Swisher Lawn Mower Cranks but Won't Start: Common Causes and Solutions

ENGINE CRANKS BUT WON’T START

Checks for electrical problems

•While turning ignition switch to its first position, listen for the fuel solenoid on the carburetor to click. It must click to supply fuel to the carburetor.

•Try a new spark plug.

•Check for spark at plug when it is removed and the threaded end is grounded.

•Unplug the six-position socket that connects engine wiring to mower wiring harness. Engine will still crank. If plug doesn’t have a spark now, ignition module is probably defective.

Checks for mechanical problems

•Make sure the tank gas valve is turned on.

•Remove air filter element to check for signs of gas in the throat of the carburetor.

•If no gas, check to see if choke is working properly.

•If all above checks show positive, carburetor must have an internal problem. Remove and clean the carburetor.

ENGINE STALLS WHEN PTO IS ENGAGED

The seat safety switch plug not being properly inserted, or a defective plug can cause this problem. If the plug is not inserted or is defective, the spark plug is grounded out when the PTO is engage.

To check, remove plug from the PTO switch. Using an ohmmeter, place one probe on the terminal connected to the black wire going to the seat safety switch plug. Place the other probe on a good chassis ground. The meter should be on zero with no weight on the seat. Pulling the seat down should open the circuit.

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