Mower not running smoothly. 7 Reasons Why Craftsman Riding Mower Turns Over But Won’t Start (Fixed)

Reasons Why Craftsman Riding Mower Turns Over But Won’t Start (Fixed)

A case where a Craftsman riding mower turns over but won’t start is fairly common. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a first-time lawn mower owner, encountering this problem can be frustrating. However, you don’t have to let it ruin your lawn-mowing experience.

This article will guide you through troubleshooting and repairing your Craftsman mower when it turns over (or cranks) but fails to start. We’ll cover the most common reasons, such as clogged air filters, dirty spark plugs, and low fuel levels, as well as more advanced problems, such as a malfunctioning carburetor or ignition system.

By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and tools to get your Craftsman lawnmower running smoothly again, saving you time and money on costly repairs.

Why’s My Craftsman Riding Mower Turning Over But Not Starting?

There are several reasons a Craftsman lawnmower may turn over but not start, with the most common ones including the following:

• Lack of fuel.
• Dirty air filters.
• Electrical issues in the ignition system or the starter motor.
• Dirty spark plug.
• Low oil.
• Faulty carburetor.
• Flooded engine.

It’s important to troubleshoot and identify the specific issue to properly repair your riding lawn mower. Regular maintenance of the Craftsman mower can also prevent these common issues from happening.

How to Troubleshoot and Fix a Riding Lawn Mower That Turns Over But Doesn’t Start

You may troubleshoot and fix a Craftsman riding lawn mower that cranks but doesn’t start by following these simple steps:

Check the spark plug.

Suppose you’re wondering what a spark plug is. In that case, it’s a small device that delivers an electrical spark to the engine’s combustion chamber to ignite the fuel and air mixture which powers the Craftsman lawn mower.

The location of a Craftsman riding mower’s spark plug can vary depending on the make and model. However, it’s usually located in the following areas:

• near the engine’s top,
• near the cylinder head,
• on the side of the engine, or
• under the flywheel.

However, it’s best to refer to the owner’s manual, which should have a diagram showing the spark plug’s location and instructions on accessing it. You can also check the manufacturer’s website or contact them directly if the manual is unavailable.

Caution: Before locating the spark plug, make sure that the engine is turned off, and the spark plug wire is disconnected to avoid any accidental starting of the engine.

Once you’ve located the spark plug, disconnect the spark plug wire and remove any covers or shields, if present. Using a screwdriver, carefully remove it from the spark plug hole by turning it counterclockwise. Inspect the spark plug for any signs of dirt, wear, or faults.

A dirty or worn spark plug can prevent the engine from starting or cause it to run poorly. This underscores the need for periodic checking and replacing of the spark plug. The general guideline is to replace with a new spark plug every 100 hours of usage or after a year, whichever comes first.

Clean the carburetor.

The carburetor is responsible for mixing fuel and air in proportions to allow the engine to run efficiently. It’s connected to the air filter, fuel tank, and engine and is typically located on the side of the engine. A malfunctioning or dirty carburetor can prevent the engine from starting or cause it to run poorly.

Here are the general steps for removing, disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling a lawn mower’s carburetor :

• Locate the carburetor: Refer to the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website to find the location of the carburetor on your lawn mower.
• Drain the fuel : Before removing the carburetor, take out any fuel content from the fuel tank and the fuel line to avoid fire hazards.
• Disconnect the carburetor from the engine: Use a socket wrench to remove the carburetor from the engine, disconnecting the fuel line, air filter, and any other connections.
• Disassemble the carburetor: Carefully take the carburetor apart, removing the float, needle valve, main jet, and idle jet. Be sure to note the position and orientation of each part before removing it.
• Clean the carburetor: Use a carburetor cleaner and a small brush to clean each part of the carburetor, paying particular attention to the jet passages and the needle valve.
• Reassemble the carburetor: Carefully put the carburetor back together, ensuring all the parts are in the correct position and orientation.
• Reconnect the carburetor to the engine: Reinstall the carburetor back on the engine, reconnecting the fuel line, air filter, and any other connections.

It’s essential to ensure that the carburetor is cleaned correctly and reassembled to avoid leaks or damage. Also, it’s highly recommended to consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions for your lawn mower.

Check the air filter.

The air filter helps eliminate dust, dirt, and other debris from the air entering the engine. It’s typically located near the carburetor and made of foam or paper material. It keeps the engine running smoothly and efficiently by ensuring the air that enters the engine is clean.

To check your Craftsman riding lawn mower’s air filter for dirt or damage, locate the air filter, typically positioned near the carburetor, remove the cover, and inspect the air filter for any signs of dirt, debris, or damage. A dirty air filter will be clogged with dirt and debris, and a damaged air filter will have tears or holes.

If the air filter appears dirty or damaged, it should be cleaned or replaced ( here’s how to change a lawnmower’s air filter ).

