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SECTION11: TROUBLESHOOTING
Trouble
Engine fails to start
Engine runs erratic
Possible Cause(s)
PTO/Blade Engage knob engaged.
Parking brake not engaged.
Spark plug wire(s) disconnected.
Throttle control lever not in correct
starting position.
Choke not activated
Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel.
Blocked fuel line.
Faulty spark plug.
Engine flooded.
Unit running with CHOKE activated.
Spark plug wire(s) loose.
Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
Vent in gas cap plugged.
Water or dirt in fuel system.
Corrective Action
Place knob in disengaged (OFF) position.
Engage parking brake.
Connect wire to spark plug.
Place throttle lever to FAST position.
Dirty air cleaner.
Engine overheats Engine oil level low.
Air flow restricted.
Engine hesitates at high RPM Spark plug gap too close.
Idles poorly Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too
wide.
Dirty air cleaner. Replace air cleaner cartridge/element or clean
pre-cleaner.
Excessive vibration Cutting blade loose or unbalanced. Tighten blade and spindle. Balance blade.
Damaged or bent cutting blade. Replace blade.
Mower will not mulch grass Engine speed too low. Place throttle in FAST (rabbit) position.
Wet grass. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until later to cut.
Excessively high grass. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at
desired height or make a narrower cutting swath.
Dull blade. Sharpen or replace blade.
Uneven cut Deck not balanced properly. Perform side-to-side deck adjustment.
Dull blade. Sharpen or replace blade.
Uneven tire pressure. Check tire pressure in all four tires.
Pull out the CHOKE control.
Fill tank with clean, fresh (less than 30 days old) gas.
Clean fuel line or replace fuel filter.
Clean, adjust gap or replace plug.
Crank engine with throttle in FAST position.
Push CHOKE control in.
Connect and tighten spark plug wire(s).
Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh (less than 30
days old) gasoline. Replace fuel filter, if so equipped.
Clear vent or replace cap if damaged.
Drain fuel tank. Refill with clean, fresh (less than 30
days old) gasoline.
Replace air cleaner paper element or clean foam
precleaner.
Fill crankcase with proper capacity and weight of oil.
Clean grass clippings and debris from around the
engine's cooling fins and blower housing.
Remove spark plug and reset the gap.
Replace spark plug. Set plug gap.
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