Starting a lawn mower for the first time can be challenging, especially if you haven’t used one in a while. Despite the fact that there are many different types of lawnmowers, the solution for starting a Craftsman lawn mower is almost the same for all of them.
You will need some practice, but you will never face the same problem again. It is common for lawn mowers to not start for various reasons. It might be the spark plug that is defective, the carburetor on the lawnmower might be clogged, the engine oil or fuel might be old or bad, or it might be the start switch.
In this article, we’ll explain how to fix a lawn mower that won’t start. Before diving into the solutions, let’s talk about starting a Craftsman lawnmower. By following these steps step by step, you can start your lawnmower like a pro.
Step 1: Check the oil level and fill up the oil tank
The first thing you should do is check to see if the lawn mower has enough fuel to start. There are the same types of oil tanks in different lawnmowers.
For example, both the push mower and the riding mower have an oil tank located on top of the engine. These containers are usually black.
Remove the cap from the oil tank. Next, check the oil level using a dipstick. If needed, add more oil. Depending on the type of lawnmower, you may need to use a different oil. This will be indicated on the oil cap.
This step will differ a bit if you are using a Craftsman 6.75 lawnmower. Typically, these lawn mowers have a gas tank, so you will need to fill it up with gas. The oil cap for riding lawn mowers is located under the hood.
Step 2. Attach a spark plug wire to the lawn mower’s spark plug
The spark plug and wire need to be connected correctly. You can find them in front of the engine. Make sure the spark plug wires are properly attached and positioned on the plug.
If you cannot connect the spark plug wire, you can check the manual. In most cases, the process is clearly outlined. In case the spark plug does not work, you can also contact a mechanic.
Step 3: Check if the air filter is working correctly
You will need a screwdriver to open the air filter cover. You will find it on the left side of the engine. Ensure that the air filter is clean. As a result of the dirt in the air-filter, the lawn mower wouldn’t start. Air filters should always be cleaned.
Additionally, cleaning the air-filters can be time-consuming and a hassle. It is not expensive to buy a new one. Please look for the correct model number as there are many sizes.
Step 4: Press the primer button several times and pull the rope rapidly if it’s a push lawn mower.
For push mowers, you will find the primer button on the left side of the engine. Primers are usually red or black in color. It is necessary to press them three times each. By doing this, gasoline will be pushed through. Now you must grasp the control handle with one hand.
Hold the recoil starter handle in one hand. The recoil starter handle is on the right side of the mower. Next, pull the rope gently.
Pull the string rapidly and do so until the lawn mower starts. Push lawn mowers do not require a key to operate. So you don’t need a key to start a push mower.
Step 5: If you’re using a riding lawn mower, put the key in the ignition and hold the parking brake
In order to start a riding lawn mower, you must insert the lawn mower key into the ignition switch. If you want to start the lawn mower, you will need to depress the parking brake.
Turn on the parking brake lever while holding the brake. In order to drive the lawn mower, you must disengage the brake.
Then turn the key in a clockwise direction to start the riding lawn mower. Once it has started, you can release the key.
Step 6: Adjust your lawn mower’s height if necessary
You might notice that your lawn mower consumes a lot of power. It may be happening because the grass is too tall. As a solution, you can raise the height of your lawn mower. Ensure that the lawn mower has been turned off before changing the height.
Common Problems of Lawn Mowers and Solutions
A faulty spark plug
Check if the spark plug is damaged. Use a spark plug tester. When you start the engine, you will see a spark on the tester’s terminal. If you don’t see a flash, the spark plug is damaged or defective. This can be fixed by replacing the spark plug.
Clogged Carburetor
If you keep fuel in your lawn mower for a long time, it will clog the carburetor. The fuel will become sticky and thick, clogging the carburetor. A simple solution is to clean the carburetor. If it doesn’t work, you must replace the whole carburetor.
Old Gasoline
This is one of the most common problems. Old or bad gasoline won’t start your lawn mower. To keep your lawn mower going for longer, don’t let gasoline or oil sit in the tank.
FAQs
Is lawn mower oil prone to going bad?
The properties of lawn mower oil remain stable for a long time, but they begin to deteriorate after about two years. During the warm season, you can winterize a lawn mower without draining the oil, but after a long period of inactivity, you should replace it.
What is the location of the primer button on a Craftsman lawn mower?
It is usually found on the right side of the handle, attached to the carburetor. It pumps a small amount of fuel into the carburetor and assists in ignition.
What does a lawn mower choke do?
Chokes are valves that reduce airflow to the engine, allowing more fuel to be used. These can help you start your mower quicker, especially in cold weather.
Conclusion
Following the above tips will help you solve many problems related to starting a Craftsman lawn mower. The above were some common reasons that lawn mowers won’t start. If you discover any other serious issue, visit a mechanic.