Note that you can’t clean all types of air filters. If it’s made of foam, you can clean it with soap and water and let it air dry completely until it’s free from moisture before reinstalling it. In the case of a paper air filter, you would need to replace it entirely.

We recommend you follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for checking and cleaning the air filter and consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions.

Check the fuel system.

The fuel system delivers fuel from the gas tank to the carburetor and the engine. The fuel system isn’t a specific device but a group of components, including the fuel tank, fuel filter, fuel line, carburetor, fuel pump. and shut-off gas valve.

If your lawn mower turns over (or cranks) but won’t start, it could result from an issue with one of the components of the fuel system or bad gas. You should inspect the fuel filter for clogs or damage and check the fuel line for kinks, cracks, or leaks. Also, you’ll want to inspect the fuel tank for leaks or cracks and check the fuel tank filter if it has one.

If any of the components are dirty or damaged, you should clean or replace them.

Other Troubleshooting Tips for Craftsman Riding Mower Turns Over but Won’t Start

If you’ve tried all the above tips and your lawn mower still won’t start, here are some additional repairs you can try:

Check the battery and starter.

Here are the general steps for checking the battery and starter of your Craftsman riding mower:

• Locate the battery: Refer to the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website to find the location of the battery on your lawn mower.
• Check the battery’s charge: Use a voltmeter to check the battery’s charge; it should be at or above 12.5 volts. If the battery is low or dead, charge or replace it.
• Check the battery terminals: Inspect the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion or damage. Clean or replace the terminals if necessary.
• Locate the starter: The starter is typically located near the engine; sometimes, it’s built into the flywheel.
• Check the starter connections: Inspect the starter connections for any signs of corrosion or damage. Clean or replace the connections if necessary.
• Test the starter: Turn the key or press the starter button to see if it’s working correctly; if not, it may need replacement.

Check the ignition switch.

Here are the general steps for checking the ignition switch on a lawn mower :

• Locate the ignition switch: Refer to the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website to find the location of the ignition switch on your lawn mower. It’s typically located on the handlebars or near the battery.
• Check the connections: Inspect the connections for the ignition switch for any signs of corrosion or damage. Clean or replace the connections if necessary.
• Test the switch: Turn the key or press the power button to see if the switch is working correctly. The switch may be faulty if the engine doesn’t crank or start.
• Check the switch wiring: Inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections.

Check the safety switches.

Here are the general steps for checking and testing the safety switches on a Craftsman riding lawn mower :

• Locate the safety switches: They’re typically on the handlebars, near the cutting deck, or the clutch.
• Check the connections: Inspect the connections for the safety sensors for any signs of corrosion or damage. Clean or replace the connections if necessary.
• Test the switches: Check each switch by activating it (e.g., engaging the brake pedal, lowering the cutting deck, etc.) and ensure that the engine stops or doesn’t start accordingly. If the engine doesn’t respond appropriately, the switch may be faulty.
• Check the switch wiring: Inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or loose connections.

Conclusion

We know how frustrating a Craftsman riding mower that turns over but won’t start can be, but with the proper knowledge and tools, you can quickly repair it. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot and identify common issues such as clogged air filters, dirty spark plugs, and low fuel levels.

However, we’ll like to stress that regular maintenance of your Craftsman riding mower, including checking and replacing the spark plug and cleaning the carburetor, can prevent these issues from happening in the first place.

How to Fix Your Lawn Mower If It Is Not Running at Full Power

Lawn mowers have always allowed homeowners to cut grass efficiently without wasting much time in the process. These outdoor machines, however, tend to have some lag in speed after longer periods of inactivity. This could be explained by many reasons. But, do you know how to fix a mower that is not running at full power? Depending on the reason for it slowly running, you may have numerous solutions to this issue. First, you can replace the plug or carburetor of the machine to see if it solves the problem. Otherwise, you could also thoroughly clean the blade or get rid of clogs in various components of the machine to restore its speed. Before we move on to possible solutions, knowing the exact cause of the slow-down will help you do things properly. This post aims to help you understand the common causes of a mover not running at full power, besides suggesting convenient solutions for the problem.

What Causes a Lawn Mower to Run Slow?

Several things can affect the performance of a lawn mower, and many small parts of the engine could be the reason why yours runs slow. Below are some of the most common reasons for lawn mowers not running at full power.

Blockage

Before making any decision, you must examine these parts thoroughly. You can follow the suggestions mentioned below to get the job done if clogging is an issue.

First of all, you need to analyze the condition of these parts to see if they need replacement. For instance, gas caps should be replaced if they are in bad shape. Instead of wasting time cleaning those, you can buy a new one at a cheaper rate. However, this does not apply to every part.

