The warm weather has finally arrived, and you’re ready to get your lawn looking its best. But when you pull your trusty lawn mower out of storage, you realize with a sinking feeling that it’s not cooperating. The engine coughs, sputters, and refuses to start. Don’t despair! Just because your lawn mower has been sitting for a while doesn’t mean it’s destined for the scrap heap. With a few simple steps and a bit of patience, you can get your mower roaring back to life. This article will guide you through the process, covering everything from basic troubleshooting to more advanced techniques.
In essence, getting a long-dormant lawnmower running again is about addressing the potential issues that arise from inactivity: stale fuel, gummed-up parts, and potentially weak battery. This article will walk you through how to troubleshoot these issues and get your mower back in action.
Fuel: The First Suspect
The most common reason a lawn mower won’t start after being stored is old, stale fuel. Over time, gasoline breaks down, leaving behind gum and varnish that can clog fuel lines and carburetors.
Step 1: Drain the Old Fuel
The first step is to remove the old fuel from your lawn mower.
- Locate the fuel tank: This is usually a small, rectangular tank on the side of the mower.
- Find the fuel cap: Remove the cap carefully.
- Drain the fuel: Use a siphon pump to remove the fuel from the tank. If you don’t have a siphon pump, you can use a clean container and a hose.
- Discard the old fuel: Dispose of the old fuel properly, as it is flammable. Never pour it down the drain or into the ground.
Step 2: Replace with Fresh Fuel
Now that the old fuel is gone, it’s time to fill the tank with fresh, high-quality gasoline.
- Choose the right fuel: Use gasoline that is specifically formulated for small engines. This type of fuel is often labeled “gasoline for 4-stroke engines” or “small engine fuel.”
- Add fuel stabilizer: To prevent future fuel problems, add a fuel stabilizer to the fresh gasoline. Fuel stabilizers help prevent the fuel from breaking down and forming gum.
- Fill the tank: Fill the tank to the indicated level. Avoid overfilling the tank.
The Air Filter: A Breath of Fresh Air
A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to sputter and die.
Step 1: Access the Air Filter
Most lawn mowers have an air filter located under a protective cover or housing. Find the cover and remove it.
Step 2: Inspect the Filter
Remove the air filter from its housing. Inspect it carefully. If it is dusty or dirty, it needs to be cleaned or replaced.
Step 3: Cleaning the Air Filter
If the filter is reusable, you can clean it with soapy water and air dry it thoroughly before reinstalling it. If the filter is a disposable paper filter, replace it with a new one.
Spark Plug: The Ignition Check
The spark plug is responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the engine. A fouled or damaged spark plug can prevent your lawn mower from starting.
Step 1: Locate and Remove the Spark Plug
You’ll find the spark plug on top of the engine, usually under a wire boot. Use a spark plug socket wrench to remove the spark plug.
Step 2: Inspect the Spark Plug
Inspect the spark plug for signs of damage, wear, or fouling. A fouled spark plug will have a black or sooty deposit on the electrode. If the spark plug is damaged or heavily fouled, replace it with a new one.
Step 3: Test the Spark Plug
You can test the spark plug to ensure it’s working.
- Connect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
- Hold the spark plug against a metal surface.
- Pull the starter cord.
If you see a bright blue spark, the spark plug is working. If there is no spark, replace the spark plug.
Battery: The Power Source (For Electric Mowers)
Electric lawn mowers rely on batteries to power the engine. If the battery is weak or dead, your mower won’t start.
Step 1: Charge the Battery
If your mower has been sitting for a long time, the battery may be discharged. Connect the battery to a charger and allow it to charge fully.
Step 2: Test the Battery
Once the battery is fully charged, test it with a multimeter to ensure it is holding a charge. If the battery isn’t holding a charge, it may need to be replaced.
Beyond the Basics: When Troubleshooting Becomes Necessary
If your lawn mower still won’t start after you’ve addressed the common issues, you may need to do some more in-depth troubleshooting.
