A mower that starts quickly, runs smoothly and cuts grass cleanly is a
joy to operate. But a mower that you have to "rope" excessively� �� ��or an
electric start model that runs down batteries� �� ��will get the mowing season
off to a bad start.
If your mower won't start, it's probably because you left gas in the
tank and carburetor during the winter. Gasoline can go bad during the
winter unless you add a fuel stabilizer after you have finished with
your mower in the fall. If your mower won't start, try the following
steps:
Drain the tank and carburetor. If your bowl does not have a drain
plug, you'll have to remove it. Be careful not to damage the bowl
gasket.
Change your spark plug. If any old gas has been on your plug, it is
probably fouled.
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| Worn-out blades can break off (like the blade on the bottom). If the
blade is sound, sharpen it. Grass will recover faster and be healthier
after being cut with a sharp blade. Dull blades pull horsepower. To make
sure sharpened blades keep their balance, use a balance tester. |
After your engine starts, let it run a few minutes and change the oil
and filter, if equipped. Refill with oil recommended by your engine
manufacturer. Never overfill your crankcase. |
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| A crack in the primer bulb will cause a change in carburetor function,
and the engine will not start or run. Replacements are cheap and easy to
install. |
An inexpensive spark tester can tell you if your electrical system is
functioning. |
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Check your spark. Use an inexpensive spark tester found at most
lawn and garden supply stores. If you don't have one, lay a new plug on
the engine block or head so that the electrode end of the plug is away
from the plughole and is not touching metal. Spin the engine with the
switch on and the plug wire on the plug. You should see a light blue
spark with a definite snapping sound to it.
Install the plug and pour fresh gas into the tank if everything is
OK with the spark. At this time, check to make sure the choke and
throttle linkage work freely and that the choke is closing completely.
Punch the primer bulb two or three times before cranking.
After the above steps are completed, your mower should start unless it
has mechanical problems such as low compression or incorrect engine
timing. We do not recommend the use of starting fluid on a small,
air-cooled engine.