Noisy 11 yr. old Strikemaster Lazer.......

[rockman]

I went to the garage today, and fired up my 12 year old,first generation Strikemaster Lazer powerauger.It is a 2 hp model.When I throttle up to full throttle, I am hearing a screeching noise coming from what appears to be the gear box underneath the powerhead.Is this a very bad indication of things, or can it be easily fixed? This is a 1st generation Lazer for those that are much more versed in 2 cycle engines/augers etc.If a new auger is in the cards,like a Nils,I won't be too heartbroken by a bad report on the Lazer.

[BIG DS]

Sounds like you have a bushing/bearing that is going out. It would require taking the gearbox apart to find the faulty part and replace it. If you are not too far from Big Lake I would recommend taking it by the factory and let them have a go at it. It would be a lot cheaper. It would be worth getting it fixed. Even if you are looking into a new auger, if you get it fixed you should be able to trade it in and get more money towards your new one.

[rockman]

I am about a 10 minute drive from Strikemaster, so I will go over there on my next day off.I was planning on doing this anyway,but I figured folks such as yourself could give me a better idea as to what I may be looking at.Thanks for the reply/info.That new Strike-lite looks like a possible choice, as well, for a new auger, if I need a replacement.

[rockman]

Big DS, you were right on with your diagnosis of the problem.I took it to Strikemaster right after work today, and the tech replaced a bushing in the gear box housing at no charge to me.You gotta love Strikemaster for their top notch customer service.He said my auger is almost as good as new,and runs just fine.

[BIG DS]

Good to hear you were able to get it fixed. Strikemaster always gets an A+ on customer service. It is worth the drive even if you need to go an hour to get there IMO.