A mowing machine that starts but stalls moments later can leave you with utter frustration, especially when you are in dire need of trimming your grass. A mower that behaves this way most likely has a problem with its fuel system. An understanding of how the fuel system works can go a long way in helping you solve the problem.

In a nutshell, fuel moves from the fuel tank before mixing with air in the carburetor. Its final destination is the cylinder where it burns to provide power. Any problem with this transmission can cause your mower to start and stop a few minutes later.  Here are three reasons why your mower may have starting problems.

Carburetor Problems

One reason why your mower is not behaving according to your wishes is because of the carburetor. The carburetor mixes fuel and air before the mixture is injected into the cylinder to burn. It has a bolt that has fuel-metering holes along its thread that are supposed to be kept clear at all times.

If the holes are blocked, your mower is bound to stall after starting. To locate the bowl when there is fuel in the tank, obstruct fuel flow using a clamp. Find the bolt and remove it before removing the bowl. Use a small wire to clean the bolt's holes and finally put everything back together.

Clogged Air Filter

A clogged air filter can tamper with the functions of the carburetor, which may result in the start-stop problem of the mower. Remove the filter and locate the port that allows air to enter into the carburetor. Spray the carburetor cleaner into this port and then start your mower. While the filter is still off, repeat the process—spraying the port and staring the mower—a few times. The moment the mower starts and manages to stay on, put everything back together.

Faulty Spark Plug

Spark plug is important since it is the part that introduces the spark required for the fuel to burn. You will have problems starting your mower if the spark plug is improperly gapped, has a cracked insulator, or if its electrode has a heavy carbon build-up. Using a spark plug tester can help you find out if there is a defect with the spark plug. When cranking the engine, a strong spark is produced between the terminals of the tester. If you do not see one, consider replacing the spark plug. 

For more information on conducting lawn mower repairs, contact local repair shops or mower suppliers. 

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