How to Repair a Lawn Mower
- 1 Remove the spark plug before you start any repairs.. It’ll make sure the blade doesn’t start up. Find the spark plug,...
- 2 Replace the air filter if it’s dirty.. A dirty filter can cause your mower to break down. Find the air filter on the...
- 3 Pull out the dipstick to check the oil level.. Add more oil if your mower needs it. Look for a...
How to troubleshoot your mower not starting?
- Pull up the mower's hood to access the ignition switch.
- Remove its cable harness.
- Remove the tabs to pull the ignition switch out of its slot.
- Turn the key to the start position and set the multi-meter to measure resistance, not voltage.
- Connect the black multi-meter probe to the B prong and the other to the S prong. ...
How to fix a riding lawnmower that will not move or drive?
Common reasons why a hydrostatic mower won’t move include: having old hydraulic fluid in the lines, having air in the lines, or a worn drive belt. Usually, the best way to fix these problems is to flush the hydraulic lines and refill them with new fluid. Also, you can change out the old belt for a replacement.
Why will my lawn mower not start?
Why Your Riding Mower Won’t Start
- Gas tank is empty
- Wrong or old gas in the tank
- Vent is plugged in your gas cap
- Broke or dirty spark plug
- Air filter is plugged
- Faulty fuel pump
- Plugged fuel filter
- Clogged fuel lines
- Carburetor is dirty or has broken components
- Bad battery or loose connections
Why is lawn mower hard to start?
Lawn Mower Hard To Start When Cold – Why?
- The Main Reason Why Lawn Mowers Can Be Hard to Start When It’s Cold. ...
- Check Your Oil Level and Quality Before You Try to Start Your Mower. ...
- The Type of Oil You Use Matters: Some Function Better in Colder Weather. ...
- Other Things to Check If Your Mower is Hard to Start in Cold Weather. ...
- Summary: A Process of Elimination. ...
Are lawn mowers worth repairing?
Just like with your car, getting your mower serviced prevents problems, extends the lifespan, and ensures you get more on a trade-in when you go to upgrade.
What do you do when your lawnmower stops working?
If you run into problems getting your lawnmower ready for spring, try the following:Use fresh gas. Old gasoline can cause starting difficulties. ... Check the spark plug. ... Use the choke. ... Prime the mower. ... Check the air filter. ... Check the cables. ... Check for water in the fuel tank.Clear the starter cord of blockages.More items...
How do you fix a lawn mower that won't stay running?
0:166:26How To Fix Lawn Mower That Wont Stay Running! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMy back or look for tools or anything like that. So the kit that I use to rebuild the carburetor.MoreMy back or look for tools or anything like that. So the kit that I use to rebuild the carburetor. And air filter and all cost less than ten dollars off of Amazon.
Is it cheaper to fix a mower or buy a new one?
The cost of a new lawn mower ranges from $160 to $3,000. Lawn mower tune-ups and repair costs, on the other hand, go anywhere from $10 to $250. In other words, your model will play a large role in whether it's worth hanging on to an old clunker.
What is the main reason a lawn mower won't start?
Your Mower Won't Start: If you have last season's gas in your mower, drain your fuel tank and fill with fresh gas. Other possible causes include: Loose, Dirty or Disconnected Spark Plug in Your Lawn Mower: Check it out, clean off debris, re-connect and tighten. Dirty Air Filter: Clean or replace.
Why did my lawn mower just stop?
This sudden shutdown can be caused by an overheating engine. Reasons for an engine to overheat and shut down include debris clogging the area around the engine, low coolant levels, a problem with the oil, or an engine mechanical breakdown.
How do you unclog a lawn mower carburetor?
2:215:13How to Clean the Carburetor on a Lawn Mower - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you want to make sure that's clean and the way you can do that is just simply get a piece ofMoreSo you want to make sure that's clean and the way you can do that is just simply get a piece of small wire. And see you and you poke it in and out of that hole make sure that it's clean.
How do you clean a carburetor on a lawn mower without removing it?
Use Carburetor Cleaner Fortunately, you can generally do this without even taking the carburetor out of the engine. Start by purchasing some commercial lawnmower carburetor cleaner, which comes in a simple spray can and will make it easy to clean the inside and outside of the carb.
Why does my lawn mower only run for a few seconds then dies?
