Lawn mower engine stalls. 10 Issues That Cause A Lawnmower To Randomly Cut Out

My Lawn Mower Starts Then Dies: What’s Wrong?

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We’re all guilty of leaving our lawns to become a little, shall we say… unkempt at times.

But, “It’s okay”, we tell ourselves, even as it verges on jungle-level overgrowth, because any day now, we’ll get a spare moment to unleash the mower and tidy things up.

And sure enough, we do eventually find time to give our yards some long-overdue TLC, but just as we reach the halfway point, with thoughts of a sudsy post-job cold one rattling around our brains, something else starts rattling… the lawn mower.

It sputters on for another couple of yards before giving up the grassy ghost, leaving us with half a putting green that Tiger Woods would applaud, and half a dense rainforest that not even Bear Grylls would dare enter.

Half a trimmed lawn is like half a haircut — not socially acceptable, and, frankly, terrible-looking. What are we supposed to tell the neighbors?

“Oh, yeah, sorry about this, Val, my erm… my lawn’s going through a bit of a punk rock phase at the moment” — Somehow, I don’t think that’s going to track.

Nope, the only option is to get that lawn mower going again, and to do that, you first need to identify the problem, and, secondly, fix it, which is exactly what I’m going to help you with today!

Why Is My Lawn Mower Betraying Me?

When your lawn mower starts up but cuts out before you have a chance to get anything done, the usual suspects are…

• A dirty carburetor or an obstruction in the carburetor bowl
• Stagnant gasoline
• Damaged or dirty spark plug(s)
• Excessive oil levels

That may seem like one hell of a line-up, but I’m happy to report that they’re all incredibly easy to fix, and I’m going to show you how.

Carburetor Chaos

Besides being incredibly difficult to spell, the carburetor is your lawn mower’s most important component, so when your grass-eating beast starts to misbehave, all eyes should turn to the carb.

I Thought Only Old Cars Had Carburetors. What Are They Doing in Our Lawn Mowers?

The carburetor in your lawn mower does the exact same thing it does in your car: Mixes precisely the right amount of gas with precisely the right amount of oxygen to facilitate combustion.

These tiny controlled explosions spark a chain reaction that gets the crankshaft spinning and the engine fired up, but if the fuel:oxygen ratio is off due to a buildup of dirt on the carburetor or a clogged bowl, it can throw the whole system out of whack.

Combustion will still be taking place, which is why your lawn mower fires up when you pull the cord, but it’s not a sustainable power source, which is why your mower chokes moments later.

Okay, So How Do I Fix It?

In this scenario, all you need to do to revive your lawn mower is give the carburetor a thorough clean, and what better to do that with than an aerosol can of specialized carburetor solvent?

I can personally recommend WD-40 Specialist Carb/Throttle Body Parts Cleaner. It’s super affordable, and takes care of both carbon contaminants and gumming. I’ve been using it for years, and it’s never let me down.

That said, it does have one shortcoming… it lacks a straw applicator for precision use, but that’s okay, as there are many alternatives that do, such as Gumout Carb and Choke Cleaner. I’d advise you to pick up a can of both, use the WD-40 for the heavy lifting, then switch over to the Gumout for precision spot cleaning.

Step 1. Open The Windows

Carb cleaner may be great for your carburetor, but it’s hell on the lungs, so make sure you’re working in a well-ventilated area.

Step 2. Finding The Carb

Your carburetor will either be bolted to the top or side of the motor. Found it? If not, check behind or below the air filter.

Step 3. Remove The Fuel Line

Detach the fuel tank from your mower (they usually slide out of place), then use a pair of needle nose pliers to shimmy the fuel line loose.

Step 4. Remove And Clean The Jet Screw

The jet that feeds fuel into the carb doubles up as a bolt that holds the bowl in place. Unscrew the jet from beneath your carburetor, and give it a generous spritzing with your carb cleaner.

I find it’s best to use the precision applicator for cleaning the jet channels, as the concentrated stream can help dislodge debris.

For the best results, you should consider using a carb cleaner kit, as they arrive with all the special brushes you need to rejuvenate your jet.

Step 5. Poke The Jet Channels

Take a piece of wire, or even just an unfolded paper clip, and poke it through the tiny holes in the jet screw, just in case the carb cleaner missed anything.

Step 6. Remove And Clean The Bowl

With the jet removed, the carb bowl should pull free. Spray it with plenty of carb cleaner, and, if you have one, give it a good scrub with the brushes from your carb cleaning kit.

Step 7. Check The Gaskets

The gaskets are the black, rubber O-rings that seal the discrete sections of your carburetor. Check for any crumbling or blemishes. If you find any, replace them with fresh gaskets.

Step 8. Push The Float

When you removed the bowl, you revealed the carb float, a little disk attached to the rest of the motor. Gently push it up and listen closely. If you hear a quiet clicking sound, all is well. If not, you may need a specialist to look into the matter.

