Preventive Measures

• Always use fresh gasoline with the octane ratings and additive limits specified in the auger's owner's manual. Clean the spark plug before the season's first use. Let the engine idle for one or two minutes before drilling. This will help prevent bad piston problems.
  
  

Cylinder Rings

• Worn cylinder rings will lower the engine's compression ratio by allowing some of the fuel-air mixture to blow by the rings into the crankcase. This blow-by and reduced pressure will wear down the piston if the condition is not treated. Change the cylinder rings if you have the time, tools and mechanical aptitude for it. Otherwise, let a factory authorized service center do it.
  
  

Worn Piston

• StrikeMaster power augers have one-cylinder engines. Remove the cylinder head and the crankcase pan after draining the oil. Remove the bolts attaching the piston rod to the crankshaft. Gently push the piston out of the cylinder. Reverse this process to install the new piston.