Learning how to start a Craftsman lawn mower is the first step to a well-maintained yard. Starting a Craftsman lawn mower reliably each time depends on following its specific priming and choke sequence. While the process is generally straightforward, a few simple checks and the correct procedure will have your mower running smoothly in no time.
This guide covers all common Craftsman mower models, including push mowers and riding tractors. We will walk through pre-start checks, cold and warm starting steps, and solutions for when your mower won’t start.
How To Start A Craftsman Lawn Mower
The core starting procedure is similar for most Craftsman walk-behind mowers with a Briggs & Stratton engine. Always refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions, but the following steps provide a reliable universal method.
Pre-Start Safety And Preparation Checks
Before you even pull the starter rope, take a moment to ensure everything is safe and ready. This prevents accidents and avoids unnecessary strain on the engine.
First, clear the mowing area of any debris like sticks, toys, or stones. Check the mower itself. Ensure the spark plug wire is securely connected. Look under the deck and remove any caked-on grass clippings, as this buildup can imbalance the blade.
Next, check the engine oil level using the dipstick. Running the mower with low oil can cause severe engine damage. If it’s low, add the type of oil recommended in your manual, usually SAE 30.
Finally, check the fuel. Use fresh, clean gasoline that is less than 30 days old. Stale fuel is a leading cause of starting problems. If your model has a fuel valve, make sure it is in the ‘On’ position.
Step-By-Step Starting Procedure For A Cold Engine
A “cold” engine means it hasn’t been run for several hours. This requires using the choke to provide a richer fuel mixture for ignition.
- Move the mower to a flat, open area.
- If your model has a key, insert it and turn it to the ‘On’ position.
- Locate the engine speed control lever. Push it all the way forward to the fast position (often marked with a rabbit symbol).
- Find the primer bulb, usually a red rubber button. Press it firmly 3 times. Do not over-prime, as this can flood the engine.
- If your model has a manual choke lever, move it to the ‘Choke’ or ‘Full Choke’ position.
- Firmly grasp the starter handle. Pull the rope slowly until you feel resistance, then pull briskly and smoothly. Do not yank it or let the rope snap back.
- Once the engine starts, immediately move the choke lever to the ‘Half-Choke’ position for about 30 seconds, then to ‘Run’. If it has an auto-choke, it will adjust on its own.
How To Start A Warm Or Recently Used Engine
If the engine is warm from recent use, the process is simpler. You typically will not need the choke or primer.
- Set the engine speed control to fast.
- Do not press the primer bulb.
- If there is a manual choke, leave it in the ‘Run’ position.
- Pull the starter rope. It should start within 1-2 pulls.
Starting A Craftsman Riding Lawn Mower
The process for a riding mower or lawn tractor involves a few more controls but is just as easy once you know the steps.
- Ensure the parking brake is fully engaged.
- Make sure the mower’s PTO lever (which engages the blades) is in the disengaged (Off) position.
- Set the throttle/choke control to the choke position if the engine is cold. For a warm start, set it to half-throttle.
- Insert the key and turn it to the ‘On’ position. You may hear a fuel pump click.
- Turn the key to ‘Start’ and hold it until the engine cranks. Release the key as soon as it starts.
- If the engine is cold, let it run with the choke on for a minute, then gradually push the throttle to the desired running speed.
Why Your Craftsman Lawn Mower Won’t Start And How To Fix It
Even with the correct steps, your mower might not start. Here are the most common causes and their fixes.
Check The Obvious First
It’s easy to overlook simple things. Always check these three points first.
- Is there gas in the tank? It sounds silly, but it happens.
- Is the spark plug wire connected? It can vibrate loose.
- Is the blade control handle (deadman’s bar) fully engaged on a push mower? The engine won’t start without it.
Common Issues And Troubleshooting Steps
If the basics are covered, work through this list of frequent problems.
Old Or Contaminated Fuel
Gasoline degrades in as little as 30 days. Old fuel can clog the carburetor. Drain the old fuel from the tank and carburetor bowl, and replace it with fresh gas. Using a fuel stabilizer year-round is a good habit.
A Dirty Or Faulty Spark Plug
Remove the spark plug using a socket wrench. Check the electrode for heavy carbon buildup or damage. Clean it with a wire brush or simply replace it with a new plug of the correct type, gapped to your manual’s specification.
A Clogged Air Filter
A dirty air filter starves the engine of air. Remove the filter cover and take out the filter. If it’s paper, tap it gently to remove loose dirt, but replace it if it’s very dirty. If it’s foam, wash it in warm soapy water, dry it, and apply a few drops of clean engine oil before reinstalling.
A Flooded Engine
If you smell strong gasoline, you may have over-primed. Wait 15 minutes for the fuel to evaporate. Then, with the choke and primer off, pull the starter rope repeatedly to clear the excess fuel.
Safety Switch Problems
Modern mowers have safety switches (e.g., seat switch, blade engagement switch). If one malfunctions, it prevents starting. Listen for a clicking noise when you turn the key; it often indicates a switch issue. Consulting a repair manual for your model is best for diagnosing these.
Essential Maintenance To Ensure Easy Starting
Regular, simple maintenance is the key to avoiding most starting troubles. Follow this seasonal checklist.
After Each Use
- Clean grass clippings from the mower deck.
- Wipe down the mower to prevent moisture buildup.
Regular Monthly Checks
- Check the oil level.
- Inspect the air filter and clean or replace as needed.
- Look for loose bolts or damaged parts.
End-Of-Season Or Annual Maintenance
This is the most important maintenance period. It prepares your mower for storage and ensures it’s ready next spring.
- Change the engine oil.
- Replace the spark plug.
- Replace the air filter.
- Sharpen or replace the mower blade.
- Add fuel stabilizer to a full tank, run the engine for 5 minutes, or completely drain the fuel system.
- Store the mower in a clean, dry place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Start A Craftsman Lawn Mower That Has Been Sitting?
For a mower that has been in storage, first check and change the oil if needed. Drain any old fuel from the tank and carburetor. Install a new spark plug and clean or replace the air filter. Add fresh gasoline, then follow the cold-start procedure. It may take a few extra pulls to get fuel flowing.
What Is The Correct Way To Prime A Craftsman Mower?
Locate the small red rubber primer bulb on the engine. With the engine off, press it firmly and slowly 3 times. You should feel resistance and see fuel moving in the primer lines. Do not press it more than 3 times for a cold start, and do not use it for a warm start.
Why Does My Craftsman Mower Only Start With Starter Fluid?
If it requires starter fluid to start, it indicates a fuel delivery problem. The likely causes are stale fuel clogging the carburetor jet, a stuck carburetor float, or a faulty fuel pump on riding models. Cleaning the carburetor is usually the necessary fix.
Where Is The Choke On A Craftsman Lawn Mower?
The choke is typically a lever on the engine or on the control panel near the throttle. It is often labeled ‘Choke’ and has positions for ‘Choke’, ‘Half’, and ‘Run’. Some newer models have an automatic choke that you do not need to adjust manually.
How Many Times Should I Pull The Starter Rope?
With proper priming and choke setting, a well-maintained mower should start within 3-5 pulls. If it doesn’t start after 6 pulls, stop. Re-check the choke, primer, and fuel. Continuing to pull repeatedly can flood the engine or strain the starter mechanism.
Following these clear steps for how to start a Craftsman lawn mower will make the task quick and reliable. Remember, consistency is key: always perform your pre-start checks, use fresh fuel, and stick to the correct sequence for cold and warm engines. With the basic troubleshooting tips, you can diagnose most common issues. Finally, a little routine maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your Craftsman mower starts on the first or second pull every single time you need it.