Step 9. Put It All Back Together

Okay, so now your carb is looking slick and shiny, it’s time to re-assemble. Be sure not to overtighten the jet screw, as you might strip the threads and disfigure the seal.

Step 10. Spray Some Carb Cleaner In The Intake Hole Of The Engine

The intake hole is usually behind the air filter. Give it a light spritzing, and when you start your mower up, it will be pulled through the system, giving everything one last clean.

Step 11. Take Your Mower For A Spin

With any luck, that quick maintenance session solved your mower mishap, and now you’re free to cut all the grass you want. If it didn’t work, don’t sweat it. We’ve got three more fixes to try.

Geriatric Gasoline

You may not realize it, but just like those plums shriveling up in your fruit bowl, gasoline has a shelf life. Over time, the volatile compounds essential to combustion thin out, which, understandably, can have a negative effect on engine efficiency.

When the quality drops below a certain threshold, it starts to damage the internal components of your motor. What’s more, it leaves gummy deposits on surfaces, which, if left unaddressed, can impede gas flow, leading to, you’ve guessed it… sudden mechanical failures.

Got it! But How Do I Fix It?

If you’ve got, say, less than half a tank left, you may be able to get away with diluting it with fresh gas, thereby strengthening the combustive properties. But if you’ve got more than half a tank left, I’m afraid you’re going to have to dispose of the contents (responsibly, of course).

See also my guide on the type of gas to use for your lawn mower

No matter which route you end up taking, my advice is to throw some sort of fuel stabilizer into the mix, and if you’re looking for a recommendation, in the past, I used STA-BIL 360 Protection Ethanol Treatment and Fuel Stabilizer. This stuff prevents corrosion and halts the buildup you’ll see using traditional fuel, ensuring your engine always runs buttery smooth!

Alternatively, you could do what I do now and use TruFuel-4-Cycle Ethanol-Free Fuel. Ethanol is the stuff that causes all the problems when fuel stagnates, so removing it from the equation is kind of a no-brainer.

A tank full of TruFuel will survive a long, cold winter in the shed, so when the warmer weather arrives, and your grass gets a growth spurt, you can break out the mower sans hiccups!

Cards on the table, TriFuel is a little more expensive than the standard gas/stabilizer combo, but in my opinion, the reliability and peace of mind it brings is well worth the premium. It gets my 140cc BlackDecker mower fired up with a single pull every single time — a real shoulder saver!

Spark Plug Panic

Once the carburetor has mixed the fuel and air, it’s the spark plug’s time to shine.

These incendiary little components provide the spark that ignites the fuel/air cocktail, thereby powering your mower’s engine

As a pivotal part of the combustion process, should they fall into disrepair or perhaps get a little dirty, it can cause the irritating start-stop mower behavior that brought you to this article.

And What About the Fix?

As long as your spark plug isn’t completely coated with a stubborn carbon build-up, you can simply remove it, give it a thorough clean, then replace it. Hopefully, that will smooth the combustion process out and return your mower to its former glory.

If you do find a lot of soiling on your spark plug, it’s best to call it quits and order a new one.

Step 1. Locating Your Sparky

Spark plugs are typically front and center on your mower, so they’re not difficult to find. Look for a component covered with black cabling at the front end of the engine.

Step 2. Removing Your Spark Plug

Removing your spark plug requires a socket wrench of a certain size, so have a quick thumb through your user manual, and see what info you can dig up.

Don’t worry if you’ve misplaced your manual, as you can purchase a universal spark plug wrench here.

Once you’ve got the necessary tool, pull the black cable free from the plug, and use the wrench to unscrew it from the engine.

Step 3. Cleaning Your Spark Plug

I use standard multi-use WD-40 and a small wire brush for cleaning my spark plugs.

Start by spraying the plug down with your cleaning solution, then leave the chemicals to work their magic for a few minutes. Next, take your small wire brush, and give your sparky a good scrub to dislodge any dirt or carbon residue.

Once the debris has been agitated, wipe it away with a soft rag to wrap this step up.

Step 4. Replacing your spark plug

If you’re refitting your old spark plug, simply insert it into the end of your wrench and twist it back into place (not too tight).

Things are a little more complicated if you’re fitting a replacement plug, but stick with me, and we’ll have it sorted in no time!

• First, you have to “gap” the plug, which essentially means that you are thinning or widening the gap between the two electrodes at the end of the plug to suit the requirements of your mower. To do so, you’ll need one of these handy CTA Tools spark plug gappers.
• Check the recommended plug gap in your user manual, then run your spark plug gapper in the space between the electrodes. Turn it until you feel resistance, then check the measurement on the face of the tool.
• If the gap isn’t quite large enough, you can use the hole in the gapper to pry the top electrode upwards, as if you’re cracking the cap on that cold one you were dreaming of earlier (and still are). To make the gap smaller, all you have to do is use the gapper tool to push down on the top electrode.
• Once gapping is complete, you can set the plug in place as normal. Take your time, and don’t force it. You need to get the threads in just the right place to secure it properly, and remember, it shouldn’t be too snug, as overtightening can damage the plug seal.

