Pressure release valve on Strikemaster Lazermag

[Hoffer]

Whats the deal with the pressure release valve on the Strikemaster??? I have used them for years - I wanted to buy a new auger this year...and had researched which one I wanted buy. I went with the Strikemater Lazermag - which I have used many times in the past with friends etc....well I had no idea this year they had put in this pressure release valve - and I have to tell you I hate it! Each pull you have to push that thing in - and sometimes it doesnt start for 5 or 6 pulls and that is a real pain! Plus, when it does start it is real finicky for awhile when I try to hit the gas it dies almost half the time and I have to start it again which takes anoither 5 or 6 pulls - each time having to push in that pressure release valve....I have only used it 3 times on the ice so far...do you think Gander or Strikemaster itself would take this back...lets say in exchange for say a 4 stroke?? At this point in time I would gladly pay the extra money to go with the 4 stroke if it doesnt have the pressure release valve...which by the way does anyone know if the 4 stroke does have that??

Thanks for any advice....and if anyone knows why my auger seems so finicky any suggestions there would help alot too...maybe the carb needs adjusting???? Thanks!!!! Hoffer

[jltimm]

I went through the same thing. Strikemaster told me the E.P.A. is to thank for this (I think it was the E.P.A.).Something to do with emissions? They adjusted my carb a little and it has helped some, but still doesn't start as easy as my older Lazermag, which started within 2 pulls EVERYTIME! Try bringing it to them, as they are #1 in customer service, and will go out of there way to help you.

[nluchau]

I started out hating this pressure release valve too. I have a Strikemaster Mag 2000. It used to start in about 5-6 pulls using Strikemaster oil but I switched this year to Amsoil Saber Professional and now it starts in 3 pulls. Good stuff.

About the valve - you'll get used to it. Trust me. I only have to push it in 3 times before it starts.

Also I was told by someone that in order to shut off your auger use the pressure release valve and not the switch.

I would keep the auger if I were you and just deal with it(since you'll get used to it) but it's totally your choice.

Good luck either way.

[Hoffer]

I am going to give it a few more outings before I make a final decision - if it doesnt get better I will bring it in to Strikemaster - I live in Maple Grove - and arent they out of Big Lake or something? ...cant imagine they would force me to keep it - if I wanted to "upgrade" to the 4 stroke....but again, does anyone know if the 4 stroke has this pressure release valve as well...

[nluchau]

According to the HSOforum the 4 stroke doesn't have the compression release valve. Call them to make sure though.

[nluchau]

To answer your other question;

17217 198th Avenue • Big Lake, MN 55309

Phone: 763.263.8999 • Fax: 763.263.8986

[Borch]

Quote:

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I started out hating this pressure release valve too. I have a Strikemaster Mag 2000. It used to start in about 5-6 pulls using Strikemaster oil but I switched this year to Amsoil Saber Professional and now it starts in 3 pulls. Good stuff.

About the valve - you'll get used to it. Trust me. I only have to push it in 3 times before it starts.

Also I was told by someone that in order to shut off your auger use the pressure release valve and not the switch.

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Thyat's the secret. It'll start much easier that way the next time as well. At least that was my experience.

[FL SNIPER]

I bought a new strikemaster lazer mag this year too.....and LOVE it!!! Thing starts good and just rips through ice. I also have an older strikemaster lazer mag I bought from my buddy Griz about 12 years ago and that thing is still rocking and rolling even after thousands of holes! My dad wanted that one because he's getting older and didn't like hauling around his Jiffy model 30 auger which is a great auger also but just a tad on the heavy side. As with most strikemasters, you have to be patient and wait 30 seconds to a minute after starting before you drill, it says that right on top of the motor....tough to do sometimes I know...but the machine performs much better if you do and then you can go drill 200 holes without skipping a beat if you want. All machines are different I know...but just know there's some of us out here who really like the new Stikemasters!

[jltimm]

About pushing in the valve to shut-off, this is exactly what Strikemaster told me to do last year when I had the carb adjusted. It prevents the clank you sometimes hear when shutting it off with the switch, and prevents the plastic catch "thingy" on the flywheel from possibly cracking or chipping.

[Tony Holland]

4 Stroke does not have it. 2 pumps of the primer and a pull or 2 and she is ready. I do have to let it warm up for about 30 sec. Awesome auger.

[huntingislife]

Definitely switch to the Amsoil Saber. Its makes a huge difference. You will get used to the button too.

[nluchau]

Quote:

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About pushing in the valve to shut-off, this is exactly what Strikemaster told me to do last year when I had the carb adjusted. It prevents the clank you sometimes hear when shutting it off with the switch, and prevents the plastic catch "thingy" on the flywheel from possibly cracking or chipping.

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Exactly!!!!

[ozzie]

yeah the little yellow annoyance button.....you get used to it and after you do it enough you do it naturaly.......great auger and great company...they will work with you to make you happy......