The satisfying whir of a push mower slicing through a manicured lawn is a quintessential summer sound. But what happens when that whir turns to silence? Starting a Craftsman push lawn mower can seem daunting, especially if you’re a novice. This article will guide you through the process, from understanding the basics to troubleshooting common starting issues. We’ll cover everything from priming the engine to identifying and resolving problems, so you can get your lawn mower humming again in no time.
A Quick Overview
Starting a Craftsman push mower is a relatively simple process that involves a few key steps:
- Prepare the mower: Ensure the mower is on a level surface, the blades are disengaged, and the fuel tank has enough gas.
- Prime the engine: Most Craftsman mowers have a primer bulb that helps to introduce fuel into the carburetor.
- Pull the starter cord: Use a firm, steady pull to start the engine.
- Adjust the choke: For cold starts, use the choke to restrict airflow and aid in combustion.
Understanding Your Craftsman Push Mower
Before you begin, familiarize yourself with the basic components of your Craftsman mower.
Key Components
- Fuel Tank: This holds the gasoline that powers the engine.
- Primer Bulb: Located near the carburetor, the primer bulb helps to draw fuel into the engine.
- Choke Lever: The choke restricts airflow to the engine, allowing for easier starting in cold conditions.
- Starter Cord: This cord is pulled to crank the engine and start it.
- Blade Engagement Lever: This lever controls whether the blades are spinning or not.
Starting Your Craftsman Mower
Here’s a step-by-step guide to starting your Craftsman push mower:
1. Preparing the Mower
- Level Surface: Ensure the mower is on a flat, level surface. This helps the engine to start smoothly.
- Fuel Level: Check the fuel tank and add gasoline if needed. You’ll find the fuel tank cap located on the side or top of the mower.
- Blade Disengagement: Before starting the mower, double-check that the blade engagement lever is in the “off” position. You’ll typically find this lever near the handle.
- Safety Check: Always wear safety glasses, closed-toe shoes, and long pants when working with lawn equipment.
2. Priming the Engine
- Locate the Primer Bulb: The primer bulb is usually found near the carburetor, a small metal cylinder connected to the engine.
- Prime the Engine: Press the primer bulb a few times to draw fuel into the carburetor. The number of pumps you need will vary, so consult your mower’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.
3. Starting the Mower
- Set the Choke: If the mower is cold, engage the choke lever. You’ll find the choke lever near the handle.
- Pull the Starter Cord: Grasp the starter cord handle firmly and pull it smoothly and quickly.
- Adjust the Choke: Once the engine starts, slowly disengage the choke. If the engine sputters, re-engage the choke slightly.
4. Troubleshooting Starting Issues
- No Spark: If the engine doesn’t turn over at all, the spark plug may be faulty. Check the spark plug for signs of damage or corrosion, and replace it if necessary.
- Flooding: If the engine backfires or runs rough, it might be flooded with too much fuel. To clear the flooding, disconnect the spark plug wire, and crank the engine a few times. Then, reconnect the spark plug wire and try starting the mower again.
- Fuel Issues: If the mower won’t start at all, the fuel may be old or contaminated. Empty the tank and refill it with fresh gasoline.
- Air Filter: A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine and make it difficult to start. Clean or replace the air filter as needed.
- Battery: If your Craftsman mower has an electric start, the battery may be dead or weak. Charge or replace the battery if necessary.
5. Maintenance Tips
- Regular Oil Changes: Check your mower’s owner’s manual for recommended oil change intervals. Regularly changing the oil helps keep the engine running smoothly.
- Blade Sharpening: Sharpen your mower blades regularly to ensure a clean cut and prevent scalping.
- Air Filter Cleaning: Clean or replace the air filter regularly to prevent debris from entering the engine.
- Fuel Line Cleaning: Over time, fuel lines can become clogged with debris. Clean or replace the fuel lines as needed.
- Storage: Before storing your mower for the winter, empty the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops. This prevents fuel from gumming up the engine.