Spark Plug Advice For The Future

A good rule of thumb is to switch up your spark plug at least once every two years, but I like to bump it up to once annually as part of my standard maintenance schedule.

Oil Overload

If you’re anything like me, you felt the urge to fill your oil reservoir to the brim. “Gosh”, you think… “Aren’t I a responsible machine owner!”, but surprisingly, there is such a thing as too much oil.

You may have noticed that before your mower decided to take a siesta, it was spewing some white smoke, which is a dead giveaway that you did get a little overzealous with your oil.

The reason your mower seems to be working fine at first is that the excess oil is yet to drown out the engine, and I know “drown” is a strong word, but this isn’t as grave a situation as it implies. Let’s take a look at how you can make things right again.

Fixing Your Oil Surplus

The easiest way to solve this issue with a walk-behind mower is to simply pop the top of your oil reservoir, tip your mower on its side, and drain some of the contents; however, this can get pretty messy.

A much cleaner way to reduce your oil level is to use an oil extractor pump. These things allow you to siphon the oil away without spilling it, meaning (as long as it’s clean) you can use it again at a later date.

Be careful not to extract too much oil, though, as that can be even worse for your lawn mower than overfilling it.

Once you’ve sorted your oil level out, fire your mower up and keep an eye out for the dreaded white smoke. If it seems to be running clear, then you’ll know the problem has been rectified, and you can even out your wonky lawn post-haste.

How To Prevent This Oily Issue Repeating Itself

Now that your motor is feeling its old self again, take a break, check the oil with your dipstick, and note down the level. You can use this for future reference.

When the time comes to replenish your oil reserve, the trick is to take it nice and easy. Instead of pouring your oil into the reservoir willy-nilly, pour it in a little at a time, pausing every so often to check the level with your dipstick.

None of These Fixes Worked. What Do I Do?

Lawn mower still giving you grief after trying all four of these fixes? Dang!

Starting and dying shortly thereafter can be symptomatic of more serious mower issues. They’re incredibly tricky to diagnose, and even more difficult to fix.

So, I’m afraid it might be time to bite the bullet, contact a specialist, and have them take a look at your mischievous machinery. The problem could be…

A Defective Choke

If it’s allowing the passage of too much or too little air, the engine won’t be working efficiently, and, in some cases, combustion may not occur at all, causing the sudden mower death we’ve been trying to resolve today.

A Spent Carburetor

Sometimes, no matter how much you scrub your carb, the damage is already done, and a replacement is the only way to get your grass gobbler purring again.

If you’re particularly handy, you may be able to make the switch yourself, but, in my opinion, it’s best left to a professional.

A Blocked Gas Line Or Tank

Engines require consistent fuel flow to run efficiently. Even minor disruptions in the gas feed due to internal blockages can transform your lawn mulching monster into a wheezing mess.

It takes some pretty invasive snooping to identify a blocked gas tank or line, so I’d recommend consulting a pro and paying them to do it for you.

Wait, Wait, Wait… Professionals? This Is Starting to Sound Expensive

I know you’re probably bracing your bank account for a severe hit, but if your mower is covered by a warranty, you may be able to get the manufacturer to fix it for you for free — hooray!

Some companies will even send an engineer to your door to either fix the mower right then and there, assess the issue and order parts, or collect it for repairs at a company service depot. You won’t have to lift a finger!

If your warranty has elapsed, or you never had one to begin with, it’s best to look for a small, reputable repairs shop in your area. These modest outfits are often staffed with highly experienced workers, and the are far less scary than you might imagine.

Lawn Mower Maintenance: Prevention Is Better Than the Cure

Before we go our separate ways, I thought it’d be a good idea to discuss some pro lawn mower maintenance tips, as the best way to ensure you’re never stuck with this issue again is to take good care of your machine.

• Clean your air filter — It’s common practice to clean a mower’s air filter once every 25 operating hours, so if it takes you 2 hours to mow your yards, it should be given a good once over every 12 ½ mows.
• Replace your air filter — I replace my air filter once annually, but if you have quite a lot of ground to cover, and you hit 300 operating hours before the new year, don’t hesitate to switch it out earlier than scheduled.
• Clean your carb — It’s generally recommended that you clean your carb around three times a year. I give mine some TLC once a season, excluding winter.
• Stabilize your gas — Unless you’re taking the TriFuel route (a wise choice), be sure to mix your gas with a fuel stabilizer, especially before putting your lawn mower into storage for the winter.
• Degrease and clean your engine — If you’re often up against long or wet grass, you should degrease and clean your lawn mower motor once a season, but, in most cases, twice a year is plenty.
• Try not to overfill your oil reservoir — Remember, your dipstick is your best friend!
• Replace your spark plugs — As long as you keep them clean, your spark plugs should last for 2 years.
• Find suitable storage — Your mower needs to be kept in a dry location, protected from the weather, but if you have no other option but to keep it outside, be sure to elevate it and cover it with a durable tarp.

