If you were asking how to start a lawn mower that has been sitting? Well, read on this blog!
Want to know how to start a lawn mower that has been sitting? To start a sitting lawn mower, follow these steps: Check the fuel tank and add fresh gasoline if needed. Inspect the plug and clean then replace it if necessary. Prime the engine, set the choke (if applicable), and pull the starter cord firmly to start the mower.
Tips to Start a Lawn Mower That Has Been Sitting
You should learn how to start a lawn mower that has been sitting. Alright, so you’ve got a lawn mower that’s been sitting there, collecting dust for who knows how long.
You want to fire it up and make your lawn look great, but it’s not cooperating. No worries! I’ve got some handy tips to help you get that mower back in action:
Check & Change the Oil
First things first, let’s talk about the oil. Like you need fresh oil for your car, your lawn mower craves it too. So, check the oil level and color. If it looks dark and smells funny, it’s time for an oil change. Find out what type and how much oil your mower needs from the manual and get it sorted.
Check the Gas Tank
Next, take a peek at the gas tank. Old fuel can be a real party pooper when starting your mower. If it’s been sitting for a while, empty the tank and fill ‘er up with some fresh gasoline. Trust me, and it’ll make a world of difference.
Change the Air Filter
A clogged filter can mess with the airflow, making breathing harder for your mower. The fix is simple! Pop open the air filter housing, replace the old filter with a new one, or clean it if it’s reusable. Easy peasy!
Replace Your Mower’s Spark Plug
So, the spark plug, it plays a role in starting the engine. Over time, it can get worn out or dirty, causing starting problems. No worries, though! If needed, remove the old spark plug, check its condition, and install a new one. Just consult the manual for the right plug.
Tighten the Mower’s Brake Cable
Safety first, right? If your mower’s brake cable is loose, it might stop you from starting that engine. Check it out for any damage or slack, and tighten it up. Not only will this help with starting the mower, but it’ll also keep you safe during mowing sessions.
What a Dirty Carburetor!
Now, let’s get down and dirty with the carburetor. This little guy mixes fuel and air for the engine. But starting your mower will be a headache if it’s all gunked up with old fuel. Grab some carburetor cleaner spray and give it a good clean. If it’s too much trouble, leave it to the pros.
Replace Your Fuel Pump?
Alright, this one applies mainly to riding lawn mowers. If you suspect the fuel pump isn’t delivering the goods, consider getting it replaced. Check the manual or call a mechanic for the right replacement and installation.
Check For a Broken Flywheel Key
Last but not least, let’s check the flywheel key. It’s the little piece connecting the engine’s crankshaft to the flywheel. If broken, it messes up the engine’s timing and makes starting a pain. Inspect it and swap it out if needed. If you’re not sure how to do it, get some help. Now you know how to start a lawn mower that has been sitting.
How To Know My Lawn Mower is Faulty
Keeping your lawn mower in good shape is crucial for maintaining a beautiful lawn. But sometimes, like any machine, lawnmowers can develop problems.
Loss of Power or Performance:
Okay, the first thing you might notice is that your lawn mower doesn’t seem as powerful as it used to be. It might struggle to cut through the grass like it used to. Here are some things to check for:
Dull Blades: Take a look at the cutting blades. If they’re dull or damaged, sharpen or replace them regularly.
Clogged Air Filter: Check the air filter for any clogs. If it’s dirty, clean or replace it to improve performance.
Fuel Problems: Bad or old fuel can affect the engine’s performance. Use fresh, good-quality gas, and consider using a fuel stabilizer to avoid fuel-related issues.
Difficult Starting:
Nothing’s more frustrating than a mower that won’t start or takes forever to fire up. Let’s see what could be causing this:
Fuel Issues: First, check for enough fuel in the tank and make sure it’s fresh. Look for fuel leaks and fix them.
Spark Plug Problems: A faulty spark plug might be the culprit. Swap it out if it’s worn or damaged.
Carburetor Troubles: A clogged carburetor can mess with the fuel flow. Clean or repair it if needed.
Ignition System Failure: If all else fails, it might be an issue with the ignition system. Have a pro take a look at it.
Excessive Vibration:
If your lawn mower is shaking like crazy during operation, there could be a few reasons behind it:
Unbalanced Blades: Check if the cutting blades are balanced and properly attached. Replace any bent or damaged blades and tighten them up.
Bent Crankshaft: A bent crankshaft can cause a lot of vibration. You’ll need a professional to handle this one.
Loose Engine Mounting: Ensure the engine mounting bolts are nice and tight.
Worn Belts: If your mower has belts, check them for wear and tear. Replace them if needed.
Uneven Cutting:
Nobody wants their lawn to look like a patchwork quilt. If your mower is cutting unevenly, let’s see what might be going on:
Uneven Blades: Check that all the cutting blades are the same length and properly aligned. Swap out any worn or damaged blades.
Uneven Deck: Look at the mower’s deck for damage or misalignment. Adjust or replace it if necessary.
Tire Pressure: Don’t forget to check the tire pressure and ensure all the tires are inflated equally.
Excessive Noise:
Is your lawn mower making a racket? Here’s what to look into:
Loose Parts: Check for any loose screws, nuts, or bolts and tighten them up.
Damaged Muffler: A damaged or clogged muffler can be noisy. Fix or replace it if needed.
Worn Bearings: Unusual noises could be due to worn bearings. Get a pro to inspect and replace them if necessary.
White or Blue Smoke:
Seeing smoke from your lawn mower is a cause for concern:
White Smoke: White smoke usually means there’s an oil-related issue. It could be overfilled oil or damaged piston rings. Get help from a professional to diagnose and fix it.
Blue Smoke: Blue smoke is often a sign of burning oil. It might be due to worn engine parts or damaged gaskets. Don’t ignore it – address the problem as soon as possible.
FAQs
Why won’t my lawn mower start after sitting for a month?
Leaving fuel in the tank for a long time can clog the carburetor. Empty old fuel, add fresh gas and use a fuel stabilizer. Check the spark plug, air filter, and battery if equipped.
Why won’t my lawnmower start back up again?
Several reasons could be the cause: stale fuel, clogged carburetor, faulty spark plug, or issues with the ignition system. Perform regular maintenance and check fuel quality for easy starts.
What’s the best way to start a lawn mower?
Ensure fresh fuel, a clean air filter, and a plug. Prime the engine, set the choke (if applicable), and pull the starter cord firmly and steadily.
Final Words
Alright, folks! Taking care of your lawn mower is a must for having a beautiful lawn. Whether it’s been sitting for a bit or giving you trouble starting, regular TLC is a must.
Just follow the steps we discussed, fix any issues quickly, and you’ll have a trusty mower that keeps your lawn looking awesome all year. We hope now you know how to start a lawn mower that has been sitting. Happy mowing, everyone!
