How Do You Start A Lawn Mower? (Steps and Tips)

Learn how to start your lawnmower in a few easy steps! Don't let a simple issue prevent you from mowing your lawn - this post has got you covered!

Starting a lawn mower is a simple process that requires some steps to be taken before pulling the cord. Before starting, checking fuel and oil levels, inspecting the spark plug, looking for loose or damaged parts, and debris buildup are crucial steps to ensure that the lawnmower starts correctly. This article discusses the steps involved in starting a lawnmower successfully, as well as tips for checking and adding oil to your lawnmower and common problems and solutions related to lawnmowers.

Table Of Contents

How to Start A Lawn Mower?

Step 1: Set the Lawnmower In Place

The first step in mowing your lawn is to identify a flat area and ensure that any objects in the grass do not damage the blades. Scan the area for potential hazards, such as a dog's toy, branches that have fallen due to the wind, or loose stones. It's best to start mowing on grass that is not too high, making it easier to use the lawnmower.

Step 2: Check the Remaining Oil Level

Inspect the oil level in your lawnmower before starting it, as a low oil level can prevent the engine from starting. The upper mark indicates the optimal oil level; ensuring that it is within the marked region indicates it's at the right level. If you're using your lawnmower for the first time, fill it with the appropriate amount of oil, as the quantity required varies by model and can be found in the manual.

Step 3: Check the Remaining Fuel Level

Is the fuel tank adequately filled? Insufficient gasoline levels can make starting the lawn mower challenging. Ensure that there is enough fuel in the tank. For a four-stroke engine, it's best to utilize Euro unleaded gasoline, Euro 95, or Euro 98. If you haven't used the lawnmower for an extended period and there was only a small amount of gasoline left in the tank, it's essential to first remove the old fuel.

Step 4: Inspect the Spark Plug

It is crucial to check the spark plug, which plays a crucial role in igniting the engine through an electric spark. Look for it at the back of the engine and ensure it is firmly in place. Also, ensure it is not wet or dirty, as this can cause the lawn mower to malfunction. In case it is damp, use a carburetor cleaner cloth to clean and dry it.

Step 5: Prime the Carburetor of Your Lawn Mower

Look for the prime button, typically a squishy red or black button on the mower's body.
Push it 3-4 times to force gasoline into the lines.
Avoid excessive squishing to prevent engine flooding.
Refer to your user manual if you cannot locate the prime button.

Note: Skip this step if your mower does not have a prime button. However, verify the user manual to confirm.

Step 6: Switch the Throttle to the "Start" Position

Grab the pull cord handle and give it a good yank to start the engine.
Ensure the engine turns over at a minimum of 350 rpm to produce a spark strong enough to ignite the fuel.
If the pull cord is very stiff to pull, check for obstructions on the blade and make sure the bail lever is working properly. Don't be discouraged if the mower doesn't start on the first pull. It may take two or three pulls.
Avoid flooding the engine with too much fuel by not pulling the cord more than three times. If the engine floods, let it sit for thirty minutes before trying again without applying the choke.

Step 7: Getting Ready to Mow Your Lawn

It's time to start mowing your lawn! After allowing your engine to warm up, switch the throttle lever to fast/run (in case of a manual choke). Running a warm engine continuously on a choke can cause black smoke emission, poor performance, and reduce its lifespan. Pro Tip! Some lawn mowers do not come equipped with gas valves, which are responsible for cutting off the fuel supply to the carburetor. It is important to remember to turn off the gas tap when storing the mower.

Tips for Checking And Adding Oil to Your Lawnmower

It's best to check the oil level when the engine is cold. Check the oil level every time you refill the gas tank.
Use 10w30 car engine oil for most lawnmowers, and add about .65 of a quart (.6lt) is empty.
Service your lawnmower at least once a year, ideally at the beginning of the new season.
When adding oil, do it in small amounts and check the level each time to avoid overfilling. Remember that too much oil is almost as bad as too little.

Common Lawnmower Problems and Solutions

1. Loss of Power:

If you lose power while mowing, you may be cutting grass that is too tall. Check your user manual to see how to raise the cutting height of your lawnmower. Make sure the mower is off, and the spark plug is disconnected when changing the height.

2. Starting Problems:

Is the starter difficult to pull? It might mean the blade is jammed with grass or debris. Disconnect the spark plug before turning the mower over to clear the debris. If the starter is still stuck, take it to a mechanic.

3. Clogged Discharge Chute:

Clear the discharge chute and blades of debris after the motor has cooled down. If your lawnmower continues to smoke, the air filter may be clogged, or the blades may be bent. Consider taking it to a mechanic.

4. Smoking Lawnmower:

If your lawnmower is smoking and won’t stay on, turn it off and let it cool for an hour. Check if the smoking stops after a few minutes. If not, take it to a mechanic.

Final Thought

Starting a lawnmower requires a few simple steps before pulling the cord. Checking the fuel and oil levels, looking for any loose or damaged parts, and inspecting the grass build-up and blade condition are all essential steps to ensure the lawnmower starts without any issues.

Additionally, it is important to check the spark plug, prime the carburetor, and switch the throttle to the "start" position. Keeping your lawnmower well-maintained and following the tips outlined in this article will help you start your lawnmower with ease.