How To

How to Troubleshoot a Riding Lawn Mower

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(4 Ratings)

Safety should be your primary concern when troubleshooting a riding lawn mower. For every check, perform the proper safety precaution, and then follow these steps to troubleshoot the problem.

Difficulty: Challenging
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Inspect the spark plug and the spark plug wire. Gap the plug properly, and install it correctly. If you are still not getting a spark, the problem may be the points on an older machine or an ignition module on a newer machine.

  2. Step 2

    Fuel up the mower, especially if this is the first start of the season. Make sure the carburetor gets enough fuel to run. Tap the side of it to remove the float. Change the fuel filter too.

  3. Step 3

    Check the oil while the lawn mower is on a level surface if the engine is a 4-stroke engine. Add oil if necessary.

  4. Step 4

    Charge the battery. Tighten the cables if they are loose. Clean the battery posts if necessary.

  5. Step 5

    Disconnect the spark plug so the machine doesn't accidentally start. Check the undercarriage. If the riding lawn mower is missing a flywheel key, it won't start. Also check the blade shaft. If it is bent, replace it.

  6. Step 6

    Look for bent blades and a clogged deck in the undercarriage. Clean the blades and sharpen them if necessary. Remove any debris with a long screwdriver. Replace the blades and tighten them securely.

Comments  

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deerboy said

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on 6/23/2009 whin mower get hot it want to die thank

shinp said

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on 10/18/2008 i just got a 2004 ztrack 757 runs fine pull switch to engadge blades still ok but when u hit grass it bogs down very bad can someone pls help my email is dwshinpaugh@yahoo.com

wonderdog said

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on 6/28/2008 We had a problem with ours and after a lot of time and frustration, we discovered it was the safety switch that automatically shuts off the engine when you get off the seat. The wires were loose.

pwells04 said

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on 6/11/2008 I am having the same problem. Was working fine and now it won't start. Replaced the starter and still nothing. It tries to start but won't. Battery is fine too. Please Help!!

Lynn14 said

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on 4/29/2008 I can't start my riding mower. Checked battery and cables. Plugs.and all good. When I go to turn key, nothing happens, but when I put screwdriver terimals it starts to crankover. Any suggestions on why this won't turn over and start at all
thanks I will wait for reply
Lynn

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