Summing Up

And that brings us to the end of my mower guide. If you’re still here reading this, thank you for your time, but a part of me hopes you never even made it this far.

With any luck, one of the fixes mentioned earlier will have resolved your issues, and you’re now busy tidying up your yard before your fussy neighbor, Val, catches a glimpse and crosses you off her Christmas card list.

Issues That Cause A Lawnmower To Randomly Cut Out

Your lawnmower starts then cuts out after just a few minutes. There are many reasons your lawn mower might stop running. We will explore 10 potential causes for your lawn mower cutting out on you and show you how to fix it.

What Causes A Lawnmower To Randomly Cut Out?

Quick fix: To fix your lawn mower, investigate and identify the root of the issue. Check to see if there is a loose spark plug and inspect the connection for the spark plug to see if it has become disconnected. Clean or replace a dirty air filter. If fuel won’t reach the engine, use a wrench and apply gentle tapping on the side of the carburetor to assist the flow of fuel. Check all areas including a clogged fuel filter or blocked or crimped fuel lines.

Full bag shuts off mower

If the lawnmower bag gets too full, the lawnmower will shut off. Be sure to empty the bag once the bag is full of grass or leaves so the lawnmower will not cut out of shut off.

Bad fuel

You may be using old fuel or the gas has water in it. This can cause the mower to run for a few seconds and shut off. If this happens with your lawnmower, add a high quality fuel stabilizer and let sit for a few minutes before starting your lawnmower. If a fuel stabilizer does not fix the issue, try draining the fuel from the mower and add new high quality fuel. After priming or choking, try starting a few times to get the newer fuel into the fuel system.

Air filter dirty

Lawnmower air filter may be clogged. If the air filter is dirty, take out the air filter and remove any debris. Wash the air filter with soap and water to clean. Once the air filter is clean reinstall it in the mower. Try starting the mower to see if a dirty air filter was the issue.

Spark plug problems

The spark plug in the lawnmower may need to be replaced even if it looks to be in good shape. Spark plugs generally last for two years, but a spark plugs lifespan depends on how often you use them. Inspect and change a spark plug when there are any signs that it needs to be changed such as hard starting or rough running. Lawnmower spark plugs are a few dollars and can be found at almost any auto parts store or home improvement store. A spark plug is one of the most common reasons a mower cuts out.

Carburetor clogged

Mower carburetors may be clogged with dirt and debris. Carburetors need to be clean and free of gunk to work properly or the engine runs then dies. If clogged or dirty, a carburetor will not let the fuel flow through properly and this causes the mower to stall out or not start at all. When a carb is clogged or not working properly, the lawnmower will sometimes start and run normally for about 30 seconds, then shut off but may start back up right after. At times, you can prolong the running time by putting the choke on. If this happens to your lawnmower, it is a sign of a carburetor problem. The carburetor should be removed, inspected, cleaned, and or replaced if issues are found. If the carb is clogged, clean it, remove it from the lawnmower and let sit in cleaner overnight to remove any debris. NOTE: Dirty air filters can also cause lawnmowers to stall out since the air filter acts as an intake for airflow into the carburetor.

Oil issues

The lawnmower engine needs the proper amount of oil to run properly. If the oil gets low, gets water in it, or never gets changed, it can cause issues with the engine and cause it to cut out. Check the lawnmower oil level and age and determine if this could be your issue. Check the lawnmower oil filter is applicable. Change the oil in your lawn mower if you find any issues with the oil quality such as water or if the oil has never been changed.

Check oil in lawnmower

Fuel line/filter clog

A fuel line that is clogged can also cause a lawnmower to cut out. The fuel line carries the gas from the fuel tank and delivers it to the engine. If a clog or blockage is in the fuel line, this results in not enough fuel pressure and will result in the mower turning off or cutting out. The fuel filter may also be blocked or clogged and causing the engine to be starved of fuel. Check both the fuel lines and fuel filter.

Engine kill switch

Most lawnmowers has an intermittent engine kill switch that may malfunction. This can cause the mower to shut off after running for a few seconds. The engine kill switch is usually located on the handlebar. When the kill switch malfunctions, you will need to remove and replace it.

Exhaust clog

A lawnmower with a clogged exhaust system may cause cut outs. If the opening of the lawnmower muffler is blocked with debris, the engine cannot properly exhaust and the lawnmower will cut out. Remove any debris clogging the exhaust.

