Ever felt like your lawn mower just wasn’t cutting it? Maybe it struggles on hills, takes forever to finish the job, or simply lacks the oomph you expect. The culprit might be your lawn mower’s governor. This hidden limiter is designed to protect the engine, but it can also hold back your mower’s performance. In this guide, we’ll explore what a governor is, why you might want to remove it, and the step-by-step process for doing so safely and effectively. We’ll also discuss the potential risks and the importance of maintaining your lawn mower even after removing the governor.
What is a governor and why might you want to remove it?
A governor is a mechanical or electronic device on a lawn mower engine that controls the engine’s speed. It acts as a safety mechanism, preventing the engine from exceeding its safe operating RPMs (revolutions per minute). However, this safety measure can also limit the engine’s power output, especially when you need extra torque for mowing thick grass or tackling inclines.
Removing the governor can potentially unlock your lawn mower’s full power potential, resulting in faster mowing speeds and a more satisfying experience. However, it’s crucial to understand that removing the governor comes with risks and should only be attempted if you’re comfortable working with small engines and understand the potential consequences.
Understanding the Governor: Its Function and Types
Before diving into the removal process, it’s important to understand how a governor works and the different types you might encounter.
Mechanical Governors
These are the most common type found in older lawn mowers. They usually consist of a centrifugal mechanism attached to the engine’s crankshaft. As the engine speed increases, centrifugal force causes weights to move outward, which in turn adjusts the throttle linkage, restricting the fuel flow and preventing the engine from revving too high.
Electronic Governors
Modern lawn mowers often employ electronic governors. These systems utilize sensors to monitor engine speed and adjust the fuel mixture electronically. They typically offer more precise control and are generally more reliable than mechanical governors.
The Risks of Removing the Governor
While removing the governor might seem like a simple fix for a lackluster lawn mower, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential risks associated with it:
- Engine Damage: Without the governor’s protection, the engine can run at higher RPMs than it was designed for. This can lead to premature wear and tear, overheating, and even catastrophic engine failure.
- Increased Fuel Consumption: Removing the governor can cause the engine to run richer, leading to increased fuel consumption and potentially causing damage to the spark plugs and other components.
- Noise and Vibration: Operating a lawn mower without a governor can result in higher noise levels and increased vibrations, which can be uncomfortable and potentially harmful to your hearing.
- Voiding Warranty: Removing the governor may void the warranty on your lawn mower, as it is considered a modification that can affect the engine’s performance and safety.
The Pros and Cons of Removing the Governor
Deciding whether or not to remove the governor is a personal choice based on your needs and tolerance for risk. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Increased Power: The most obvious advantage is increased power output, leading to faster mowing speeds and better performance on hills and thick grass.
- More Control: Removing the governor allows for finer control over the engine speed, giving you more flexibility while mowing.
Cons:
- Increased Risk of Damage: The engine is more susceptible to damage without the governor’s protection.
- Potential Noise and Vibration Issues: Increased engine speed can result in higher noise and vibration levels.
- Potential Warranty Issues: Removing the governor may void your warranty.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Removing the Governor
If you’ve decided to remove the governor, it’s essential to follow a safe and proper procedure. Remember, this process may vary depending on your specific lawn mower model. Consult your owner’s manual or refer to online resources for detailed instructions specific to your model.
Step 1: Safety First!
- Disconnect the spark plug wire: This is crucial to prevent accidental starting while working on the engine.
- Wear safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Exhaust fumes can be dangerous.
Step 2: Locate the Governor
- Identify the governor’s mechanism: This can be a centrifugal device connected to the crankshaft or an electronic control module. Refer to your lawn mower’s manual or online resources for specific locations.
Step 3: Disengage or Remove the Governor
- Mechanical governors: You may need to adjust or remove the linkages that connect the governor to the throttle.
- Electronic governors: Disconnecting the governor’s wiring may be required. This should only be done by someone familiar with electrical systems.
