Grass Trimmer & Brushcutter

How to start a grass trimmer or brushcutter

Starting your Husqvarna grass trimmer or brushcutter correctly ensures smooth operation and prevents engine issues.

The exact steps may vary slightly by model, but the basic process is the same.

Quick answer

Most petrol grass trimmers and brushcutters follow this sequence:

  1. Prime the fuel (primer bulb)
  2. Set the choke
  3. Pull starter cord until engine fires
  4. Adjust choke and start fully

Watch the video below for the easiest way to follow this process.

Watch: How to start a grass trimmer and brushcutter

Different models may vary slightly — follow the method closest to your machine

Safety first

Before starting:

  • Place the machine on the ground
  • Ensure that the cutting attachment is not touching anything
  • Hold machine firmly
  • Wear protective equipment — gloves and protective eyewear

Starting on the ground prevents accidental movement when the engine fires.

Step-by-step: cold start

How to cold start (engine not running)

Press the primer bulb

  • Press the bulb several times until it fills with fuel

This helps fuel reach the carburettor and reduces the number of pulls needed.

Set the choke to “start” position

  • Move the choke lever to the cold start position

The choke enriches the fuel mixture for starting.

Pull the starter cord

  • Pull until the engine “fires” or tries to start

Move choke to run position

  • Switch the choke off (or to half position if applicable)

Pull again to start fully

  • Pull the cord until the engine starts and runs

Warm start

How to warm start (engine recently used)

If engine is already warm:

  • Skip priming (in most cases)
  • Set choke to run position
  • Pull starter cord until engine starts

Warm engines require less fuel enrichment.

Common starting problems (quick fixes)

  • Choke still on — move to run position
  • Not enough fuel — prime again

Hard to pull starter cord

  • Check for engine resistance or blockage
  • Ensure correct starting position

Tips for easier starting

  • Use fresh fuel
  • Prime correctly before starting
  • Do not overuse the choke
  • Follow the correct sequence every time

Correct starting procedure reduces wear and improve reliability.

Still having trouble?

If your product does not start after several attempts:

  • Repeat the full starting sequence
  • Check fuel quality or spark plug
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