It is common for air filters to absorb lots of dust due to high-end usage. You cannot replace them on every use. That is why you should try cleaning them thoroughly to prevent any blockage and inefficiency. If the filter is too clogged with dirt, compressed air may be a better option. Additionally, you can also clean the foam inside the filter with the help of water and any cleaning agent.

However, we advise you never to forget to disconnect the spark plug before you start cleaning or doing maintenance.

Poor Blade Maintenance

Another thing that can affect the operational efficiency of a lawn mower is the poor maintenance of the blade. Yes, you read that right! Blades are one of the most essential components of mowing devices, after the engine. Without a properly functioning blade, you can do nothing with the grass.

Regardless of the power and efficiency of the engine used on the device, you may end up heating the entire system if the blades are jammed. There are several possible reasons behind the jamming of the blade, such as exposure to dirt, mud, and trivial grass clippings, which can reduce the efficiency of the edges.

The only thing that you can do in this regard is clean the blades thoroughly after completing a task. Doing so will keep the edges sharp and prevent jamming. Thus, blades will not burden the engine since they will require less power to spin.

Low Power Output

One of the most common causes of mowers not running at full power is low power output, which means the plug of your device encounters problems. As the plug is the sole element that produces electric current for ignition, a faulty plug may not provide a constant supply of current. Therefore, you may experience low power output or even no power output at all. The best thing to can do in this regard is clean the plug thoroughly to see if it solves the problem of output. You can also replace the plug if cleaning it fails to yield results.

Carburetor

A carburetor is another part that can affect the performance of any high-quality lawn mower. It is the carburetor that mixes the air and fuel to power the combustion engine. The most common problem with these carburetors is clogging. Due to excessive fuel movement, it is indeed frequent for these elements to show some signs of blockage.

You can do several things to solve this issue. However, try cleaning the carburetor yourself before calling a technician.

Gasoline

Although it seems strange, gasoline can also slow down your lawn mower. Indeed, different gasoline suppliers employ multiple mixing formulas to achieve the final product. As a result, fuel from numerous gas stations may contain different percentages of ethanol, benzene, methanol, and other substances.

The combustion engines commonly used on lawn mowers cannot sustain every type of fuel. That is why we recommend our readers properly read the instruction manual to see if it contains any information on the type of fuel you can fill your lawn mower with. Using the manufacturer’s suggested gas type can help you prevent any speed issues.

However, you can also follow another simple hack associated with petrol to overcome many potential problems. It is never a good idea to leave petrol in a lawn mower for an extended period. Since petrol tends to thicken over time, it eventually clogs and blocks many small engine parts.

Battery

Humanity has benefited from the advancement of technology in many ways. The use of battery-powered lawn mowers is not a novel idea. People across the globe are using them to prevent carbon footprint. Despite this, batteries tend to wear out over time. As a result, they may fail to generate an optimum level of output for the machine.

If a battery-powered lawn mower isn’t operating at full power, a new battery could fix the issue. However, you should check for other problems before buying a new battery to replace the existing one.

How to Fix a Lawn Mower Not Running at Full Power?

The optimal solution depends on what is causing the problem. The primary reasons that can slow down the performance of any lawn mower are outlined above. Below are some interesting hacks that can help you solve this problem without contacting a professional.

Replacing the Plug

Before replacing the plug, you can try cleaning it thoroughly to see if it solves the problem. However, if it is completely damaged and shows no signs of revival, replacement is the only option.

As far as cleaning is concerned, you can use compressed air to clean the plug thoroughly. Using compressed air, you can remove all the gunk from the plug, restoring it to its original form. Try to reinstall the plug on the machine after it has dried out.

Dumping the Existing Gas

Old gas stored in the container of a lawn mower can result in the clogging of many components. As a result, it is common for the engine to slow down due to the excessive energy utilized in the process. Before wasting petrol, you can check its quality to assess whether or not it is still usable.

However, you should not forget to remove the spark plug before the removal of the existing gasoline. This precautionary step can save you from the further deterioration of the problem.

Reviving the Blades

Regardless of the model of lawn mower you used, the blades consume a significant amount of power. The regular cleaning of blades ensures that the device runs efficiently. Consequently, they do not require a lot of energy from the engine.

The machine may run slow if the blades are not appropriately maintained. That is why you can try to restore the device’s edges to their original shapes if you want your machine to run more smoothly.

Avoiding Excessive Abuse

Lawn mowers feature exceptional build quality. Yet, if you continually abuse them, they will not function smoothly. Because of this, you should not overload your device. Make sure to clean and maintain it regularly to ensure its flawless functioning over the years.

Replacing the Battery

Battery replacement is the final option for electric grass mowers users. Battery power output slowly decreases over time, which can reduce the speed of your machine. That is why you can try replacing the machine’s battery if all the options mentioned above fail to yield results.

