The warm weather is here, and with it comes the familiar hum of lawn mowers across the neighborhood. But what happens when you pull the cord on your Craftsman lawn mower, only to be greeted by the frustrating sound of sputtering and coughing instead of a smooth engine roar? This could be a sign that your mower needs a little TLC – specifically, a good priming. This article will walk you through the process of priming your Craftsman lawn mower, ensuring you have a smooth start and a perfectly manicured lawn all season long.
Priming a lawn mower involves introducing a small amount of fuel directly into the carburetor, providing the engine with the initial fuel supply it needs to ignite. This is particularly helpful when starting a cold engine, as the fuel may have evaporated or settled over time.
Understanding Your Craftsman Mower
Before diving into the priming process, it’s crucial to understand the basics of your Craftsman lawn mower. Knowing your model and its components will ensure a smooth and efficient priming experience.
Identifying the Prime Bulb
The prime bulb is typically a small, round, rubber bulb located on the carburetor. It might be red, black, or another color, and it will have a noticeable bulge. This bulb serves as the reservoir for the fuel that will be introduced into the carburetor during priming.
Locating the Choke
The choke, often a lever or knob, is responsible for restricting airflow into the carburetor. This restriction enriches the fuel-air mixture, making it easier to start a cold engine. On some Craftsman mowers, the choke lever is located near the handlebar, while on others it’s near the carburetor itself.
How to Prime a Craftsman Lawn Mower: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve identified the prime bulb and choke, it’s time to start the priming process. Follow these steps for a successful start:
1. Preparation
- Make sure the lawn mower is on a flat surface. This will prevent fuel from spilling during the priming process.
- Turn the fuel valve to the “on” position. This allows fuel to flow into the carburetor.
- Locate the prime bulb and the choke lever. Make sure you are comfortable with their location before proceeding.
2. Priming the Engine
- Press the prime bulb repeatedly until it is firm. This will introduce a small amount of fuel into the carburetor. The number of pumps required will vary depending on the model, so consult your Craftsman lawn mower manual for specific instructions.
- Release the prime bulb.
- Turn the choke lever to the “choke” position. This restricts airflow, enriching the fuel mixture for easier starting.
3. Starting the Engine
- Pull the starter cord slowly at first. This will allow the engine to begin to turn.
- Once the engine starts to turn over, pull the cord more forcefully. This should start the engine.
- Once the engine is running, slowly move the choke lever to the “run” position. This allows the engine to draw in more air, stabilizing the fuel mixture.
4. Troubleshooting
- If the engine doesn’t start after priming, check the following:
- Ensure the fuel tank is full and the fuel valve is open.
- Verify that the spark plug is properly connected and sparking.
- Inspect the air filter for dirt or debris.
5. Additional Tips
- Regularly check the fuel lines and filter for any cracks or clogs.
- Avoid storing gasoline for extended periods. Fresh fuel is essential for smooth engine operation.
- Consider using a fuel stabilizer during the off-season. This will prevent fuel from deteriorating and causing problems when you start your mower in the spring.
Beyond Priming: Maintaining Your Craftsman Mower
While priming is a crucial step for starting your Craftsman lawn mower, proper maintenance is key to ensuring long-lasting performance. Here are some additional tips for keeping your mower in top shape:
Regular Oil Changes
Engine oil lubricates the moving parts of your mower, preventing wear and tear. Refer to your user manual for recommended oil change intervals and follow these steps:
- Warm up the engine for a few minutes. This allows the oil to thin out, making it easier to drain.
- Locate the oil drain plug. It’s typically located on the bottom of the engine.
- Place a drain pan underneath the plug.
- Carefully loosen the drain plug and allow the oil to drain completely.
- Once the oil has drained, tighten the drain plug.
- Add fresh oil to the engine, checking the dipstick to ensure the oil level is correct.
Blade Sharpening
Sharp blades cut cleanly and efficiently, resulting in a more even and aesthetically pleasing lawn. Here’s how to sharpen your mower blades:
- Remove the blades from the mower.
- Use a file or sharpening stone to sharpen the cutting edge of each blade. Make sure to maintain the original bevel angle.
- Balance the blades. Ensure they are evenly weighted to prevent vibration and damage.
