12 Series 4180 Powerhead
4.5 Engine
– Always check and, if necessary, 
repair the following parts before 
looking for faults on the engine:
– Air filter
– Fuel system
– Carburetor
– Ignition system
Condition Cause Remedy
Engine does not start easily, stalls 
at idle speed, but operates normally 
at full throttle
Check compression Check combustion chamber for 
excessive build-up of combustion 
deposits,
check condition of valves and valve 
clearances
Gasket on carburetor spacer flange 
leaking
Install new gasket
Decompression lever sticking Install new cam gear
Muffler carbonized Clean muffler, or replace if 
necessary
Crankcase damaged (cracks) Replace the crankcase
Engine does not deliver full power 
or runs erratically
Secondary air seepage through 
faulty gaskets on spacer flange 
Install new gaskets
Piston rings worn or broken Install new piston rings
Muffler / spark arresting screen 
carbonized
Clean muffler (inlet and exhaust 
openings), replace spark arresting 
screen (if fitted)
Air filter element dirty Fit new air filter element
Fuel/impulse hose severely kinked 
or damaged
Fit new hoses or position them free 
from kinks
Pump diaphragm torn Install new pump diaphragm
Decompression lever sticking Install new cam gear