If your lawn mower starts, runs briefly, then dies these are the four most common reasons that's happening: Dirty carburetor / clogged carburetor bowl. Old gasoline that has gone bad. Dirty or defective spark plugs.
How many years should a lawn mower last?
around 10 yearsMost mowers will last around 10 years, but that may vary based on how often you use it, the climate you live in, and the size of your lawn. If you notice any of these problems with your mower, it may be time to look into purchasing a new one.
How often should you change lawn mower oil?
every 50 hoursFor existing push mowers, like shown in the video below, its recommended to change and replace the oil at least once a season or for every 50 hours of run time. For existing riding mowers, it is recommended to change and replace the oil at least once a season, or for every 100 hours of run time.
What brand of lawn mower is the most reliable?
The 12 Best Lawn Mower Brands of 2022Honda. Photo: homedepot.com. Price Range: $$ to $$$ ... John Deere. Photo: homedepot.com. Price Range: $$$ to $$$$ ... Toro. Photo: homedepot.com. ... Troy-Bilt. Photo: homedepot.com. ... Greenworks. Photo: amazon.com. ... Craftsman. Photo: lowes.com. ... Ego. Photo: amazon.com. ... Husqvarna. Photo: lowes.com.More items...•
Why does my lawnmower run for 10 minutes then dies?
As the fuel level drops, a vacuum begins to form in the fuel tank because air can get in to fill the space the consumed fuel occupied. After about 10 or 15 minutes, the vacuum will become strong enough that fuel will stop flowing to the carburetor and the lawnmower will die.
How do you fix a lawn mower that starts then dies?
0:174:31Lawn Mower starts and then dies, turned out to be an easy cheap fixYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLook move the carburetor around and try to figure out which bolts are loose. The bolts that hold theMoreLook move the carburetor around and try to figure out which bolts are loose. The bolts that hold the carburetor on are still tight.
Why does my lawn mower shut off after a few minutes?
If you've got a lawn mower that runs for 30 minutes then dies, the most common culprits are: a faulty spark plug or ignition coil, blocked fuel delivery, and air supply problems. A variety of parts are involved here, but the first things you'll want to check out are the spark plug, carburetor, and fuel cap.
How do you unclog a lawn mower carburetor?
2:215:13How to Clean the Carburetor on a Lawn Mower - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you want to make sure that's clean and the way you can do that is just simply get a piece ofMoreSo you want to make sure that's clean and the way you can do that is just simply get a piece of small wire. And see you and you poke it in and out of that hole make sure that it's clean.
How to fix a broken lawn mower?
Find the air filter on the side of your mower’s engine. They’re usually covered by a plastic or metal cover. Use either a screwdriver or a wrench to remove the screws or bolts and take off the cover. Pull out the filter and inspect it for cracks, tears, or holes.
How to fix a loose spark plug on a lawn mower?
Use a wrench and turn it clockwise. Look for the spark plug on the side of your mower’s engine. It’ll look like a small piece of metal pointing sideways and covered by a protective rubber cap. Over time, the plug can get loose in it’s socket. Fortunately, it’s a pretty easy fix. Take a wrench and give it a gentle turn until it’s tightened up. If you were having trouble starting your mower, give it a go and see if that helps.
What happens if your lawn mower oil is dirty?
Lawn mower oil should be golden brown and there shouldn’t be any dirt or debris floating in it. If your oil is dirty or dark, tip the mower over on it’s side and allow the oil to drain completely into a container.
How to stop rust on lawn mower blades?
Grassy buildup can affect the blade and lead to rust. Carefully lift or tip your mower on it’s side over so you can access the blade area. Take a damp cloth and remove any grass build-up that could be affecting the blade. It’ll also help protect your mower against rust.
Why won't my lawn mower start?
A clogged or damaged fuel line can cause your mower to not start.
How to tighten up a mower wheel?
If you notice any loose bolts, screws, or wheels, use a wrench or screwdriver to tighten them up. It can help increase the life-span of your mower.
How to get fuel out of a mower tank?
If it was left in the tank over the winter, it can affect your engine. Use a siphon to safely remove the fuel from the tank of your mower into a fuel-safe container. Once the tank is completely empty, refill it and try starting it up.
What does it mean to repair a lawnmower?
