pe550 edger hard to start and will not idle?

I would suggest dirt in the carb. If it has adjustable needles, remove one at a time (check how many turns out they are before removal) and spray carb cleaner in the hole. Replace needle and start engine immediately (don't want carb cleaner in there any longer than necessary) and check. If not adjustable, you will have to remove and strip the carb. Replace the diaphragm while you're there.

Phil Saunders
November 2007