A “bandaid fix” is a way around solving a problem. Rather than actually fixing the problem, another technique is used to either cover up or circumvent the real problem. A bandaid fix can be used for a variety to reasons, from not being able to determine the actual problem to not having time to being able to solve the actual problem.
Software guys know all about bandaid fixes- they use them regularly. Sometimes it’s entirely justified as a bug might have deeply rooted causes such that fixing it could have significant side effects and other ramifications. Carpenters too, are familiar with bandaid fixes. In fact, I’m willing to wager just about any engineer, technician or “Mr. Fixit” sort has used a bandaid fix at one time or another.
When I picked up my mower yesterday, bandaid fix was what immediately leapt to mind when they told me what they did. The reason I couldn’t pull the starter cord was because the engine had filled with fuel, so the compression required to turn the engine was too much for the start cord mechanism to handle. I knew this, the question was why was the engine filling up with fuel?
I never got an answer. The mechanic had already cleaned the carburetor and change the air filter and the spark plug and, I’m guessing, he wasn’t going to spend any more time figuring out what was wrong. So if too much fuel was the problem while starting, then he need to provide a way to stop that. So he installed a fuel shutoff valve which I’ll now have to use every time I use the mower.
Suffice it to say, I’m not thrilled with this solution. First, the mower is about a year old and shouldn’t be having this sort of problem, IMHO. Second, how do I know that the problem won’t slowly become exacerbated over time with usage to the point I’ll need to bring it in again and spend another $100 on getting it repaired? Short answer- I don’t know because I don’t know what the problem is. Rather, I’m left with hoping that usage with high-octane gas and some of the ethanol based fuel additives will help clean things out and return it to normal usage.
More likely is that the mower is a lemon and I’ll be having problems with it for years to come.
One reply on “The Bandaid Fix”
SO – NOW IS THE TIME TO CONTACT THE STORE WHERE YOU BOUGHT IT AND COMPLAIN TO THEM, FOLLOWED BY A CC: TO THE CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT OF THE MANUFACTURER …. the Better Business Bureau, as well as 10 other departments I could name …
Of course, assuming you didn’t go the the manufacturer’s site first – to see if there was an issue with your model ???