Have you recently bought a lawn mower? Are you having difficulties in starting your old lawn mower? I get what you are going through. There is no denying that keeping your lawn tidy and healthy requires a reliable mower. But after a long winter, or even during the mowing season, starting your mower can sometimes be a challenge.
So, in this guide, I will walk you through the process of starting a lawn mower, troubleshooting common issues faced after winter storage, and provide specific tips for starting a push mower. So, if you are wondering how to start lawn mower, read this article to the end. Let’s begin.
Getting Your Mower Ready to Roll.
Before talking about the specific steps to start your lawn mower, it’s important to prepare the machine for operation. This includes some basic safety checks, ensuring your mower has the necessary fuel and oil, and understanding how to use the choke and primer (if applicable to your model).
Safety First.
Before starting any work, ensure the mower is on a level surface, the parking brake is engaged (for riding mowers), and you’re wearing closed-toe shoes.
Fuel Check.
Verify that the fuel tank is filled with fresh gas of the octane level recommended by your mower’s manufacturer. Stale gas can lead to starting problems.
Oil Check.
Consult your owner’s manual to ensure the engine oil is clean and at the appropriate level. Dirty or low oil can hinder starting and damage the engine.
Choke It Up (For Cold Starts).
Locate the choke lever, typically a lever or knob on the mower’s body. For a cold engine (one that hasn’t run in a while or hasn’t reached operating temperature), engage the choke. This restricts airflow, creating a richer fuel mixture for easier starting. Refer to your manual for choke positioning specific to your mower model.
Prime Time (For Some Models).
If your mower has a primer bulb (a small rubber bulb typically near the engine), press it a few times to pump fuel into the carburetor. This can be helpful, especially after winter storage or if the mower has run out of gas recently. Not all mowers have primers, so consult your manual if unsure.
Start Your Engines.
With the choke engaged (if necessary) and the spark plug engaged (refer to your manual for proper spark plug connection), firmly grasp the starter cord and pull it briskly with a steady motion. Repeat this process until the engine sputters or coughs.
Choke Off (For Cold Starts).
Once the engine starts to sputter, slowly move the choke lever to the “off” position. If the engine dies, don’t worry; just re-engage the choke slightly and repeat the starting process.
Let it Warm Up.
Give the engine a minute or two to run before engaging the blades and starting to mow. This is how to start a push mower.
Mower Won’t Start After Winter? Here’s What to Do!
Winter can be harsh on lawn mowers, especially if they haven’t been properly prepared for storage. Let’s talk about some common reasons why your mower might not start after a long winter nap and how to get it going again:
Old Gas.
Gas left sitting in the tank over winter can gum up the carburetor and fuel lines. Drain the old gas completely and refill the tank with fresh fuel of the octane level recommended by your mower’s manufacturer.
Spark Plug Check.
Spark plugs wear down over time and can become fouled with debris during storage. Inspect the spark plug for cracks, dirt, or excessive wear. Clean the spark plug with a wire brush or replace it if necessary. Gap the spark plug according to your mower’s manual specifications.
Battery Boost (Electric Start Models).
A weak battery can prevent electric-start mowers from turning over. If your attempts to start the mower are met with a clicking sound, a dead battery might be the culprit. Check the battery connections for corrosion and clean them if necessary. Refer to your manual for proper battery replacement procedures and ensure you’re using a battery with the correct specifications for your mower.
Starting a Push Mower.
Push mowers typically follow the same starting procedure as riding mowers, with a few key points to remember specific to their design. First, identify the safety handle with a presence control lever.
This lever needs to be squeezed while you pull the starter cord to prevent the blades from accidentally engaging. Next, find a level area to start the mower. While you pull the starter cord, maintain a firm grip on the mower’s handle to keep it stable.
Having a helper hold the mower steady for you can be particularly useful during this process, especially on slopes or uneven terrain.
To Wrap Up.
By following these steps and considering the additional tips for winter storage, you should be able to confidently start your lawn mower and keep your yard looking its best.
Remember, if you encounter any problems beyond these basic steps, consult your mower’s owner’s manual for specific troubleshooting procedures. For more gardening tips and information, follow (Perfect lawn Care Advice).