication helps with modern fuel
nothing wrong with that at all, thank you Michael Miller
Troy Bilt sells brush cutter blades which some people use to cut overhead branches and hedges. 4 cycle motors have an oil sump that works better operating on the level. I think Stihl has 4 cycle models that also keep the piston rings lubricated with two cycle oil for that kind of duty. The braided metal flex shaft and clutch are reasonably durable on the 74098 Craftsman trimmer but the clutch is not lined like the Husqvarna so shock loads will take their tool in the hundreds of hours not thousands.
I own 2 of these trimmers . They are frustrating and a pain. When they work they work very well, but when they don't it takes a long time to get them to start and run again, no matter what you do. Both coils have broken within a few months of use. It takes the "battery operated{ starter to start them which also can be a pain ( have found using fuel with no ethanol works better in these as well )
Now matter what cleaning, what fuel, what adjustments it is a continued tampering and changing and tinkering to get them to run
For example last year after hours of "tinkering" I got one of them an older one with actual "choke and Run" manual switch to run and it did well last year. The one with the auto choke ( no manual switch ) would not start nor run no matter what I tried .
This year just a few weeks ago it is the total opposite, the older manual choke one will not start nor run no matter what I do, the one that I could never get to run last year, after a few simple adjustments runs like a top now, but for how long, who knows?!!
SO, I go back to old an reliable 2 cycle ones they run for hours with little issue , just give them a little TLC and they will run for years ....Lol
yes these are generally not got machines and to be honest not worth i. thank you Ed Will
Ha ha 🤣 I remember telling you several days ago about the crazy paw system on these Troy built trimmers. Also the one I had the new pawls broke after about a day's work. Also a big issue I had was I didn't understand the 4 cycle. On the box and everywhere else I saw it being used with a pole saw attached and others. Turns out you can't use it upright and it pisses me off because it was literally advertises as being used that way.
yes you're right, kind of misleading in the advertising, thank you Taylor Fenoglio
Or on its side for edging
@@Jim-ie6uf ya it's dumb. Wish I was more educated with it years ago.
I had someone give me a bunch of trimmers he tried to fix amd one is the same as this one but it is torn apart from the plastic not sure if it runs of not
theses are really not worth the effort to fix, they're just going to break again.
This might sound stupid, but when you checked the oil there wasn't any on the dip stick? Did you put oil in? Was there any at all in it? Sorry if I sound stupid, just curious.
no it's not a stupid question at all, yes there was oil in it, just not enough to show on the stick. Don't worry, I wasn't going to hurt it anymore than it already was.
0:20 I agree with this assessment.
thank you
My friend I would definitely use this one for parts. You're friend David
I appreciate that David Pruitt.
Good video. Keep it for Parts. Keep the coil, flywheel, switches and carb. Maybe keep the rod, if its not too bad.
thank you Saul Souza!
personally not a fan of keeping parts off these poorly manufactured pieces of equipment. Because usually the part which broke will be the one you need for the next one you encounter. Note one posted said they had to replace two coils.
I'm working on one of these now.
I skip a few steps and use Aero start straight into the carby first. If it fires, I know I have spark, and it will rum. I'll then put some fuel in the tank and see if it will prime and continue to run.
If not I then check the fuel tank for muck and check the filter. I usually take off the carb by now, if it won't continue to run, and check the diaphragm for flex and the fine mesh screen for blockage.
If it still won't stay running, you need to decide how far you want to go with it. Like you say this model is next to worthless.
I like your methods and yes, it's a real shame how little these are worth
What’s your cleaning solution mix? Great results!!
thanks, its a degreaser from Harbor Freight, I use it at 100 concentration no dilution
Just bought a drill adapter that works since the recoil failed twice.
Once that fails...dumpster time
agreed!
I fixed a straight shaft weed eater bulit by Troy bulit it was just bad gas that was the problem
nice work
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE the thing is what happened to that machine once it was returned to the original owner she passed away a couple of years ago
I'm sorry to hear that.
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE thanks for your reply on this matter of the passing of the lady that owned the weed eater that I had got running again
@inside house garage is cub cadet 4 cycle good?
No, not really, IF you want a 4cycle get a honda Trimmer
Had the same one, had the same problem
the problem is very common
I have a 2stroke tiller but it gives a lot of vibration. Do you know any solution for it. Also it runs very fast instead of digging.
can you tell me what the model is, that way I know what yours looks like thanks
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE its chinese made 3h.p. 2 stroke 1E48f engine 18"inch tilling width.
does it vibrate when the tiller is working, or just when the engine is running but the tiller is not working.
