The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and you’re ready to tackle your lawn. But when you pull the cord on your Yard Machine lawnmower, all you hear is a click or a whimper. Frustration sets in – why won’t it start? This article will guide you through the most common reasons your Yard Machine lawnmower refuses to fire up, providing practical troubleshooting tips to get you back to mowing in no time. We’ll explore everything from basic checks like fuel and spark plugs to more complex issues like carburetor problems and clogged air filters.
Why won’t my Yard Machine lawnmower start?
The reasons your Yard Machine lawnmower won’t start can range from simple issues like a lack of fuel to more complex problems like a faulty ignition system. Understanding the potential culprits will help you troubleshoot the issue effectively.
Fuel Problems: The Most Common Culprit
The first thing to check is the fuel system. A lack of fuel or old, stale fuel is a leading cause of a non-starting lawnmower.
Check the Fuel Tank
- Is it Empty? Sounds obvious, but double-check that your fuel tank has gas.
- Is it Old? If the fuel has been sitting in the tank for a long time (more than a month), it could have gone bad. Old gas can gum up the carburetor and prevent the engine from starting.
The Fuel Line and Fuel Filter
- Check for Leaks or Blockages: Examine the fuel line for any cracks or leaks. Also, check the fuel filter – it could be clogged, preventing fuel from reaching the carburetor.
What to Do if You Find Fuel Issues:
- Refuel: If your tank is empty, fill it with fresh, high-octane gasoline.
- Replace Old Fuel: If the gas is old, drain the tank and replace it with fresh fuel.
- Clean or Replace the Filter: If the fuel filter is clogged, clean it or replace it with a new one.
- Check for Leaks: If you find leaks, repair them or replace the damaged fuel line.
The Spark Plug: The Key to Ignition
The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture in your lawnmower’s engine. If it’s faulty, the engine won’t start.
Inspecting the Spark Plug
- Remove the Spark Plug: Locate the spark plug on the engine and remove it using a spark plug wrench.
- Check for Wear and Tear: Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear, damage, or carbon buildup.
- Check for a Spark: Connect a spark plug tester to the spark plug wire and ground the tester. Pull the starter cord a few times. If you see a blue spark, the spark plug is working.
What to Do if the Spark Plug is Faulty:
- Clean it: If the spark plug is simply dirty, clean it with a wire brush.
- Replace it: If the spark plug is worn out or damaged, replace it with a new one.
The Air Filter: Keeping Things Clean
The air filter cleans the air entering the engine, protecting it from dirt and debris. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, making it difficult for the engine to start.
Inspecting the Air Filter:
- Locate the Air Filter: The air filter is usually located under a cover near the carburetor.
- Check for Dirt: Remove the air filter and inspect it for dirt and debris.
What to Do if the Air Filter is Dirty:
- Clean it: If the air filter is reusable, clean it with soap and water. Let it dry completely before reinstalling it.
- Replace it: If the air filter is disposable, replace it with a new one.
The Carburetor: The Engine’s Fuel Regulator
The carburetor mixes fuel and air before it enters the engine. If the carburetor is dirty or malfunctioning, it can prevent the engine from starting.
Inspecting the Carburetor:
- Look for Signs of Clogging: Inspect the carburetor for signs of dirt, debris, or gum buildup.
- Check for Fuel Leaks: Look for any fuel leaks around the carburetor.
What to Do if the Carburetor is Dirty or Malfunctioning:
- Clean it: If the carburetor is dirty, you can clean it yourself or take it to a repair shop.
- Rebuild or Replace it: If the carburetor is damaged or worn out, you may need to rebuild it or replace it with a new one.
The Starter System: Getting the Engine Turning
The starter system is responsible for turning the engine over. If it’s not working properly, the engine won’t start.
Inspecting the Starter System:
- Check the Starter Rope: Make sure the starter rope is free and not tangled.
- Check the Starter Spring: The starter spring should be strong enough to recoil the rope back into the housing.
What to Do if the Starter System is Faulty:
- Replace the Starter Rope: If the starter rope is broken or worn, replace it.
- Replace the Starter Spring: If the starter spring is weak, replace it.
The Ignition System: Creating the Spark
The ignition system is responsible for generating the spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine. If it’s not working properly, the engine won’t start.
Inspecting the Ignition System:
- Check the Spark Plug Wire: Make sure the spark plug wire is securely connected to the spark plug and the ignition coil.
