The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and you’re ready to tackle your lawn. But when you pull the cord on your trusty Craftsman lawn mower, it just sits there, silent and unyielding. The frustration is real, and the thought of tackling that overgrown grass with a hand mower seems like a nightmare. Don’t despair! This article will guide you through the most common reasons why your Craftsman mower won’t start and provide practical solutions to get you back in the mowing game.
In short: A Craftsman lawn mower not starting can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from simple issues like an empty gas tank or a clogged air filter to more complex problems with the ignition system or the engine itself. This article will help you troubleshoot and identify the source of the problem so you can get your lawn mower up and running again.
Check the Basics: Fuel, Spark, and Air
Before delving into complex troubleshooting, it’s essential to ensure the fundamentals are in order. These are the most common culprits for a non-starting lawn mower:
1. Fuel:
* Is the tank empty? This might seem obvious, but it’s always worth checking first.
* Is the fuel old or bad? Gasoline degrades over time, especially when exposed to air. If you haven’t used your mower in a while, the fuel may have gone bad, causing starting problems.
* Is the fuel line clogged? A clogged fuel line can prevent fuel from reaching the carburetor, preventing the engine from starting. You can check this by removing the fuel line and blowing through it to see if it’s clear.
2. Spark:
* Is there spark? The spark plug ignites the fuel-air mixture, so a weak or absent spark is a common reason for a no-start. You can test for spark by removing the spark plug, grounding it to the engine block, and pulling the starter cord. If there’s a blue spark, the spark plug is working. If not, you’ll need to check the spark plug, spark plug wire, and ignition coil.
3. Air:
* Is the air filter clogged? A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, hindering combustion. Check the air filter and replace it if it’s dirty or clogged.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the basics are all in order, it’s time to move on to troubleshooting some of the more common issues.
Fuel System Problems
1. Carburetor Issues:
- Clogged carburetor: The carburetor mixes air and fuel, and if it’s clogged with dirt or debris, it can prevent the engine from starting. You can try cleaning the carburetor yourself, or take it to a professional for a more thorough cleaning.
- Flooded carburetor: If the engine is flooded, it can prevent it from starting. You can try the following to resolve this:
- Let the mower sit for a few hours: Allow the fuel to evaporate from the carburetor.
- Use a spark plug to drain the excess fuel: Remove the spark plug and crank the engine briefly to help clear out the excess fuel.
- Use a choke: If your mower has a choke, try starting it with the choke on and gradually opening it as the engine warms up.
2. Fuel Pump Issues:
- Fuel pump not working: The fuel pump is responsible for drawing fuel from the tank to the carburetor. If the fuel pump is faulty, it may not be able to deliver enough fuel to the engine. Check the fuel pump for leaks and ensure the fuel line is connected properly.
Ignition System Problems
1. Spark Plug Problems:
- Damaged spark plug: A worn-out or damaged spark plug can prevent the engine from starting. Try replacing the spark plug with a new one.
- Gap too wide or too narrow: The gap between the spark plug electrodes should be within the manufacturer’s specifications. If the gap is too wide, the spark may be too weak to ignite the fuel. If the gap is too narrow, the spark may be too strong and could damage the plug.
2. Ignition Coil Problems:
- Faulty ignition coil: The ignition coil provides the high voltage needed to create the spark. If the ignition coil is faulty, it won’t be able to generate a spark. You can test the coil with a multimeter or take it to a professional for diagnosis.
3. Ignition Wire Problems:
- Broken or damaged wire: The ignition wire carries the high voltage from the coil to the spark plug. If the wire is broken or damaged, it can interrupt the flow of electricity and prevent the spark from reaching the plug.
Engine Problems
1. Engine Oil Issues:
- Low oil: The engine needs oil to lubricate moving parts. If the oil level is too low, the engine can seize up and prevent it from starting. Check the oil level and add more if needed.
- Dirty oil: Dirty oil can prevent the engine from running smoothly. Change the oil regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. Valve Issues:
- Stuck valves: The valves in the engine open and close to allow air and fuel into the combustion chamber. If the valves are stuck, they can prevent the engine from running properly. You may need to take the engine to a professional for a valve adjustment or replacement.
Getting Help From a Professional
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and your Craftsman lawn mower still won’t start, it’s time to seek help from a professional. A mechanic can diagnose the problem and perform any necessary repairs.
Here are some tips for choosing a mechanic:
- Ask for recommendations: Ask friends, family, or neighbors for recommendations on a reputable mechanic.
- Check online reviews: Read reviews of local mechanics online to get an idea of their reputation.