Getting Expert Help
If you’re still having trouble starting your Craftsman push mower, it’s best to consult a professional. A certified mechanic can diagnose and repair any issues that you can’t solve yourself.
Conclusion
Starting a Craftsman push mower is a straightforward process that can be accomplished with a few simple steps. However, if you encounter difficulties, remember to review the basics and check for common issues like a dead battery, a flooded engine, or a clogged air filter. With a little patience and effort, you’ll be able to get your mower running smoothly again and enjoy a freshly cut lawn.
FAQ
1. Why won’t my Craftsman push mower start?
There are a few common reasons why your Craftsman push mower might not start. The first thing to check is the fuel. Make sure you have fresh gasoline in the tank and that the fuel lines are not clogged. You should also check the spark plug to see if it’s dirty or worn out. If the spark plug is in good condition, you can try cleaning the carburetor or replacing it entirely. Finally, make sure the choke is engaged, especially if it’s cold outside.
If you’ve checked all of these things and your Craftsman push mower still won’t start, you may need to contact a professional for assistance.
2. How do I change the oil in my Craftsman push mower?
Changing the oil in your Craftsman push mower is a simple process that can be done in about 15 minutes. First, you’ll need to locate the oil drain plug, which is usually located on the bottom of the engine block. Place a drain pan underneath the plug and loosen it with a wrench. Once the oil has drained completely, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely.
Next, you’ll need to add new oil to the engine. The amount of oil required will vary depending on the model of your mower, so be sure to check your owner’s manual. Once you’ve added the new oil, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to ensure the oil is distributed evenly.
3. How do I sharpen the blades on my Craftsman push mower?
Sharpening the blades on your Craftsman push mower is important for a clean and even cut. You can do this with a file or a sharpening stone. First, remove the blade from the mower using a wrench. Be sure to wear protective gloves and eyewear during this process. Next, carefully position the blade on a flat surface and sharpen the leading edge of each blade with the file or sharpening stone. Make sure to use even strokes and maintain a consistent angle.
Once you’ve sharpened the blades, replace them on the mower and tighten the blade nut securely. It’s recommended to sharpen your blades every season or whenever you notice that they are becoming dull.
4. What type of gas should I use in my Craftsman push mower?
It’s best to use fresh, unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher in your Craftsman push mower. Avoid using gasoline that has been sitting for a long time, as it can degrade and cause engine problems. Additionally, make sure to use a fuel stabilizer to help prevent the fuel from going bad.
It’s also a good idea to use a fuel filter to catch any debris that might be present in the gasoline. You can find fuel filters at most hardware stores and auto parts stores.
5. How do I know when it’s time to replace the spark plug on my Craftsman push mower?
The spark plug in your Craftsman push mower is a vital component that ignites the fuel mixture in the engine. Over time, the spark plug can become worn out or fouled with carbon buildup. You’ll know it’s time to replace the spark plug when you notice a decrease in engine performance, difficulty starting the mower, or misfires.
You can also check the condition of the spark plug visually. If the spark plug electrodes are worn down or covered in carbon, it’s time to replace it.
6. How do I clean the air filter on my Craftsman push mower?
The air filter on your Craftsman push mower helps to prevent dust and debris from entering the engine. Over time, the air filter can become clogged with dirt, which can restrict airflow and reduce engine performance.
You can clean the air filter by removing it from the mower and tapping it against a hard surface to dislodge any loose dirt. You can also use a brush or compressed air to clean the filter more thoroughly. If the filter is heavily soiled or damaged, it’s best to replace it with a new one.
7. Where can I find replacement parts for my Craftsman push mower?
You can find replacement parts for your Craftsman push mower at a variety of retailers, including hardware stores, auto parts stores, and online retailers. You can also contact the Craftsman customer service department for assistance in locating parts.
When ordering parts, be sure to provide the model number of your mower so that you can get the correct parts.