Problem Cause Remedy
Engine fails to start
2.
Spark plug wire(s) disconnected.
Throttle control lever not in correct starting 4.
position.
Choke not activated 5.
Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel. 6.
Blocked fuel line. 7.
Faulty spark plug(s). 8.
Engine flooded. 9.
Fuse(s) blown.
Engage parking brake. 2.
Connect wire(s) to spark plug(s).
4.
Move the Throttle/Choke Control into choke 5.
position.
6.
old) gas.
Clean fuel line and replace fuel filter. 7.
Clean, adjust gap or replace plug(s). 8.
Crank engine with throttle in FAST position. 9.
Replace fuse.
Engine runs erratic
Spark plug wire(s) loose. 2.
Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
Vent in gas cap plugged. 4.
Water or dirt in fuel system. 5.
Dirty air cleaner. 6.
Move Throttle/Choke Control out of the
choke position.
Connect spark plug wire(s). 2.
Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh
gasoline and replace fuel filter.
Clear vent or replace cap if damaged. 4.
Drain fuel tank. Refill with clean, fresh 5.
gasoline.
Replace air cleaner paper element or clean 6.
foam pre-cleaner.
Engine overheats Engine oil level low.
Air flow restricted. 2.
Fill crankcase with proper amount and
weight of oil.
Clean grass clippings and debris from around 2.
Engine hesitates at high
Spark plug(s) gap too close. Remove spark plug(s) and reset the gap.
Engine Idles rough Spark plug(s) fouled, faulty or gap too wide.
Dirty air cleaner. 2.
Replace spark plug(s). Set plug gap.
Replace air cleaner element and/or clean 2.
pre-cleaner.
Excessive vibration Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.
Damaged or bent cutting blade. 2.
Tighten blade and spindle.
Replace blade. 2.
Mower will not mulch grass Engine speed too low.
Wet grass. 2.
Excessively high grass.
Dull blade. 4.
Do not mulch when grass is wet. 2.
Mow once at a high cutting height, then
mow again at desired height or make a
narrower cutting swath.
Sharpen or replace blade. 4.
Uneven cut Deck not leveled properly.
Dull blade. 2.
Uneven tire pressure.
Sharpen or replace blade. 2.
Check tire pressure in all four tires.
Troubleshooting
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