Blowing Away the Problem: WD-40 Unjams My Backpack Blower

My backpack blower is an essential tool for keeping lawns and walkways clear, especially during the fall. But recently, it became frustratingly unusable. The trigger, which controls the airflow, had completely jammed. No matter how hard I squeezed, it wouldn't budge, rendering the entire blower useless. It felt like something internal had seized up, and I was bracing myself for a costly repair or even having to buy a new blower.

Before throwing in the towel, I decided to try a familiar remedy: WD-40. I figured it couldn't hurt to see if it could loosen whatever was causing the jam. I directed the spray nozzle right at the trigger mechanism, making sure to get the lubricant into all the visible crevices and around the pivot point. I also gave a few short bursts into any openings around the trigger housing, hoping it would penetrate internally.

Then, I started gently working the trigger back and forth. At first, it was still stiff, but I could feel a slight give. I continued to apply gentle pressure and worked the trigger, and with each movement, it seemed to loosen up a little more. Almost like magic, the resistance gradually disappeared. Soon enough, the trigger was moving freely again, just like it was brand new. I pulled it all the way, and the engine roared to life! That simple application of WD-40 had completely solved the problem, saving me time, money, and the hassle of dealing with a broken blower. It's amazing how often that trusty can comes to the rescue.

Step-by-Step Guide: Unjamming a Backpack Blower Trigger with WD-40

Here's how I freed up the jammed trigger on my backpack blower using WD-40:

Step 1: Identify the Jammed Trigger

Confirm that the trigger on your backpack blower is not moving or is very stiff and not engaging the engine properly.

Step 2: Gather Your WD-40

Make sure you have your can of WD-40 Multi-Use Product ready.

Step 3: Apply WD-40 to the Trigger Mechanism

Aim the WD-40 nozzle directly at all visible moving parts of the trigger mechanism. Spray generously around the pivot point of the trigger where it connects to the blower housing. Apply short bursts into any openings or crevices around the trigger assembly to allow the WD-40 to penetrate internally.

Step 4: Work the Trigger Back and Forth

Gently begin to try and move the trigger back and forth. Do not force it if it's completely locked. Apply steady, gentle pressure and continue to work the trigger through its range of motion as it starts to loosen.

Step 5: Repeat Application (If Necessary)

If the trigger is still stiff, apply another round of WD-40 to the same areas and continue working it back and forth.

Step 6: Test the Trigger

Once the trigger moves freely, test it to ensure it is now engaging the engine and controlling the airflow as expected.

Step 7: Wipe Away Excess (Optional)

If there is any excess WD-40, you can wipe it away with a rag.