- Check the Ignition Coil: The ignition coil is responsible for producing a high-voltage spark.
What to Do if the Ignition System is Faulty:
- Replace the Spark Plug Wire: If the spark plug wire is damaged or frayed, replace it.
- Replace the Ignition Coil: If the ignition coil is faulty, replace it.
Other Potential Problems
In addition to the common problems listed above, there are other potential reasons why your Yard Machine lawnmower won’t start:
- Dead Battery: If your lawnmower has an electric start, a dead battery could prevent it from starting.
- Stuck Valves: The valves in your engine open and close to allow fuel and air to enter and exhaust gases to escape. If they are stuck, the engine won’t start.
- Faulty Fuel Pump: The fuel pump delivers fuel from the tank to the carburetor. If it’s not working properly, the engine won’t start.
Getting Help: When to Call a Professional
If you’ve checked all of the common problems and your lawnmower still won’t start, it’s time to call a professional. A qualified mechanic can diagnose and repair more complex issues, such as:
- Engine Problems: A damaged engine, a broken piston, or a worn-out crankshaft can prevent the engine from starting.
- Electrical Problems: A faulty wiring harness, a bad ignition switch, or a damaged stator can prevent the engine from starting.
- Carburetor Problems: A complex carburetor problem might require specialized tools and knowledge to diagnose and repair.
Preventive Maintenance: Keeping Your Yard Machine Running Smoothly
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your Yard Machine lawnmower running smoothly. Here are a few key things to do:
- Change the Oil: Change the oil every 25 hours of operation or every season, whichever comes first.
- Clean the Air Filter: Clean or replace the air filter every 25 hours of operation.
- Inspect the Spark Plug: Inspect the spark plug every 25 hours of operation and replace it as needed.
- Check the Fuel: Make sure you’re using fresh fuel and that the fuel tank is clean.
By following these tips, you can troubleshoot most common lawnmower starting problems. Remember to always consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your Yard Machine model. And if you encounter a problem you can’t fix yourself, don’t hesitate to call a professional.
FAQs
Why Won’t My Yard Machine Lawn Mower Start?
This is a common problem that many lawn mower owners face. There are a few common reasons why your Yard Machine lawn mower might not start.
Q: I just filled the gas tank and it still won’t start. What’s wrong?
A: You may have a clogged fuel line or carburetor. Old gas can go bad and leave a gummy residue in the fuel lines and carburetor, preventing fuel from getting to the engine. You can try draining the gas tank, cleaning the fuel lines, and cleaning the carburetor. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, you can take your lawn mower to a repair shop.
Q: What if the lawnmower is getting spark but still won’t start?
A: If you’re getting spark but the engine isn’t firing, you may have a problem with the air filter, spark plug, or ignition coil. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, while a fouled spark plug can prevent the engine from igniting the fuel. You can try cleaning the air filter and replacing the spark plug. If the problem persists, it’s possible the ignition coil has failed.
Q: My lawnmower makes a clicking noise but won’t start. What’s going on?
A: A clicking noise often indicates a problem with the starter motor. The starter motor is responsible for turning the engine over, and a clicking noise can mean that it’s not engaging properly. You should check the battery connections and ensure that the battery is fully charged. If the clicking noise persists, you may need to replace the starter motor.
Q: I just changed the oil and now it won’t start. What did I do wrong?
A: When changing the oil, ensure you’ve filled the crankcase with the correct type and amount of oil. Overfilling can cause the oil to be forced into the combustion chamber, preventing the engine from starting. Double-check your work and ensure the oil level is within the recommended range.
Q: My lawnmower won’t start even after I tried everything. What should I do?
A: If you’ve checked all the common causes and your lawnmower still won’t start, it’s time to contact a professional. A mechanic can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.
Q: I’m not sure how to do any of the maintenance myself. Is there a manual for my lawnmower?
A: You can usually find a downloadable owner’s manual on the Yard Machine website. The manual will contain information about maintenance procedures, troubleshooting tips, and safety precautions.
Q: Is there anything I can do to prevent these problems in the future?
A: Regular maintenance is key to preventing problems with your lawnmower. This includes changing the oil regularly, cleaning the air filter, and replacing the spark plug as needed. You should also store your lawnmower properly during the winter months to prevent rust and corrosion.