Frequent Issues
One of the most frustrating problems is a mower that simply won’t start. This could result from:
- A faulty spark plug that’s not producing the necessary spark.
- Stale or contaminated fuel that clogs the fuel lines or carburettor.
- A blocked air filter, preventing the engine from getting the air it needs to run.
- Issues with the safety switch, which may be loose or disconnected.
If your mower starts but doesn’t stay running, this often points to:
- A clogged carburettor, restricting the flow of fuel to the engine.
- A dirty air filter, leading to improper combustion.
- A problem in the fuel system, such as a blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
- Overheating caused by poor lubrication or a dirty engine.
For self-propelled mowers, a non-functional drive system can be caused by:
- A worn or damaged drive belt, preventing the wheels from engaging.
- A faulty transmission or drive motor.
- Damaged gears or pulleys within the drive system.
- Deck belts snapped or faulty.
When the blades fail to spin, it could be due to:
- A broken or loose belt connecting the engine to the blade system.
- A damaged clutch or engagement cable, preventing activation.
- An electrical issue in models with electronic blade control.
A damaged or snapped pull cord can render your mower unusable. Common causes include:
- Regular wear and tear from frequent use.
- A malfunctioning recoil mechanism, which adds extra strain on the cord.
Damaged or snapped cables can disrupt critical functions such as throttle control, blade engagement, or braking. Common issues include:
- Frayed or kinked cables due to wear.
- Cables that are stuck or rusted.
If your mower isn’t collecting grass clippings properly, it could be due to:
- Clogged grass chute, which blocks clippings from reaching the collection bag.
- A damaged or improperly attached collection bag.
- Dull or damaged blades, which tear rather than cut the grass.
Seeing smoke from your mower can be alarming. The causes might include:
- Overfilled oil reservoir, leading to oil burning in the engine.
- An oil leak causing oil to drip onto the hot engine components.
- A dirty air filter, which disrupts combustion and leads to incomplete burning of fuel.
- A worn piston ring or cylinder, allowing oil to seep into the combustion chamber.