Spring has sprung, and your yard is calling for a makeover. You pull out your trusty Craftsman lawnmower, only to realize it’s been sitting idle all winter. Now, the familiar hum of the engine is replaced with the frustrating silence of a lawnmower that refuses to start. Don’t despair! This guide will walk you through the simple steps of bringing your Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawnmower back to life, ensuring a smooth start every time. We’ll cover everything from basic troubleshooting to advanced tips, leaving you feeling like a lawnmower expert in no time.
Overview:
Starting a Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawnmower is a straightforward process. You’ll need to check the fuel, battery (if applicable), and spark plug, and then use the starter mechanism to get the engine running. This article will provide a detailed walkthrough of these steps, covering common issues you might encounter and how to resolve them.
Step 1: Preparing the Mower
1.1. Check the Fuel Level
Before attempting to start the mower, ensure there’s enough fuel. Briggs & Stratton mowers usually have a transparent fuel tank, allowing you to easily check the fuel level.
- If the tank is low: Refill it with fresh, high-octane gasoline.
- If the tank is full but the mower still won’t start: The fuel may be old or contaminated.
- Solution: Drain the old fuel and refill with fresh gasoline.
1.2. Inspect the Spark Plug
The spark plug is the heart of your lawnmower’s ignition system. It delivers a spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture, starting the engine.
- Inspect the spark plug: Remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug and use a spark plug wrench to remove the plug itself.
- Check the condition: The spark plug should be clean and free of any buildup or corrosion.
- Test the spark plug: Connect the spark plug wire back to the plug and hold the metal part against a grounded metal object (like the engine block). Pull the starter cord a few times. You should see a strong blue spark. If you don’t, replace the spark plug.
- Replace the spark plug: If the spark plug is worn or corroded, replace it with a new one that’s the correct type for your Craftsman mower. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct type.
1.3. Examine the Battery (if applicable)
Many Craftsman lawnmowers use batteries for starting, particularly electric start models.
- Check the battery terminals: Ensure the terminals are clean and free of corrosion.
- Test the battery: Use a multimeter to check the battery’s voltage. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts.
- Replace the battery: If the battery is weak or dead, replace it with a new one.
Step 2: Starting the Mower
2.1. Prime the Engine
If the mower hasn’t been started in a while, priming the engine can help ensure a smooth start.
- Locate the primer bulb: The primer bulb is usually located on the carburetor.
- Pump the primer bulb: Press the primer bulb several times until it’s firm. This fills the carburetor with fuel.
2.2. Engage the Choke
The choke helps enrich the fuel-air mixture for easier starting, especially when the engine is cold.
- Locate the choke: The choke is typically a lever on the side of the engine.
- Engage the choke: Move the choke lever to the “choke” position.
2.3. Pull the Starter Cord
Now it’s time to get the engine going.
- Stand to the side: Stand to the side of the mower, away from the blades.
- Pull the starter cord: Grasp the starter cord handle and pull it firmly and quickly.
- Release the starter cord: Allow the starter cord to rewind fully.
- Repeat: Repeat the process until the engine starts.
Step 3. Troubleshooting Common Issues
3.1. Mower Won’t Start
Possible causes:
- Out of fuel: Ensure the fuel tank is full.
- Old or contaminated fuel: Drain the fuel tank and refill with fresh gasoline.
- Clogged fuel filter: Replace the fuel filter if necessary.
- Faulty spark plug: Inspect the spark plug and replace it if needed.
- Dead battery: Check the battery and replace it if necessary.
3.2. Mower Starts But Dies Quickly
Possible causes:
- Dirty air filter: Clean or replace the air filter.
- Clogged carburetor: Clean the carburetor or have it professionally cleaned.
- Fuel line blockage: Check the fuel line for any blockages.
- Faulty fuel pump: Replace the fuel pump if needed.
3.3. Mower Starts But Runs Rough
Possible causes:
- Dirty air filter: Clean or replace the air filter.
- Clogged carburetor: Clean the carburetor or have it professionally cleaned.
- Spark plug gap too wide or too narrow: Adjust the spark plug gap to the correct setting.
- Faulty ignition coil: Check the ignition coil and replace it if needed.
Step 4. Safety Precautions
- Always wear safety glasses and work gloves when operating a lawnmower.