Conclusion

Fixing a slow lawn mower is easier than you think. You only have to diagnose the problem-causing area to resolve the issue quickly. Cleaning and maintaining the machine regularly can also prolong its service life. You can follow the solutions mentioned above to get the job done in no time.

Kubota Zero Turn Mower Problems – Troubleshooting For Users

Kubota is a Japanese heavy equipment manufacturer, including tractors, bulldozers, and zero-turn mowers. Kubota zero-turn mowers are some of the world’s most famous lawn maintenance tools. These machines have been designed with ease of use in mind and require very little maintenance to keep them running smoothly. However, like all machines, Kubota zero-turn mowers can develop problems from time to time.

Kubota zero-turn mowers are different from regular-riding lawnmowers in several ways. First, they have tires on all four sides instead of front and back, as regular riding lawnmowers do. Second, they have a steering wheel that allows you to maneuver the mower in any direction without turning around and facing the opposite way as you would with a regular mower. Third, they are equipped with an engine that enables them to go much faster than standard riding lawnmowers, which makes cutting grass easier! If you’ve never tried using one of these machines, you’re missing out on something extraordinary!

What Are The Most Common Problems With Zero Turn Mowers?

Kubota zero-turn mowers have been a popular choice for years, but there are some issues that you should be aware of. Here are some common problems that customers report with their Kubota tractors:

Engine Overheating

This is one of the most common problems with Kubota zero-turn mowers. The engine overheats due to poor design, lousy oil filters, or incorrect maintenance. If your engine is overheating, it can cause severe damage to the engine and other components.

Clutch Issues

Clutch problems can be caused by poor design or improper maintenance. It’s essential to ensure that your Kubota tractor has been adequately maintained to last longer and work better. It would help if you also did everything possible to keep your Kubota mower clean so that no obstructions are blocking the clutch disc from engaging correctly with the blades.

Won’t Start

If your Kubota doesn’t start, check the fuel level first. If it’s low, fill the tank with gas and try again. Check the battery cables for corrosion and looseness if this doesn’t solve the problem. Make sure they’re tight and clean up any corrosion build-up on them. Then test the battery with a voltage tester to ensure it has enough power left in it to start your mower.

Engine Shuts Off

A common cause of this problem is an old fuel filter, clogged carburetor float bowl, or carburetor jets. Cleaning these out should solve this issue for you if it occurs frequently or lasts more than a few seconds when starting your Kubota zero-turn mower.

Blade Wobbling

This is another common problem with Kubota zero-turn mowers. If your blades wobble excessively, it could mean an issue with the suspension on your Kubota tractor or something wrong with the way it was built in general (such as poor welding). Either way, this should not be ignored because it can cause a lot of damage to your tires and even cause your tractor to shake violently when you drive over bumps or uneven terrain. If there’s excessive blade wobbling, then it’s best to take your tractor to a dealership for repairs as soon as possible before anything else gets damaged!

Engine Noise

Engine noise can be caused by several different things, but if you notice that your engine is making a lot of noise, it could mean an issue with one of the valves or pistons inside of it. You might also notice that your engine seems to be running hot, which could indicate an internal problem with either the fuel system or something else mechanical inside of the engine itself.

Leaking Oil

Another common problem with Kubota zero-turn mowers is leaking oil from various engine parts (especially from the oil filter cover). This usually happens because there are worn-out seals or gaskets causing oil to leak out onto the ground below, where it will eventually cause an oil spill on your lawn.

Coolant Leak

A coolant leak can also cause problems with your Kubota zero-turn mower. The coolant system is designed to keep your engine cool by circulating water at high speeds to keep it from overheating during use. But suppose there’s a leak in this system. In that case, you’ll have trouble maintaining consistent temperatures and could even damage certain parts of your engine, such as pistons and cylinder heads, which would require significant repairs if left unchecked for too long.

Worn-out Drive Belt

The Kubota engines are powered by a single belt that turns the air filter and engine pulley. If this belt wears out, it will cause a lot of vibration and make the engine run rough and possibly stall out while you’re mowing.

Bent Blades

If your blades hit something hard like a rock, they might bend, but this is rare unless you’re mowing on uneven terrain without using any leveling kit for the deck. It’s also possible for someone else to run over your blades with their lawnmower if they accidentally hit them while driving past you at high speed, which would also cause them to bend or break off altogether.

Common Problems with Specific Kubota Models

• Uneven cuts Due To Blades
• Blades scalping grass Which Interrupts
• Excessive vibration

• Frequent Engine stalls after about 30 minutes
• Starting Problems
• Overheating Is Common Problem

• Safety switch
• Mower stalls after about an hour
• Pulling off choke Dies Mower

• Heavy mower (weighs 1400lbs)
• Hydraulic Problems
• The steering system remains loose

• Slow
• Discharge chute
• Wheels bend easily

• Safety switch doesn’t work properly
• Sputtering and backfiring
• Starting Problems

Major Problems In Kubota Zero Turn Mower

Many different Kubota Zero Turn Mower problems can occur during use. If you have a Kubota Zero Turn Mower, you may already know about some of these problems. But if you have just purchased one, then you need to know about these issues so that you can prevent them from happening in the first place or fix them immediately when they do happen.

