The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the grass is starting to grow. It’s the perfect time to break out the lawn mower and get your yard looking its best. But what happens when you pull the cord and… nothing? That dreaded silence that tells you your lawn mower has fallen victim to winter’s slumber. Don’t panic! This article will guide you through the steps to successfully start your lawn mower after months of inactivity, from prepping your machine to troubleshooting common issues.
Starting a lawn mower after winter can seem daunting, but with a little patience and the right approach, it can be a breeze. You’ll be back to mowing your lawn in no time!
Prepping Your Lawn Mower for Spring
The first step is to get your lawn mower ready for action. This involves a thorough inspection and some basic maintenance.
1. Cleaning and Inspecting Your Lawn Mower
- Clear Debris: Start by removing any leaves, twigs, or other debris that may have accumulated on the mower during the winter.
- Check for Damage: Carefully inspect the mower for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the housing, loose screws, or frayed wires.
- Inspect the Blades: Check the blades for damage or dullness. Sharp blades will give you a clean cut and help prevent scalping.
- Clean the Air Filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, making it harder to start. Remove the filter and clean it with soap and water, or replace it if it’s heavily soiled.
2. Adding Fresh Fuel and Oil
- Fresh Fuel: Old fuel can gum up the engine and prevent it from starting. Drain any remaining fuel from the tank and fill it with fresh, high-quality gasoline.
- Check Oil Level: Check the oil level using the dipstick and add oil if necessary. Use the type of oil recommended in your owner’s manual.
3. Preparing the Spark Plug
- Inspect and Clean: The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture. Remove the spark plug, inspect it for wear, and clean it with a wire brush if necessary.
- Gap Adjustment: If the spark plug is worn or damaged, replace it. Make sure the spark plug gap is set according to the manufacturer’s specifications. You can adjust the gap using a spark plug gap gauge.
Getting Your Lawn Mower Started
Once you’ve prepared your lawn mower, it’s time to start it up. Here’s how:
1. Basic Starting Procedures
- Engage the Choke: Start by engaging the choke on your mower. This helps to enrich the fuel mixture, making it easier to start.
- Prime the Engine: If your mower has a primer bulb, press it several times to fill the carburetor with fuel.
- Pull the Starter Cord: Pull the starter cord slowly at first, then give it a firm, steady pull. If the engine doesn’t start after a few attempts, you can try some troubleshooting steps.
2. Troubleshooting Starting Issues
- Check for a Spark: If the engine isn’t firing, test the spark plug. Remove it, attach it to a spark plug wire, hold it near a grounded metal surface, and pull the starter cord. If you see a spark, the ignition system is working. If not, you might have a faulty spark plug, wire, or coil.
- Check for Fuel: If the engine starts but dies immediately, it may be running out of fuel. Make sure you have enough fuel in the tank.
- Check for Air: If the engine is sputtering or running poorly, it could be getting too much or too little air. Check the air filter for clogging and make sure the carburetor is properly adjusted.
- Check for Battery Power: If you have an electric start mower, make sure the battery is fully charged.
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower for Long-Term Performance
Once you’ve successfully started your lawn mower, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure it runs smoothly for years to come.
1. Regular Maintenance Tasks
- Change the Oil: Change the oil every 25 hours of operation or more frequently if you mow in dusty conditions.
- Clean the Air Filter: Clean the air filter every few uses or when it becomes visibly dirty.
- Sharpen the Blades: Sharpen the blades every 25 hours of operation or when they start to show signs of dullness.
- Inspect and Clean the Spark Plug: Check the spark plug for wear every few uses and clean it with a wire brush.
- Check the Battery: If you have an electric start mower, check the battery level regularly and charge it when necessary.
2. Storage Tips for Your Lawn Mower
- Clean Thoroughly: Before storing your lawn mower for winter, clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt, grass, or debris.
- Empty the Fuel Tank: Drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops to avoid fuel going bad in the carburetor.
- Add Fuel Stabilizer: If you don’t drain the fuel tank, add fuel stabilizer to prevent gum and varnish buildup.
- Store in a Dry Place: Store the mower in a dry, well-ventilated area, preferably indoors.