- Reinstall the blades on the mower.
Cleaning and Storage
- Clean the mower thoroughly after each use. This prevents buildup of grass clippings and dirt, which can clog the engine and air filter.
- Inspect the air filter and replace it as needed.
- Empty the fuel tank. This reduces the risk of fuel deterioration and potential damage to the engine.
- Store the mower in a clean, dry location.
Conclusion: Enjoy a Smooth Start Every Time
Priming your Craftsman lawn mower is a simple but essential step for a smooth and efficient start. By following these steps and practicing good maintenance habits, you can ensure your mower is always ready for action, allowing you to enjoy a lush and healthy lawn all season long. Remember to consult your user manual for specific instructions and always prioritize safety when working with tools and equipment. With a little bit of care, your Craftsman lawn mower will continue to serve you well for many years to come!
FAQs
What is the purpose of priming a lawnmower?
Priming a lawnmower is essential to ensure that the engine receives enough fuel to start. When you haven’t used your mower for a while, the fuel lines and carburetor can dry out, preventing fuel from flowing properly to the engine. Priming adds a small amount of fuel directly to the carburetor, making it easier for the engine to fire up. This is particularly important for older lawnmowers, as their fuel systems might not be as efficient as newer models.
Without priming, your lawnmower might struggle to start, require multiple pulls of the starting cord, or might not even start at all. Priming allows the engine to get the fuel it needs to ignite, making the starting process smoother and more efficient.
What kind of fuel should I use to prime my Craftsman lawnmower?
For optimal performance and to prevent damage to your lawnmower, use fresh, high-quality gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Avoid using older fuel, as it can gum up the carburetor and fuel lines. Additionally, consider using fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel from degrading over time, especially if you won’t be using the mower for extended periods.
Never use fuel that has been sitting for more than 30 days, as it can degrade and cause engine problems. The fuel stabilizer will help extend the life of your fuel and prevent the formation of varnish and other deposits in your fuel system.
How often should I prime my Craftsman lawnmower?
You typically only need to prime your lawnmower if it hasn’t been used for a while, like a month or more. If you’ve used your mower recently, it likely already has enough fuel in the carburetor to start. However, if you’re struggling to start your mower, you can try priming it even if you used it recently.
If you live in a humid climate or experience temperature fluctuations, your mower might benefit from occasional priming, even if you use it frequently. The moisture in the air can affect the fuel system and make it harder for the engine to start.
What happens if I prime my lawnmower too much?
Priming your lawnmower too much can result in flooding the engine with fuel. This can make it harder to start and could even cause damage to the engine in the long run. A flooded engine will struggle to ignite and might produce excessive smoke or backfire.
If you think you’ve primed your lawnmower too much, try waiting a few minutes to allow excess fuel to evaporate. Then, try starting the engine again. If the problem persists, it’s best to consult the owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.
How do I know if my Craftsman lawnmower is flooded?
A flooded lawnmower will exhibit several signs, including difficulty starting, backfiring, excessive smoke, and a strong gasoline smell. The engine might sputter or cough, and the starting cord might feel heavy or difficult to pull. If you suspect your lawnmower is flooded, avoid repeatedly pulling the starting cord, as it could damage the engine.
To remedy a flooded engine, allow the excess fuel to evaporate. You can do this by removing the spark plug and turning the engine over a few times to expel the fuel. You can also try using a starter fluid to help ignite the fuel. If the problem persists, consult the owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.
What if my Craftsman lawnmower doesn’t start after priming?
If your Craftsman lawnmower still doesn’t start after priming, there could be several reasons. The fuel may be old or contaminated, the spark plug might be fouled, or the air filter might be clogged. You can check the fuel, replace the spark plug, and clean the air filter to troubleshoot these issues.
You can also examine the fuel line for any kinks or blockages. If the issue persists, it’s best to consult the owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic for further diagnosis.
Can I prime my Craftsman lawnmower using a different method?
While the traditional method of using the primer bulb is common, some Craftsman lawnmowers might have alternative priming methods. Check the owner’s manual for specific instructions. Some newer models may have an automatic priming system or a different priming procedure.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific lawnmower model. Following the correct priming procedure will ensure optimal performance and prevent potential damage to your engine.