All major issues are indexed hereunder for your convenience.

Why Kubota Zero Turn Mower Doesn’t Start?

Kubota zero-turn mowers are designed to be easy to start, but there are times when you may encounter problems starting your mower. Here are some of the most common reasons why your Kubota zero-turn mower won’t start:

The Starter Cord Is Broken

When this happens, the best thing to do is replace the starter cord before trying again and see if that solves the problem.

The Fuel Line Is Clogged Or Broken

This can happen if you don’t use fresh gas every time you fill up your mower tank or if you don’t change your fuel filter regularly enough. Check both of these things before trying again and see if that solves the problem.

The spark plug is fouled or damaged in some way, which makes it unable to fire correctly when needed. If you check all other possible causes for why your Kubota zero-turn mower won’t start, and everything else checks out okay, then this could be the problem with yours, too (and fixing it will require replacing.

Why Kubota Zero Turn Mower Shuts Off Suddenly?

The reasons for this issue are only sometimes clear and can range from faulty wiring to worn belts or other parts that need replacement.

Sometimes Kubota zero-turn mower shuts off suddenly when it reaches a certain speed. This could be due to an electrical problem in the engine or a loose wire connection in the battery terminal. You need to check all connections before starting up your mower again after shutting it down abruptly like this.

The first thing you should check is your fuel level. If your fuel tank is empty or near empty, this could be the problem. If it isn’t, ensure you are using fresh fuel in your mower and that you have filled it up properly.

It’s also possible that your cap is not tight enough on the fuel line, causing air to enter the system and cause a misfire. Tighten it and see if this solves the problem.

Stale Gasoline or Water in Tank

This can cause your mower to shut off if there is water or stale gas in the tank because it will damage your engine over time by knocking it out of tune and causing problems with how well it runs and operates appropriately. You should always drain old gas from your tanks before putting new fuel in them so that you don’t get any water or stale gas mixed with fresh gasoline when you fill up again next time.

Spark Plug Wire Connection Issues

A spark plug wire connects the spark plug to the distributor cap on one end and one terminal on the coil on the other end. It carries an electrical current from the coil to each cylinder for them to ignite when commanded by the ECU (engine control unit). If no current flows through this wire, then there will be no ignition in that cylinder. The most common reason for a bad spark plug wire connection is corrosion or dirt buildup on one or both terminals or connectors at either end of the wire itself. This causes resistance within the system, which reduces current flow and prevents complete combustion in one or more cylinders.

Why Kubota Zero Turn Poor Hydraulic Transmission Issues?

A Kubota zero-turn mower’s transmission comprises many components like gears, pistons, and valves. These components are designed to operate at high pressure. Hence, it becomes very important for you to maintain them in good health to avoid any damage or failure at the last moment when you need your mower most!

The following are some of the common problems faced by Kubota zero-turn owners:

Leaking fluid from the hydraulic lines

This is one of the most common problems that Kubota zero-turn owners face. If you notice an excessive amount of oil leaking from your mower’s hydraulic lines. then it is time for you to get it checked immediately! The reason behind this leakage may vary depending on whether it comes from a fitting or a seal that has failed due to wear and tear.

Failing steering pump

This is another problem that zero-turn owners can easily notice. Most of them report having problems with their steering pumps not working as they should. A faulty hydraulic system or worn-out belts and pulleys can cause it.

This problem mainly occurs due to the misalignment of belt pulleys on your Kubota zero-turn mower. If you notice that any part of your clutch assembly has worn out, we advise you not to take any chances but replace it immediately!

Why Kubota Zero Turn Mower Produces Excessive Smoke?

When your zero-turn mower produces excessive smoke, it could indicate an engine problem. There are many reasons why your Kubota zero-turn mower might produce too much smoke. One possible cause is gas entering the oil through worn seals or gaskets. This problem can be corrected by replacing worn parts and tightening loose bolts on your engine. Another possible reason for excessive smoke is when dirt builds up in the air filter or carburetor; this condition can be fixed by cleaning out the carburetor or replacing the air filter if necessary.

Why Kubota Lawn Mower Engine Overheats and Stalls?

The Kubota has a front-mounted engine, one reason it tends to overheat so quickly. However, it can also overheat when inadequate airflow through the radiator fins—which is designed to dissipate heat from the engine block into the surrounding air. When this happens, engine performance suffers because not enough coolant is pumped through the system to keep everything running smoothly.

