How to Troubleshoot a Simplicity 5116 Special

There are several steps you can take to keep your mower running, such as cleaning the spark plug.

While motorized mowers have made the act of cutting large areas of lawn much easier, they do malfunction from time to time. These problems may come in the form of faulty spark plugs, low oil levels or problems with the drive belt. If you take the time to develop the know how regarding how to fix these problems, then it should allow you to get your mower back to working order.

Instructions

1. Shift the gear-stick into neutral, disengage the PTO clutch and ensure there is sufficient fuel in the tank. Clean the battery terminal, make sure it is charged and have it replaced if damaged. Check wiring for any loose connections or frayed wires which may be cutting power to the engine.

2. Remove and clean the spark plug if the engine runs hard once started. If the spark plug is damaged, then replace it. You should also push the choke knob and clean the air filter if you are still suffering from problems with the way the engine runs. This will remedy the issue of an excessively rich fuel mixture.

3. Check the oil level and add more oil if necessary if you are finding that the engine knocks during normal operation. This should lubricate the mechanisms and solve that particular issue.

4. Clean the pulleys and drive belt if they are excessively greasy and the drive belt is slipping. Replace the belt altogether if it is damaged or worn.

5. Inspect the steering and tires if you find the handling is below-par. Check and tighten any loose wiring or connections in the steering linkage and properly inflate any of the tires which are not at optimum inflation levels.

Tips & Warnings

• Only perform any of this maintenance when the mower is switched off; otherwise, you run the risk of serious injury.

References

• Simplicity: Operator's Model Manual