- Never start the mower indoors or in a confined space.
- Make sure the blades are sharp and the mower is in good working order before starting.
- Never leave the mower unattended while it is running.
- Keep children and pets away from the mower.
- Follow all safety instructions in your owner’s manual.
Conclusion
Starting your Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawnmower is a simple process, but it’s important to take the time to inspect and maintain it regularly to ensure it runs smoothly. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can quickly and easily bring your mower back to life and enjoy a beautiful, well-maintained lawn. Remember, always prioritize safety and follow the instructions in your owner’s manual. Happy mowing!
FAQ
1. What do I do if my Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower won’t start?
If your Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower won’t start, there are a few things you can check. First, make sure that the fuel tank is full and that the fuel line is not clogged. Second, check the spark plug to make sure it is clean and has a good spark. Third, check the air filter to make sure it is not dirty or clogged. If you have checked all of these things and your mower still won’t start, you may need to consult a repair manual or take it to a qualified technician.
Remember to also check for any loose wires or connections, and ensure the safety switch is engaged. If you have recently changed the fuel, make sure it is fresh and free of contaminants. Finally, if you’ve recently used the mower, allow it to cool down before attempting to start it again.
2. How do I change the oil in my Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower?
Changing the oil in your Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower is a simple task that can help prolong the life of your engine. First, warm up the engine for a few minutes by running the mower. Then, locate the oil drain plug on the underside of the engine and place a drain pan underneath. Unscrew the drain plug and allow the oil to drain completely. Once the oil has drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely. Finally, pour fresh oil into the engine through the oil fill cap until the oil level reaches the “Full” mark on the dipstick.
It’s essential to use the correct type and amount of oil recommended in your owner’s manual. Be careful not to overfill the engine, as this can cause damage. Dispose of the old oil properly, as it is harmful to the environment.
3. How do I change the spark plug in my Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower?
Changing the spark plug in your Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower is another essential maintenance task. First, locate the spark plug on the top of the engine. You’ll need a spark plug socket to remove it. To remove the spark plug wire, pull it straight off the spark plug. Then, use the spark plug socket to unscrew the spark plug. To install the new spark plug, simply thread it into the spark plug hole until it’s snug. Do not overtighten the spark plug. Finally, reattach the spark plug wire.
It’s essential to use the correct type and gap for your spark plug, as specified in your owner’s manual. Ensure the new spark plug is clean and free of any debris before installing it.
4. How do I adjust the blade height on my Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower?
Adjusting the blade height on your Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower is a simple process. Most models have a lever or a knob that controls the height of the blade. You can adjust the blade height to your desired level by moving the lever or turning the knob. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to adjust the blade height on your particular model.
Remember to always turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug wire before adjusting the blade height. This ensures your safety and prevents any accidents.
5. How often should I change the air filter in my Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower?
You should change the air filter in your Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower every 25 hours of operation or at least once a year. This ensures that your engine gets the right amount of air, which improves performance and fuel efficiency. If you use your mower frequently in dusty conditions, you may need to change the air filter more often.
To change the air filter, you will need to remove the air filter cover. Once the cover is removed, you can remove the old air filter and replace it with a new one. Make sure the new air filter is installed correctly and that the air filter cover is securely attached.
6. How do I troubleshoot a clogged carburetor in my Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower?
A clogged carburetor can be a major problem for your Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower. This happens when debris and dirt build up in the carburetor, hindering fuel flow. To troubleshoot a clogged carburetor, you can start by cleaning it. First, remove the carburetor from the mower and carefully disassemble it. Then, use a carburetor cleaning solution and a small brush to clean the carburetor thoroughly. Make sure to remove all debris and dirt.
Once the carburetor is clean, reassemble it and reinstall it on the mower. If this doesn’t fix the problem, you may need to take the mower to a qualified technician for further repair.
7. What safety precautions should I take when using a Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower?
Safety is paramount when using a Craftsman Briggs & Stratton lawn mower. Before starting, always inspect the mower for any damage or loose parts. Make sure the area is clear of obstacles and bystanders. Wear sturdy shoes and long pants to protect yourself from injury.
Never operate the mower on steep slopes, and always be aware of your surroundings. Never attempt to adjust the blade while the engine is running. And lastly, always store the mower in a safe, secure location when not in use.