Reasons for Kubota Mower Overheats And Stalls

Kubota lawnmowers are known for their durability, but sometimes even the best machines can develop problems. For example, if your Kubota zero turn mower is overheating, it may be caused by several issues. Here are some of the most common reasons for a Kubota lawn mower engine to overheat:

A clogged air filter can cause a Kubota lawn mower to overheat because it restricts airflow through the engine. Clean your air filter after every use with compressed air or an aerosol cleaner, and replace it once a year as the manufacturer recommends.

A dirty fuel filter can restrict fuel flow and cause your Kubota zero-turn mower to stall while operating it. Clean or replace your fuel filter at least once per season according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

An insufficient amount of oil in your Kubota zero turn mower’s crankcase can cause it to overheat when you’re using it because there isn’t enough lubricant for all moving parts within the engine block to move smoothly against each other without friction.”

Why Kubota Zero Turn Mower Doesn’t Move?

The problem could be one of the following.

• The mower is not fully engaged on the steering wheels. Make sure you have pressed down on all four wheels to engage them.
• The belt must be tight enough or have come off its pulley. Check the belt and make sure it is tight and secure. If it needs to be tightened, use a wrench to tighten it until it is snug but not too tight, as you can damage the belt if you overdo it. Also, check that the idler pulley has not come loose from its shaft, and if so, reinstall it properly on its shaft so it is secured in place again.

What Are Kubota Zero Turn Mower Steering Issues?

The steering system on your zero-turn mower consists of the deck and the steering wheel. The deck is where you stand while mowing, while the steering wheel is mounted to the front of the tractor so you can steer it in any direction.

Worn Or Broken Bearings

The most common issue with Kubota zero-turn mower steering systems is worn or broken bearings in either part of this system. These bearings allow each part to rotate freely without friction or binding up, which makes them extremely important parts to keep in good condition at all times.

Another problem that can occur with Kubota zero-turn mower steering systems is a loose belt connecting these two parts. This belt connects to both wheels so that when it becomes loose, it will cause one side of your tractor to spin faster than the other side and cause vibrations at high speeds if not fixed immediately.

What Are Kubota Zero Turn Mower Cut Quality Issues?

Several factors, including poor cutting height adjustment, dull blades, or uneven ground conditions, could cause this. If you notice that your mower is leaving uncut grass behind during each pass, this is likely caused by an improper cutting height setting. You should check your owner’s manual for the correct height setting for your mower model and adjust it accordingly before proceeding with further testing. If you still have problems adjusting your cutting height properly, it might be time to replace your blades with new ones that are sharpened to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Why Kubota Zero Turn Mower Vibrates Excessively?

If your Kubota zero-turn mower vibrates excessively, it may be due to one or more of the following reasons:

• The engine is not aligned with the frame or other components of the vehicle. If a component is not aligned correctly, it can cause excessive vibration.
• The transmission gears need to be worn out or correctly adjusted. This can cause excessive vibrations when driving at high speeds over rough terrain or turning sharply while mowing.
• The engine mounts are loose or broken, causing the engine to vibrate excessively when operating at high speeds or turning sharply while mowing.
• The blades are dull and need replacing with new ones. Dull blades can cause excessive vibrations while driving over rough terrain or turning sharply while mowing.

Why Kubota Zero Turn Mower Won’t Stop?

If your Kubota zero-turn mower won’t stop, you should first check if the transmission fluid is low. If it is, refill it with fresh fluid from a container that has never been used. You can also use the same type of fluid your mower uses if it meets the necessary specifications. After refilling the transmission, try to engage the parking brake again so that you can move forward or backward. If this does not work, you may have to replace the parking brake cable, which is located under your deck plate or near the rear wheels of your mower.

What Are Kubota Zero Turn Power Takeoff (PTO) Issues?

The Kubota PTO is a gearbox used to connect the mower deck to the engine. There are three different models of Kubota PTOs: the KM-1700, KV-1700, and the KV-1850. Each model has two other transmissions, one for two speeds and one for three speeds.

The most common issue with these PTOs is the belt slipping off from the pulley wheel. This can happen if the belt needs to be fixed or worn out over time.

Another common problem with these PTOs is when they get stuck in gear and won’t come out of gear on their own accord.

This can happen if dirt is built around where your PTO engages into your transmission or if there is some mechanical damage due to overloading or misuse of your mower deck attachment system.

Why The Kubota Zero Turn Leaks Gas?

There are several reasons your Kubota zero-turn mower may leak gas. Some of these include:

Briggs INTEK QUICK FIX ~ RIDING LAWNMOWER that TURNS OVER but WILL NOT START. STARTS then DIES.

Bad Gaskets On The Fuel Tank

If there are cracks or holes in the gaskets, gas will leak out when you fill up your tank. This can cause problems because the fuel will get inside the engine and gum up the valves and other parts. The engine won’t run properly, and you’ll have to pay for repairs or buy a new mower!

