The roar of a lawnmower engine is a familiar summer sound, signifying the start of backyard maintenance. But what happens when your Briggs and Stratton engine refuses to cooperate, leaving you with a stubborn lawn and a growing sense of frustration? This article delves into the critical process of priming your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower engine, explaining exactly how to get it running smoothly. We’ll cover everything from the basics of priming to troubleshooting common issues, ensuring you can tackle your lawn with confidence.
Understanding Priming
Priming essentially involves introducing a small amount of fuel directly into the carburetor of your lawnmower. This jump-starts the engine by providing a concentrated fuel source for initial combustion, especially when the engine is cold or hasn’t been used in a while.
How to Prime Your Briggs and Stratton Lawn Mower
1. Locate the Primer Bulb
First, you need to find the primer bulb. It’s usually a round, rubber bulb located near the carburetor. Look for a small, teardrop-shaped bulb on the engine’s side.
2. Check the Fuel Level
Before priming, ensure your lawnmower has enough fuel. If the tank is nearly empty, fill it with fresh gasoline.
3. Prime the Engine
With the primer bulb in view, firmly press it down several times. The number of pumps varies by model but generally, 3-5 pumps will suffice. This forces fuel into the carburetor, providing the engine with a starting boost.
4. Turn the Choke On (If Applicable)
Many Briggs and Stratton mowers have a choke lever or switch. This helps enrich the fuel-air mixture for easier starting. If your mower has a choke, engage it before attempting to start the engine.
5. Attempt to Start the Engine
Now, carefully pull the starter cord. The engine should sputter and catch, indicating successful priming. If it doesn’t, don’t be discouraged.
Troubleshooting Tips
Engine Won’t Start After Priming
Here are some potential problems and solutions:
- Old Fuel: Old gasoline can gum up the carburetor. Drain the old fuel and refill with fresh, high-octane gasoline.
- Clogged Fuel Line: Check the fuel line for any blockages or kinks. Replace it if necessary.
- Dirty Air Filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, making it difficult to start. Clean or replace the air filter.
- Spark Plug Issues: A worn-out or fouled spark plug can hinder ignition. Replace or clean the spark plug.
- Flooded Engine: Too much priming can flood the engine. Allow it to air out for a few minutes, then try starting it again without priming.
Additional Tips for Starting Your Lawn Mower
- Battery Charge: Ensure your lawnmower battery has a full charge if it’s an electric-start model.
- Safety First: Always wear safety glasses and gloves while working on your lawnmower.
Conclusion
Priming your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower is a simple process that can save you a lot of frustration. By following these steps and troubleshooting potential issues, you can get your mower running smoothly and tackle your lawn with confidence. Remember, regular maintenance and proper handling will ensure your lawnmower operates efficiently for years to come.
FAQs
What is priming a lawn mower, and why is it necessary?
Priming a lawn mower engine means introducing a small amount of fuel directly into the carburetor to help it start. This is especially important for cold engines, as the fuel in the carburetor may have evaporated, making it difficult for the engine to ignite. By priming the engine, you’re essentially providing an initial burst of fuel to get it running.
Priming a lawn mower engine is generally not necessary for warm engines, but it can still be helpful, especially if the engine has been sitting for a while. It ensures that the engine receives the necessary fuel to start smoothly.
How do I know if my Briggs and Stratton lawn mower needs to be primed?
The most reliable indicator is the engine itself. If the engine is cold or has been sitting for a long time, you’ll likely need to prime it. You can also check the fuel lines for air bubbles, which indicates that the fuel is not flowing properly. If you see air bubbles, you’ll need to prime the engine before starting.
Another sign is if you try to start the engine, and it sputters or struggles to catch. If this happens, priming the engine can help resolve the issue.
Where is the primer bulb located on my Briggs and Stratton lawn mower?
The primer bulb is typically located on the carburetor, which is often located on the side or top of the engine. It’s a small, round bulb that is usually black or red in color. Look for a small, round bulb attached to a hose leading to the carburetor.
If you’re unsure about the location of the primer bulb, refer to your lawn mower’s owner’s manual. It should provide a clear diagram and explanation of its location.
How many times should I prime the bulb?
The number of times you should prime the bulb depends on the size of the engine and the temperature of the fuel. As a general rule, it’s best to prime the bulb 3-4 times, especially if the engine is cold or has been sitting for a while.
If you’re not sure, you can start with 3 pumps and add more if necessary. You’ll know you’ve primed it enough when the bulb feels firm and there’s a slight resistance when you press it.
What should I do if my primer bulb is cracked or damaged?
A cracked or damaged primer bulb can affect the engine’s ability to start properly. If you notice a crack or damage, it’s best to replace it immediately. You can usually find replacement primer bulbs at your local hardware store or online.
Before installing a new primer bulb, ensure it’s compatible with your Briggs and Stratton lawn mower model. Refer to your owner’s manual or contact Briggs and Stratton customer service for assistance.
Can I prime my lawn mower if it’s already running?
It’s not recommended to prime a lawn mower engine while it’s already running. This can flood the engine with fuel, leading to difficulty starting and potential damage to the engine.
If you’re having trouble starting your lawn mower, try other troubleshooting steps before attempting to prime it again. Always ensure the engine is off before priming.
What should I do if my lawn mower still won’t start after priming?
If your lawn mower still won’t start after priming, there may be other issues preventing it from starting. It’s a good idea to troubleshoot the problem before assuming it’s a priming issue.
Here are some common troubleshooting steps:
- Check the fuel level: Ensure the fuel tank is full and there’s no debris obstructing the fuel line.
- Check the spark plug: Make sure the spark plug is clean and free of corrosion. You may need to replace it if it’s worn or damaged.
- Check the air filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and prevent the engine from starting.
- Check the ignition system: Ensure the ignition system is functioning correctly, including the spark plug wire and the ignition coil.
If you’ve checked all of these components and the engine still won’t start, it’s best to seek professional help.