Replacing Fuel On Bolens Bl110: A Step-By-Step Guide

The Bolens BL110 is a 2-cycle gas trimmer that requires a fuel/oil ratio of 40:1 for proper engine operation and maximum reliability. The fuel tank should be filled with fresh, clean unleaded fuel and the oil used should be a good 2-cycle oil designed for air-cooled engines. It is recommended to use the Bolens 2-cycle oil with this unit as the bottle contains a fuel additive that inhibits corrosion and minimizes gum deposits. If the Bolens oil is unavailable, a fuel additive such as STA-BIL Gas Stabilizer should be added to the fuel. The fuel and oil should be thoroughly mixed in a separate fuel can before being added to the trimmer.

Fuel and oil mixing instructions

Old and/or improperly mixed fuel are the main reasons for the Bolens BL110 not running properly. To ensure optimal performance, it is important to use fresh, clean unleaded fuel and follow the mixing instructions carefully.

Blended Fuels

Today's fuels are often a blend of gasoline and oxygenates such as ethanol, methanol, or MTBE (ether). Alcohol-blended fuel can absorb water, and even a small amount of water (as little as 1%) in the fuel can cause the fuel and oil to separate, forming acids during storage. Therefore, when using alcohol-blended fuel, it is recommended to use fresh fuel that is less than 60 days old.

If you choose to use blended fuel or it is unavoidable, follow these precautions:

• Always use the fresh fuel mix as explained in the operator's manual.
• Always agitate the fuel mix before fuelling the unit.
• Drain the tank and run the engine dry before storing the unit.

Fuel Additives

The 2-cycle oil that comes with the Bolens BL110 contains a fuel additive that helps inhibit corrosion and minimize the formation of gum deposits. It is recommended to use this 2-cycle oil with the unit. However, if it is unavailable, you can use a good 2-cycle oil designed for air-cooled engines, along with a fuel additive such as STA-BIL® Gas Stabilizer or an equivalent.

Add 0.8 oz. (23 ml.) of fuel additive per gallon of fuel according to the instructions on the container. NEVER add fuel additives directly to the unit's fuel tank.

Mixing Instructions

For proper engine operation and maximum reliability, pay strict attention to the oil and fuel mixing instructions on the 2-cycle oil container. Using improperly mixed fuel can severely damage the engine.

Thoroughly mix the proper ratio of 2-cycle engine oil with unleaded gasoline in a separate fuel can. Use a 40:1 fuel/oil ratio. Do not mix them directly in the engine fuel tank.

One gallon (3.8 litres) of unleaded gasoline mixed with one 3.2 oz. (95 ml.) bottle of 2-cycle oil makes a 40:1 fuel/oil ratio.

Safety Precautions

Gasoline is extremely flammable. Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before filling the fuel tank. Do not smoke while filling the tank, and keep sparks and open flames away from the area. Remove the fuel cap slowly to avoid injury from fuel spray. Never operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place.

Add fuel in a clean, level, and well-ventilated outdoor area. Wipe up any spilled fuel immediately. Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Do not start the engine until fuel vapours dissipate.

Fueling the unit

• Turn the unit on its side, with the fuel cap facing up, and remove the fuel cap.
• Place the gas container's spout into the fill hole on the fuel tank and fill the tank.
• Note: Do not overfill the tank.
• Wipe up any gasoline that may have spilled.
• Reinstall the fuel cap.
• Move the unit at least 30 ft. (9.1 m) from the fueling source and site before starting the engine.

Starting instructions

• Mix the fuel with oil. Use a 40:1 fuel/oil ratio. One gallon of unleaded fuel mixed with one 3.2 oz bottle of 2-cycle oil will give you the correct ratio.
• Fill the fuel tank with the fresh fuel mix. There is no need to turn the unit on as the On/Off Control is always in the ON position.
• Fully press and slowly release the primer bulb 10 times. You should be able to see some fuel in the primer bulb. If not, keep pressing and releasing the bulb until you can.
• Place the choke lever in Position 1.
• Crouch down in the starting position and squeeze the throttle control lever. Now, pull the starter rope 5 times.
• Move the choke lever to Position 2.
• Continue to squeeze the throttle control and pull the starter rope in a controlled motion 3 to 5 times to start the engine.
• Keep the throttle squeezed and let the engine warm up for 30 to 60 seconds.
• Continue squeezing the throttle control and move the choke lever to Position 3. Allow the engine to warm up for an additional 60 seconds. The unit can be used during this time.

If the engine hesitates, return the choke lever to Position 2 and continue warming up. If the engine does not start, go back to step 3. If the engine still fails to start after a few attempts, place the choke lever in Position 3, squeeze the throttle control, and pull the starter rope 3 to 8 times. The engine should start. If it doesn't, repeat the process.

If the engine is already warm, start the unit with the choke lever in Position 2. After the unit starts, move the choke lever to Position 3.

Stopping instructions

• Release the throttle control and allow the engine to cool down by idling.
• Press and hold the On/Off Control switch in the OFF (O) position until the unit comes to a complete stop.

WARNING: Always wear eye, hearing, foot and body protection to reduce the risk of injury when operating the unit.

Before operating the unit, stand in the operating position. Check for the following:

• The operator is wearing eye protection and proper clothing.
• With a slightly-bent right arm, the operator's hand is holding the shaft grip.
• The operator's left arm is straight, the left hand holding the D-handle.
• The unit is at waist level.
• The cutting head is parallel to the ground and easily contacts the grass without the need to bend over.

Troubleshooting

Fuel and Oil Issues

Old, improperly mixed, or stale fuel is the main reason for trimmer malfunction. Always use fresh, clean, unleaded fuel and follow the oil and fuel mixing instructions carefully. Fuel containing greater than 15% ethanol will likely damage the engine and void the warranty.

Fuel Leakage

If you notice fuel leaking from the carburetor intake, it could be due to a faulty diaphragm. Try cleaning or replacing the carburetor.

Faulty Spark Plug

A fouled spark plug can cause the engine to die unexpectedly. Inspect and replace the spark plug if necessary.

Clogged Fuel Filter

A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow and cause the engine to stall. Check the fuel filter and replace it if needed.

Air Leaks

Check for any air leaks around gaskets or seals. Leaks can lead to insufficient fuel/air mixture, causing the engine to stall.

Carburetor Adjustment

The carburetor's adjustment screws are very sensitive and can affect engine performance. Make sure they are set correctly according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Fuel Line Issues

If your fuel lines are rotted or damaged, replace them with new ones. Ensure the lines are connected correctly to the fuel tank and carburetor.

Fuel Additives

Using fuel additives can help inhibit corrosion and minimize the formation of gum deposits. Use a fuel additive such as STA-BIL® Gas Stabilizer, adding 0.8 oz. (23 ml.) per gallon of fuel.

Trimmer Line Issues

If the trimmer line won't feed or releases too much line, check the cutting head for any foreign matter or entanglements. Tap the Bump Head™ on bare ground or hard soil to release more line.

Engine Won't Start

If the engine won't start, ensure you've followed the proper starting instructions, including priming the bulb, setting the choke lever, and pulling the starter rope correctly.

Warming Up the Engine

During the warm-up phase, keep the throttle squeezed and move the choke lever through the different positions as per the instructions.

Engine Stops Unexpectedly

If the engine stops while operating, release the throttle control and allow it to cool down by idling. Ensure you are using the correct fuel/oil mixture and that the spark plug is in good condition.

Remember to always refer to the operator's manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions when performing any maintenance or troubleshooting tasks on your Bolens BL110 trimmer.

Frequently asked questions