Compression issues

Poor compression in the cylinder head gasket can cause engine cut outs. A lawnmower with poor compression is due to a leaky cylinder head gasket. Compression problems can cause the lawnmower to cut out when placed under heavy demand such as extra tall grass or large amounts of leaves.

How To Fix a Lawn Mower That Quits, Cuts Out

How to Troubleshoot Lawn Mower Not Starting

How To Clean Lawnmower Carburetor

This is a list of 10 potential causes for your lawnmower to randomly cut out. Lawnmowers are durable machines, but occasionally they can start acting up and cutting out. The quick fixes and solutions will help you to maintain your lawnmower and get it back running as soon as possible.

We can provide tips on what to do if your lawn mower suddenly cuts off or stops running during use. Leave your question below in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев section and someone can assist you.

Please supply us with the model number of your lawnmower such as “Honda Model #HRN216VKAA – HRN 166-cc 21-in Self-Propelled Gas Push Lawn Mower” and we can find the most probable solution to get your lawnmower running again.

Lawn Mower Cuts Off When Put in Gear: How to Fix It

Every time my mower shuts off when it’s not supposed to, I shake my head in frustration. The issues with stalling mowers could come from so many different places that it can be annoying to sort out. Electrical systems, belts, wires, and various shorts can all cause your mower blades to stall.

One way to help rule out what exactly is causing your garden equipment to die unexpectedly is to pay attention to when the mower dies. If the engine stalls when I put the mower in gear, I have a better idea of where to check, like the seat safety switch. If it happens right after the engine engages, on the other hand, it could be a battery issue or be in need of a carburetor repair. Read on to discover the reasons your mower model shuts off and how to solve this common issue.

What Causes Lawnmowers to Shut Off?

Figuring out why your riding mower or self-propelling walk-behind mower is dying when put into gear can take a bit of patience and a fair amount of mechanical know-how. If you are lucky, a thorough cleaning may be all it takes to get your mower working perfectly again. Sometimes it takes a bit more work than that. Below is a quick guide to some of the common issues with starting lawnmowers.

Battery

Without a maintained and amply charged battery, it is hard to start your lawn mower. If the mower is able to start, it may not have the juice to make it very far, and when the gears are engaged, the engine may cut off. If the problem is the battery, then there are quite a few things you can do before you need to completely replace the power source.

The first thing you should do is clean any corrosion from the terminals and any residue near the connections. Once the area around the battery is clean, you can inspect that there is no damage to the battery box. If the engine still doesn’t respond correctly, you can attempt to use an external charger to top off the battery. If this still isn’t sufficient, you will need to replace the battery or continue troubleshooting the gear shut-off issues.

Wires

Between the time the engine turns over and when the mower is put into gear, a lot of electrical signals and mechanical responses occur in the wiring woven throughout the mower assembly. If any of these connections are unable to be completed, the mower will shut off, and you will not shift into gear successfully. Due to the sheer number of connections that need to be tested, it can be time-consuming to fix a wiring issue that is not easily identifiable.

The best way to inspect wiring is to work backward from the most likely wiring issue to the least likely and hope you hit correctly early on. Checking wires can be done visually, but if no damage is identified, you will want to use a voltage tester to see if any black wires are dead that shouldn’t be. Test electrical connections at junction boxes, not at the actual electrical component, to avoid damaging expensive electrical parts.

Speed Module

Riding mowers and self-propelled garden tools have a lot of horsepower to drive powerful blades and operate PTO equipment. That HP doesn’t translate to speed in forward motion keeping you safe with a governor or speed-advanced module, which ensures your mower moves at a slow speed ideal for cutting turf. Module failure of this key feature can cause a mower to die when put into gear.

In much the same way as low battery voltage, a malfunction speed module will let the engine begin but act up when the mower is put into gear. Sometimes it can also happen when switching to a higher gear or engaging the mower blades. Whenever it occurs, checking this component can help with mower reliability issues.

Belts

Drive belts in the garden tractor engage the forward movement of the machine and can cause problems when put into gear. If the belt is not connecting properly, then there is a real chance the engine will stall and the mower will shut off. To avoid this, always check belts when doing routine maintenance.

Drive belts wear down over time, and occasionally an incorrect belt can be installed, leading to drive engagement issues. In higher gears or at higher RPMs, the drive belt may slip and kill the engine immediately. This issue is usually easy to identify as you will not be able to continue until it is replaced or repaired.

Engine

Engine issues can be numerous and can stop your mower when the gears are engaged. Each stage of ignition has the potential to stall if there are engine problems. If there are problems with lubrication, air intake, or engine firing, then you can check the motor area and connections first.

If your engine has the power to start but cannot stay on when put into gear, then you should go through a quick troubleshooting process. Cleaning and replacing filters and fluid, and electrical conduits can give you a better idea of what is going wrong. Replacing spark plugs and other mechanical parts can ensure smooth operation and ease of gear changing in future mowing sessions.

