Spring has sprung, the sun is shining, and your lawn is begging for a trim. But as you pull your trusty lawnmower out of storage, you realize a problem: it hasn’t seen the light of day in months, maybe even years. A cold start after a long hibernation can be a daunting task, leaving you wondering if you’ve forgotten how to start a lawnmower altogether.
This article will guide you through the process of bringing your lawnmower back to life, covering everything from pre-start checks to troubleshooting common issues. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to tackle any cold start and be mowing your lawn like a pro in no time.
A Quick Overview:
Starting a lawnmower after a long time is a multi-step process that involves preparing the mower, checking fluids, and using the proper starting technique. It can be a bit more challenging than a routine start-up, but with the right knowledge and a few simple steps, you can get your mower running smoothly again.
Preparing for a Cold Start
1. Inspect the Lawn Mower:
Before you even think about starting the engine, take a moment to visually inspect your lawnmower. Look for any signs of damage, rust, or missing parts. Check the fuel tank for leaks and make sure the air filter is clean.
2. Cleaning and Maintenance:
- Clean the Spark Plug: A clean spark plug is essential for a reliable start. Remove the spark plug and use a wire brush to clean any carbon buildup. You might consider replacing the spark plug if it’s heavily worn or shows signs of damage.
- Check the Fuel Lines: Ensure the fuel lines are free of cracks and leaks. If you notice any damage, replace them.
- Check the Fuel: Old fuel can gum up the engine, so it’s best to use fresh, stabilized fuel. If you’re not sure how old your fuel is, drain it and replace it with fresh fuel.
- Change the Oil: It’s always a good idea to change the oil before starting your lawnmower for the first time after a long period. This will ensure that the engine is properly lubricated.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a light oil to any moving parts, like the wheels, blades, and cables, to prevent them from seizing.
Starting the Engine:
1. Choose the Right Starting Method:
Most lawnmowers can be started using either an electric starter or a manual pull cord.
- Electric Start: If your mower has an electric start, connect the battery cables and turn the key to the “ON” position. Allow the battery to charge for a few minutes before attempting to start the engine.
- Pull Cord Start: For manual start mowers, make sure the choke is engaged. This will enrich the fuel mixture and help the engine start.
2. Prime the Engine:
If you’re using a lawnmower with a carburetor, you’ll need to prime the engine by pumping the primer bulb a few times. This will help to introduce fuel into the carburetor and make starting easier.
3. Engage the Blades:
Once the engine is running, engage the blades. This will allow you to mow your lawn effectively.
4. Troubleshooting Starting Issues:
- Engine Won’t Start at All: If your lawnmower won’t start at all, there are a few things you can check:
- Check for Spark: A spark plug tester can help you determine if your spark plug is delivering a spark.
- Check the Fuel Lines: Make sure the fuel lines are clear and not clogged.
- Check the Battery: If your lawnmower has an electric start, make sure the battery is charged.
- Engine Starts but Won’t Run: If the engine starts but immediately dies, it could be due to a fuel issue.
- Check the Fuel Filter: The fuel filter may be clogged and preventing fuel from reaching the carburetor.
- Check the Air Filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and cause the engine to run poorly.
- Engine Smokes or Backfires: Excessive smoke or backfires could indicate a problem with the carburetor or ignition system. Consult a mechanic if these issues persist.
Important Safety Tips:
- Always wear safety glasses and gloves when handling a lawnmower.
- Never start the engine indoors or in an enclosed space.
- Make sure the blades are stopped before you attempt to start the engine.
- Don’t overfill the fuel tank.
- Keep children and pets away from the mower while it’s running.
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower
1. Regular Maintenance:
Keeping your lawnmower in top shape can prevent headaches down the road.
- Change the Oil Regularly: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil changes.
- Clean the Air Filter: A clean air filter will ensure the engine runs smoothly.
- Check the Fuel Filter: Replace the fuel filter periodically to prevent clogging.
- Sharpen the Blades: Dull blades will tear grass and make it difficult to mow.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Regularly lubricate the moving parts of the mower to prevent rust and wear.
2. Winterizing Your Lawn Mower:
When you’re done using your lawnmower for the season, it’s important to winterize it to prevent damage.
- Drain the Fuel Tank: Empty the fuel tank and run the engine until it uses up all the fuel in the carburetor.
- Add Fuel Stabilizer: Add fuel stabilizer to the tank to prevent the fuel from degrading.
- Change the Oil: Change the oil with fresh oil and store the lawnmower indoors in a dry place.
Conclusion
Starting a lawnmower after a long time can be a challenge, but with proper preparation, knowledge of the starting process, and a little patience, it’s a task that anyone can handle. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure your lawnmower starts smoothly and is ready to tackle your next mowing job. Remember to perform regular maintenance and winterize your lawnmower to keep it running smoothly for years to come.
