The warm weather is here, and the grass is growing. You’re ready to tackle your lawn, but your Craftsman M250 lawn mower just sits there, unyielding. You pull the cord, and nothing. You hear a faint click, but the engine doesn’t fire. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Starting a gas-powered lawn mower can be tricky, especially if you’re new to it. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of starting your Craftsman M250 lawn mower, from prepping the mower to troubleshooting common issues. By the end, you’ll be ready to conquer your lawn with confidence.
Overview:
The Craftsman M250 lawn mower is a reliable, easy-to-use machine that requires minimal maintenance. Starting your mower typically involves checking the fuel, oil, and spark plug, preparing the engine, and then pulling the starter cord. However, there are a few key things to know about this specific model to ensure a smooth start-up.
Pre-Start Checks: Ensuring a Healthy Start
Before you even think about starting your Craftsman M250, there are a few essential checks to make. These pre-start checks help prevent potential problems and ensure a smooth and safe start.
1. Fuel Level and Freshness:
The Craftsman M250 uses regular unleaded gasoline. Check the fuel level in the tank, ensuring you have enough fuel. Also, check the fuel for freshness. Old gasoline can gum up the engine and cause starting issues. If you haven’t used the mower in a while, it’s a good idea to drain the old fuel and replace it with fresh, stabilized gasoline.
2. Oil Level:
A healthy oil level is crucial for your lawn mower’s engine. Consult your owner’s manual for the specific oil type and amount needed for your Craftsman M250. Use a dipstick to check the oil level and top it off if necessary.
3. Spark Plug:
A properly functioning spark plug is essential for igniting the fuel-air mixture. Inspect your spark plug for wear and tear. If it’s damaged or heavily fouled, replace it with a new one. To check the spark plug:
a. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug.
b. Using a spark plug socket, remove the spark plug from the cylinder head.
c. Inspect the spark plug for wear, damage, or excessive fouling.
d. If necessary, replace the spark plug with a new one of the correct type.
e. Reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug and tighten it securely.
4. Air Filter:
A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, making starting difficult. Inspect the air filter for dirt or debris. If it’s dirty, clean or replace it as per your owner’s manual.
Prime and Start the Engine:
After completing the pre-start checks, it’s time to fire up the engine.
1. Prime the Engine:
The Craftsman M250 has a primer bulb that helps to introduce fuel to the carburetor. To prime the engine:
a. Locate the primer bulb, typically found on the carburetor.
b. Depress the primer bulb several times, about 5-6 pumps.
c. Release the primer bulb.
2. Set the Choke:
The choke helps to enrich the fuel-air mixture for easier starting.
a. Locate the choke lever. It’s typically located on the handlebars.
b. Move the choke lever to the “choke” position.
3. Starting the Engine:
With the choke engaged, you’re ready to start the engine.
a. Stand clear of the mower blades.
b. Pull the starter cord slowly at first, then give it a brisk pull.
c. The engine should start. If not, try again, but be careful not to pull the starter cord too hard.
4. Disengage the Choke:
Once the engine is running, gradually disengage the choke.
a. Slowly move the choke lever back to the “run” position.
b. If the engine starts to sputter or die, re-engage the choke briefly.
5. Warm-up:
Let the engine warm up for a few minutes before mowing. This allows the engine to reach optimal operating temperature.
Troubleshooting Common Starting Issues:
Even after following these steps, you might encounter some issues starting your Craftsman M250. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
1. Engine Turns Over But Won’t Start:
a. Check the spark plug wire connection: Ensure the spark plug wire is securely connected to the spark plug.
b. Inspect the spark plug: Remove the spark plug and check for spark. Hold the spark plug wire near a metal part of the engine and pull the starter cord. If you see a blue spark, the spark plug is working. If not, replace it.
c. Check the fuel: Ensure you have fresh gasoline in the tank.
d. Prime the engine: Depress the primer bulb several times.
e. Check for a clogged air filter: Clean or replace the air filter.
2. Engine Starts But Dies:
a. Check the choke: Ensure the choke is fully disengaged.
b. Check for a clogged fuel line: If the fuel line is clogged, it can restrict fuel flow to the carburetor.
c. Check for a faulty carburetor: A faulty carburetor can cause fuel delivery problems.
