Mower Engine Troubleshooting Guide
When your lawn equipment is out of service, it can ruin your whole day. Sure, you can rush your equipment over to a service shop, but some maintenance issues are easy enough to handle on your own. This guide from Magnum Power will explain how to diagnose and solve some of the most common problems you might encounter.
If you have any questions about lawn mower engine maintenance, feel free to ask the qualified staff here at Magnum Power. You can find us in Lawson, Missouri.
Check the Manual
The following tips are applicable to most mower engines, but for model-specific information, you will need to consult your product manual. This manual will provide you with detailed instructions for maintaining each component of your equipment. Make sure to keep the product manual close at hand when performing any maintenance task.
If Your Mower Won’t Start…
If your engine simply refuses to start, you might be tempted to give it a swift kick or mutter a few choice words. Instead, take a deep breath and concentrate on diagnosing the problem.
Fuel
First of all, try to remember when you last filled the gas tank. Untreated gasoline breaks down faster than you might think, and stale fuel can wreak havoc on your engine. If it has been more than a month, you should drain the tank and add fresh fuel. If you are not going through fuel faster than it degrades, you might want to add a fuel stabilizer to extend the life of your fuel.
Oil
If your fuel does not seem to be the culprit, you can check the oil. The oil in a mower engine should be replaced each season, or after 25 hours of operation – whichever comes first. Make sure to wait until the engine is cold before checking the oil to get an accurate reading of the oil level and condition.
Spark Plug
The next likely culprit is the spark plug. Spark plugs also need to be replaced each season, and they require the occasional adjustment. As your engine vibrates, the spark plug can loosen and cause the engine to fail. Tighten or replace the spark plug as needed.
No Luck Yet?
If the spark plug looks innocent enough, the ignition system could be the culprit, or it could be a problem with your valves and compression system. Fixing these systems can require the expertise of a technician, so if all else fails, pack up and head to your nearest service shop.
Looking for a good service shop near Clay County, Missouri? Look no further than Magnum Power. When lawn mower engine failure threatens to disrupt your day, our certified technicians can get you back on track. We proudly serve Kansas City, Missouri.