How to Troubleshoot a Push Lawnmower
A push lawnmower is a quick, efficient way to mow a small lawn and trim areas you can't mow with a riding mower. Unfortunately, your lawnmower may not always run properly. If you know how to troubleshoot a lawnmower, you can get it running again and save yourself the cost of taking it to a repair shop. It doesn't take a lot of mechanical skill to troubleshoot a lawnmower and you probably have the tools to do it on hand. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Check that the engine has gas or fuel mixture, if it's a two-stroke engine. If it's the first time you're start your push lawnmower for the season, drain the fuel tank and add fresh fuel. Stale gas and/or water in the fuel can cause problems. You can put stale fuel from your lawnmower in your automobile and it won't cause a problem. Fuel diluted by water is unusable. Dispose of it properly. If your lawnmower has a fuel shut-off valve, make sure it's in the "on" position.
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Make sure the gas cap is secure. It's part of the fuel ventilation system and a leaky cap can affect the the lawnmower'a operation. Check the fuel filter, too. Clean it, if possible, or replace it.
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Take a look at the air filter. Clogged or dirty air filters will keep a lawnmower from starting or running properly. Clean or replace the filter.
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Change the spark plug. Make sure you get one that's set properly for your brand of lawnmower. Inspect the spark plug wire. Replace it if it shows signs of wear.
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Set the throttle to start. If you give the lawnmower engine too much gas, it will flood the carburetor. Wait a few minutes and try again.
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Determine that the control bar on the handle is operational. Follow all the cables to make sure everything is fastened and is in working order.
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Test the battery, if your push lawnmower has one. Make sure the battery cables are clean and attached properly. If necessary, replace the battery.
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Check the engine oil. Add the proper amount of the correct weight oil. Wipe off any excess or it may smoke when the engine gets hot.
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Tighten the lawnmower blade if the lawnmower vibrates excessively. Check that the blade isn't bent. Straighten the blade, if necessary, or replace it. If the crankshaft is bent, have a technician make the repair. Sharpen the blade if it's not cutting the grass properly.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear safety equipment when working with a lawnmower. Never disengage any safety feature.
References
- Photo Credit woman cutting the grass using lawnmower image by L. Shat from Fotolia.com