- Get a quote: Before you commit to any repairs, get a quote from the mechanic for the work.
Maintaining Your Craftsman Lawn Mower for Long-Term Performance
Preventative maintenance is key to keeping your Craftsman lawn mower running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs down the road. Here are some essential maintenance tips:
- Change the oil regularly: Changing the oil regularly helps to keep the engine clean and lubricated. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change interval.
- Clean the air filter: A clean air filter ensures proper airflow to the engine. Clean the air filter every few uses, or more often if you mow in dusty conditions.
- Inspect the spark plug: Check the spark plug for wear and tear, and replace it if needed.
- Check the fuel lines: Make sure the fuel lines are not cracked or leaking. Replace any damaged fuel lines.
- Clean the carburetor: Clean the carburetor every few months to prevent clogs.
- Store the mower properly: Store the mower in a dry, well-ventilated area. Empty the fuel tank and run the engine until it’s out of fuel to prevent the carburetor from gumming up.
Conclusion
A Craftsman lawn mower that won’t start can be a frustrating experience. But with a little troubleshooting and some basic maintenance, you can get your mower back in working order and enjoy a beautiful, well-maintained lawn. Remember to check the basics first, then move on to more complex issues. If you’re unable to solve the problem, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional. By following these tips, you can keep your Craftsman lawn mower running smoothly for years to come.
FAQ
Why won’t my Craftsman lawn mower start?
There are several reasons why your Craftsman lawn mower might not be starting. The most common causes include a dead battery, a clogged air filter, or a faulty spark plug. If your mower is brand new, you may need to prime the carburetor before starting. If you’ve ruled out these issues, it’s worth checking the fuel lines for any blockages and ensuring the fuel is fresh. You can also try checking the ignition coil and spark plug wires for any damage.
If none of these solutions work, you may have a more serious problem with your lawn mower’s engine. In this case, it’s best to take it to a qualified mechanic for repairs.
How do I check the battery on my Craftsman lawn mower?
To check the battery, you can use a multimeter to test the voltage. If the voltage is below 12.6 volts, the battery is likely dead and needs to be replaced. If the battery is fully charged, but the mower still won’t start, there could be a problem with the starter motor or the wiring. If you’re not comfortable working with electrical components, it’s best to take your mower to a mechanic.
Another way to check the battery is to connect a jumper cable to a working battery. If the mower starts, it confirms the battery is faulty and needs replacing.
How do I clean the air filter on my Craftsman lawn mower?
The air filter is designed to prevent dirt and debris from entering the engine. If the filter is clogged, it can restrict airflow to the engine, making it difficult to start. To clean the air filter, you can remove it from the mower and tap it gently against a hard surface to dislodge any dirt. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any stubborn dirt.
If the air filter is too dirty to clean, you can replace it with a new one. Be sure to check the air filter regularly and clean or replace it as needed.
How do I check the spark plug on my Craftsman lawn mower?
The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel in the engine. If the spark plug is fouled or worn out, it can prevent the engine from starting. To check the spark plug, you can remove it from the engine and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. If the spark plug is fouled, you can clean it with a wire brush. If the spark plug is worn out, you should replace it with a new one.
You can also test the spark plug by grounding it to the engine block and observing if it sparks when the engine is cranked. If it doesn’t spark, the spark plug needs replacement.
What do I do if my Craftsman lawn mower won’t start after changing the spark plug?
If your lawn mower still won’t start after replacing the spark plug, there could be a few other issues. Make sure the spark plug is properly gapped and tightened. If it’s not properly seated, it won’t fire properly.
You can also check the spark plug wire and the ignition coil for any damage or corrosion. If there’s a problem with either of these components, the engine won’t be able to fire.
How do I prime the carburetor on my Craftsman lawn mower?
Priming the carburetor is important for new mowers or those that have been sitting for a long time. To prime the carburetor, you’ll need to locate the priming bulb. Pump the bulb several times to fill the carburetor with fuel. Once the bulb is firm, try starting the engine.
If you’re still having trouble starting your lawn mower, you can try priming the carburetor again. You can also try spraying some starting fluid into the carburetor to help ignite the fuel. Be careful when using starting fluid as it can be flammable.
How do I check the fuel lines for blockages on my Craftsman lawn mower?
To check the fuel lines, you need to inspect them for any cracks or kinks. You can also try blowing through the lines to see if there is any blockage. If you find any blockages, you’ll need to clear them before your lawn mower will start.
If the lines are in good condition, you can check the fuel tank to ensure it is clean and free of debris. You should also check the fuel filter for any dirt or particles that might be preventing fuel from flowing to the engine.