Columbia 700 series User Manual (English)

Jason KeithJul 26, 2025

Why won't my Columbia 700 engine start?

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Elizabeth JordanJul 26, 2025
If your Columbia Lawn Mower engine won't start, there are several potential reasons. First, ensure the PTO lever is disengaged (OFF). Next, check that the parking brake is engaged. Verify that the spark plug wires are securely connected to the spark plug(s). Make sure the throttle control lever is in the CHOKE position. If the fuel tank is empty or contains stale fuel, fill it with clean, fresh gas (less than 30 days old). If the fuel line is blocked, clean it or replace the fuel filter if your mower has one. A faulty spark plug can also prevent starting, so clean, adjust the gap, or replace the plug. Lastly, if the engine is flooded, crank it with the throttle in the FAST position.

Brand	Columbia
Model	700 series
Category	Lawn Mower
Language	English

Brand

Columbia

Model

700 series

Section 1: Important Safe Operation Practices

General Operation

Guidelines for safe and proper operation of the tractor and its controls.

Slope Operation

Instructions and warnings for safely operating the tractor on slopes to prevent tip-overs.

Children

Safety precautions regarding children's presence and interaction with the tractor.

Towing

Guidelines and safety precautions for towing equipment with the tractor.

Safe Handling of Gasoline

Critical safety procedures for handling gasoline to prevent fire and explosion hazards.

General Service

Important service procedures and safety checks for the tractor's operation.

Section 3: Tractor Set-Up

Loose Parts

Lists parts included with the operator's manual for potential future use.

Attaching the Steering Wheel

Instructions for securely attaching the steering wheel to the tractor.

Attaching The Seat

Detailed steps for correctly mounting the tractor seat.

Gas and Oil Fill-up

Guidance on filling the fuel tank and checking engine oil levels before operation.

Shipping Brace Removal

Procedure for removing shipping braces before operating the tractor.

Tire Pressure

Recommended tire pressure settings for optimal tractor performance and safety.

Attaching the Battery Cables

Correct procedure for connecting the tractor's battery cables to prevent damage.

Section 4: Know Your Lawn Tractor

Throttle Control

Explanation of the throttle lever's function for engine speed and choke control.

Choke Control

How to activate the choke for easier engine starting in cold conditions.

Speed Control Lever

Instructions on using the speed control lever to regulate tractor ground speed.

Clutch-brake Pedal

Details on operating the clutch-brake pedal for slowing and stopping the tractor.

Parking Brake

Procedure for engaging and disengaging the tractor's parking brake.

Shift Lever

Guide to operating the shift lever for forward, neutral, and reverse movement.

Deck Lift Lever

How to adjust the cutting deck height using the deck lift lever.

PTO (Blade Engage) Lever

Operation of the PTO lever to engage or disengage cutting deck power.

Ignition Switch Module

Instructions for starting, stopping, and operating the tractor using the ignition switch.

Section 5: Operating Your Lawn Tractor

Safety Interlock Switches

Explanation of the safety system that prevents operation under unsafe conditions.

Reverse Caution Mode

How to engage reverse mowing safely, with essential warnings.

Engaging the Parking Brake

Step-by-step instructions for setting and releasing the parking brake.

Setting the Cutting Height

Procedure for adjusting the cutting deck height for optimal grass cutting.

Starting the Engine

Detailed steps for safely starting the tractor's engine, including choke and brake engagement.

Stopping the Engine

Correct procedure for shutting down the tractor's engine safely.

Driving the Tractor

Guidance on starting, accelerating, and stopping the tractor smoothly.

Driving on Slopes

Critical safety advice for operating the tractor on inclines and preventing accidents.

Using the Deck Lift Lever

How to operate the deck lift lever to raise and lower the cutting deck.

Engaging the Blades

Steps to safely engage the mower blades for cutting grass.

Mowing

Tips and procedures for effective and safe lawn mowing.

Section 6: Making Adjustments

Leveling the Deck

Instructions for ensuring the cutting deck is level for an even cut.

Front To Rear Adjustment

How to adjust the deck for proper front-to-rear tilt.

Side to Side Adjustment

How to adjust the deck for proper side-to-side balance.

Headlights

Information on the operation of the tractor's headlights.

Parking Brake Adjustment

How to adjust the parking brake for proper engagement and stopping power.

Seat Adjustment

Steps for adjusting the tractor seat position for operator comfort.

Section 7: Maintaining Your Lawn Tractor

Engine

Guidance on engine maintenance and checking the oil level.

Changing Engine Oil

Step-by-step instructions for draining and refilling the engine oil.

Air Cleaner

Instructions for servicing the air cleaner for proper engine performance.

Fuel Filter

Guidance on servicing or replacing the fuel filter as needed.

Spark Plug(s)

Recommendations for spark plug maintenance and replacement.

Lubrication

Points and procedures for lubricating the engine, pivot points, wheels, and axles.

Section 8: Service

Cleaning the Engine and Deck

How to clean the tractor's engine and deck to prevent damage and buildup.

Deck Wash System™

Information on using the optional deck wash system for cleaning.

Cutting Deck Removal

Step-by-step instructions for safely removing the cutting deck from the tractor.

Tires

Recommended tire pressure and inflation guidelines for safe operation.

Battery

Information on battery maintenance, care, and terminal connections.

Charging

Instructions for charging the tractor's battery safely.

Jump Starting

Safety warnings and procedures for jump-starting the tractor's battery.

Cleaning (Battery)

How to clean the tractor's battery and terminals properly.

Battery Failures

Common causes of battery failure not covered by warranty.

Fuse

Location and function of the tractor's electrical system fuse.

Cutting Blades

Procedures for inspecting, sharpening, and replacing the cutting blades.

Changing the Transmission Drive Belts

Information regarding changing the tractor's transmission drive belts.

Changing the Deck Belt

Detailed steps for removing and replacing the cutting deck belt.

Columbia 700 series User Manual

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers:

Columbia 700 series Specifications

Summary

Finding Model Number

Engine Information

Calling Customer Support