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE It vibrates when tiller is working.
Great video. Just like you said keep it for parts🙏👍🙏👍
that seems to be the best idea! thank you RayFpv!
only problem with keeping a garbage unit for "parts" is the distinct probability that the next unit like it which you acquire, will ALSO have the very same garbage part broken. Does no good to buy the garbage part new either, because it will soon break as well. I agree though, at least the video was GOOD!
I borrowed one of those from a friend once. The starting procedure was so frustrating that I just got my normal ten year old at the time stihl fixed. Just recently a friend of mine got one of those and it shit out within a few days of use. Complete junk.
yes they are
Part’s-n- scrap 👍
thank you peach sncream
It's a parts machine. On top of that, it has a curved shaft, a real pain in the back.
I know right!
Just picked up one of these trimmers for free, i can't undo the screws for the housing, what time of screwdriver do i need for those screws?
you mean the plastic housing around the engine? Should be a Torx bit either T20 or T25.
Would wait to find another one with a not broken clips
not just the clips, the fan assembly would be preferable
Great video! What is your experience on those engines in regards to ease of starting? I'm curious because I have a small sidewalk to edge and got one of those troy built edgers with that similar motor. I love it and I've had it for about 4 years, but its exhausting to start without one of those jump start adapters. Its almost like the rope has such a short pull it doesn't spin the engine fast enough or enough rotations. With the jump start adapter it starts immediately. Just curious if I'm the only one that has that issue?
when they're new they start just like the instructions say, but once they get a few years old they can be a real pain. I'd skip any trimmer that looks like this one. And no, you're not the only one experiencing this.
I have the exact model. Used it last year, put it up for the Winter, and never started again.
After a long search for anyone to repair it, I looked answers to why, no repair shop won't touch this thing.
Even Home Depot stopped selling them. I feel duped because I only used it 3 times!
What brand of trimmer do you recommend, that is easily serviceable?
you're asking a lot, Most repair shops only take in near commercial equipment to work on. I would get the Echo SRM-225, they'll work on them.
Unless I missed something, you checked the oil, found it low and then never added any....
Did you seize the engine trying to get it to run without oil?
no, I can still turn it by hand.
Where do you buy the recoil assembly, I've been looking for that exact one but no luck.
I'd buy it from Ereplacementparts dot com
Ive got a quick question for you. the grease inside of the shaft where also the bearings are when do you have to replace that grease and bearings? this is in a trimmer.
I have never replaced the grease or the shaft. If you have an old trimmer the has shaft wear or noise, it's just better to replace the entire trimmer or shaft.
Where's that website in the Pearland Texas area?
it's Craigslist
Parts, if common trimmer😊
I think you're on to something
I would just like to know what container you use for your fuel. I've tried squeeze bottles and the fuel just pours out the top..
are you talking about the bottles I use to spray fuel into the carbs? it has to be a vented chemical bottle.
Would plastic pawls work for this trimmer? I have a Troy-Bilt TB685EC that I'm fixing for a friend. Just missing starter pawls. I ordered pawls on eBay that are plastic that are SUPPOSED to fit. Rolling the dice right now.
I didn't think the design of the plastic pawls would even work in this application
What do you use to spray down equipment
I'm using a degreaser from Harbor Freight. It doesn't even have a proper name. It sounds more like an ad for an item from "wish"
What do you use in the bottle to clean it?
it's a degreaser from Harbor Freight
My Dad has this exact trimmer. He accidentally hit something with it at near top speed and it caused the driveshaft to break. He replaced the drive shaft but now it seems to run rough at anything above an idle. He seems to think it's outta time, but he doesn't know how to test his theory and he doesn't know how to adjust the timing. Any help is appreciated.
I've not dealt with that situation before, so I wouldn't be much help.
I have a Cub Cadet 4-cycle weed eater that won't start for the life of me! Even on starting fluid. I cleaned the spark plug. And I notice when I try to start it the pull rope doesn't have much resistance/tension. Nor does it sound like it wants to crank or start. I am lost... Don't know what to do or if it's even worth doing. What are your thoughts?
have you check the valve lash? And no, the way they're designed they won't "Feel Like" they have a lot of compression. Yes it's worth fixing until you figure out of the piston rings are worn out.
