The warm sun is shining, the birds are singing, and your lawn is begging for a trim. But as you reach for your trusty Craftsman M220 lawn mower, a feeling of dread washes over you. You haven’t started it in a while, and you can’t quite remember how. Fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the simple steps of starting your Craftsman M220, from prepping the machine to firing it up. We’ll cover everything from checking the fuel and oil levels to troubleshooting common starting issues. By the end of this article, you’ll be a master of your M220 and ready to conquer your lawn with confidence.
A Quick Overview
Starting a Craftsman M220 lawn mower is a fairly straightforward process. It involves a few basic steps, including preparing the mower, priming the carburetor, and engaging the starting mechanism. With a little knowledge and some simple techniques, you’ll be able to get your M220 running smoothly in no time.
Prepping Your Craftsman M220 for Starting
Before you even think about pulling the starter cord, make sure your M220 is ready for action. This involves a few crucial checks and pre-start preparations:
1. Fuel Level Check
Your M220 won’t go anywhere without fuel! Open the fuel cap and visually inspect the fuel level. If the tank is low, it’s time to add fresh gasoline.
Important Note:
Always use fresh, high-quality gasoline. Avoid using old or stale gasoline, as it can lead to starting problems and even damage the engine.
2. Oil Level Check
Just like a car, your M220 needs oil to keep its engine running smoothly. Locate the dipstick, usually marked with a red or yellow handle. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it fully. Then, pull it out again and check the oil level. The oil level should be within the “Full” and “Low” markings. If it’s low, add the appropriate type of oil as specified in your owner’s manual.
3. Blade Safety Check
Always ensure your lawn mower blade is sharp and free of debris. Inspect the blade for any damage, such as cracks or bends. A dull or damaged blade can be dangerous and will affect your mowing performance. If necessary, sharpen or replace the blade before starting the mower.
4. Spark Plug Check
The spark plug is essential for igniting the fuel-air mixture in the engine. If it’s dirty or damaged, it can prevent the mower from starting. Remove the spark plug wire from the plug, and then use a spark plug socket wrench to remove the spark plug. Inspect the plug for excessive carbon buildup, cracks, or other damage. If needed, clean the spark plug with a wire brush or replace it with a new one. Ensure you tighten the spark plug to the correct torque setting specified in your owner’s manual.
Starting Your Craftsman M220 Lawn Mower
Now that your M220 is prepped and ready to go, it’s time to start it! Follow these steps carefully:
1. Prime the Carburetor
The carburetor is responsible for mixing fuel and air before it enters the engine. Locate the primer bulb (a small, rubber bulb) near the carburetor. Press the bulb several times to fill the carburetor with fuel. The number of times you need to press the bulb will vary depending on the model, but a few pumps should be sufficient.
2. Choke Position
For cold starts, engage the choke lever. This enriches the fuel-air mixture, making it easier for the engine to start. The choke lever is usually located near the handlebars and can be identified by its symbol, which often resembles a butterfly or a half-circle.
3. Starting the Mower
With the choke engaged and the primer bulb primed, you’re ready to start the mower.
For Pull-Start Mower: Gently pull the starter cord until you feel resistance, then give it a firm pull. Repeat this process if needed until the engine starts.
* For Electric Start Mower:* Engage the electric start button, and the engine will start.
4. Disengage the Choke
Once the engine is running, disengage the choke lever. This allows the engine to run at its normal operating speed.
Troubleshooting Starting Problems
Sometimes, even after following all the steps correctly, your M220 might still refuse to start. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
1. Dead Battery
If you have an electric start M220, a dead battery can prevent the mower from starting. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them with a wire brush. If the battery is completely dead, you may need to jump-start it or replace it.
2. Clogged Fuel Lines
Old or dirty fuel can clog the fuel lines and prevent fuel from reaching the carburetor. Check the fuel lines for any visible obstructions and clean them if necessary. You can also try using a fuel line cleaner to remove any accumulated debris.
3. Faulty Spark Plug
A damaged or fouled spark plug can prevent the engine from starting. Inspect the spark plug for any cracks, carbon buildup, or other damage. If necessary, clean or replace the spark plug.
4. Air in the Fuel Lines
Air in the fuel lines can prevent fuel from flowing properly to the carburetor. Try restarting the mower after several attempts, and the air bubbles should work their way out.
Safety Precautions
Always prioritize safety when working with a lawn mower. Here are some important safety precautions to keep in mind:
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses, ear protection, and sturdy footwear.
- Clear the Mowing Area: Before starting the mower, clear the mowing area of any debris, obstacles, or people.
- Avoid Starting on a Slope: Never start the mower on a slope.
- Keep Children and Pets Away: Keep children and pets away from the mowing area.
- Never Operate a Mower Under the Influence: Never operate a mower under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Conclusion
Starting your Craftsman M220 lawn mower is a simple task when you follow the correct steps and understand the essential elements involved. Remember to prepare the mower properly, prime the carburetor, and engage the choke before starting. If you encounter any issues, check for common problems like a dead battery, clogged fuel lines, or a faulty spark plug. By using these tips and following the safety precautions, you’ll be able to conquer your lawn with confidence and enjoy the satisfaction of a well-maintained, freshly mowed lawn.
FAQ
Here are 7 FAQs with answers for the article:
1. How do I start a Craftsman Lawn Mower M220 for the first time?
Starting your Craftsman M220 for the first time is similar to starting it after storage. Make sure the fuel tank is filled with fresh gasoline and the oil level is correct. Ensure the choke is engaged and the blade is disengaged. Prime the engine by pressing the primer bulb several times until fuel is visible in the carburetor. Then, set the choke to “run” and pull the starter rope until the engine starts. You can then disengage the choke.
2. My Craftsman M220 won’t start. What should I do?
If your M220 won’t start, don’t panic. First, ensure the fuel tank is filled with fresh gasoline. Check the spark plug to make sure it’s connected and firing properly. You can also try cleaning the air filter and checking the fuel lines for any blockages. If these steps don’t work, you might need to consult a mechanic.
3. How do I change the oil in my Craftsman M220?
Changing the oil in your Craftsman M220 is a simple maintenance task. Start by letting the engine cool completely. Locate the oil drain plug underneath the engine and place a drain pan underneath to catch the used oil. Unscrew the drain plug and allow the oil to drain completely. Replace the drain plug and add the correct amount of fresh oil to the engine.
4. How do I adjust the cutting height on my Craftsman M220?
Adjusting the cutting height on your Craftsman M220 is easy. Look for the height adjustment levers located on the side of the deck. Use these levers to raise or lower the deck to the desired cutting height. The levers usually have numbers or markings to indicate the different height settings.
5. How do I change the blade on my Craftsman M220?
Changing the blade on your Craftsman M220 requires some basic tools. First, disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Locate the blade bolt and use a wrench to loosen it. Once the bolt is loose, remove the blade. Install the new blade, ensuring the cutting edge is facing the correct direction. Tighten the bolt securely and reconnect the spark plug wire.
6. What type of oil should I use for my Craftsman M220?
The type of oil you should use for your Craftsman M220 is specified in the owner’s manual. Typically, it will recommend a 4-stroke engine oil with a SAE 30 or 10W30 viscosity. Use only the recommended oil type and grade, as using the wrong type could damage the engine.
7. Where can I find parts for my Craftsman M220?
Parts for your Craftsman M220 can be found at several places. You can visit your local hardware store or home improvement center. Online retailers like Amazon or eBay also sell parts. If you have a specific part in mind, you can search online for a Craftsman M220 parts diagram to identify the part number.