The warm weather is finally here, and you’re ready to tackle your lawn. But when you pull the cord on your trusty GCV170 lawn mower, all you hear is a click. Frustrating, right? Don’t worry – this article will walk you through the steps to start your GCV170 mower, whether it’s been sitting all winter or just refusing to cooperate. We’ll cover everything from basic troubleshooting to more advanced techniques, so you can get back to mowing in no time.
Overview
The GCV170 is a popular engine model found in many lawn mowers, and while it’s known for its reliability, sometimes even the best engines need a little help getting going. The most common reason for a GCV170 not starting is a lack of fuel or a problem with the ignition system. We’ll tackle these issues step-by-step, helping you diagnose and fix the problem.
Fuel Issues
The most common reason a GCV170 lawn mower won’t start is a lack of fuel. Here’s a breakdown of how to troubleshoot and resolve this:
1. Check the Fuel Tank
- Is the tank empty? The obvious first step is to check if you have fuel in the tank. This may seem silly, but it’s surprisingly easy to overlook.
- Is the fuel old? Gasoline can go bad over time, especially if it’s been sitting for a long period. If your mower hasn’t been used in a while, the fuel may be stale and need to be replaced.
- Is there any debris in the tank? If your fuel tank is dirty, this could prevent fuel from reaching the engine. You can clean the tank with a fuel-safe cleaner or by using a siphon to remove the old fuel and refill with fresh gasoline.
2. Check the Fuel Lines
- Are the lines clear and unobstructed? Sometimes debris can clog the fuel lines, preventing fuel from flowing to the engine. Check the lines for any kinks, bends, or blockages. If you find any, try to clear them or replace the lines.
- Is the fuel filter dirty? The fuel filter is designed to catch any debris that may be in the fuel. If it becomes clogged, it can prevent fuel from reaching the engine. Replace the filter if it appears dirty or damaged.
3. Check the Fuel Valve
- Is the fuel valve open? Make sure the fuel valve is in the open position, allowing fuel to flow from the tank to the engine.
Ignition Issues
If you have fuel in the tank and it’s fresh, the problem may lie with the ignition system. Here’s how to approach this:
1. Check the Spark Plug
- Is the spark plug dirty or corroded? A dirty spark plug can prevent a spark from forming, preventing the engine from starting. Clean the spark plug using a wire brush or replace it with a new one.
- Does the spark plug have a good spark? You can test the spark plug by removing it from the engine, grounding it to a metal part of the engine, and then pulling the starter cord. If you see a strong blue spark, the spark plug is working. If there’s no spark, the spark plug may be faulty, or there could be a problem with the ignition system.
2. Check the Ignition Coil
- Is the ignition coil connected properly? The ignition coil is responsible for generating the spark that ignites the fuel. Make sure the coil is securely connected to the spark plug wire and the engine. If the connections are loose or corroded, you may need to clean or tighten them.
- Is the ignition coil working properly? You can test the ignition coil by using a multimeter to check for continuity. If the coil is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
3. Check the Starter Cord
- Is the starter cord frayed or damaged? A damaged starter cord can prevent the starter from engaging properly. If the cord is frayed or damaged, it should be replaced.
- Is the recoil spring working properly? The recoil spring is responsible for retracting the starter cord. If the spring is worn or broken, it may prevent the starter from engaging properly. You can try to re-tension the spring or replace it if it’s damaged.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Check the air filter. A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, making it difficult to start.
- Check the battery. If your lawn mower is electric start, ensure the battery is charged.
- Check for loose wires. Loose or disconnected wires can prevent the engine from starting.
- Make sure the choke is engaged. The choke enriches the fuel mixture to make it easier to start a cold engine.
Additional Information
- If your GCV170 lawn mower still won’t start, you may need to consult a professional mechanic. They can diagnose more complex issues, such as problems with the engine valves or the carburetor.
Conclusion
Starting a GCV170 lawn mower can be frustrating, but by following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to get it up and running in no time. Remember to check the basics – fuel, spark, and connections – and always consult a professional mechanic if you’re unable to resolve the issue. Now get out there and enjoy that freshly mowed lawn!
