The hum of a freshly tuned lawn mower is a symphony of summer, promising a perfectly manicured lawn and a relaxing afternoon outdoors. But what happens when that symphony abruptly cuts short? The dreaded “starts and stops” problem can turn a peaceful chore into a frustrating ordeal. This article will delve into the common culprits behind this lawn mower malfunction, providing you with the knowledge to diagnose the issue and get your mower back in action.
The “starts and then stops” issue in lawn mowers can be caused by a variety of factors. These include fuel problems, engine issues, ignition system malfunctions, and even simple user errors. Understanding the potential causes and troubleshooting steps will help you quickly identify and fix the problem.
Fuel System Mishaps: A Common Culprit
The fuel system is the lifeblood of your lawn mower, delivering a steady supply of fuel to the engine. If there’s a problem with the fuel delivery, your mower might start and then sputter to a halt. Here’s a breakdown of the common culprits in the fuel system:
1. Old or Dirty Fuel:
Fuel can go bad over time, especially in a lawn mower that sits unused for prolonged periods. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor, hindering fuel flow and causing the engine to stall.
Solution:
- Drain and Replace: Drain the old fuel from the tank and replace it with fresh, high-quality gasoline.
- Fuel Stabilizer: Add fuel stabilizer to the fresh fuel to prevent it from degrading in the tank.
2. Clogged Fuel Line:
Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate in the fuel line, restricting fuel flow and causing the engine to stop.
Solution:
- Inspect the Fuel Line: Disconnect the fuel line and inspect it for any blockages or kinks.
- Clean or Replace: If the fuel line is clogged, clean it thoroughly or replace it with a new one.
3. Dirty or Malfunctioning Carburetor:
The carburetor is responsible for mixing fuel and air in the correct proportions. If the carburetor is dirty, the fuel-air mixture will be incorrect, leading to engine problems.
Solution:
- Clean the Carburetor: Disassemble the carburetor and clean it thoroughly with a carburetor cleaning kit.
- Replace the Carburetor: If the carburetor is severely damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Engine Issues: A Checkup Is Crucial
A faulty engine can also cause your lawn mower to start and then stop. Here are some engine-related issues to consider:
1. Spark Plug Problems:
The spark plug ignites the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. If the spark plug is fouled, worn, or damaged, it may not produce a strong enough spark to ignite the mixture effectively, leading to a sputtering engine.
Solution:
- Inspect the Spark Plug: Remove the spark plug and inspect it for signs of fouling, wear, or damage.
- Replace the Spark Plug: If the spark plug is faulty, replace it with a new one of the correct type.
2. Air Filter Blockage:
A clogged air filter restricts airflow into the engine, causing the air-fuel mixture to become too rich. This can lead to engine stalling.
Solution:
- Clean or Replace the Air Filter: Remove the air filter and clean it thoroughly or replace it with a new one.
Ignition System Malfunctions: A Spark of Trouble
The ignition system provides the spark that ignites the fuel in the engine. If there’s a problem with the ignition system, the engine might not start or might stop running.
1. Faulty Ignition Coil:
The ignition coil converts battery power into a high-voltage spark that ignites the fuel. A faulty ignition coil will not produce the necessary spark, leading to engine failure.
Solution:
- Inspect the Ignition Coil: Visually inspect the ignition coil for any signs of damage or corrosion.
- Replace the Ignition Coil: If the coil is faulty, replace it with a new one.
2. Worn or Damaged Wires:
The spark plug wires carry the high-voltage spark to the spark plug. Worn or damaged wires can cause the spark to weaken or misfire, leading to engine problems.
Solution:
- Inspect the Wires: Inspect the spark plug wires for any signs of wear, cracking, or damage.
- Replace the Wires: If the wires are faulty, replace them with new ones.
User Errors: A Simple Fix
Sometimes, the reason your lawn mower starts and then stops is due to a simple user error. Here’s a quick checklist:
1. Insufficient Fuel:
Make sure the fuel tank is full and that the fuel line is properly connected.
2. Choke Position:
Ensure that the choke is in the correct position.