Check the Fuel Lines
Clogged fuel lines can prevent fuel from reaching the carburetor. To check the fuel lines, disconnect them from the carburetor and blow through them. If they are blocked, you may need to replace them.
Inspect the Carburetor
The carburetor is a complex component that mixes air and fuel. Over time, it can become clogged with debris or gum. You can try cleaning the carburetor yourself, but if you are not comfortable doing this, take your lawn mower to a professional mechanic.
Examine the Ignition System
The ignition system is responsible for generating and distributing the spark to the spark plug. If the ignition system is malfunctioning, it can prevent your lawn mower from starting. You may need to consult a mechanic to diagnose and repair any ignition system problems.
Get Your Mower Running Again: Final Tips
Even after following these steps, you may still have trouble getting your lawn mower started. Here are a few additional tips:
- Check your engine oil level: Make sure the oil level is correct, as a low oil level can cause engine damage.
- Give it a few more tries: Sometimes it takes a few tries to get a lawn mower started after it has been sitting for a while.
- Use starting fluid: If you are absolutely sure that the fuel is fresh and that the other systems are working properly, you can try using a small amount of starting fluid to help get the engine running.
Preventive Maintenance: Keep Your Mower Running Smoothly
Preventing problems is always better than fixing them. Here are some tips for keeping your lawn mower running smoothly:
- Store your mower properly: Before storing your mower for the season, drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it is out of fuel. This will help prevent fuel from gumming up the engine.
- Change the oil regularly: Check your owner’s manual for recommended oil change intervals.
- Clean the air filter: Clean or replace the air filter every few months, depending on usage.
- Inspect the spark plug: Inspect the spark plug regularly and replace it as needed.
By following these tips, you can keep your lawn mower running smoothly and efficiently for many years to come.
FAQs
1. How do I prepare the lawn mower for starting after it’s been sitting?
First, make sure the mower is on a level surface and the fuel tank is at least half full with fresh gasoline. If the mower has been sitting for a long time, the fuel may have gone bad. Next, check the oil level and add oil if necessary. If the oil is dirty or black, you should replace it. Finally, inspect the spark plug to make sure it’s clean and in good condition. If the spark plug is worn or corroded, you should replace it.
2. What if my lawn mower won’t start after following these steps?
If your lawn mower still won’t start, you can try a few troubleshooting steps. First, make sure the fuel line is clear and that the carburetor is getting fuel. You can also try cleaning the carburetor to remove any debris. If the mower still won’t start, the problem might be with the ignition system. You can try checking the spark plug wire to make sure it’s connected properly and that the spark plug is firing.
3. Can I use starting fluid on a lawn mower?
It’s not recommended to use starting fluid on a lawn mower. Starting fluid can damage the engine and is generally not necessary for a properly maintained lawn mower. If you’re having trouble starting your mower, it’s best to troubleshoot the problem instead of using starting fluid.
4. What if my lawn mower won’t start because it’s flooded?
If your lawn mower is flooded, you’ll need to clear out the excess fuel. First, remove the spark plug and turn the engine over a few times to expel the fuel. Once you’ve removed the excess fuel, reinstall the spark plug and try starting the mower again.
5. What if my lawn mower won’t start because the battery is dead?
If your lawn mower is battery-powered, you’ll need to charge or replace the battery. You can use a battery charger to charge the battery, or you can replace it with a new battery. Make sure the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion before attaching them to the battery.
6. How can I prevent my lawn mower from sitting for too long?
To prevent your lawn mower from sitting for too long, you can try starting it up and running it for a few minutes every few weeks. This will help to keep the engine lubricated and prevent the fuel from going bad.
7. How often should I service my lawn mower?
It’s recommended to service your lawn mower at least once a year, or more often if you use it frequently. A service should include changing the oil, cleaning the air filter, and inspecting the spark plug, blades, and other parts. Regular maintenance will help to keep your lawn mower running smoothly and prevent costly repairs.