To start the edger, make sure the cutting head is disengaged, turn on the engine shut off switch, open the fuel shut off valve, set the choke to the closed position and the throttle to the fast position. Slowly pull the recoil starter until engine compression makes pulling difficult. Let the starter rewind a little, and then pull smoothly and quickly to start the engine. Repeat as needed. Close the choke when the engine starts and set the throttle to full fast before operating the unit.