I'd have to let that one pass or find another for more parts. The way it was kicking back was not so good and it looked like when it did kick, it stripped the hex out of the end of the crank and killed the adapter too. Can't figure why the timing was that much off with that small of an engine. A 4-mix will do that if the valve clearance is off but that being a 4-cycle, it ought to start a lot easier. Sounds like Troy-bilt strikes again. Blessings
I know right! I do plan on looking at it some more just find out why it's doing what it's doing .
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE 10-4 on that. A crazy deal.
Did you top off the oil?
nope, I wasn't going to hurt it anymore than it already was.
Is that water that you used to clean it?
Degreaser and water yes..
do you think the push rod isn't 100 percent seated right? cause maybe while it's running it slips out and causes it to open the intake valve enough and cause it to backfire. that's all i can think of based off what i know from my troy bilt weed eaters. but i'm basing that off of my 2006 weed eaters. but the parts for them haven't changed much. and maybe that's why it's having issues turning over.
interesting, you are the first to offer up an idea!, thank you the big un.
i'm not 100% sure though. that's just what i've been thinking about.
I am about to work on the exact model trimmer. I left fuel in it over a year ago and I think,the carb is bad because it will not run on the fuel tank only by priming with either. I got a new carb and will try it! If all fails, it is bio degradable! Lol
hope it works out for you
Hey bro, what's up? Knowing you bro, I know that you'll do the best that you can to get this trimmer functional again with the least amount of money spent on replacement parts.
I really appreciate the comment, and I will certainly try what I can with this one.
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE knowing what the problem is with this trimmer, logically thinking here, I believe that some more diagnostic will need to be done to this trimmer.
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE you're welcome bro👍
I have 3 four cycle trimmers for my landscaping business and I haven’t had any problems for the 7 years I’ve had my business. I keep up on the maintenance as well.
But I do have a 2cycle one brought used I got working but then I sold it cause it didn’t have enough power I should have looked at this video back then before selling it lol
wow you're doing a great job maintaining them!
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE yes, a buddy of mines owns a landscaping business as well he always has troubles I told him start your monthly maintenance to yearly maintenance! I’m not saying the machines are perfect but just keeping up on them does help. I try not to stress the machines as well lol
I had a Craftsman 2 cycle one come my way , basically a troybilt. pull cord was screwed up. well needless to say. the pull cord wouldn't retract. it was plastics that warn on it and wasn't worth it to fix. but engine would work. so I decided to sell off the attachments. and kept the engine. since its identical to a Troybilt I have. and carb will work on it and my Murray by MTD.
thank you D Fields
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE MTD living up to is name
Made To Die
What is ot you ise to clean the machine ?
I use a degreaser.
The Honda gx35-gx50's are really good
And the Stihl 4 mix engines
And the old Ryobi 890r's
That's it on the 4 strokes. All others and offbrands are just pure garbage.
I realized bc i can fix anything, but i cannot fix that cheap junk.
Idk why they make parts so over priced on something so cheap.
But hey i love the vids man, you give very clear explanations. I'm sure you've taught people with no mechanical experience how to fix things. Haha
thank you I appreciate our insight.
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE Hey you know how to work on all these engines too, i'm sure you have some good recommendations by now. 🙂
Thanks for the vids
"Fix it for my amusement" - I like that. I think the compression release is not working. If you can get around that cheaply, please continue to fix it. If no, keep it for parts.
ah good idea!
Parts. Not worth the time and money for a "fragile" trimmer! Also, it appears the last owner decided to stop adding oil to the oil tank and opted to use it as a 2 cycle, so there was likely minor damage caused while running it that way.
I do use mixed fuel in my older, more abused, lawn equipment. It assists with lubrication, albeit I do a very small mix, not even close to what an actual 2 cycle needs. However I do still fill the oil on them for proper lubrication haha
I know right!
I wonder if something is internally wrong with the motor, causing it to not turn over easily. With it being low on oil when you got it, I wonder if it damaged the motor. I would keep it for parts and that's it. like you said they arent the most reliable trimmers.
you make a good point
I have a Troy Built similar to yours but mine has a primer bulb, Anyways I have never had any of my lawn equipment be such a pain in my butt as this one has just to get it started!
I know right
I came across same situation, fortunately I had a parts trimmer and was able to use the recoil off it. Only regreat is that this crap messed up my drill chuck, when I was trying to start with the drill adapter, hated it.
If you by the recoil it might last a year or more, but with a $10 dollar profit 😂
yes that make sense
I’m looking for a air filter assembly for this exact weed eater does anyone know where I can get one?
you'll have to buy it used.
www.ebay.com/itm/375716784577?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=evqa-JfHTUW&sssrc=2047675&ssuid=CRSArgw4RRu&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE thank you, do you think this will fit my model? Its the same as the video, thank you so much for replying
probably
i have one in the garage that is down for bad starter i cant find the parts either .