Basically you know repairing a lawnmower means repairing the parts of the lawnmower. So let’s take a look at the parts where people face the most problems and how these can be repaired.
How to check if a lawn mower is in good condition?
Test the ignition system. You can easily test it before disconnecting the spark plug. Just start the mower and notice the ignition system. If you see any spark when starting the mower, then the ignition system is in good condition. Otherwise, you have to replace it.
Why is my lawn mower pull cord hard?
When the grass clippings make a cake-like layer underneath the mower, the blade becomes stuck. That’s why the pull cord becomes hard and doesn’t work properly.
Why is my lawn mower useless?
A mower really becomes a useless machine if the wheel of the mower is damaged. With a damaged wheel, you can’t move the mower one step further.
What is the role of the drive belt on a lawn mower?
The drive belt of a lawnmower plays a significant role to move the mower forward. When the belt is torn or damaged, you need to replace it.
How to jump start a lawn mower when battery is damaged?
If the battery is damaged or not charged properly, you can jump-start the mower by attaching a jumper cable with the battery. Use the car battery to jump-start the mower. When the battery is fully damaged, just replace it.
How many exhaust valves does a 4 stroke mower have?
If you have a four-stroke mower engine, you will have a 2 exhaust valve in the engine. Use a commercial exhaust valve cleaner to clean those. These valves should remain dust-free if you want to run the engine flawlessly. And after cleaning the valves, replace those in their previous position.
When to add motor oil to lawn mower?
If your lawn mower has a manual oil filler cap, add new motor oil when the oil indicator level is near or below the ”Add” line.
How to fix a broken grass bag?
For example, plastic bags are usually easy to replace if they become scratched or torn. Just buy a replacement bag and attach it using the supplied piece of string. Fixing this problem with metal bags involves replacing them completely, as attaching new parts has proved difficult in previous tests done by various lawn mower manufacturers (namely, with three different brands.)
How to remove old plugs from a car?
Remove your old plug by carefully unscrewing it with a screwdriver (ensure there’s no residual fuel in it) and clearing away any dirt from around the shaft.
Does Greg's Small Engine Service and Repair do lawn mowers?
Whether you have commercial or residential lawn mower equipment, Greg’s Small Engine Service and Repair specializes in lawn mower service for your needs. We have the tools and experience necessary to service a wide variety of lawn mower types. Give us a call to learn more!
Do you need to remove the deck of a cylinder mower?
Conversely, if you have a cylinder mower, you may need to remove the entire deck of the machine so you can access the blades underneath. The way in which you do this will vary depending on your lawn mower model. However, it’s likely to involve unscrewing a bolt or two, and then detaching the blades from underneath.
Can you start a mower with a new plug?
Check if the correct voltage has been placed on your new plug before attempting to start up your mower, as this could lead to injury.
Do lawn mowers need to be repaired?
If there’s one important tool any gardener or landscaper should keep in their arsenal, it is a lawn mower. Whether you are maintaining your own residential garden, or performing grounds maintenance on an industrial scale, having access to reliable equipment will ensure that your efforts are fruitful. However, even the most well-maintained machines don’t always run perfectly. Sometimes, repairs are necessary in order to keep your mower running smoothly. So, it’s important to know how to repair a lawn mower when it breaks down.
What is leaking oil in my lawn mower?
When your lawn mower is leaking oil, the source could be one of the seals, tubes, or gaskets. Learn how to check each of these parts to find the source of the leak.
Why does my lawn mower misfire?
If your lawn mower engine misfires, it could be caused by a problem with the spark plug, valves, or ignition coil. Learn how to check each part with our repair guide.
Most Common Problems
The Repair Clinic lawn mower troubleshooting guide is your fast track to mower repair diagnostics and part replacement. Start by entering your model number in the search box. Then choose from our list of common symptoms. After we help you discover the root cause of your problem, you can select the parts you need.
The Right Parts for the Job
We carry more than 4 million parts from over 175 major brands, so chances are, we've got the part you need.
Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are what “spark” your mower and get it to ignite and fire up your machine; so, if you’re spark plug is dirty or disconnected, you won’t have any power. Before you can address any issues though, you need to remove the plug in self-propelled mower.
