Introduction
The Husqvarna 570BTS is a widely popular gas-powered leaf blower favored by homeowners and light commercial users for its balance of power, durability, and ease of use. With a 25.4cc 2-stroke engine delivering 500 CFM of air volume and 200 MPH of air speed, it handles everything from light grass clippings to thick, wet leaf piles with minimal effort. If you’re searching for How to Start Husqvarna Leaf Blower 570bts?, you’re not alone: many new users find the starting process confusing, especially if they’re unfamiliar with 2-stroke engine equipment. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of starting your 570BTS, from pre-start safety checks and proper fueling to cold and warm start procedures, troubleshooting common issues, and maintaining your blower for long-term performance. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to start your 570BTS quickly and safely, every time.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Your Husqvarna 570BTS Leaf Blower
- Pre-Start Safety Checks
- Fueling Your 570BTS Correctly
- Cold Start Procedure for the 570BTS
- Warm Start Procedure
- Adjusting Performance Settings
- Comparison: 570BTS vs. Other Husqvarna Leaf Blower Models
- Common Starting Issues and Fixes
- Tips for Extending Your 570BTS’s Lifespan
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Understanding Your Husqvarna 570BTS Leaf Blower
Before diving into the starting process, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with the key components of your 570BTS, as each plays a role in getting the engine running smoothly. Unlike electric leaf blowers, the 570BTS uses a 2-stroke gasoline engine, which requires a specific fuel and oil mixture to operate. Its lightweight design (weighing just 10.8 lbs) and ergonomic handle make it comfortable to use for extended periods, while the adjustable throttle gives you precise control over air speed for different tasks.
Key Components of the 570BTS
Knowing the location and function of these parts will make the starting process far less intimidating:
- Primer Bulb: A small rubber bulb on the carburetor that pumps fuel into the engine before starting, essential for cold starts.
- Choke Lever: A switch that restricts air flow to the engine, enriching the fuel mixture for easier cold starting. It should be fully open for warm starts and running conditions.
- Throttle Trigger: The lever under the handle that controls engine speed. Squeezing it increases air output, while releasing it returns the engine to idle.
- Fuel Tank: Holds the pre-mixed 2-stroke fuel. The tank cap is located on the side of the blower housing, near the handle.
- Air Filter: A foam or paper filter that prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine. A clogged air filter is one of the most common causes of hard starting.
- Spark Plug: Generates the spark that ignites the fuel mixture in the engine cylinder. A worn or dirty spark plug will prevent the engine from starting.
- Start Cord: The pull cord attached to the recoil starter, used to crank the engine to life.
Pre-Start Safety Checks
Skipping pre-start safety checks can lead to injury, equipment damage, or even fire. Taking 2 minutes to complete these checks before every use will keep you safe and ensure your 570BTS starts reliably.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Always wear the following gear before operating your leaf blower:
- Safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris
- Ear protection to prevent hearing damage from the blower’s loud operation
- Work gloves to improve grip and protect your hands from vibration and cold weather
- Closed-toe shoes with non-slip soles to prevent falls and protect your feet from debris
- Long pants and a long-sleeved shirt to protect your skin from scratches and debris
Workspace and Blower Inspection
Before starting, inspect both your workspace and the blower itself:
- Place the blower on a flat, stable surface free of debris, rocks, or other obstacles that could cause it to tip when starting.
- Check the fuel tank and fuel lines for leaks, cracks, or damage. If you smell gas or see visible leaks, do not start the blower until the issue is resolved.
- Clear the area around the blower of flammable materials, including dry leaves, gasoline, and lighter fluid.
- Ensure the start cord is not tangled or damaged, and that the blower’s air intake is free of leaves, grass, or other debris that could block airflow.
Fueling Your 570BTS Correctly
Proper fueling is one of the most critical factors in ensuring your 570BTS starts easily and runs smoothly. The 570BTS uses a 2-stroke engine, which requires a precise mixture of gasoline and 2-stroke oil to lubricate internal components. Using the wrong fuel or mix ratio will cause hard starting, poor performance, and permanent engine damage.
Recommended Fuel Type and Mix Ratio
Husqvarna recommends a 50:1 fuel-to-oil mix for the 570BTS, meaning 50 parts gasoline to 1 part 2-stroke oil. For every gallon of gasoline, add 2.6 ounces of oil. Use only unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher; never use diesel, premium gasoline with ethanol content higher than 10%, or 4-stroke engine oil, as these will damage the engine. If you purchase pre-mixed 2-stroke fuel from a hardware store, ensure it is labeled for 50:1 mix 2-stroke engines.
Step-by-Step Fueling Process
- Place the blower on a flat, level surface to prevent spills.
- Clean the fuel tank cap and surrounding area with a rag to remove dirt and debris that could fall into the tank.
- If mixing fuel from scratch, combine the correct ratio of gasoline and 2-stroke oil in a clean, approved fuel container. Shake the container thoroughly to mix the oil and gas evenly.
- Fill the fuel tank to approximately 90% capacity to allow for fuel expansion as it warms up during operation. Overfilling can cause spills and fire hazards.
