Ready, Set, Mow!

I’m so amazed that my lawn mower started the first time I cranked it that I decided to write a blog post about it.  Wow.  I think it’s only happened one time before.  Usually, by the time I get it started, I’ve cranked it so many times that I was exhausted by the time I got it started.  Then it’s like, screw it.

I’ve had to learn more than I expected about how small engines work due to having to troubleshoot my mower at the start of the mowing season.

The first thing I did differently today was get in the right mental and physical state to patiently deal with potential problems.  I drank a cup and a half of delicious coffee which took care of both.

I cleaned out old grass from under the mower so the blades and wheels would be able to move freely.

I squirted rust penetrating lubricant down into the blade shaft and rotated it until it loosened up.  (I’ve used WD-40 in the past, it works too.)

With my 10-year-old Tecumseh mower, I’ve had a variety of starting issues with it.  Those problems can be dealt with more patiently if you can recognize them by understanding what a small engine needs to work.  Here’s a web site with good info: Engine Problem Solving Tips

I accidentally discovered that I was able to get a sufficient amount of gasoline to go into the carburetor by tipping it over to that side.  Before that, I couldn’t hear gasoline squirting into when I pressed the red bulb that should get firmer when you push it the recommended number of times the mower.

I have used YouTube.com videos to troubleshoot my mower and get it started for the season.  I recommend that you look up the trouble you’re having so you can watch a DIY video that’ll help you get your mower started sooner rather than later.   Doing a search for “mower won’t start” will get you many hits on the topic.

 

A lot of this action going on in Freeport

 

Another thing with my mower that kept it from starting, I learned, was air was not getting to into the carburetor which is needed to create the mini-explosion needed for a motor to fire up.  I removed the air filter cap and held my thumb over the air filter tube while I pumped air into the carburetor with the bulb.  Then, I could hear a steady squirt of gasoline going into it.

Doing all that is what led to me being able to pull the line one only time so I could get the job done.   Now I can enjoy the rest of this gorgeous spring day.

If you think this post was helpful, share it with your friends and family. 

Leave a comment if you have DIY mower troubleshooting tips you’d like to share. 

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