The warm weather has arrived, and you’re eager to get your lawn looking pristine. But when you pull the starter cord, all you hear is a frustrating “click” instead of the familiar roar of your lawn mower engine. This is a classic sign of an ignition problem, and the culprit might be your lawn mower’s ignition coil. This article will guide you through the process of checking your ignition coil, explaining the common symptoms, testing procedures, and potential troubleshooting steps. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to diagnose and potentially fix this common lawn mower issue.
What is an Ignition Coil?
The ignition coil is a vital component in your lawn mower’s engine, responsible for generating the high-voltage spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. It works by converting the low-voltage electricity from the battery into high-voltage electricity, which is then transferred to the spark plug. If the ignition coil fails, the spark plug won’t fire, and your lawn mower won’t start.
Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil
Before diving into testing, it’s crucial to recognize the signs that indicate a problem with your ignition coil:
- No Spark: The most obvious symptom is the lack of a spark at the spark plug. This can be easily checked with a spark tester.
- Engine Cranks But Doesn’t Start: This indicates that the engine is receiving power but isn’t firing.
- Intermittent Engine Stalling: If your lawn mower starts but dies sporadically, this could also point to a faulty ignition coil.
- Weak Spark: A weak spark might not be enough to reliably ignite the fuel-air mixture, resulting in misfires or engine hesitation.
Testing Your Ignition Coil: A Step-by-Step Guide
Testing your ignition coil is a relatively straightforward process that can be done with a few basic tools. Here’s how to test your ignition coil:
1. Safety First:
- Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug: This prevents any accidental sparks while you’re working.
- Wear safety glasses: Protect your eyes from any potential debris or sparks.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Avoid working near flammable materials.
2. Gather Your Tools:
- Spark Tester: This is an essential tool for checking for spark at the spark plug.
- Multimeter: A multimeter is used to measure the resistance of the ignition coil.
- Wire Stripper: You may need this to expose the ends of wires for testing.
3. Disconnect the Ignition Coil:
- Locate the ignition coil: It’s usually mounted near the spark plug, often secured with a bracket or a clamp.
- Disconnect the wire leading to the spark plug: Use a wire stripper if necessary to expose the wire ends.
- Disconnect any other wires connected to the ignition coil: Some models may have multiple wires.
4. Testing for Continuity:
- Set your multimeter to the resistance setting (ohms): The exact setting may vary depending on your multimeter, but most will have an “Ω” symbol.
- Connect the multimeter probes to the terminals on the ignition coil: Consult your lawn mower’s manual or an online diagram to identify the correct terminals for testing continuity.
- Check for a reading on the multimeter: The reading should be within the specifications listed for your specific ignition coil. Refer to your owner’s manual or an online parts database for these specifications.
5. Testing for Spark:
- Connect the spark tester to the spark plug wire: Ensure the ground clip of the spark tester is securely attached to a grounded metal surface.
- Have an assistant crank the engine: While someone else cranks the engine, observe the spark tester.
- Look for a bright, consistent spark: If you see a strong spark, the ignition coil is likely working correctly.
6. Analyzing the Test Results:
- If you get a reading within the specified range on the multimeter and a strong spark on the spark tester, your ignition coil is likely good.
- If you get no reading on the multimeter or a weak spark on the spark tester, your ignition coil is likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
Troubleshooting Your Ignition Coil
If your ignition coil tests faulty, don’t despair. You might be able to troubleshoot the issue before resorting to replacement. Here are some steps you can take:
- Check for loose or corroded connections: Loose or corroded connections can disrupt the flow of electricity and cause problems. Clean any corroded terminals with a wire brush and reconnect securely.
- Inspect the ignition coil for damage: Look for any signs of physical damage like cracks, burns, or loose components. If there is damage, the coil should be replaced.
- Check the spark plug: A fouled or damaged spark plug can also cause problems with the ignition system. Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear or carbon buildup and replace if necessary.
- Examine the wiring: Inspect the wiring leading to and from the ignition coil for any breaks, shorts, or loose connections.
Replacing Your Ignition Coil
If you’ve ruled out other issues and determined that your ignition coil is faulty, replacement is the next step. Here’s how to do it:
1. Purchase a Replacement Ignition Coil:
- Find a compatible coil: Ensure you purchase a replacement ignition coil that’s specifically designed for your lawn mower model.