FAQ
1. How do I start a cold GCV170 lawn mower?
Starting a cold GCV170 lawn mower requires a bit of patience and a few simple steps. First, ensure the choke lever is in the “choke” position. This enriches the fuel mixture for easier starting. Next, prime the carburetor by pressing the primer bulb several times until it is firm. Then, gently pull the starter cord several times, but do not pull it all the way out. Once the engine coughs, move the choke lever to the “run” position and pull the starter cord all the way out. With a little persistence, the engine should start.
If the engine fails to start after a few attempts, check the fuel level and ensure the spark plug is clean and dry. Also, verify that the fuel lines and air filter are free from obstruction. If the issue persists, consult your owner’s manual or seek assistance from a qualified mechanic.
2. What should I do if my GCV170 lawn mower won’t start after it’s been running?
If your GCV170 lawn mower suddenly stops running, there are a few things to check. Firstly, confirm that the fuel tank is not empty. If it is, refill it and try restarting the engine. Secondly, check the air filter for any clogs or debris. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and hinder the engine’s ability to start. Finally, ensure that the spark plug is properly connected and the spark plug wire is not damaged.
If none of these solutions resolve the issue, you may have a problem with the ignition system or the carburetor. In this case, it’s advisable to consult your owner’s manual or contact a qualified mechanic for assistance.
3. How do I adjust the choke on a GCV170 lawn mower?
Adjusting the choke on a GCV170 lawn mower is simple and usually involves a lever located on the carburetor. The choke lever has two positions: “choke” and “run”. In the “choke” position, the choke lever partially restricts airflow to the carburetor, enriching the fuel mixture for easier starting. In the “run” position, the choke lever is fully open, allowing normal airflow to the carburetor.
To start a cold engine, engage the choke lever and prime the carburetor. After the engine starts, slowly move the choke lever to the “run” position as the engine warms up. Adjusting the choke allows you to fine-tune the fuel mixture for optimal performance.
4. How often should I change the oil in my GCV170 lawn mower?
Changing the oil in your GCV170 lawn mower regularly is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. The recommended oil change interval is typically outlined in the owner’s manual, but it’s generally advisable to change the oil every 25 hours of operation or at the end of each mowing season.
To change the oil, simply drain the old oil from the engine crankcase, replace the drain plug, and refill the engine with fresh oil. Remember to use the correct type and viscosity of oil recommended by the manufacturer.
5. How do I check the spark plug on my GCV170 lawn mower?
Checking the spark plug is an essential maintenance task for your GCV170 lawn mower. First, locate the spark plug, which is usually situated on the top of the engine. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the plug. Next, using a spark plug wrench, unscrew the spark plug from the engine.
Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear, such as excessive carbon buildup, cracks, or gaps that are too wide or narrow. If necessary, clean the spark plug with a wire brush or replace it with a new one. After installing the new or cleaned spark plug, reconnect the spark plug wire and tighten the spark plug to the correct torque.
6. Where can I find the spark plug gap specifications for my GCV170 lawn mower?
The recommended spark plug gap for your GCV170 lawn mower can be found in the owner’s manual. The spark plug gap specifies the distance between the electrodes of the spark plug. This gap should be maintained within the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure proper ignition and engine performance.
If you don’t have the owner’s manual, you can consult an online resource, such as a parts website or a repair manual. The spark plug gap is typically listed in the specifications section for the particular engine model.
7. How do I clean the air filter on my GCV170 lawn mower?
Keeping the air filter clean is essential for proper engine operation. To clean the air filter, first locate the air filter housing, which is usually located near the carburetor. Remove the air filter housing cover and carefully remove the air filter element.
If the air filter is a foam element, wash it with soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely. If it’s a paper element, gently tap it against a hard surface to remove dust and debris. Once the air filter is clean, reinstall it in the air filter housing and secure the cover. A clean air filter ensures that the engine receives the proper amount of air for efficient combustion.