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Old 13-11-2003, 02:15 PM
Daniel B. Martin
 
Posts: n/a
Default help - can't crank lawnmower - need to mow

... I've tried to crank my lawn mower (3 years old) and it won't crank.
Anyone have any suggestions?


Please clarify "won't crank." When you pull the rope, does it refuse to
move? That is "won't crank." Does the rope pull out but the engine
doesn't start and run? That is "won't fire."

If the rope pulls out, does it have a normal resistance or does it pull out
with a suspicious ease? Suspicious ease suggests an engine valve is stuck
open, with a consequential loss of compression.

Some engines have a manual choke, and will not start if the choke is not
"on." It's been a while since you used this mower, and maybe you've
forgotten about the need to set the choke.

Do you know how to use a spare spark plug to test for spark? If so, please
make that test.

You could use engine starting fluid as a diagnostic test. This is ether
in a spray can. You may buy this at any auto parts store (Advance Auto,
AutoZone, Pep Boys, etc.) for about $2. Remove the engine air cleaner and
spray a two-second blast into the intake. Pull the starter rope. If the
engine starts readily, runs lustily for two seconds, and then dies, your
problem is a lack of fuel. The starting fluid acts as a temporary
substitute for gasoline.


Daniel B. Martin