FAQ
How do I prepare my lawnmower for starting after a long time?
Before you start your lawnmower after a long time, you need to prepare it. The first step is to check the oil level. If the oil is low, add more until it reaches the full mark on the dipstick. Next, check the fuel. If the fuel is old, drain it and replace it with fresh gasoline. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor and make it difficult to start the mower. Finally, inspect the spark plug. If it’s dirty or corroded, clean it or replace it. This will ensure a strong spark and make it easier to start your mower.
After checking the oil, fuel, and spark plug, it’s also important to inspect the air filter. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine and make it difficult to start. If the air filter is dirty, clean it or replace it with a new one. Additionally, make sure the battery is charged if your mower has an electric start. A dead battery will prevent the mower from starting. Finally, check the blades to ensure they are sharp and free of debris. Sharp blades will give you a clean cut and prevent damage to your lawn.
Why won’t my lawnmower start after a long time?
There are a few reasons why your lawnmower might not start after a long time. The most common reason is old fuel. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor and make it difficult for the engine to get the fuel it needs to start. Another reason could be a dirty air filter, which restricts airflow to the engine and makes it harder to start. A weak or dead battery can also prevent the mower from starting, especially if it has an electric start. Additionally, a fouled spark plug can cause starting problems as it prevents the engine from igniting the fuel properly.
If your lawnmower still won’t start after addressing these potential issues, it’s important to check the fuel lines and ensure they are not clogged. A clogged fuel line can prevent fuel from reaching the carburetor. If you have a push-start lawnmower, make sure the starter rope is not tangled and that the recoil mechanism is working properly. Finally, consider checking the carburetor for any debris or buildup, which can affect its performance.
How do I start a lawnmower after a long time?
Starting a lawnmower after a long time can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. First, make sure the choke is engaged. This will help enrich the fuel mixture and make it easier to start the engine. Then, try to start the lawnmower using the pull cord or the electric start button. If it doesn’t start right away, don’t give up. Keep pulling the cord or pressing the button for a few minutes. The engine might need a little time to warm up and get the fuel flowing.
If your lawnmower is still not starting, you can try spraying a small amount of starting fluid into the carburetor. Be careful not to spray too much, as this could damage the engine. If your lawnmower starts but then stalls, try adjusting the choke. The choke should be fully engaged until the engine starts and then gradually reduced as the engine warms up.
What should I do if my lawnmower won’t start after trying everything?
If you’ve checked everything and your lawnmower still won’t start, it’s time to get professional help. A qualified mechanic can diagnose the problem and repair your lawnmower. Before taking your lawnmower to a mechanic, it’s a good idea to make a list of the steps you’ve already taken to try and start it. This will help the mechanic troubleshoot the problem more efficiently.
In the meantime, you can try to get a second opinion from someone who has experience with lawnmowers. Sometimes a fresh perspective can help identify a problem that you may have overlooked. If you have a manual for your lawnmower, it might include troubleshooting tips specific to your model. Consult the manual and see if there are any additional suggestions for diagnosing and fixing starting problems.
How often should I change the oil in my lawnmower?
The frequency of oil changes for your lawnmower depends on the type of oil used and the manufacturer’s recommendations. However, it’s generally advisable to change the oil every 25 hours of use or at least once a year, whichever comes first. Using old oil can lead to engine damage and shorten the lifespan of your lawnmower.
When changing the oil, make sure to use the correct type of oil for your mower. The type of oil is typically specified in the owner’s manual. Use a clean oil drain pan to collect the old oil and dispose of it properly according to local regulations. Be sure to also replace the oil filter when changing the oil. This will help ensure that the engine gets clean, fresh oil.
What are some common mistakes people make when starting a lawnmower?
There are a few common mistakes people make when starting a lawnmower. One mistake is failing to check the oil level before starting the engine. This can lead to engine damage if the oil level is too low. Another mistake is using old fuel. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor and make it difficult to start the engine. Additionally, people often forget to check the spark plug, which can be dirty or corroded and prevent the engine from starting.
Another mistake is not checking the air filter. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine and make it harder to start. Finally, some people fail to check the battery, especially if their lawnmower has an electric start. A dead battery will prevent the mower from starting. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly increase the chances of successfully starting your lawnmower.
What other tips do you have for starting a lawnmower after a long time?
Besides the steps already mentioned, there are a few additional tips that can help you start your lawnmower after a long time. First, be patient and persistent. It might take a few tries before the engine starts. Second, make sure the spark plug wires are connected securely. Loose wires can prevent the spark plug from firing properly.
Third, check for any obstructions in the air intake or exhaust system. These obstructions can prevent the engine from getting the air it needs to start. Finally, try starting your lawnmower in a well-ventilated area. A lack of ventilation can cause the engine to overheat and make it harder to start. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of successfully starting your lawnmower.