- Screw the fuel cap on tightly, then wipe any spilled fuel off the tank and blower body with a clean rag. Never start the blower if there is spilled fuel on the engine or surrounding area.
Cold Start Procedure for the 570BTS
A cold start is required when the engine has not been run for 2 or more hours, or if the blower has been stored in cold temperatures. Follow these steps exactly for a quick, reliable cold start:
- Set the blower on a flat, stable surface, and ensure the throttle trigger is released (returned to the idle position).
- Locate the choke lever on the side of the carburetor, near the air filter. Move the choke lever to the closed position (marked with a “—” or “closed” label) to enrich the fuel mixture for cold starting.
- Press the primer bulb (the small rubber bulb on the carburetor) 3 to 5 times. You will see fuel begin to fill the bulb after 2-3 presses. Do not over-press the primer bulb, as this can flood the engine with too much fuel.
- Move the throttle trigger to the half-throttle position (squeeze it about halfway). Some 570BTS models have a half-throttle lock button; press it to hold the throttle in place if equipped.
- Grasp the start cord handle firmly, and pull the cord slowly until you feel resistance (this engages the engine’s piston). Once you feel resistance, pull the cord quickly and firmly in one smooth motion. Do not yank the cord violently, as this can damage the recoil starter.
- Repeat pulling the start cord 3 to 4 times. The engine should fire (make a sputtering noise) within 2-3 pulls. If the engine does not fire after 4 pulls, wait 10 seconds before pulling again to avoid flooding.
- Once the engine fires and begins to run, move the choke lever to the half-open position. Let the engine run at half throttle for 30 seconds to warm up.
- After 30 seconds, move the choke lever to the fully open position. Squeeze and release the throttle trigger once to return the engine to idle speed. The blower is now ready for use.
If the engine fails to start after 5-6 pulls, it may be flooded. To clear a flooded engine, move the choke to the fully open position, hold the throttle fully open, and pull the start cord 5-6 times. This will clear excess fuel from the cylinder.
Warm Start Procedure
A warm start is used when the engine has been run within the last 2 hours, and is still warm to the touch. The warm start process is faster than a cold start, as the engine does not need an enriched fuel mixture:
- Set the blower on a flat, stable surface, and release the throttle trigger to return it to idle.
- Ensure the choke lever is in the fully open position (the default position for running). Do not close the choke for a warm start, as this will flood the engine with excess fuel.
- Press the primer bulb once to pump a small amount of fuel into the carburetor.
- Squeeze the throttle trigger to the idle position (do not use half throttle for warm starts).
- Pull the start cord firmly 1 to 2 times. The engine should start immediately. If it does not, wait 10 seconds and pull again, or switch to the cold start procedure if the engine has cooled significantly.
Adjusting Performance Settings
Once your 570BTS is running, you can adjust its performance to match the task at hand. The throttle trigger controls engine speed, which directly impacts air volume and air speed:
- Idle Speed: The default speed when the throttle trigger is released. Use this for light debris like grass clippings or small piles of dry leaves.
- Half Throttle: Use for medium-sized debris piles, dry leaves, and light yard cleanup.
- Full Throttle: Delivers maximum 500 CFM and 200 MPH air speed, ideal for thick, wet leaf piles, heavy debris, and large yard areas.
Many 570BTS models come with a cruise control lever on the handle. To use cruise control, squeeze the throttle to your desired speed, then press the cruise control lever to lock it in place. This allows you to operate the blower hands-free for extended periods, reducing hand fatigue. To disengage cruise control, squeeze the throttle trigger fully and release it.
Air Filter Maintenance for Optimal Performance
A clogged air filter is one of the most common causes of hard starting and poor performance. Clean the air filter after every 10 hours of use, or more frequently if you’re operating the blower in dusty or dirty conditions:
- Turn off the blower and let the engine cool completely.
- Locate the air filter cover on the side of the blower housing, secured with a latch or screw.
- Remove the cover and take out the foam air filter.
- Tap the filter gently to remove loose debris. For heavily soiled filters, wash the filter with warm soapy water, then rinse thoroughly and let it air dry completely before reinstalling. Never use a wet filter, as this will damage the engine.
- Reinstall the filter, replace the cover, and secure the latch or screw.
Replace the air filter every 6 months, or immediately if it is torn, cracked, or heavily damaged.
Comparison: 570BTS vs. Other Husqvarna Leaf Blower Models
If you’re deciding between the 570BTS and other Husqvarna leaf blower models, this comparison table highlights key differences to help you choose the right tool for your needs:
| Model | Engine Displacement | Air Volume (CFM) | Air Speed (MPH) | Weight | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Husqvarna 570BTS | 25.4cc 2-stroke | 500 | 200 | 10.8 lbs | Medium to large residential yards, light commercial use, thick wet leaves |
| Husqvarna 530BTS | 25.4cc 2-stroke | 434 | 190 | 10.1 lbs | Small to medium residential yards, dry leaves and light debris |
| Husqvarna 350BT | 50cc 2-stroke | 800 | 180 | 19.4 lbs | Large commercial properties, heavy wet debris, professional use |
As the table shows, the 570BTS strikes a balance between power and portability, making it a versatile choice for most users who need more power than the 530BTS but don’t need the heavy-duty capacity of the 350BT.
