Small Earth Auger Engine Starting Procedure – How to Start Your Small Handheld Earth Auger Safely and Efficiently

Whether you’re planting trees or installing fence posts, starting your small handheld earth auger correctly is essential for safety and performance. Follow this step-by-step guide to get your portable earth auger engine running smoothly.
1. Pre-Start Setup for Your Small Handheld Earth Auger
Before starting your small earth auger, ensure the following:
- Turn the fuel valve to the ON position
- Set the choke lever to the OPEN position
These steps help prepare the auger engine for smooth ignition, especially in cold weather or after long storage.
2. Engine Starting Process
To safely start your mini handheld auger, follow these steps:
- Pull the starter cord firmly to ignite the engine
- Wait for a stable idle speed, then turn off the choke
- Control the throttle carefully: Avoid excessive throttle to prevent engine flooding
Starting the engine properly ensures longer life and consistent performance for your handheld post hole digger.
3. Failed Start? Try This Troubleshooting Procedure
If your portable earth auger doesn’t start, use this quick fix method:
- Pause for 30 seconds to let the fuel system reset
- Remove the spark plug, clean it, and re-tighten it
- Restart the engine using moderate throttle
This method can resolve most cold start or flooding issues in small earth auger engines.
Safety Tip
Always let the engine cool down before performing any maintenance—especially when handling the spark plug—to avoid burn injuries.