I feel for you, these are known for that.
I have three of them,there are junk never could figure out the routing of the fuel lines.
yes there's one extra line and it still confusing me as to what it's for, don't worry when I figure it out I'll let you know
If you can get the recoil sorted.. then just do that
that's the plan, If the recoil is fixable, it might be a decent trimmer, thank you Mick!
That a tough call. Based on the condition of the machine, I would say to save it and wait for a parts machine with a good recoil. At the same time, the owner clearly had no idea how to properly maintain this machine, so it is highly likely that the engine is not in the best shape internally. The cosmetic condition is good enough to make this one worth saving if you can find a donor machine.
I think your idea is very sound
Sounds like what I tell people up here in the rust belt when they have oil leaks on their car that’s just a self lubricating chassis system 😂
LOL!!
I would take off the engine, then save or get rid of the rest. The engine should be fine, right?
You make a good point, the engine should be fine.
What's the website called
I use FB marketplace and Craigslist
Thanks
I wonder if a cheaper brand has the same parts as the expensive brand
most times no, unless they are somehow related thru manufacturing. The other thing Is that the replacement part will have the same issue over time.
What’s the website?
Craigslist and FB Marketplace
Parts.
sounds about right
I'd dump it / store it in the rafters
good idea
Thanks for posting this, now know to avoid this brand name and rebadged store brand in 4 cycle trimmers. At one time the original company by this name made great tillers, sadly like a long list of other names in outdoor power equipment, it too has been ruined. Plastic starter pawls, REALLY? Wonder how much they saved at the factory over metal? What isn't known here is how the previous owner treated it.
Maybeee if you were very gentle on the starter, engage pawls first prior to pulling fast, they might last for a little while. Can't expect them to last anytime if the trimmer is going to have its cord yanked / drop started.
you're better off not having one of these.
Listen a lot of this breaks down to 2 factors: 1. Crap QC at factories or 2. Poor ownership maintenance and operation.
Most people buy these things and pull the string till it maxes. That’ll break them fast. 2 cycle is bad enough when people are putting oil in a 2 gallon container when the bottle is meant for 2.5. Now talk 4 stroke and expect people to check or god forbid change the oil? Or people leaving fuel in them over the winter… the issue is less the brand, and more the population of people going to the local Ace
My Troybilt is 10yrs old and gets used daily for landscaping biz. I prefer 2 stroke, but got a steal on it and went for it.
you said it all, thank you!
I think they should have made a timing belt tensioner and a lip on the end of the cam pulley on the ryobis I like the Troy bilt engine design way bette
I think you're the 2nd or 3rd person to mention a timing belt on this model. I'm going to have to look at the diagram for this one, but I wasn't aware that they had one.
@INSIDE HOUSE GARAGE I might be mistaken i just took a look at a Troy bilt and they have a cam gear and crank gear no belt involved so I may be wrong but I as well seen the comments so I wasn't sure
I see.
Time to think out of the box here. In your local community look for what's called a maker community. Often these people get together and form a club (hive). Often someone in the club will have a 3d printer for metal. Ask them to print you one. Something similar happened to me when i lived in Allentown and the club there actually had a clubhouse. To have it printed only cost me $15,to buy what I needed new was $80.
nice idea
I have one and like a mindless meathead I keep repairing it. I love the engine,, just can't stand everything else. I found a donor from my local lawnmower shop where several of these units were abandoned.
Thanks for sharing
Dang I wanted my money mine has the same issue they don't even sell them online or in stores anymore wtf?
I know right
Also just like modern diesel engines/trucks - EPA keeps adding ridiculous regulations making them less and less reliable with more complicated, expensive parts replace. Multiple of those systems will also damage your engine in the long run.
you are right about that, it's almost like they don't want these things around anymore.
Yikes! I'm happy to work on almost anything, but those 4T trimmers are the top of my $#!% list. I won't touch one with out that easy start. You have far more patience than me. I'd part out that pig in a hurry.
I completely understand the feeling, this one was purely for the pain of the experience.