3. Engine Runs Rough:
a. Check the air filter: A dirty air filter can cause the engine to run poorly.
b. Adjust the idle speed: If the idle speed is too low, the engine may stall. Consult your owner’s manual for idle speed adjustments.
c. Check the fuel lines: Make sure the fuel lines are properly connected and free from leaks.
Safety Tips:
- Always wear safety goggles and sturdy footwear when operating your lawn mower.
- Never operate the lawn mower on a slope or incline that is too steep.
- Keep children and pets away from the mower at all times.
- Never refuel the mower while it’s running or hot.
- Allow the engine to cool completely before performing any maintenance.
Conclusion:
Starting your Craftsman M250 lawn mower can be a simple process, but it’s important to follow the correct steps and address any potential issues. By familiarizing yourself with the pre-start checks, priming and starting procedures, and troubleshooting techniques, you can ensure a smooth and safe start every time. Enjoy the satisfaction of a well-maintained lawn, free from overgrown grass. Remember to refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions and guidance for your Craftsman M250 model.
FAQs
Q1: My Craftsman M250 lawn mower won’t start. What should I do?
A: The most common culprit for a Craftsman M250 lawn mower that won’t start is a lack of fuel or a clogged fuel line. First, check if the fuel tank is full and that the fuel line is clear of any debris. If the tank is full and the fuel line is clear, you may need to check the spark plug. A faulty spark plug can prevent the engine from igniting. You can test the spark plug by removing it, grounding it to the engine block, and then pulling the starter cord. If you see a spark, the plug is working. If not, you’ll need to replace it.
If you’ve checked all of these things and your Craftsman M250 lawn mower still won’t start, it’s time to consult a professional. They can diagnose the issue and make sure your mower is safe to use.
Q2: How do I change the oil in my Craftsman M250 lawn mower?
A: Changing the oil in your Craftsman M250 lawn mower is an important part of routine maintenance. To do so, first, locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of the engine. Place a drain pan underneath the plug and loosen it with a wrench. Allow the oil to drain completely. Once it has finished draining, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely.
Next, remove the oil filler cap on the top of the engine. Using a funnel, pour in the recommended amount of oil for your mower. Refer to your owner’s manual for the specific type and amount of oil required. Finally, replace the oil filler cap and run the engine for a few minutes to allow the oil to circulate.
Q3: What kind of gas should I use in my Craftsman M250 lawn mower?
A: It’s essential to use the correct fuel for your Craftsman M250 lawn mower. The manufacturer recommends using unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Avoid using gasoline that is more than 30 days old, as it can cause problems with the engine.
Additionally, never use fuel that contains ethanol. Ethanol can corrode the fuel lines and other components in your mower. If you live in an area with ethanol-blended gasoline, consider using a fuel stabilizer to prevent this issue.
Q4: How do I adjust the cutting height on my Craftsman M250 lawn mower?
A: The cutting height on your Craftsman M250 lawn mower can be adjusted using the lever located on the side of the deck. The lever typically has multiple positions, each corresponding to a different cutting height.
To adjust the cutting height, simply lift the mower deck by pulling the lever. Move the lever to the desired height position and then lower the deck. The exact number of positions and the corresponding cutting heights will be specified in your owner’s manual.
Q5: How often should I sharpen the blades on my Craftsman M250 lawn mower?
A: It’s a good idea to sharpen the blades on your Craftsman M250 lawn mower at least once per season. You can do this yourself with a sharpening stone or a file, or you can have them professionally sharpened.
Dull blades will rip and tear the grass, resulting in an uneven cut and a damaged lawn. Sharpened blades will provide a clean, smooth cut that is healthier for your grass.
Q6: My Craftsman M250 lawn mower is leaking oil. What should I do?
A: A leaking oil pan is a common issue on Craftsman M250 lawn mowers. The most likely culprit is a faulty gasket. To fix it, you’ll need to remove the oil pan and replace the gasket.
To replace the gasket, first, drain the oil from the pan. Then, remove the pan using a wrench. Carefully remove the old gasket and replace it with a new one. Be sure to tighten the bolts securely when attaching the pan back to the engine.
Q7: How do I dispose of old gasoline from my Craftsman M250 lawn mower?
A: It’s important to dispose of old gasoline properly. Never pour it down the drain or on the ground, as it can contaminate water sources. Instead, take it to a local recycling center or hazardous waste disposal facility.
You can also use a fuel stabilizer to extend the life of your gasoline and prevent it from going bad.