Blades and Mower Gear

Dull, damaged, or restricted blades, as well as faulty or fritzy gear or mechanical mower parts, can stop your mower short. If your gear load seems too heavy for what you are trying to do in the yard, it can be a blade issue, and seizing cutting parts will kill the motor to protect the mower’s systems. If changing gears results in a sudden cut, then it could have to do with the gear change and clutch system.

Replacing damaged blades or sharpening dull blades can keep your mower strong enough to cut through thick turf and prevent turning off abruptly. If the blades are fine, you will want to make sure that none of the clutch or gear mechanical parts are damaged. If the mechanical pieces are operating correctly, then check the clutch electrical systems for shorts or a faulty clutch switch.

Valves and Lines

The tubes by which fuel and lubrications circulate through the engine and mower need to be maintained and inspected whenever mower troubles arise. Since the fuel and lubrication mostly take place in the engine area, it is a good idea to start your inspection there. Replace any damaged valves or lines that are obviously leaking fluid.

If the lines and valves are intact, you can examine the fluid to make sure it isn’t expired, especially in the fuel lines. Check that the flow of fuel is not impeded and that the fuel shutoff valve is open. If you will be storing a mower for several months with fuel inside, add extra fuel to top off the tank and mix in a fuel stabilizer.

Safety Switch

Riding mowers can be dangerous machines and come with a myriad of safety switches to help make sure operators, and those nearby are not at risk during normal operation. When there is a faulty safety switch, instead of making the mower more dangerous by not doing the job it was intended for, the mower will simply cut out until the problem is fixed. Finding the bad safety switch can be tough, however.

A mower will often have a PTO switch, key switch, brake switch, reverse switch, neutral switch, ignition switch, drive switch, lever switch, parking brake safety switch, grass box safety switch, and a seat safety switch. When it comes to mowers cutting off when put in gear, the most common culprit is a faulty seat switch. Even when you are in the seat ready to mow, the operator’s presence seat switch detects no rider and immediately kills the engine. Start your inspection there if your mower dies in a similar way to that described above.

How to Fix Mower Engine Shutoff?

Fixing issues with your mower dying when it is put in gear takes a bit of trial and error and a lot of troubleshooting. Once you figure it out, you will need to replace or repair the affected components and ensure that your mower is safe and ready to operate. Below are the steps to take to do a full mower diagnostic and hopefully fix the issue with the mower shut off when put in gear.

Clean the Mower Deck

A clean mower is much easier to inspect and repair than one covered in lawn debris. Clean the outside of the body, engine components, and the mower deck and blades to give yourself a clear picture of faulty components. Park the mower on your lawn to perform cleaning and then move it to a solid surface for a mechanical and electrical inspection.

Remove Spark Plugs

If you will be working anywhere where an abrupt mower start-up will cause injury or death, remove the spark plugs before continuing. Taking out the spark plugs when you are not safely testing specific components that need ignition can keep you safe. Inspect spark plugs and clean terminals and replace worn-down and non-responsive plugs. Store good plugs in a cool-dry location where they will be good to go when you need them next.

Check Manual Parts

All of the mechanical components, like belts, pulleys, hardware, and fixtures, can be examined and tightened or adjusted. Making sure that all the parts that move are lubricated, and the parts that shouldn’t move are secured can go a long way in making sure your mower runs at its best. Any parts that are obviously damaged or worn down should be replaced before using the equipment again.

Test Electrical Systems

Using voltage and circuit testers, examine any problematic electrical areas that need to be repaired or replaced. Mowers move haphazardly on uneven lawns, and wires can be pinched, damaged, or slip out of connections. When this happens, a short will stop your mower dead and may even spark internally. After a short, entire junctions and components may no longer work and need to be replaced. Test electrical systems at junction boxes and not at the system component to avoid shorting out expensive parts.

Inspect and Replace Damaged Components

Throughout your inspection, replace anything that seems old, wrong, or broken. If you properly maintain your mower, it will run well for much longer. Some parts will break down over time and need to be replaced. Neglecting repair of these systems can result in worse damage and safety issues in your mower down the line.

Tune-Up and Maintenance

When everything is tightened, cleaned, and running, well, you can top off and replace filters and other changeable parts. Cleaning fuel tanks and adding high-quality fluids can give your mower an extra boost and reduce pollution while increasing performance. Tightening loose bolts and attachments can prevent internal damage and costly repairs.

Put Together and Start-Up

If everything is repaired, replaced, and properly maintained, then you can put the mower back together and do final testing. Engine parts should be tight, blades sharp and secure, and all mechanical and electrical systems tested and confirmed working. Now is the time to replace your spark plugs, hook up your battery and start everything up. When you put your mower in gear, it should roll smoothly onto your lawn and be ready for an enjoyable turf trimming session.