Air Filter
The thing to understand about air filters is that as they clog they slowly damage the engine because there is not sufficient cooling air hitting it. And the problem can take time to see. To avoid this, here are some signs to look for that your filter might be dirty:
Fuel System
Fuel needs to flow through your machine for it to work right. Before determining if there is a problem you must be smart. Take out the spark plug and wear gloves. Then, as long as the engine is cool you can drain it and tackle issues with any of the fuel system components.
Fuel Cap
Fuel caps have a small hole at the top that can be clogged, blocking flow. If it is you can remove the cap and use an air compressor to blast it clean.
Fuel Line and Filter: How to Repair & Maintain it
Start by checking to see if there is a fuel valve and turn it off if there is. Then, remove the engine cover and take out the fuel tank. Use pliers to disconnect the fuel line, pinching the clamps located at either end of the line.
1. For the Birds
This coop from Steamy Kitchen is deceptively easy to put together and is the cream of the crop when it comes to DIY chicken shelters. I love the separate nesting/grazing areas.
2. Cozy Coop
If you have limited space and only a chicken or 2 then this cute and simple coop from blessthismessplease is the way to go. You can use wood you already have, allowing you to throw it together in minutes.
What to do if your mower has no battery?
If there’s no battery, clean the spark plugs and replace the dirty air filter as these parts may also be the issue. If these solutions don’t work, you’ll want to speak with your local repair service for further advice. In many cases, it’s much cheaper to replace a failed part instead of buying a new mower.
Why won't my lawn mower turn over?
It’s always a head-scratcher when your mower won’t turn over even though it started up fine the week before. In many cases, the mower simply needs more gas and will start up easily after you refill its tank.
How to keep gas from going bad on lawn mower?
Use fuel stabilizer to keep the gas in the mower from going bad. Clean and replace the mower’s air filter periodically. Sharpen your mower’s blades after roughly 25 hours of use (for some, this translates to once a season) Properly winterize your lawn mower’s motor and store the mower properly for the cold season.
Why does my lawn mower lose speed?
In most cases, if your lawn mower loses speed, it’s because the drive belt has become damaged or dislocated. In some cases, this problem could be pinned on a malfunctioning battery, but that’s a rare situation. To examine your drive belt, turn the mower off. You’ll find the belt within the mower’s motor casing.
How long does a lawn mower warranty last?
But unfortunately, manufacturers’ warranties don’t last forever, and a year after you made your purchase, you and your mower are typically on your own. Luckily, many lawn mower issues can be resolved with routine maintenance or quick and easy fixes. Before you give up on your old mower and run out to purchase a new one, ...
Why does my lawn mower sputter?
This is another common problem that eventually plagues most people who operate mowers. Frequently, this problem occurs as a result of a dirty filter . A dirty, debris-covered filter can smother the engine and cause it to lose power. Fortunately, a filter is both easy and inexpensive to replace.
How to check drive belt on lawn mower?
To examine your drive belt, turn the mower off. You’ll find the belt within the mower’s motor casing. If you’re unsure where this is, you’ll need to check your mower’s manual or do a quick online search for reference.
Step 1: Check if there is Water in Your Lawnmower
The first step is to check if there is any water in your lawnmower. It would be a total loss if the engine were completely submerged in water.
Step 2: Fetch a Can of Starter Fluid
Before doing anything else, you will need to fetch a can of starter fluid. This is the gas you spray into the carburetor to start the engine. If your lawn mower has water in the carburetor, you will need starter fluid to get it going.
Step: 3: Turn on the Ignition
Once you have the starter fluid, turn on the ignition. Be sure to use caution when doing this, as the engine will startup is a good chance. If the engine starts, turn it off and remove the air filter.
Step: 4: Drain the Gas and Oil
The next step is to drain the gas and oil. This can be done by removing the gas cap and tilting the lawn mower on its side. Be sure to place it in an area where the gas and oil can drain out without causing any damage.
Step: 5: Try a New Spark Plug
The spark plug may be damaged if the engine still won’t start. A new spark plug may be all you need to get your lawn mower running again.
Step: 6: Check the Coil for the Rust
The coil is the part of the engine that creates the spark. If it is corroded, it will not create a spark, and the engine will not start.
Step 7: Clean the Magnets on the Flywheel
The flywheel is the part of the engine that turns the blades. If it is dirty, it will not turn properly, and the lawn mower will not start.
