OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Repairs and Maintenance Questions on Trimmers and Brushcutters Two Stroke Trimmers & Brushcutters Tanaka TBC-200

HI
My Tanaka worked for years without fault, until it neded some maintenance. Had it to 3 different shops. They seem to fix it and it goes for a while, then different problems creep up. Now it runs OK for about 10 mins, or if I drive it harder less than that. It then cuts out, and I can't get it restarted. Doesn't seem to matter is its on its side or upright - just cuts out, and wont start. Any idea where to start please.....Ta

Paul,

Have you tried to see if you have spark when it stops because if you don't it could be the coil breaking down when hot.

Did you ask the 3 different shops who fixed it what the problem was and how they fixed it?

Thank you both for the replies.
Bruce... I will check out the coil, when it stops next.
Dario... The first repair centre couldn't answer my questions because the repairman wasn't there when I picked the machine up, the problems (& repairs) were just listed on the repair sheet. The second place I had the edger too (twice) said that separate issues were found.

Hi Paul, and a warm welcome to the OutdoorKing forum. It's great to have you aboard.
It sounds like you're not having too much luck with the repair centres, so it may be time to take things into your own hands...literally. We all like to learn new things and tinker here.
The problem, being an intermittent one, can be a bit tricky to diagnose, but Bruce may have nailed it right from the outset with an over-heated coil, and that is a good place to start. Without spark it won't run...

Please let us know how you get on there, if that is not the issue, we will start the diagnostic process with you. We will get to the bottom of it, with your help....and give you the self satisfaction that you have done it yourself!

HI ALL and thanks for the guidance to date.
Had another go at the edging last weekend.
Again the edger started as usual, and stopped abruptly once warm.
I had some time to note a few details.
1. The spark plug is a CJ7 - looking at the spark plug guide, it seems the machine could do with a CJ8.
Am I correct with that observation ?
2. Also checked the spark in relation to the coil. Still have spark, so I don't think its the coil.
Further guidance please.
Pul

Paul,

1. The plug should be a CJ8 or BM6A.
2. Try replacing the fuel filter in the tank
3. Remove the muffler and check carbon build up in port as well as the exhaust outlet on muffler.

Try this stuff first and then we will go from there.

Hi
Think we are onto a good thing.
Changed the plug to CJ8. Didn't like to start when it was cold, but when it started it didn't stop at least.
Also had a look at the fuel and the filter. The fuel was dirty - need to ask a question about what type we should be using - with what ratio of oil.
Changed the fuel to PULP with fresh oil.
Went like a charm, but it sounds different. Revs differently is the best way I can describe it. Almost sounds like a radio control car/boat/plane. Had 4 wires on the cutting head. Took 2 off, so that I would cut quicker, with more grunt.
Anything else I need to check (except for the fuel type and oil mix) ?

Thanks
Paul

Paul,

The fuel oil ratio is 25 to 1 and please replace the fuel filter in the tank. Click HERE for the fuel filter.

HI.
I sent through a PM for details for repairs.
I'm over it! Is it time for the mechanic?.

Before the cord snapped, it took many pulls to get it going.
It would then work for several minutes and then stall. Easy to restart.

Is there somewhere I can send it to be fixed, or somewhere I can drip it off?

Paul

Paul,

Click HERE for the dealer closest to you.

Need some more advice please.
Took the edger to a repairer. He is a backyard guy that looks after some of the local commercial operators.
He said that there were too many problems to fix and probably not worth it.
Problems stated
Engine wear - he didn't think he could warranty his work
Pull cord broken
Clutch on pull cord needs replacement
Needs new carburetor kit
petrol filter replacement.
And there was something else that I can't remember.
He also stated that once those things start to go, there is more likelihood of other parts breaking down.
The machine is about 12-14years old. But not really seen too much hard work.

My assumption was that Tanaka's were fixable.
Any thoughts

Thanks
Paul

I guess the cost for him to repair those issues is what made him come to that conclusion. You can buy entry level straight shaft Tanakas for a touch over $300, new machine 5 years warranty versus perhaps half that in repairs on a 12-14 year old machine.

The biggest call in his list is engine wear. Without defining that he could be referring to low compression.

Whilst they are repairable, I would say at that number of years it has given good service. Out of curiousity would this be the first time it has been to a mechanic for a check/ air cleaner maintenance etc?

Thanks Aldot
No. not the first time.
I had the machine to 3 people before this last fellow. I'm not even sure why he thought that there was engine wear, it could have been his impression rather than evidence.

The reason it was 3 others, was that none of them ever fixed the machine properly.
The machine went back for problems never seen before they worked on it. For example the last person (that had the machine twice), didn't even replace with the correct spark plug. I had to do that myself after joining the forum.
I would like to get it repaired, but finding someone that works on Tanaka's or someone more reputable would be ideal to find.
Paul