SECTION 11: TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
Trouble
Engine fails to start
Engine runs erratic
Engine overheats
Occasional skip (hesitates) at high speed
Idles poorly
Excessive vibration
Mower will not mulch grass
Uneven cut
Possible Cause(s)
Blade control handle disengaged. Start control button not depressed. Spark plug wire disconnected.
Safety key not in run position. Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel. Blocked fuel line.
Faulty spark plug. Engine flooded. Engine not primed.
Self starter already
Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
Vent in gas cap plugged. Water or dirt in fuel system. Dirty air cleaner.
Carburetor out of adjustment. Engine oil level low.
Air flow restricted.
Carburetor not adjusted properly. Spark plug gap too close.
Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide.
Carburetor improperly adjusted. Dirty air cleaner.
Cutting blade loose or unbalanced. Bent cutting blade.
Wet grass.
Excessively high grass.
Dull blade.
Wheels not positioned correctly.
Dull blade.
Corrective Action
Engage blade control handle. Depress starter control button. Connect wire to spark plug.
Place safety key in run position. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline. Clean fuel line.
Clean, adjust gap or replace. Wait a few minutes.
Push primer bulb three times to prime engine.
Use recoil starter to start engine Connect and tighten spark plug wire. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
Clear vent.
Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel. Clean air cleaner.
Adjust carburetor.
Fill crankcase with proper oil. Remove blower housing and clean. Adjust carburetor.
Adjust gap to .030”.
Reset gap to .030” or replace spark plug.
Adjust carburetor. Clean air cleaner.
Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade. Replace blade.
Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until later to cut.
Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at desired height or make a nar- rower cutting swath (1/2 width).
Sharpen or replace blade.
Place all four wheels in same height posi- tion.
Sharpen or replace blade.
Refer to separate engine manual packed with your mower for more engine related information.
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above, contact your nearest authorized service dealer.
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