Skip to main content

Welcome to the Hawksmoor Trouble Shooter

How do I start my Petrol Hedge Trimmer

Created by Chris McHale, Modified on Tue, 30 Jun at 3:26 PM by Chris McHale

Quick Answer

Starting your petrol hedge trimmer depends on whether the engine is cold or warm. For a cold engine, use the choke and primer bulb before pulling the starter cord. For a warm engine, leave the choke in the Run position and pull the starter cord until the engine starts.


⚠️ Safety Notice

Before starting your hedge trimmer:

  • Read and understand the user manual.
  • Check that the cutting blades are clear of any obstructions.
  • Ensure all guards are correctly fitted.
  • Start the hedge trimmer on a flat, stable surface.
  • Keep bystanders and pets at a safe distance.
  • Never start the machine indoors or in an enclosed area, as exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide.

Cold Start Procedure

Use this procedure when starting the hedge trimmer for the first time of the day or after it has been left unused for an extended period.

Step 1: Set the Start/Stop Switch

Move the Start/Stop switch to the START position.

Step 2: Apply Full Choke

Move the choke lever to the Full Choke position (diagonal line symbol).

This reduces airflow and enriches the fuel mixture, making a cold engine easier to start.

Step 3: Prime the Fuel System

Press the primer bulb approximately 7 times, or until fuel can be seen flowing through the bulb.

Step 4: Position the Machine Safely

Place the hedge trimmer on a flat, stable surface.

Hold the front handle firmly with your left hand.

Step 5: Pull the Starter Cord

Using your right hand, pull the starter cord sharply until the engine attempts to start.

Step 6: Move the Choke to the Run Position

As soon as the engine attempts to fire, move the choke lever to the Run position (vertical line symbol).

Step 7: Start the Engine

Pull the starter cord again until the engine starts and runs.

Step 8: Allow the Engine to Warm Up

Allow the engine to idle for 15–30 seconds before operating the hedge trimmer.


Warm Start Procedure

Use this procedure when restarting the hedge trimmer shortly after it has been switched off.

Step 1: Set the Start/Stop Switch

Move the Start/Stop switch to the START position.

Step 2: Set the Choke to Run

Ensure the choke lever is in the Run position (vertical line symbol).

Step 3: Start the Engine

Pull the starter cord until the engine starts and runs normally.


Control Guide

ControlFunction
Start PositionEnables the engine to start and run
Stop PositionStops the engine
Full Choke (Diagonal Line)Used when starting a cold engine
Run Position (Vertical Line)Normal operating position
Primer BulbPumps fuel into the carburettor
Starter CordStarts the engine

Safety Information

Do not operate the hedge trimmer with the choke left in the Full Choke position once the engine is running.

Always move the choke to the Run position after the engine attempts to start. Leaving the choke on can flood the engine, reduce performance, and make restarting more difficult.


Frequently Asked Questions

Why won't my petrol hedge trimmer start?

Check that the start/stop switch is in the START position, the fuel tank contains the correct fuel mixture, the engine has been primed, and the correct starting procedure has been followed.

How many times should I press the primer bulb?

Press the primer bulb approximately 7 times, or until you can see fuel flowing through it.

Should I use the choke every time I start the hedge trimmer?

No. Use the choke only when starting a cold engine. For a warm restart, leave the choke in the Run position.

What happens if I leave the choke on?

Leaving the choke in the Full Choke position after the engine starts can flood the engine, causing poor performance or preventing it from restarting.

How long should I let the engine warm up?

Allow the engine to idle for 15–30 seconds before beginning work.


Was this article helpful?

That’s Great!

Thank you for your feedback

Sorry! We couldn't be helpful

Thank you for your feedback

Let us know how can we improve this article!

Select at least one of the reasons
CAPTCHA verification is required.

Feedback sent

We appreciate your effort and will try to fix the article