MECH-DIES-THROTTLE
Craftsman · WS210 17 in 25.4 cc 2-Cycle Gas String Trimmer
The trimmer engine idles but stalls or bogs down when the throttle trigger is squeezed or when cutting into vegetation. Causes: (1) Clogged fuel filter — the fuel filter cannot supply enough fuel at high RPM. Replace. (2) Carburetor adjustment — the High-speed (H) jet is set too lean, starving the engine of fuel under load. Turn the H screw counterclockwise (richer) in 1/8-turn increments while the engine is at full throttle. (3) Clogged spark arrestor — carbon deposits block the exhaust screen. Remove from the muffler and clean with a wire brush or torch. (4) Air filter dirty — restricts airflow at high RPM. Clean or replace. (5) Fuel lines deteriorating — 2-cycle fuel degrades rubber fuel lines from the inside. Cracked or soft fuel lines allow air to enter the fuel system, leaning the mixture. Replace both the inlet and return fuel lines. (6) Carburetor diaphragms worn — the metering diaphragm and pump diaphragm in the carburetor harden and crack with age, preventing proper fuel delivery. A carburetor rebuild kit ($8-$15) includes new diaphragms and gaskets. (7) Exhaust port carbon — on older trimmers, carbon deposits in the exhaust port restrict flow and reduce power.
Error MECH-DIES-THROTTLE on the Craftsman WS210 17 in 25.4 cc 2-Cycle Gas String Trimmer means: Engine Stalls at Full Throttle or When Cutting. The top-ranked community fix is “Rebuild Carburetor and Replace Fuel Lines” (hard difficulty, ~90 min, DIY cost: $15-$25). 2 community-ranked fixes available below.
Published February 2026 · 2 fixes · string trimmer
Content is based on manufacturer service documentation, community repair experience, and OEM technical bulletins. Always verify with your owner's manual.Learn about our editorial standards.
While many string trimmer repairs can be done safely at home, consider hiring a qualified technician if:
Average professional repair cost for this issue: $150-$220.
Trimmer Line Will Not Advance or Feeds Continuously
Engine Overheating — Loss of Power and Potential Seizure
Pull Cord Breaks or Will Not Retract
Excessive Vibration — Uncomfortable to Operate
Trimmer Engine Will Not Start
The Craftsman WS210 17 in 25.4 cc 2-Cycle Gas String Trimmer has 5 other known error codes:
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