- Cover the Mower: Cover the mower with a tarp or other protective covering to prevent dust and moisture from accumulating.
Addressing Common Lawn Mower Issues
If you’re still having trouble starting your lawn mower, here are some common issues and solutions:
1. Engine Won’t Turn Over
- Check the Spark Plug: Make sure the spark plug is connected and has a good spark.
- Check the Battery: If you have an electric start mower, make sure the battery is charged.
- Check the Starter Cord: The starter cord may be frayed or stuck.
- Check for Obstructions: There might be debris obstructing the engine’s movement.
2. Engine Runs for a Short Time Then Dies
- Check the Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow to the engine.
- Check the Fuel Line: Make sure the fuel line is not kinked or blocked.
- Check the Carburetor: The carburetor may need cleaning or adjusting.
- Check the Air Filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine.
3. Engine Sputters or Runs Irregularly
- Check the Spark Plug: A worn or fouled spark plug can cause engine misfires.
- Check the Air Filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine.
- Check the Fuel: Old fuel can gum up the engine and cause problems.
- Check the Carburetor: The carburetor may need cleaning or adjusting.
Final Thoughts
Starting your lawn mower after a long winter can be a little tricky, but with a little patience and the right approach, you’ll have it running smoothly in no time. Remember to follow these steps:
- Prepare your lawn mower: Clean it, check for damage, add fresh fuel, and inspect the spark plug.
- Start the engine: Engage the choke, prime the engine, and pull the starter cord.
- Troubleshooting: If the engine doesn’t start, check for a spark, fuel, air, and battery power.
- Maintain your lawn mower: Change the oil, clean the air filter, sharpen the blades, and store it properly.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful, well-maintained lawn all season long!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it important to prepare my lawnmower before starting it after winter?
It’s crucial to prepare your lawnmower after winter storage because it’s been inactive for months and might have developed issues due to inactivity, weather conditions, and fuel degradation. Preparing your mower ensures it runs smoothly, reduces the risk of breakdowns, and extends its lifespan. It also helps prevent environmental hazards like fuel spills and air pollution.
2. What are the basic steps involved in preparing my lawnmower for spring use?
The first step is to clean your lawnmower thoroughly, removing any debris or grass clippings. Next, check the oil level and replace it if necessary. Then, inspect the spark plug and clean or replace it if needed. You should also check the air filter and replace it if it’s dirty. Finally, add fresh gasoline to the tank and ensure the carburetor is clean.
3. How do I check the oil level in my lawnmower?
To check the oil level, locate the dipstick on your lawnmower. Pull it out and wipe it clean. Insert the dipstick fully back into the oil reservoir and pull it out again. The oil level should be somewhere between the “Full” and “Low” marks on the dipstick. If it’s below the “Low” mark, add more oil of the correct type as specified in your owner’s manual.
4. What should I do if my lawnmower won’t start after winter?
There are several troubleshooting steps you can take if your lawnmower won’t start. First, ensure there is fresh fuel in the tank. Next, check the spark plug for proper connection and functionality. If the spark plug is faulty, replace it. You should also inspect the air filter for clogs and clean or replace it as necessary. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, consult your owner’s manual or contact a professional mechanic.
5. How often should I replace the spark plug in my lawnmower?
It’s generally recommended to replace the spark plug in your lawnmower every year, regardless of its condition. This ensures optimal performance and reduces the risk of engine problems. However, if you notice any signs of wear or damage on the spark plug, such as a cracked insulator or excessive carbon build-up, replace it immediately.
6. What kind of fuel should I use in my lawnmower?
Use the type of gasoline specified in your lawnmower’s owner’s manual. Typically, regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher is recommended. Avoid using fuel with ethanol as it can damage the fuel lines and carburetor over time. Store the gasoline in a sealed container to prevent degradation and ensure it remains fresh.
7. What are some tips for storing my lawnmower after the season ends?
Before storing your lawnmower for the winter, drain the fuel tank to prevent fuel degradation and gum build-up. If you have a carburetor, drain it as well. Clean the lawnmower thoroughly, including the undercarriage and engine, to remove any grass clippings or debris. Store the lawnmower in a dry, well-ventilated location, preferably indoors.