Leaf Blower

How to clean a spark plug on a leaf blower

A clean spark plug helps your Husqvarna leaf blower start easily, run smoothly and maintain full power.

If the spark plug becomes dirty or covered with carbon deposits, the engine may run poorly or fail to start.

Quick answer

To clean a leaf blower spark plug:

  1. Remove the spark plug
  2. Inspect it for dirt, carbon buildup or damage
  3. Clean the electrode with a wire brush
  4. Reinstall or replace the spark plug if needed

A dirty spark plug is a common cause of starting and performance problems.

Safety first

  • Wear protective gloves
  • Turn off the blower and let it cool completely
  • Disconnect the spark plug cap before maintenance
  • Work in a clean, well-ventilated area

When should you clean the spark plug?

Check the spark plug if your blower:

  • Is difficult to start
  • Loses power
  • Runs unevenly at idle speed
  • Uses more fuel than usual
  • Produces excessive smoke

These are common signs of spark plug contamination or wear.

What you need

  • Protective gloves
  • Wire brush
  • Spark plug wrench or combi spanner
  • Clean cloth

Check your operator’s manual for the correct spark plug type and size.

How to clean the spark plug

Learn how to clean a leaf blower’s spark plug

Access the spark plug

  • Remove the cover if needed
  • Pull the spark plug cap and wire off carefully

Before removing the spark plug:

  • Clean away dirt and debris around the area
  • Check for corrosion on the contact point

Remove the spark plug

Use a spark plug anticlockwise carefully.

  • Turn the spark plug anticlockwise carefully
  • Remove it slowly to avoid damage

Inspect the spark plug

Check for:

  • Carbon buildup
  • Dirt or oil deposits
  • Cracks or damage
  • Worn electrodes

What the deposit can mean:

  • Black carbon buildup → fuel or airflow issues
  • Wet spark plug → flooding or excess fuel
  • Damaged electrode → spark plug replacement needed

Clean the spark plug

Use a wire brush to gently clean:

  • The electrode
  • Contact points
  • Carbon deposits

Avoid using excessive force that could damage the electrode.

Check the spark plug gap

An incorrect spark plug gap can affect starting and engine performance.

  • Measure the gap using a feeler gauge
  • Adjust carefully if needed

How to check a leaf blower spark plug gap

Reinstall the spark plug

  • Thread the spark plug back into the engine carefully
  • Tighten firmly but do not overtighten
  • Reattach the spark plug cap until it clicks into place

When should you replace the spark plug?

Replace the spark plug if:

  • It is cracked or damaged
  • Electrodes are heavily worn
  • Carbon buildup cannot be cleaned
  • Performance issues continue after cleaning

Regular spark plug maintenance helps improve engine reliability and performance.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Cleaning the spark plug while the engine is hot
  • Damaging the electrode with tools
  • Overtightening the spark plug
  • Ignoring the spark plug gap
  • Reinstalling a damaged spark plug

Still having performance issues?

If your blower still:

  • Struggles to start
  • Loses power
  • Runs unevenly
  • Smokes excessively

Check:

  • Air filter condition
  • Fuel quality
  • Spark arrestor
  • Fuel mixture
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