The first warm days of spring are here, and you’re eager to get your lawn looking its best. But before you can mow, you need to make sure your Craftsman lawn mower is ready to go. And that includes priming it! This article will guide you through the process of priming your Craftsman lawn mower, explaining why it’s necessary, what you need, and how to do it safely and effectively. We’ll also cover some common issues you might encounter and how to troubleshoot them.
A Brief Overview of Priming
Priming a lawn mower is essentially providing a small amount of fuel to the carburetor to help it start. This is especially important for engines that haven’t been used for a while, as the fuel lines and carburetor may have dried out. Priming ensures that there’s enough fuel to ignite the spark plug and get the engine running.
Understanding Your Craftsman Lawn Mower
Before you start priming, it’s crucial to understand your Craftsman lawn mower’s specific model and features. Different models may have slightly different priming methods. Check your owner’s manual for detailed instructions specific to your mower.
Identifying Your Mower Type
Craftsman lawn mowers come in various types, including:
- Push Mower: These are manual mowers that require the user to push them along. They often have a simple, single-cylinder engine that may require priming.
- Self-Propelled Mower: These mowers have a motor that assists in propulsion, making them easier to use. They also typically have a more sophisticated engine that might require priming.
- Riding Mower: These are larger mowers that you ride on. They have powerful engines that often need priming, especially if they haven’t been used in a while.
Finding the Primer Bulb
Most Craftsman lawn mowers have a primer bulb, a small rubber bulb located near the carburetor. When you press the primer bulb, you push a small amount of fuel into the carburetor, preparing the engine for starting.
Identifying the Primer Bulb
- Locate the Carburetor: The carburetor is usually on top of the engine, often near the air filter. It’s a small, metal component with various hoses and connections.
- Look for the Primer Bulb: The primer bulb is typically a small, round rubber bulb that’s connected to the carburetor. It might be located near the carburetor or on a nearby hose.
The Priming Process: Step by Step
Now that you’ve identified your mower type and located the primer bulb, you’re ready to start priming. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Preparation
- Ensure the Fuel Tank is Full: Before you begin, check the fuel tank and fill it with fresh, high-quality gasoline. Using old fuel can cause problems with starting your engine.
- Check the Fuel Lines: Make sure the fuel lines are properly connected and not cracked or leaking.
- Inspect the Spark Plug: If your mower has been sitting for a long time, it’s a good idea to inspect the spark plug for any signs of damage or corrosion.
2. Priming the Carburetor
- Locate the Primer Bulb: Find the primer bulb near the carburetor and make sure it’s clean and free of debris.
- Pump the Primer Bulb: Pump the primer bulb several times until it feels firm. The number of pumps required will vary depending on your mower, so check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
- Check for Fuel Flow: After pumping the primer bulb, look for signs of fuel flow into the carburetor. You might see fuel flowing into the carburetor through a small opening or hear a gurgling sound.
3. Starting the Engine
- Turn the Choke On: For cold starts, ensure the choke is in the “on” position. This helps enrich the fuel mixture to make starting easier.
- Engage the Starter: Pull the starter cord firmly and smoothly. It may take a few pulls to get the engine running.
- Turn the Choke Off: Once the engine is running, gradually turn the choke off to allow the engine to run smoothly.
4. Troubleshooting Problems
If you’re having trouble starting your lawn mower, consider these troubleshooting tips:
- Check the Fuel: Make sure your fuel tank is full and that you’re using fresh gasoline.
- Inspect the Spark Plug: Check the spark plug for any signs of damage or corrosion.
- Clean the Air Filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and make it difficult to start the engine.
- Inspect the Fuel Lines: Look for any signs of damage or leaks in the fuel lines.
Tips for Proper Priming and Maintenance
- Regular Priming: Even if your lawn mower has been used recently, it’s a good idea to prime it before each use, especially if it hasn’t been used for a few days.
- Don’t Over-Prime: Over-priming can lead to flooding the carburetor, which can make it difficult to start the engine.
- Use Fresh Fuel: Always use fresh gasoline in your lawn mower. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor and make it difficult to start the engine.
- Store Properly: When storing your lawn mower for the winter, make sure the fuel tank is empty and that the engine is clean and dry.
Conclusion: Priming for a Smooth Start
Priming your Craftsman lawn mower is a simple process that can make a big difference in starting your engine. By following these steps and maintaining your mower regularly, you’ll ensure a smooth start and a successful mowing season. Remember, consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions and advice tailored to your Craftsman model. Happy mowing!
FAQ
Q1: Why do I need to prime my Craftsman lawn mower?
A: Priming your Craftsman lawn mower is essential for starting the engine, especially if it hasn’t been used in a while. The primer bulb helps draw fuel from the tank into the carburetor, creating a rich fuel mixture that ignites easily. Without priming, the carburetor might not receive enough fuel, making it difficult to start the engine. Priming is particularly important in cold weather, as the fuel becomes thicker and less readily vaporized.
Q2: How often should I prime my Craftsman lawn mower?
A: The frequency of priming depends on the age of your lawnmower, the weather, and how often you use it. Generally, you’ll need to prime it after a long period of storage, especially during cold months. If your mower starts easily, you can skip priming. However, if it’s been sitting for a week or more, it’s a good idea to prime it before starting.
Q3: What happens if I prime my lawn mower too much?
A: Over-priming can lead to engine flooding, making it difficult to start. If you prime the bulb excessively, it will fill the carburetor with fuel, causing it to stall. To fix this, you’ll need to wait for the excess fuel to evaporate or remove the spark plug to drain the excess fuel.
Q4: Can I use any type of fuel to prime my Craftsman lawn mower?
A: It’s crucial to use the recommended fuel type for your Craftsman lawn mower. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct fuel specifications. Using the wrong type of fuel can damage your engine and void your warranty.
Q5: What if my Craftsman lawn mower doesn’t have a primer bulb?
A: Some older Craftsman lawn mowers may not have a primer bulb. In such cases, you might need to use the choke lever to start the engine. The choke restricts air intake, creating a richer fuel-air mixture for easier starting. However, ensure you release the choke lever after the engine starts to avoid engine damage.
Q6: How do I know if I’m priming my Craftsman lawn mower correctly?
A: To prime your lawn mower correctly, pump the primer bulb until it becomes firm. Avoid pumping it excessively, as this can lead to flooding. Once the bulb is firm, you should be able to start the engine easily.
Q7: Is there any other way to start my Craftsman lawn mower without priming?
A: While priming is the most common method, you might be able to start your lawn mower without it, especially if it’s recently been used. In this case, you can try starting the engine normally, and if it doesn’t start immediately, try pumping the primer bulb a few times. However, remember that priming is crucial, especially after a period of storage or in cold weather.