- Check the specifications: Make sure the new coil’s resistance values match the specifications of the original.
2. Disconnect the Old Coil:
- Disconnect the wires from the old coil: Remove any wires connected to the old coil and label them if necessary to ensure correct reconnection.
3. Install the New Coil:
- Secure the new coil in its designated location: Use the existing brackets or clamps to mount the new coil securely.
- Connect the wires to the new coil: Reconnect the wires to their corresponding terminals on the new coil, ensuring a tight connection.
- Reconnect the spark plug wire: Reattach the spark plug wire to the spark plug, making sure it’s secure.
4. Test the New Coil:
- Start the lawn mower: Once the new coil is installed, try starting the engine to see if it runs smoothly.
- Test for spark: Use the spark tester to verify that you’re getting a strong spark at the spark plug.
Maintenance Tips for Your Ignition Coil
While an ignition coil is designed to be a long-lasting component, proper maintenance can help extend its lifespan:
- Keep the coil clean: Clean the coil and its surrounding area to prevent dirt and debris buildup.
- Check for corrosion: Inspect the coil and its connections regularly for signs of corrosion and clean as needed.
- Avoid excessive vibration: Excessive vibration can damage the coil’s internal components. If your lawn mower has excessive vibration, it’s best to address the underlying issue.
When to Seek Professional Help
While the steps outlined in this article can help you diagnose and potentially fix your ignition coil issues, sometimes professional help is necessary. If you encounter any of the following situations, consider consulting a qualified mechanic:
- You’re unsure about the diagnosis: If you’re not confident about identifying the cause of the problem, it’s always best to get an expert opinion.
- You don’t feel comfortable working on the ignition system: Working with electrical systems requires care and expertise. If you’re not comfortable handling these components, seek professional assistance.
- The problem persists after troubleshooting: If the issue continues despite your efforts, there might be a more complex problem that requires a professional’s skills.
Conclusion
A faulty ignition coil can be a frustrating problem, but it’s often a relatively simple fix. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can test your ignition coil and diagnose the problem. Remember to prioritize safety and proceed with caution when working on electrical components. If you’re not confident in your abilities, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. With a little knowledge and attention to maintenance, you can keep your lawn mower running smoothly and your lawn looking its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ignition coil and what does it do?
The ignition coil is a vital component in your lawnmower’s engine. It’s a small, cylindrical device that transforms the low-voltage electrical current from the battery into a high-voltage spark that ignites the fuel in the combustion chamber. Think of it as a transformer that boosts the power of your lawnmower’s electricity. Without a properly functioning ignition coil, your lawnmower wouldn’t be able to start and run.
What are the signs of a bad ignition coil?
A faulty ignition coil can manifest itself in a few different ways. The most common sign is that your lawnmower simply won’t start. Other signs include misfiring, sputtering, and difficulty starting when the engine is cold. If your lawnmower is running poorly, it might be time to inspect the ignition coil.
How do I check if my ignition coil is bad?
There are a few ways to check your ignition coil. You can use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the coil, which should fall within a specific range. You can also visually inspect the coil for any signs of damage, such as cracks or burns. If you’re not comfortable performing these checks yourself, you can take your lawnmower to a qualified mechanic.
How do I replace an ignition coil?
Replacing an ignition coil is a relatively simple task that can be done by most DIYers. First, disconnect the spark plug wire and the wires leading to the ignition coil. Next, loosen the mounting bolts and remove the old coil. Then, install the new coil, making sure to tighten the mounting bolts securely. Finally, reconnect the wires and test the ignition system.
How much does a new ignition coil cost?
The cost of a new ignition coil can vary depending on the make and model of your lawnmower. However, you can typically expect to pay between $20 and $50 for a new coil. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.
What are some tips for maintaining my ignition coil?
While ignition coils are generally quite durable, there are some things you can do to help prolong their life. Make sure to keep the coil clean and dry. Avoid exposing it to excessive heat or moisture. It’s also important to use the correct type of spark plug for your lawnmower, as the wrong spark plug can put extra stress on the ignition coil.
Can I use an ignition coil from a different lawnmower?
It’s not recommended to use an ignition coil from a different lawnmower, even if it appears to be the same size and shape. Ignition coils are specifically designed for a particular engine model, and using the wrong coil can cause damage or even a fire. If you’re not sure what coil you need, consult your lawnmower’s owner’s manual or contact a qualified mechanic.