Lawn Mower Stalls When Tilted – Why Does It Do That?

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A lawn mower is a necessary piece of equipment for any homeowner who wants to keep their lawn looking neat and tidy. But have you ever wondered why your lawn mower stalls when tilted? Learn why this happens and discover how to troubleshoot the issue so you can get back to mowing your lawn as quickly as possible.

What Causes the Lawn Mower Engine to Stall When Tilted?

There are a few reasons why a lawn mower engine may stall when tilted. One common issue is that the engine may not be able to generate enough power when the blade is tilted. This can be due to a number of factors, including worn or clogged engine components.

The gas tank may not have enough fuel to keep a steady flow of gas to stay running. Keep the fuel level half full if you are cutting on a hill, with more than enough gas your lawnmower should operate properly then. Check your spark plug wire and gas cap as well to ensure they are tight and no issues with leaking.

Also, the oil level may be at its lowest point preventing the engine running smoothly. Replace or add oil if the oil level is low.

Additionally, if the mower deck is not level, the engine may struggle to generate enough power to move the blade. Finally, if the fuel tank is low on fuel, the engine may not be able to generate enough power to run the mower.

How Can You Prevent the Lawn Mower Engine from Stalling When Tilted?

If your lawn mower stalls when you tilt it, there are a few things you can do to prevent it from happening. One is to make sure the engine is properly lubricated. Over time, the oil will become thick and gunky, which will cause the engine to stall.

Another is to make sure the carburetor is properly adjusted. If it’s not, the mower will struggle to get enough air into the engine, which will cause it to stall. The use of carb cleaner can help loosen and lubricate the carb float inside the carburetor.

Finally, make sure the air filter is clean. A really dirty air filter will certainly not help the motor any.

What Should You Do if the Lawn Mower Stalls When Tilted?

If your lawn mower engine stalls when tilted, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue. First, check the fuel flow to the engine.

Next, check for any clogs or debris in the engine. If there are any clogs or debris, you can remove them. Finally, check to see if the fuel line is blocked. If the fuel line is blocked, you can remove the blockage.

What happens when you tilt a lawn mower?

When a lawn mower is tilted, the blades can no longer cut the grass evenly. This can cause the lawn mower to stall. To prevent this from happening, make sure the engine is properly lubricated, check for clogs and debris in the engine, and make sure the fuel line is not blocked.

Which way should you tilt a lawn mower?

When you’re mowing your lawn, it’s important to remember that you should always tilt the lawn mower in the same direction. Tilt the lawn mower so that the blade is pointing perpendicular to the ground. This will help you to get a clean, even cut on your lawn.

Conclusion:

A lawn mower can be a great tool for keeping your lawn looking neat and tidy. However, if the engine stalls when the lawn mower is tilted, it can be frustrating. There are several things you can do to prevent this from happening,

I have been a DIYer for over thirty years and I love troubleshooting, building, fixing, and experimenting with new products. When not in the shop tinkering with some project or other, you can find me outside working on my yard.

You’ll often see me using power tools like pressure washers and lawnmowers to tinker around with different projects! Although I’ve been doing this for over 30 years, there are still plenty of ways that people can make things easier or more efficient- so stay tuned!

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Lawn Mower Starts Then Dies: How To Fix

Is your lawnmower starting then dying seconds later? This can be frustrating.

It wastes your time trying to fix it and prevents you from tidying up your lawn.

Taking the lawnmower to your local garage for a check will waste even more time. You may be forced to wait for a couple of days to get it fixed.

So what should you do when you find yourself in such situations? Fix it yourself.

It’s less costly and may save you the time required for repair. Also, walking to and fro from a repair shop is an ordeal in itself.

This article outlines the troubleshooting steps you can take to understand the reasons behind your lawnmower starting and stopping.

Lawn Mower Starts Then Stops: Common Causes

Your lawnmower just started but ran briefly? The following are the top reasons why this could be happening.

• A dirty, clogged, or faulty carburetor
• Broken or worn-out spark plugs
• A dirty air filter
• Old or stale gasoline
• Blocked Muffler
• Moisture in fuel/ fuel line
• Blocked gasoline cap
• Build-up of debris
• Excessive oil in the mower engine

Let’s take a deeper dive into each of these problems and see how we can fix them.

A Dirty, Clogged, or Faulty Carburetor

The primary function of the carburetor is to mix fuel and air in the right quantities. Subsequently, this mix needs to go through a compression chamber where it burns under high pressure— moving the crankshaft and rotating the blade.

A dirty or clogged carburetor compromises the above process, making your lawnmower start and sputter a few seconds later.

Clogging of the carburetor occurs when you leave fuel in it for long periods.

Fixing The Problem

You can fix the problem by cleaning the carburetor. A carb cleaner removes all the dirt and residue, optimizing gas flow.

