Lawn Mower Won’t Start

Author Leila Masoni

Posted Mar 2, 2023

Reads 4.4K

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Lawn mower won't start, and it is a common problem faced by many homeowners. When the grass starts growing, and you need to give your lawn a trim, a malfunctioning lawn mower can be frustrating. The inability to start your mower could be due to several reasons, such as an empty fuel tank, clogged air filters, or faulty spark plugs.

Fortunately, fixing your lawnmower is not rocket science. With some basic troubleshooting and maintenance tips, you'll have your lawnmower up and running in no time. In this article, we will explore some of the most common reasons why your lawn mower won't start and provide simple solutions to get it back on track. So let's dive in!

Trouble Getting Your Lawn Mower to Start After the Winter?

Winter finally lifts, and you're ready to cut some grass. But after a few heart attacks pulling the rip cord, you'll realize your lawn mower won't start. Don't worry; this is a common problem for many popular brands like Toro lawn mowers and Briggs & Stratton lawn mowers.

If your lawn mower won't start, follow these three steps to begin fixing it. First, check the carburetor cleaner since they're responsible for mixing air and fuel to create combustion in small engines such as lawn mowers or snow blowers. Second, use hand tools like a socket set to disassemble the carburetor and clean it with air compressor. And third, purchase small-engine parts at a store if it's necessary to replace them.

By following these simple steps, you'll save yourself grief trying to figure out why your lawn mower won't start. Let's dig into each step in detail so that you can get an operational engine and back to cutting grass!

Fuel Flow Problems: Understanding Clogged Fuel Lines

If you own a yard machine lawn mower and it won't start, one of the possible culprits is a clog in your fuel lines. Clogged fuel lines occur when sticky deposits from old fuel remain inside the lines, preventing new fuel from reaching the carburetor. When this happens, your engine won't get the fuel it needs to run properly.

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To diagnose a clogged fuel line, start by checking the lower level of your fuel tank. If there's no gas in it or very little, fill it up and turn on the engine. If it still doesn't start or stalls soon after starting, the problem may be a clog further down in the fuel line. To remove the clog, you can try using a fuel line spray or carburetor fluid to dissolve any gunk that's blocking your fuel flow. You can also try blowing air through the line with a loose blow attachment.

Another option is to remove the fuel line altogether and inspect it for any visible blockages. If you see something lodged inside, use a tool to carefully remove it. Once you've cleared the blockage, reattach the line and turn on your mower again to test if fuel flows freely through it. Remember to always watch for signs of low or inconsistent fuel supply and address them immediately before they cause more serious problems down the line!

Ensure Your Device is powered up with a simple check

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Ensuring that your lawn mower is powered up is the first and most crucial step in diagnosing why it won't start. I'll assume you've cleaned the air filter, checked the spark plug, and used carburetor cleaner or compressed air to remove oil residue from the carburetor. If compressed air isn't available, dry cleaning with a rag should suffice. Step 3 is to check for wetness on the spark plug; if wet, move onto step 4 which is to let it dry. Lastly, make sure you have fresh gas in your lawn mower and that the carburetor is clean before attempting to start again.

1. Remove the inlet needle and seat

If you're experiencing problems getting your lawn mower to start, there's a good chance that the issue lies with the inlet needle and seat. The first step is to locate these parts, which can be found in the carburetor. Check out resources like Family Handyman for help finding them.

Once you've located the inlet needle and seat, you can use a small pick in reverse to remove them from the carburetor. Be sure to keep track of any retaining springs or rubber seats that may come loose during this process. After removing the parts, use a rag to remove any debris or dirt that may have accumulated around them. Before reinstalling, make sure that everything looks clean and in good condition, and that the float pin is straight and free from any bends or damage. By taking these steps, you'll be well on your way to getting your lawn mower up and running again!

2. Check carb condition

One of the most common reasons why your lawn mower won't start is because of a dirty or clogged carburetor. The carburetor mixes air and fuel to create the combustion needed to power your mower. If it's not functioning properly, your mower won't run.

To check the condition of your lawn mower carburetor, you can follow the steps outlined by Family Handyman. First, remove the air filter and inspect it for dirt or damage. Then, locate the carburetor and remove it from the engine. Check for any visible signs of wear or damage, such as cracks or corrosion. Next, use a carburetor cleaner to clean all parts thoroughly and reassemble everything back together again.

By checking and cleaning your lawn mower carburetor regularly, you can save yourself time and money on costly repairs. Plus, you'll be able to keep your lawn looking neat and tidy all season long!

3. Fellow DIYer’s solution for corroded carburetor

An anonymous reader on Family Handyman shares their solution for a corroded lawn mower carburetor. They found corrosion when they disassembled the carburetor, which meant game over for their small engine. But fear not, as the DIYer advises boiling the carburetor in water with some dish soap for 30 minutes - a cheap and effective solution.

However, if you encounter a stuck inlet needle or seat, they're easy to replace (photo 2). Check inside the carburetor's interior (photo 3) and all its parts to ensure proper function. Also, don't forget to check your fuel filter and fuel line ahead of the carburetor gas inlet for clogs. If gas flows from the fuel filter inlet but not through the carburetor gas inlet, then that means it's clogged - replace it! Don't let a corroded lawn mower carburetor be your downfall, replace it before it becomes a dead carburetor (replace photo 1).

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I check if my lawn mower won't start?

Check the spark plug, fuel filter, and carburetor if your lawn mower won't start. These are the most common issues that can prevent a mower from starting.

What are the possible reasons why my lawn mower won't start?

Possible reasons why a lawn mower won't start include old or bad gas, a clogged air filter, a dead battery, a faulty spark plug or ignition system, or a dirty carburetor. It's important to troubleshoot and fix the issue before attempting to start the mower again.

What to do if your lawn mower won't start?

If your lawn mower won't start, check the fuel level, spark plug, and air filter. If those are all fine, it may need a new carburetor or professional repair.

How to troubleshoot your mower not starting?

To troubleshoot a mower that won't start, check the fuel and air filters, spark plug, and battery. If those are all okay, the problem may be with the carburetor or starter motor.

How to troubleshoot your lawn mower not starting?

First, check if there's enough fuel and oil in the tank. Second, examine the spark plug and clean or replace it if necessary. Finally, inspect the air filter and carburetor for clogs or damage.

Leila Masoni

Leila Masoni

Writer at Celebrity Examiner

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Leila Masoni is a freelance writer who enjoys sharing her thoughts and experiences through her writing. She has always had a passion for creative writing and loves exploring new topics in her work. With a keen eye for detail, Leila brings a unique perspective to each of her blog posts.

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