I have a 5 pull maximum on the MTD hand-held junk. If it doesn't start and run in 5 pulls, it gets thrown in my scrap pile - I don't even part them out. A new or like-new one of these brands here is a struggle to get $100. Echo/Stihl/Husquvarna, I'll keep plugging away. They move easily, but not these POS machines lol
@@mattwickert736 yeah know what you mean. Bought a C. brand trimmer at auction, suspect is an MTD made unit. Seller probably gave it three pulls before tossing on the auction bound trailer, lol. It took me about 15 pulls and surprise it started! Now starts and runs about as well as can be expected for an inexpensive emissions controlled trimmer.
Part it out. Or take it back to the curb if space is short in supply.
agreed
Keep it for spare parts
thanks
Just give it to a trade school to teach mechanics skills
yes, they'll learn how not to design stuff then.
It’s a parts machine in my view.
that would make sense
Honda gx 25 and 35 are quiet powerful and reliable
yes they are and are 3 times the machines this one is.
fix it up and i,d get the recoil fixed up as it,s an easy fix and as for one of those starter paws i,d put a brand new E-Clip on there as it,s an easy fix etc.
actually the post for the pawls are also an issue, but I see your point.
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE true mate and yes you can buy them online or even locally by bringing the original one with you etc.
I’d keep it and keep my eye out for other Troy Builts. After you get 2-3 (or more) maybe cannibalize the parts to get one that works. Then sell it...FAST😂
sounds like a good plan, thank you Richard Taylor
I would think that with the money you got in to you got Watch That you don't go over The value of the machine thank you for the video
good advice
Now there should be oil at the end of the dipstick, but I'm not seeing any either XD. So the previous owner definitely took that hoopty to jiffy lube for the oil changes. They probably had a 50% off coupon and jiffy lube only filled it halfway. I can't believe both the jump starters broke. I wonder if it has backfired on startup before and that's what broke the recoil. What a piece of junk. I'd rather use my 9in cordless black and decker than one of these things lol
LOL!!!
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE deadd
Interesting
I thought it was
A fragile Troy-Bilt trimmer?! Say it ain't so! 😜
Not really sure what to recommend on this one...perhaps see if you could find a used pull starter? Is it possible that the woodruff key had partially sheared off? 🐺🔧
thank you Jonathan Sherwood
Looks like a parts machine to me.👍
thank you 1 Day At A Time
I agree with you spending money and time in these case it's not worth because these machine is 80%of 100% is dead to me if you spend all that time and money in it and it's not guaranteed to work
I know what you mean
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE but for som they don't have another option if they are in a bad cringe
You are better than that! You could see what was wrong right away.... it's a4 stroke. Lol
oh I plan to
Troy Bilt is Built For Death nowadays, despite Built For Life promise, which is total bullshit. This is why I miss the good old Weed Eater GTI 15 days. I have a 30 year old WEED EATER GTI-15T and it still runs like day one. Yes I run it on 40:1 truffle premix. And still works like brand new. I had a troy bilt that didn't even last me close to two years prior to failure where I couldn't get it serviced.
I wish I could get parts for my old weedeater.
@@INSIDEHOUSEGARAGE at least it showed some signs of life. I’m pretty sure you will eventually find parts for it.
That’s the whole thing with Troy Built.. IF you can get it started. IF you do, it’s gotta warm up for 10 minutes. Supposing it stays running the entire 10 minutes, you’ve basically got a small car engine. Then if you shut it off and try to restart it … within a few minutes- forget it. The 4 cycle has more power- I won’t dispute that- but you won’t get the speed like a 2 cycle and you’re gonna have this headache to deal with regularly. I’m not even sure why they make a 4 cycle small engine but I’d advise to stay away
I like this comment, the "IFS" should be new name for it. And yes this having to warm up as much as it needs is a bit ridiculous.
I have 6 of the units you have in the video, 2 are operational. Shame on Troy-Bilt for such a "mickey mouse" starter design. What was wrong with the original? I believe they have returned to that original design. At least you have an alternative to electric start it & get some use out of it. I do like the curved shaft attachment on your unit.I have 2 of those & they make using that trimmer easier to use because it is longer than most other curved attachments & counter balances the weight. Also the head is easy to load because it is the Speed Feed design, just line the marking on the bump knob up with the arrows pointing to the eyelets, have 8-10 feet of line to push through the head & line equal amounts of line, then turn bump knob CCW to load the head. Also your electric srarter device, I have one of those too. Instructions on mine says to use only 4 sec at a time then a 120 sec cool down between uses. Very time consuming but you will notice there are no vent holes on that device so it can get hot quickly. Everyone have a blessed day.
thank you Marlin Runions
That is a crappy design. Fixed one for a buddy with new pawls. He finally bought the starter for the drill
Quit while you're ahead..
yes you're right