Laura Duerr, BestReviews staff
2 hours ago
What to do if your lawnmower won’t start
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Nothing is more frustrating than finally deciding to mow the lawn, only to discover that your lawnmower won’t start. Before making an appointment for potentially expensive repairs, try to diagnose the problem yourself. There may be a simple fix for a lawnmower that won’t start. With the right tools and a little elbow grease, you can have your garden back in no time.
IN THIS ARTICLE:
Troubleshooting your lawnmower
If you’re having trouble starting your mower, check the safety bar for damaged or disconnected wires, which can prevent the mower’s motors from starting. Next, make sure the spark plug wire is not disconnected, then remove and clean the spark plug as needed. On a battery-powered lawnmower, check the battery for moisture or corrosion and make sure the charging connections are secure and properly aligned.
Check and clean or replace the mower carburetor air filter. While the filter is being removed, check the carburetor itself for corrosion and clean or replace if necessary.
Debris build-up on the mower deck is a common cause of starting problems, especially if the starter rope feels stuck. Make sure the mower is turned off, then dump it to carefully clean out any accumulated grass clippings or debris blocking the blade. Also check the cooling vents for obstructions.
Finally, check your mower’s fuel tank. It could simply be empty, but even if it is full, the mower still won’t start because the gas is too old or contaminated. Gas that is more than a month old will probably need to be diverted and replaced. Adding a fuel stabilizer will help the gas last longer and prevent build-up.
How to winterize your lawnmower
One of the best ways to make sure your lawn mower stays in good working order is to protect it while it’s not in use during the winter. Winterization will not only help ensure that you can get your lawn mower up and running when the warm weather returns, but it will also protect the machine from corrosion, mice and more.
Thoroughly clean your mower’s undercarriage to prevent rust build-up from lawn debris. Once it’s clean and dry, follow the instructions in your owner’s manual to drain the lawnmower’s fuel tank and change the oil. Before storing the mower, cover the air intakes and exhaust to prevent mice or other pests from nesting inside. Cover the mower and store it in a dry place to protect it from rust.
The best tools for fixing a lawnmower
Olympia Tools Adjustable Wrench
This sturdy 15-inch wrench is a must-have for home repairs, engine work, and DIY. It is chrome plated to resist corrosion and its jaws can open 1.75 inches. Other sizes are also available.
Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
Tekton Drive ixS-Point 1/2″ Socket and Ratchet Set
You’ll always have the part you need with this set, which includes all socket sizes from 3/8″ to 1 5/16″ and 10mm to 32mm. Also includes a universal joint and a 10-inch extension.
Sold by Home Depot
G & F Black Nitrile Coated Seamless Work Gloves
Sold in a pack of 12, these comfortable gloves are lightweight yet still durable. Foam nitrile coating helps users get a good grip on tools without sacrificing breathability.
Sold by Home Depot
HDX brush with iron handle
With a sturdy ergonomic handle and stiff fiber bristles, this brush is handy for cleaning lawn mower decks. Its extra long bristles and pointed brush tip help get into corners and it can be hung up for easy storage.
Sold by Home Depot
Himal Outdoors Lawnmower Deck
Even if you store your mower in a garage or shed, a good cover can protect your mower’s engine from dirt and dust while it’s not in use. This cover protects mowers from pushing and walking with double-stitched 600D waterproof Oxford cloth.
Sold by Amazon
Klein Tools MM400 multimeter
A multimeter can help diagnose electrical problems in your home or appliances, such as a battery-operated lawn mower. This budget model has a backlit digital display that is easy to read and its multiple test leads ensure that it will be useful in many applications.
Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
Matrix Concepts M28 Oil Drain Container
The smaller size of this oil drain pan makes it perfect for changing the oil on lawn mowers. It holds about 6 quarts and measures 4 inches tall.
Sold by Amazon
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Laura Duerr writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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