Step 4: Adjust the Throttle
- Set the throttle to the desired position: After removing the governor, you can adjust the throttle to your preference. However, be careful not to exceed the engine’s safe operating RPMs.
Step 5: Reconnect the Spark Plug Wire
- Reconnecting the spark plug wire: Only reconnect the spark plug wire after you are confident the governor is removed or disabled.
Post-Removal Maintenance and Considerations
Removing the governor alters the engine’s operation, so it’s crucial to adopt a few post-removal practices:
- Regular Engine Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance checks, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug cleaning, to ensure the engine is running smoothly and efficiently.
- Careful Operation: Use caution when operating the lawn mower without a governor. Avoid prolonged periods of full throttle and monitor the engine temperature closely.
- Consider a Governor Replacement: If you’re concerned about the risks associated with removing the governor, consider replacing it with a governor that allows for higher RPMs while still providing protection for your engine.
Final Thoughts
Removing the governor can unlock your lawn mower’s full potential, but it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. Carefully weigh the pros and cons, understand the risks, and ensure you have the necessary knowledge and expertise before attempting this modification. If you’re unsure about the process or are uncomfortable working with small engines, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic for assistance. By following these guidelines and exercising caution, you can potentially enhance your lawn mowing experience while minimizing the risk of damage to your equipment.
FAQs
FAQ 1: What is a governor, and why is it on my lawnmower?
A governor is a device that limits the engine’s speed on your lawnmower. It acts as a safety feature, preventing the engine from running too fast and potentially damaging itself. The governor works by controlling the amount of fuel that reaches the engine, ensuring it operates within a safe RPM range.
Think of it like a speed limiter in a car. It prevents you from exceeding a certain speed, even if you try to push the engine further. While the governor protects your engine, it can also limit its performance, making tasks like mowing thick grass or dealing with hills challenging.
FAQ 2: Is removing the governor safe?
Removing the governor can increase your lawnmower’s power, but it also comes with risks. Without the governor, the engine can potentially reach dangerously high speeds, increasing the risk of damage or accidents.
It’s crucial to be aware of the potential consequences and take necessary precautions. Always consult your lawnmower’s manual and consider the risks before modifying your engine.
FAQ 3: What are the benefits of removing the governor?
Removing the governor can unlock your lawnmower’s full potential, enabling it to tackle tough jobs with ease. You’ll experience increased power, leading to faster mowing, effortless hill climbing, and better handling of thick grass and debris.
The increased power can also make your lawnmower more efficient, allowing you to complete tasks quicker and with less effort. However, remember that these benefits come with the potential downsides of increased wear and tear on your engine.
FAQ 4: How do I remove the governor?
Removing the governor typically involves identifying the governor linkage and disconnecting it. This process can vary depending on your lawnmower model. Consult your owner’s manual or search for online tutorials specific to your mower type.
Remember to be cautious and avoid damaging any engine components during the removal process. You might need specialized tools and knowledge to ensure a safe and successful removal.
FAQ 5: What are the potential risks of removing the governor?
Removing the governor exposes your lawnmower engine to higher RPMs and potential damage. Over-revving can lead to engine overheating, increased wear and tear, and even engine failure.
It also increases the risk of accidents, as the uncontrolled engine speed can make your lawnmower harder to control, especially on slopes or when encountering obstacles. It’s essential to assess the risks and be prepared to deal with potential issues.
FAQ 6: Can I reinstall the governor?
Yes, in most cases, you can reinstall the governor. This will restore the original engine speed limits and potentially extend your lawnmower’s lifespan.
If you decide to remove the governor, keep the parts safe and ensure you understand the reinstallation process before doing so. This will allow you to easily return to the factory settings if you need to.
FAQ 7: What are some alternatives to removing the governor?
Instead of removing the governor, you can consider other options to improve your lawnmower’s performance. Sharpening your blades regularly will significantly improve cutting efficiency.
Additionally, upgrading to a larger engine size or using a different type of fuel can also enhance your lawnmower’s power. Choosing the right option depends on your specific needs and budget.