Common Starting Issues and Fixes
Even with proper technique, you may encounter starting issues from time to time. Here are the most common problems and their fixes:
- Engine won’t start after multiple pulls: First, check the fuel level and confirm you’re using the correct 50:1 fuel mix. If the fuel is old (stored for more than 30 days), drain it and replace with fresh mix. Next, inspect the spark plug for damage or carbon buildup; clean or replace it if needed. Finally, check the air filter for clogs and clean or replace it if necessary.
- Engine starts but dies immediately: This is usually caused by a clogged air filter, incorrect choke setting, or dirty carburetor. Clean the air filter first, then confirm the choke is fully open for a running engine. If the issue persists, clean the carburetor with a carburetor cleaner spray to remove built-up debris.
- Start cord is hard to pull: This can be caused by the engine being seized (from running without oil or old fuel), a damaged recoil starter, or the blower being stored in an incorrect position. If the cord is stuck, do not force it, as this can break the starter. Check for engine seizure first, then inspect the recoil starter for damage.
- Engine smokes excessively after starting: A small amount of white smoke is normal for the first few starts of a new blower, or when using old fuel. Excessive smoke indicates a rich fuel mixture: check that you’re using the correct 50:1 mix, and that the choke is set too rich. If smoke continues after checking these factors, take the blower to a certified technician to inspect the carburetor.
Tips for Extending Your 570BTS’s Lifespan
Proper maintenance and storage will keep your 570BTS running reliably for years. Follow these best practices to extend its lifespan:
- Use only fresh, pre-mixed 2-stroke fuel, and never store the blower with fuel in the tank for more than 30 days. Old fuel will gum up the carburetor and cause starting issues. If you need to store the blower long-term, drain the fuel tank completely, then run the engine until it stalls to clear fuel from the carburetor.
- Clean the air filter after every 10 hours of use, and replace it every 6 months or as needed.
- Store the blower in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing it in a damp garage or shed, as moisture can cause rust and engine damage.
- Never run the blower at full throttle for more than 10 minutes at a time, as this can overheat the engine. Take 1-2 minute breaks every 10 minutes of heavy use to let the engine cool.
- Have the blower serviced by a certified Husqvarna technician once a year, or every 50 hours of use, to inspect the spark plug, carburetor, and fuel lines for wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use straight gas in my Husqvarna 570BTS?
No, you cannot use straight gas in the 570BTS. It is equipped with a 2-stroke engine that requires oil mixed with gasoline to lubricate internal moving parts. Running straight gas will cause the engine to seize permanently within minutes of operation, requiring a full engine rebuild or replacement.
How often should I change the spark plug in my 570BTS?
Husqvarna recommends replacing the spark plug every 100 hours of operation, or once per year, whichever comes first. If you notice hard starting, rough idling, or poor performance, inspect the spark plug earlier; a worn or carbon-buildup covered spark plug is a common cause of these issues. Use only the OEM Husqvarna spark plug (part number 544 00 92-01) for best performance.
Why does my 570BTS smoke when starting?
A small amount of white or blue smoke is normal for the first few starts of a new 570BTS, as manufacturing oils burn off the engine. It is also normal if you’re using old or improperly mixed fuel. Excessive, persistent smoke indicates a rich fuel mixture: confirm you’re using the correct 50:1 gas-to-oil mix, and that the choke lever is fully open once the engine is warm. If smoke continues after checking these factors, take the blower to a certified technician to inspect the carburetor.
Can I use the 570BTS in wet conditions?
No, you should never operate the 570BTS in rain, or on wet leaves and grass. Water can seep into the engine and electrical components, causing corrosion, short circuits, and permanent damage. If you accidentally get the blower wet, turn it off immediately, wipe it dry, and let it air out completely before storing or starting it again.
What is the warranty coverage for the Husqvarna 570BTS?
The 570BTS comes with a 2-year limited consumer warranty and a 1-year limited commercial warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty does not cover damage caused by improper fueling, lack of maintenance, or commercial use beyond the specified limits. For full warranty details, visit the official Husqvarna website or consult your owner’s manual.
Conclusion
Starting your Husqvarna 570BTS doesn’t have to be a frustrating experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to start your blower quickly and safely every time, whether you’re performing a cold start after storage or a quick warm start mid-yard work. The key takeaways are to complete pre-start safety checks, use the correct 50:1 fuel mix, adjust the choke appropriately for cold or warm conditions, and perform regular maintenance like air filter cleaning and spark plug replacement. If you encountered issues while following How to Start Husqvarna Leaf Blower 570bts?, refer to the common troubleshooting section to resolve them quickly. With proper care, your 570BTS will provide reliable, powerful performance for years to come, making yard cleanup faster and easier than ever.