Learning how to turn a lawn mower on is the essential first step to a well-kept yard. The process of turning on a lawn mower varies significantly between push, riding, and electric models. This guide will walk you through every common type, ensuring you can start your machine safely and efficiently, whether it’s brand new or has been sitting in the shed all winter.
How To Turn A Lawn Mower On
Before you pull any cord or turn any key, a few universal safety and preparation steps apply to nearly every mower. Skipping these can lead to dificulty starting or even damage.
Universal Pre-Start Checklist
Always perform these checks in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors.
- Read the Manual: Your model’s specific instructions are the ultimate authority.
- Check the Fuel: For gas mowers, ensure you have fresh fuel. Gas older than 30 days can degrade and cause starting issues.
- Inspect the Oil: Use the dipstick to confirm the oil level is between the marks. Low oil can ruin an engine.
- Clear the Deck: Remove any grass clippings, debris, or obstructions from under the mower deck.
- Check the Blade: Ensure the blade is securely attached and not damaged. A loose blade is extremely dangerous.
- Prime and Choke (if equipped): Understand your mower’s primer bulb and choke settings. These are crucial for cold starts.
Safety First
Never overlook these critical safety rules.
- Clear the mowing area of sticks, toys, and stones.
- Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and eye protection.
- Do not check or add fuel while the engine is hot.
- Always start the mower on a flat, stable surface.
- Keep children and pets far away from the area.
Starting A Standard Push Mower With A Recoil Starter
This is the most common type of gas-powered walk-behind mower. The starting procedure has a specific sequence.
Step-By-Step Starting Procedure
- Engage the Safety Features: Locate the operator presence control bar on the handle. Hold it down against the handle. This often also disengages the blade brake.
- Set the Throttle/Choke: Move the throttle control lever to the “Fast” or “Start” position. If the engine is cold, move the choke lever to “Choke” or “Full.”
- Prime the Engine: Press the primer bulb 3 to 5 times, or as specified in your manual. You should see fuel moving through the clear fuel lines.
- Pull the Starter Cord: Stand firmly, grip the handle, and pull the starter cord briskly and smoothly. Do not yank it all the way out; use a controlled pull. It may take 2-3 pulls.
- Adjust the Choke: Once the engine sputters to life, gradually move the choke lever to “Run” or “Open” within a few seconds to let it warm up.
Starting A Riding Lawn Mower
Riding mowers have more systems, but starting them is often more straightforward once you know the sequence.
Pre-Start Riding Mower Checks
- Ensure the parking brake is firmly engaged.
- Confirm the mower’s transmission is in “Neutral” or “Park.”
- Check that the PTO (blade engagement lever) is in the “Off” position. The blades must not be engaged when starting.
- Adjust the throttle to about halfway or to the “Choke” position for a cold engine.
Ignition Sequence
- Sit fully in the seat. Many have a safety switch that won’t allow starting otherwise.
- Press the brake pedal fully down (often required along with the parking brake).
- Turn the ignition key to the “On” position to activate the electronics. You may hear a fuel pump click.
- Turn the key further to “Start” and hold it until the engine cranks and starts. Release the key immediately once it starts.
- Let the engine warm up for a minute before releasing the parking brake and engaging the blades.
How To Start An Electric Lawn Mower
Electric mowers, both corded and cordless, are generally the simplest to start. The main pre-check is for power.
Starting A Corded Electric Mower
- Ensure the mower is unplugged.
- Clear the area and verify the extension cord is rated for outdoor use and is in good condition.
- Plug the extension cord into an outdoor-rated GFCI outlet, then plug the mower cord into the extension cord.
- Hold down the safety handle or button (usually on the handlebar) and press the start switch or lever. The blade should begin spinning immediately.
Starting A Cordless Battery Mower
- Insert a fully charged battery into the mower’s battery compartment until it clicks and locks.
- Hold down the safety control bar on the handle.
- Press and hold the start button, or simply squeeze the lever on the handle. The mower will start silently.
- Some models require you to press a separate “power” button before the lever works.
What To Do If Your Lawn Mower Won’t Start
If you’ve followed the steps and your mower refuses to start, work through this troubleshooting list methodically.
Common Problems and Solutions
- No Sound When Turning Key (Riding Mower): Check the parking brake, seat switch, PTO switch, and battery connections. A dead battery is a common culprit.
- Engine Cranks But Won’t Start: Likely a fuel or spark issue. Check for old fuel, a clogged fuel filter, or a closed fuel valve. For spark, check and clean or replace the spark plug.
- Pull Cord is Stuck or Hard to Pull: The engine could be hydro-locked (full of fuel/oil), or the blade drive system may be engaged. Check the oil level and ensure all drive levers are disengaged.
- Mower Starts Then Dies Immediately: Often caused by a dirty carburetor from old fuel, a clogged air filter, or a malfunctioning safety interlock switch not being fully engaged.
- Electric Mower Has No Power: For corded, check the outlet, GFCI reset, and cord connections. For cordless, ensure the battery is fully charged and properly seated.
Seasonal Starting Tips
How you start your mower can depend on the time of year, especially if it’s been in storage.
Starting After Winter Storage
This is a common time for problems. Before trying to start, consider these steps.
- Drain and replace old fuel from the tank and carburetor if possible.
- Install a fresh spark plug. Its a cheap and effective tune-up.
- Check and clean or replace the air filter.
- Ensure the battery (on riders) is fully charged.
Starting a Hot Engine
If you’ve just turned the mower off and need to restart it, the procedure is simpler. Usually, you will not need to use the choke or primer. Just engage the safety controls and pull the cord or turn the key. If it floods, wait a few minutes before trying again.
Maintenance For Reliable Starts
Regular maintenance is the key to avoiding starting headaches every time.
- After Each Use: Clean grass clippings from the deck and undercarriage.
- Monthly: Check the oil level and air filter cleanliness.
- Seasonally: Sharpen or replace the blade, replace the spark plug, and change the oil (per manual instructions).
- For Storage: Either run the fuel tank dry or add a fuel stabilizer for gas that will sit more than 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I have to push the primer bulb so many times?
The primer bulb manually pushes a small amount of fuel directly into the carburetor to enrich the fuel mixture for a cold start. Too few presses and it won’t start; too many can flood it. 3-5 is typically the right range.
Should the choke be open or closed when starting?
Almost always, the choke should be “On” or “Closed” for a cold engine start. This restricts air flow to create a richer fuel mixture. Once the engine is running, you must open the choke within 30 seconds to let it breathe normally.
Is it bad to pull the starter cord too hard?
Yes. Jerking the cord with excessive force can damage the recoil starter assembly. Use a firm, smooth, and brisk pull. Let the cord retract back on its own; do not let it snap back.
What does it mean if my riding mower just clicks when I turn the key?
A single loud click often indicates a weak or dead battery that cannot engage the starter solenoid. A rapid clicking sound usually points to a poor battery connection. Check and clean the battery terminals and charge or replace the battery.
How do I start a lawn mower that has been sitting for years?
This requires significant prep. Drain all old fuel. Remove and clean the carburetor. Replace the air filter, spark plug, and oil. Check for rodent nests in the air intake or muffler. After these steps, try starting with fresh fuel.