Rotovator screaming

Discussion in 'Allotments Discussion' started by Denton Dave, Feb 12, 2017.

  1. Denton Dave

    Denton Dave Gardener

    Joined:
    Jul 5, 2014
    Messages:
    53
    Gender:
    Male
    Ratings:
    +20
    Hi all

    I started the Rotovator this afternoon and there was an awful screaming noise coming from the starter pull cord area. I stopped it pulled the cord that was jammed, then restarted and it appears to be OK It is only a small motor 3.5 hp any ideas what could cause this?

    Thanks

    Dave
     
    Denton Dave, Feb 12, 2017
    #1 Quote in Conversation
  2. Fat Controller

    Fat Controller 'Cuddly' Scottish Admin! Staff Member

    Joined:
    May 5, 2012
    Messages:
    29,786
    Gender:
    Male
    Occupation:
    Public Transport
    Location:
    At me 'puter, GCHQ Ashford Office, Middlesex
    Ratings:
    +57,148
    I haven't worked on one, but I would imagine that the pull cord rotates a sort of flywheel which has some sort of sprung clutch that releases once the engine has started; that being the case, it sounds to me as though this has stuck on, or failed to release when the engine started, hence the scream. I reckon that it will almost certainly be some sort of centrifugal device, so if the engine started running and was a bit slower than normal or the clutch springs were a bit slow to react (cold weather), that could well be the cause. If the problem has now cleared, I wouldn't worry too much about it.
     
    • Agree Agree x 5
      Fat Controller, Feb 12, 2017
      #2 Quote in Conversation
    • Denton Dave

      Denton Dave Gardener

      Joined:
      Jul 5, 2014
      Messages:
      53
      Gender:
      Male
      Ratings:
      +20
      "I wouldn't worry too much about it".
      Sounds good to me, it is well due for a service I will see if I can get some oil, do you know what oil should be used, I will probably require some other parts for it, I did struggle to get it going. It amazes me how it starts after being left in a shed for the winter.

      Thanks for the help
      Dave
       
      Denton Dave, Feb 14, 2017
      #3 Quote in Conversation
    • Fat Controller

      Fat Controller 'Cuddly' Scottish Admin! Staff Member

      Joined:
      May 5, 2012
      Messages:
      29,786
      Gender:
      Male
      Occupation:
      Public Transport
      Location:
      At me 'puter, GCHQ Ashford Office, Middlesex
      Ratings:
      +57,148
      If it is a two stroke, it probably doesn't have any oil in it - they generally have the oil mixed in with the fuel at a given ratio. Or were you referring to chain/gear oil? If so, I personally would use Hypoid EP80/90 if it is still available (should be). Servicing is pretty simple though; all you really need to do is check everything is clean, lubricate chains and drives, replace the spark plug and check that both LT and HT leads are secure and in good condition.
       
      Fat Controller, Feb 14, 2017
      #4 Quote in Conversation
    • Sandy Ground

      Sandy Ground Total Gardener

      Joined:
      Jun 10, 2015
      Messages:
      2,268
      Gender:
      Male
      Occupation:
      Making things of note.
      Location:
      Scania, Sweden
      Ratings:
      +5,373
      My advice as regards oil would be very careful as to choice. The correct type, viscosity and so on should be given in that unopened-by-males thing known as an instruction book.:snork: If one is not available, then use our old friend Google or contact whoever sells the machine new.

      If the engine is a 3,5hp Briggs and Stratton, be careful. Some older ones use a straight 30, other newer ones use a multigrade. Older engines tend to burn a lot of oil when multigrade is used, which is not good for the environment or the life of the engine!

      As regards gearboxes. A lot do use Hypoid oil, but some use engine oil. My Honda for example.

      So to repeat myself, check with the supplier or manufacturer first as to what should be used.
       
      • Like Like x 1
        Sandy Ground, Feb 15, 2017
        #5 Quote in Conversation
      • Denton Dave

        Denton Dave Gardener

        Joined:
        Jul 5, 2014
        Messages:
        53
        Gender:
        Male
        Ratings:
        +20
        Thanks all for the replies, I have looked on the internet quickly there is information available to looks like I will be able to get it back into good shape.

        Sandy, know what you mean about the manuals

        Thanks
        Dave
         
        Denton Dave, Feb 17, 2017
        #6 Quote in Conversation
      Loading...
      Similar Threads - Rotovator screaming
      1. Paullypaul

        Cheap but Efective Little Rotovator

        Paullypaul, Feb 11, 2015, in forum: Tools And Equipment
        Replies:
        3
        Views:
        933
        Fern4
        Feb 20, 2015
      2. raebhoop

        Rotovator?

        raebhoop, May 9, 2012, in forum: Tools And Equipment
        Replies:
        2
        Views:
        755
        JWK
        May 9, 2012
      3. David G

        Best time for using Rotovator

        David G, Sep 18, 2011, in forum: Tools And Equipment
        Replies:
        6
        Views:
        1,836
        David G
        Sep 19, 2011
      4. clueless1

        Good petrol tools (specifically brush cutter and rotovator)

        clueless1, Sep 3, 2011, in forum: Tools And Equipment
        Replies:
        22
        Views:
        6,104
        ixithepatriot
        Sep 12, 2011
      5. davygfuchsia

        Rotovator Bargain

        davygfuchsia, Mar 15, 2011, in forum: General Gardening Discussion
        Replies:
        3
        Views:
        818
        davygfuchsia
        Mar 17, 2011

      Share This Page

      1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
        By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
        Accept Learn More...
        Dismiss Notice