Introduction
A bad starter on a lawn mower can be an incredibly frustrating problem. It can be difficult to diagnose and troublesome to repair. In this article, we will explore how to start a lawn mower with a bad starter. We will look at how to check the battery, clean the spark plug, use jump leads, push start the mower, recharge the battery, replace the starter, and test the ignition coil.
Check the Battery
The first step in troubleshooting a bad starter is to check the battery. Make sure the battery is charged and in good working condition. If the battery is dead or low on charge, it will not have enough power to start the mower. Signs of a bad battery include corroded terminals, swollen casing, and a lack of power when attempting to start the mower.
Clean the Spark Plug
The next step is to clean the spark plug. This is important because a dirty spark plug can restrict the flow of spark from the ignition system to the engine. To clean the spark plug, remove it from the mower and clean it with a wire brush. Possible causes of a restricted spark flow include a clogged air filter, faulty ignition coils, or a cracked spark plug.
Use Jump Leads
If the battery is in good working order but still won’t start the mower, you can try using jump leads. Connect one end of the jump leads to the battery of another vehicle and the other end to the battery of the mower. This will provide extra power to the mower and should allow it to start. The benefits of using jump leads include being able to start the mower quickly and easily, without having to replace the battery.
Use a Push Start
Another option is to push start the mower. This involves pushing the mower while pulling on the starter cord. This will give the engine enough momentum to start the mower. However, there are some safety precautions to consider when push starting a mower. Make sure the area is clear and that no one is standing in front of the mower. Also, ensure that the mower is in neutral and the parking brake is engaged.
Recharge the Battery
If the battery is not in good working order, you may need to recharge it. To do this, remove the battery from the mower and take it to an auto shop. The technicians at the shop will be able to check the battery and recharge it if necessary. Recharging the battery has several advantages, including saving money on a new battery and prolonging the life of the battery.
Replace the Starter
If all other options fail, you may need to replace the starter. To identify a bad starter, listen for any clicking noises when attempting to start the mower. If the starter is bad, it will likely make a clicking sound but won’t spin the engine. To replace the starter, disconnect the wires from the old starter and connect them to the new starter. Then, reinstall the starter and test it to make sure it is working properly.
Test the Ignition Coil
Finally, you may need to test the ignition coil. The ignition coil is responsible for transferring power from the battery to the spark plug. If the ignition coil is not in good working order, it can prevent the mower from starting. Common signs of an ignition coil problem include weak sparks, misfiring, and backfiring. To test the coil, disconnect the wires and use an ohmmeter to measure the resistance. If the resistance is too high or too low, the coil may need to be replaced.
Conclusion
In conclusion, starting a lawn mower with a bad starter can be difficult. To diagnose and fix the problem, it is important to understand the key components of the mower and how they work together. Checking the battery, cleaning the spark plug, using jump leads, push starting, recharging the battery, replacing the starter, and testing the ignition coil are all possible solutions for a bad starter. If the problem persists, it is best to consult a professional.
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