Improperly Installed Vent Hoses

If your zero-turn mower doesn’t have enough airflow through its carburetor, it will not run as efficiently as it should. This means that it will use more fuel than usual and can lead to excessive emissions from your exhaust pipe, which are bad for our environment!

Wind Up

Kubota zero-turn mower can be a great product for your lawn, but unfortunately, there are some major problems that you should be aware of. We recommend searching for a local dealer and getting a demonstration of how the unit operates before buying it.

Lawn Mower Sputtering? Here’s How to Fix It

Lawnmower maintenance is a crucial part of keeping your mower running properly. Regular maintenance promotes the overall health of your lawnmower and its ability to properly operate. But even with regular maintenance, there may be times when you experience issues with your mower. One common problem among lawnmowers is sputtering. Lawn mower sputtering is generally an inexpensive and easy fix that can be done on your own as part of your regular maintenance.

How to Fix a Riding Lawn Mower that Won’t Start: Engine Cranks But Won’t Start

In this article I’ll share what causes a sputtering lawn mower, and what you can do to fix this common problem.

About Lawn Mower Engines

The engine of your mower relies on the right combination of fuel, air, and a spark (for combustion). Your mower needs each of these to prevent the mower from sputtering and eventually dying.

For the most part, many of the issues that cause a sputtering mower can be fixed by the weekend warrior.

However, there are times when it is best to use a professional for the job.

You’ll want to check a few items to determine what’s causing your mower to sputter, and that will determine if it’s a DIY fix, or you need to call in a professional.

Let’s look at some reasons why your lawnmower may be sputtering and how you should address each of these issues.

Identifying the Cause of a Sputtering Lawn Mower

Below are some of the more common reasons for sputtering lawnmowers and how they can be resolved.

Old Fuel or the Wrong Fuel

The gas you get at the local gas station will generally contain about 10% ethanol. It’s cheaper than pure gasoline, and works fine for cars, but I don’t use it in my mower because it’s low quality.

Ethanol burns quickly and can potentially melt plastic parts, leading to sputtering in your mower. And if you use ethanol blended gas, only buy a little at a time.

If it sits in your garage for more than a couple of months it will go bad and can lead to a sputtering mower.

You can use a fuel stabilizer to extend the life of the gasoline, but I recommend using an ethanol-free gas. It’ll burn cleaner and help your mower to start on the first pull and roar like a tiger.

I use 4-cycle Tru-Fuel in my Honda mower, and love it. It’s pricey, but I highly recommend you try it. You can buy it locally at most box stores, or you can order it online (Amazon link).

Clogged or Dirty Air Filters

Dirty air filters are one of the most common reasons lawn mowers sputter.

Dirt can be present in the apertures that lead from the carburetor and the fuel filter and interrupt the flow of fuel supply to the combustion chamber.

You want to be sure to clean or replace dirty air filters.

Paper air filters will need to be replaced. But you can generally clean foam air filters with a drop of liquid dish soap and warm water.

After cleaning the air filter, squeeze dry and air dry.

My Honda mower uses a paper air filter which I replace every year as part of my spring mower tune-up.

During the summer, I remove it and blow the dust and debris off before each mow.

Dirty Fuel Filters

Any filter will get dirty with time, and just like the air filters, fuel filters in a lawn mower need to be clean.

Replace yours if they’re dirty.

Clogged fuel filters prevent the flow of gasoline to the engine which can lead to a lack of fuel needed for proper functioning.

This imbalance of air and fuel in your engine can cause your mower to sputter and run rough.

A Bad Gas Cap

Misfires can occur with an improperly vented gas cap on your mower.

If your gas cap has improper venting, too much air can be allowed to enter the gas tank (or too little). This can cause a vapor lock.

It’s an easy fix – just replace the cap if it is damaged or bent or if you see that the vent hole is restricted.

That Carburetor is FILTHY

Gunky deposits can occur in the apertures and carburetor.

This buildup is from the sticky by-products of hydrocarbon and combustion.

Using a carburetor cleaner spray (this one on Amazon is what I use and swear by) on a regular basis can loosen dirt deposits and keep your mower’s apertures and hoses clean.

I give my carb a shot every time I clean my air filter before I mow.

Water in the Fuel Tank or Fuel Line

Water prevents the mower cylinder from properly igniting. Remove the cap and check the gas tank for evidence of water (if you see the liquid separating or looking like two different colors).

If there is water in your tank, siphon or drain it, then add new gas.

After old gas in the line works its way through the mower’s engine it should stop sputtering and run like new again.

Check the Spark Plug

Worn or damaged spark plugs make the engine difficult to start. If the plug is damaged, worn, or deteriorating you should replace the plug.

If the tip is fouled or dirty, just clean it with a wire brush and reset to the mowers manufacture’s settings.