Go for a branded carburetor cleaner; preferably, an aerosol can efficiently blow out the dirt.

There is a range of options on Amazon that could work out for you.

• Spray nozzle type carb cleaners work at all angles allowing you to use them upside down to eliminate any residues effectively.
• High-pressure aerosol sprays clean your carburetor from the outside without the need to open it. They also remove engine oil and any other dirt outside.
• Solvent cleaners can be easily added to the fuel. They disperse moisture and other dirt from the carburetor.
• Use a nylon brush to clean the hard-to-reach surfaces.

If cleaning doesn’t work, you are better off replacing the entire carburetor.

Dirty or Worn-out Spark Plug

You can tell a spark plug is functional by the intense sparks it produces during engine cranking. If there are no sparks, it is broken or defective, and you should replace it.

To be hundred percent sure, remove the spark plug from the lawnmower. Reconnect the spark plug to the ignition coil and ground it by attaching its threaded part to the metal surface of the engine.

Make sure to unplug the fuel pump and its supply from the engine. Crank the engine and observe what happens.

You should notice a tiny spark close to the bent electrode and the bottom pin. The spark produced is responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the engine. Without a spark, your engine will not start or may start and stop short.

The latter is likely to occur if the spark plugs generate intermittent sparks.

A bad spark plug leads to decreased engine fuel efficiency. The missing sparks lead to fuel filling up in the ignition chamber and the production of white smoke.

Fixing the Problem

Most lawn mower manuals recommend using a spark plug for 12 to 24 months before doing a replacement. There is no need for a replacement if you have no problems starting the mower.

However, if your spark plug is acting weird before the elapse of the recommended period, a quick fix would be to clean it up.

Carbon may build up at their tips, rendering the plugs ineffective in delivering an efficient spark in the ignition chamber.

To remove the carbon buildup, remove the spark plugs from the lawnmower and clean them up using a wire brush. You also want to get rid of any oil deposits that appear at the tip of the plug wires.

If your spark plug is cracked or worn out beyond repair, go for a total replacement. However, do check for the correct size while purchasing.

A Dirty Air Filter

Another cause for concern is a dirty air filter in your lawnmower.

An efficient air filter prevents your mower from sucking dirt and debris— protecting the pistons, valves, and cylinder walls.

A clogged-up one restricts proper airflow, which results in your lawnmower dying shortly after starting due to incomplete fuel combustion.

Given the work environment of a lawnmower, it’s bound to accumulate dirt particles that quickly find their way in.

How To Fix

Luckily, you can clean the air filter. One way to clean it out is using warm water and soap.

Ensure to leave it outdoors for a while to let it dry. The other option is to clean it with compressed air.

Also, lawn mower manuals recommend replacing the air filter box once every year.

Old or Stale Gasoline

Old gasoline stored in your lawnmower for extended periods will cause trouble with the engine. The old gas evaporates pretty quickly— leaving behind a gummy residue.

The residue causes the clogging of the internal parts of the engine. What you have next is restricted gas flow that causes it to start and sputter.

Quick Fix

If the gasoline is not more than half the tank, top it with fresh gas. The new gas helps to dilute the impurities causing the clogging.

Should the gasoline be more than half the tank, you want to siphon it and replace it with new gas. It’s also ideal to add a stabilizer to the fresh gasoline.

Stabilizers prevent the clogging of the engine parts for up to two years and speed up the mower. You can buy the stabilizers online or at your local store without spending much.

Be keen on the stabilizer fuel ratio to ensure you are putting in the correct proportions.

Blocked Muffler

A muffler is meant to silence or suppress the engine’s noise during operation. One of the reasons your lawn mower starts then dies is because of a blocked muffler.

It could be blocked because of rock, dirt, or excess oil leaking.

Fixing the Problem

The quickest way to take care of a blocked muffler problem is to clean it.

If you had started the lawnmower already for a couple of minutes, turn it off to allow it to cool.

The muffler is still always too hot to operate with bare hands. Ensure to put on safety eyeglasses and hand gloves as well.

Remove the muffler from the engine by turning it in an anticlockwise direction.

Once it is out, remove any residues or debris and deploy a carburetor cleaner to eliminate the remnants.

To do this, allow the cleaner to settle for a while and shake the rear end of the muffler downwards.

Finally, reconnect it to the mower, ensuring that it fits properly.

Moisture In The Fuel Line

Water in the fuel line of your lawnmower is a recipe for disaster. It causes your lawnmower to stop briefly after starting or stall on the throttle.

Fixing the Problem

Inspect the plastic fuel line for any defects and replace it. If your gas has moisture, add an additive that gets rid of the dissolved water.

You can purchase the additive online or locally.

If the moisture level in the gas is substantial, drain it off, and let the tank dry before refilling.

For optimal results, always use high-grade fuel.