3. Starting Procedure:
Review the starting procedure in your mower’s manual and ensure that you’re following the correct steps.
Diagnosing the Problem: A Step-by-Step Approach
Pinpointing the cause of your lawn mower’s starting and stopping issues can be a bit of a puzzle. Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you diagnose the problem:
- Start with the Basics: Ensure that the fuel tank is full, the fuel line is properly connected, and the choke is in the correct position. Check that the starting procedure is being followed correctly.
- Inspect the Spark Plug: Remove the spark plug and inspect it for signs of fouling, wear, or damage.
- Inspect the Fuel System: Check the fuel line for blockages or kinks. If the fuel line is clear, inspect the carburetor for dirt or debris.
- Examine the Air Filter: Remove the air filter and clean or replace it if it’s dirty or clogged.
- Inspect the Ignition System: Visually inspect the ignition coil for any signs of damage or corrosion. Check the spark plug wires for wear, cracking, or damage.
Conclusion: Keeping Your Lawn Mower Running Smoothly
A lawn mower that starts and then stops can be a frustrating problem. But by understanding the common causes of this malfunction and following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can identify the issue and get your mower back in action. Regular maintenance, including changing the spark plug, cleaning the air filter, and checking the fuel system, can also help prevent these problems from occurring in the first place. With a little attention and care, you can enjoy the peace of mind and satisfaction of a well-maintained lawn mower, ready to conquer any mowing challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 7 common reasons why your lawn mower might start and then stop, along with some helpful troubleshooting tips:
1. Empty Fuel Tank:
Q: Why does my lawnmower start and then stop after a few minutes of use?
A: This is a common issue, particularly if you haven’t used your mower in a while. The fuel in the tank can evaporate over time, leading to an empty fuel tank and a sudden stoppage. To fix this, simply refill the tank with fresh gasoline. Make sure the fuel cap is securely closed to prevent further evaporation.
2. Fuel Issues:
Q: My lawnmower starts and runs for a short time, then sputters and dies. Why?
A: This is likely due to a problem with the fuel system. The fuel may be old or contaminated, or the fuel filter might be clogged. Try draining and replacing the old fuel with fresh gasoline. If this doesn’t solve the issue, inspect the fuel filter and replace it if necessary.
3. Spark Plug Problems:
Q: I hear a clicking sound when I try to start my mower, but it won’t run. What’s wrong?
A: The problem could be a faulty spark plug. A spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture, and if it’s worn out or fouled, it won’t spark properly. Inspect the spark plug, clean it if necessary, or replace it with a new one.
4. Air Filter Clogging:
Q: My lawn mower starts but seems to be lacking power. What’s the cause?
A: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, leading to a loss of power. A dirty air filter will prevent the engine from running smoothly and can cause it to stall. Inspect and clean or replace the air filter if necessary.
5. Choke Issues:
Q: My mower starts easily when I use the choke, but then dies when I release it. What’s going on?
A: The choke restricts airflow to the engine, allowing it to start easily. When the choke is released, the engine should be able to run on its own. If it stalls, the choke might not be fully releasing, preventing the engine from getting enough air. Make sure the choke is fully open once the engine is running.
6. Carburetor Problems:
Q: My lawnmower starts and then dies, even after I try cleaning the air filter and replacing the fuel. What’s the likely issue?
A: A dirty or malfunctioning carburetor can cause a variety of issues, including starting and stopping problems. The carburetor mixes fuel and air, and if it’s not working properly, the engine won’t get the right fuel-air ratio. Try cleaning the carburetor with a specialized cleaning kit. If cleaning doesn’t work, a replacement carburetor might be necessary.
7. Ignition System Problems:
Q: My mower starts but then stops, and I’ve checked the fuel, spark plug, and air filter. What else could be wrong?
A: The ignition system, which includes the ignition coil and ignition module, can also cause starting and stopping issues. These parts are responsible for generating the spark that ignites the fuel. If the ignition system is malfunctioning, the spark might be weak or nonexistent. You may need to consult a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair any problems with the ignition system.