You can also look into purchasing another brand of spark plug to see if the mower runs better with a different brand. The plug that comes from the factory with some mowers doesn’t work great on some lawn mower brands.

The spark plug is generally not the first thing I’ll check for a sputtering mower. But a dirty or damaged plug can sometimes be the cause.

Your spark plug is an easy item to replace, and costs about 8 at your local hardware store.

I replace my plug every other year as part of my annual maintenance routine. If it has been more than two years since you’ve bought a new plug, I recommend replacing it as part of your tune-up to fix your sputtering lawn mower.

Your Carburetor Has Issues

Some carb cleaning spray will help if your carburetor is simply dirty, but sometimes there are other issues that can cause lawn mower sputtering.

The carburetor affects how well the mower runs. The wrong blend of air and fuel can cause the carburetor to run rough.

The carburetor must have the right amount of air and fuel to run correctly, and while the average weekend warrior can probably find and remove his mower’s carb, due to its complexity, the carburetor can be tricky to clean or repair.

If you’ve tried everything else on this list, it’s likely a carburetor issue and your mower may require professional service.

A professional can determine the repairs, cleaning, and replacements needed. They’ll then get the carburetor working properly.

First, check to see if your mower is covered by a warranty of any kind. If it’s not, find a local small engine repair guy (or gal), and have your mower serviced.

It’ll be cheaper than you expect.

A Dirty Mower Deck

Caked grass on the mowing deck can cause the mower to sputter.

If you have tall or wet grass you may have noticed that your mower started sputtering as you mowed your lawn.

Check the underside of the mower for excess grass caked on.

Use a wrench to remove the spark plug to prevent the mower from turning on while you work. Then scrape the excess grass using a scraping tool such as a paint scraper.

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by Sarah The Lawn Chick

Sarah’s blog, Lawn Chick, is read by over 2 million homeowners each year and she is regularly cited as an expert source of lawn care knowledge by major publications. Her goal is to meet you where you are, and help you achieve a yard you’ll be proud of. Ready to take the next step toward improving your lawn? Grab her free lawn care cheat-sheet: What to Do When. Take the Guesswork Out of Lawn Care, or upgrade your garage by browsing her favorite DIY lawn care products.

thoughts on “ Lawn Mower Sputtering? Here’s How to Fix It ”

I am a 62 year old female just having to learn how to care for my own mowers, riding push. Your article was more informative than the many others I’ve read! Thought it was sputtering due to the spark plug but now I’m sure it’s the carburator. FYI, when my husband was the main mower man both mowers spent more time in the shop than on the lawn and the cost of repairs would have bought me a brand new one. If it didn’t start immediately off it went to the shop. It never cost less than 100, usually more plus 60 for a 1 mile pick up. I really think the repair man had my husband pegged for a sucker and that may be accurate. That’s the main reason I decided to care for them myself. Since I became the main mower lady and actually read articles like yours it’s smooth riding! Lol Thank you so much for your help.

Thanks, Teresa! Your article made my day – I’m so glad you found this helpful and are tackling these projects yourself!

My Lawn tractor Craftsman R1500 30″ deck, Mod.#247.29900 by MTD, sputters (like running out off gas) after 20-25 minutes of operation and eventually dying. After cooling off for 30 minutes or so, it starts and run again. It is frustrating! Can you please help my with my problem? I installed new fuel filter, put new gas. (I run out gas as season changes). What else can I check to make it work? Thank you in advance Mick T.

Hey, Mick – It sounds like you may have a clogged gas cap vent. The gas cap on most lawn tractors has a small hole in it which allows air to get into the tank. This is important because as your mower burns fuel, that empty space in the tank needs to be replaced with air for the correct mixture of fuel in the engine. If air can’t enter the tank as your mower burns the fuel backward pressure is created and your engine will struggle to get enough gas, which is why you may hear your engine surging or sputtering the same way it would if it was running out of fuel. Typically when I hear that the mower works well at first, then this issue happens after 20 minutes or so, this is the culprit, because that’s when you’ve used enough of the fuel for the pressure imbalance to become an issue. A good way to trouble-shoot and determine if this is definitely the issue is to run the mower, and when this happens and your mower won’t start, open up the gas cap and then put it back on. This will relieve the pressure, allow air in the tank, and get things back in balance. If the mower starts up right afterward and runs fine, you’ve identified the problem. Clearing the vent is easy – just find something small enough to slide through the vent hole and clear out any dirt or debris that’s in there, and you’re good to go. If it’s cold where you are, you may need to bring the cap inside to warm it up first as the solids in there may be frozen, making them tougher to remove. Hope this solves your problem!

Great help. My lawnmower was starting and sputtering and dying in a couple of seconds. Tried NEW GAS (the one in the tank was a year or more old) and it WORKED.