Problem Cause Remedy
Engine fails to start  
2. 
Throttle control lever not in correct starting 4. 
position. 
Choke not activated 5. 
Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel.  6. 
7.  
Faulty spark plug(s). 8. 
Engine flooded. 
Engage parking brake. 2. 
Connect wire(s) to spark plug(s). 
 4. 
5. 
6. 
old) gas. 
Clean fuel line and replace fuel filter. 7.  
Clean, adjust gap or replace plug(s). 8. 
Engine runs erratic   
2. 
 
Vent in gas cap plugged. 4. 
Water or dirt in fuel system.  5. 
Dirty air cleaner. 6. 
position. 
Connect spark plug wire(s). 2. 
Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh 
gasoline and replace fuel filter. 
Clear vent or replace cap if damaged. 4. 
Drain fuel tank. Refill with clean, fresh 5. 
gasoline. 
Replace air cleaner paper element or clean 6. 
foam pre-cleaner. 
Engine overheats  Engine oil level low.  
Air flow restricted. 2. 
Fill crankcase with proper amount and 
weight of oil. 
Clean grass clippings and debris from around 2. 
Engine hesitates at high 
 Remove spark plug(s) and reset the gap. 
Engine Idles rough  
Dirty air cleaner. 2. 
Replace air cleaner element and/or clean 2. 
pre-cleaner. 
Excessive vibration  Cutting blade loose or unbalanced. 
Damaged or bent cutting blade. 2. 
Tighten blade and spindle. 
Replace blade. 2. 
Mower will not mulch grass  Engine speed too low. 
Wet grass. 2. 
Excessively high grass.  
 
Dull blade. 4. 
Do not mulch when grass is wet. 2. 
Mow once at a high cutting height, then 
mow again at desired height or make a 
narrower cutting swath. 
4. 
Uneven cut  Deck not leveled properly. 
Dull blade. 2. 
Uneven tire pressure. 
2. 
Check tire pressure in all four tires. 
Troubleshooting
8
29