Troubleshoot Riding Lawnmower Problems
When it is time to mow the lawn, and the old, faithful lawnmower just doesn't want to get the job done, you may need to do some maintenance or repair on the machine. Here are some steps to guide you in troubleshooting a few common problems.
Steps
- Check the basic mower functions to determine where you need to look to diagnose the problem you are having with your mower. Here are the basic parts of a typical mower:
- Engine
- Belts and pulleys
- Mower deck
- Wheels and axle assemblies
- Blades
- Transmission/drive system
- Safety system
- Check each part of the mower to make sure it is working. First, you must make sure the engine is running. This should be obvious, and no other part of the machine will work if the engine won't start. Here is a checklist to get started diagnosing engine problems.
- Check the crankcase lubricant (motor oil). Many modern engines have an oil sensor that shuts off the engine if the oil level is too low for it to operate safely.
- Check the fuel. You may want to check the fuel pump, filter, and fuel lines for leaks or blockages.
- Check the air filter. Dirty air filters rob the engine's performance, and if the filter is sufficiently stopped up, it will not allow it to crank.
- Check the carburetor. Make sure all linkages and attachment bolts/screws are tight.
- Check the starting system if the mower is equipped with electric start. This includes the battery, battery cables, solenoid switch, ignition switch, starter motor, and neutral switch if equipped.
- Check the drive belt system if the mower doesn't move or the blades will not rotate when they are engaged. This can be done by lowering the mower deck and removing any debris that obstructs your view. Here are some things you will be looking for:
- The main drive belts should go from a pulley on the bottom of the engine to the mower deck drive pulley and to the transmission/transaxle. These should be tight when they are engaged, and loose when the clutch is depressed (transmission drive belt), and when the mower is disengaged (mower deck drive belt). Obvious things to look for are damaged or broken belts, or loose pulleys.
- Check wiring to the electric mower drive clutch if the machine is equipped with one.
- Check linkages that operate the belt idler pulleys and transmission shifter.
- Check the lubricant in the transaxle when the mower is serviced. The bearings and gears in lawnmower transaxles will quickly become damaged if they do not receive sufficient lubrication.
- Check the tires and axles if the mower seems underpowered or the steering doesn't seem to be operating properly. Front wheels often have grease fittings that extend the life of the wheel bearings or bushings, and when these are worn excessively, steering will operate well.
- Keep your mower's blades sharp and balanced. This not only provides a better cut, but also decreases wear and tear on the machine. Here are things to look for to spot problems with the blades.
- Uneven or ragged cutting is often a sign of worn, dull, or bent blades.
- Vibration underneath the mower deck can indicate blades which are out of balance (or damaged spindles on the blade carriers) and should be repaired promptly.
Tips
- Always refer to the owner's manual for specific information on your mower, as there are many differences between individual mowers from one manufacturer, and between different manufacturers.
Warnings
- Keep your mower in good condition, and make sure all safety guards and features are working properly.
Things You'll Need
- Owner's manual for your particular mower
- Common hand tools for self performed repairs/adjustments
