Problem Cause Remedy
Engine fails to start  
2. 
Spark plug wire(s) disconnected. 
Throttle control lever not in correct starting 4. 
position. 
Choke not activated 5. 
Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel.  6. 
Blocked fuel line. 7.  
Faulty spark plug(s). 8. 
Engine flooded. 9. 
Engage parking brake. 2. 
Connect wire(s) to spark plug(s). 
 4. 
Move the Throttle/Choke Control into choke 5. 
position.
6. 
old) gas. 
Clean fuel line and replace fuel filter. 7.  
Clean, adjust gap or replace plug(s). 8. 
Crank engine with throttle in FAST position. 9. 
Engine runs erratic   
Spark plug wire(s) loose. 2. 
Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.  
Vent in gas cap plugged. 4. 
Water or dirt in fuel system.  5. 
Dirty air cleaner. 6. 
Move Throttle/Choke Control out of the 
choke 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 
Spark plug(s) gap too close.  Remove spark plug(s) and reset the gap. 
Engine Idles rough  Spark plug(s) fouled, faulty or gap too wide. 
Dirty air cleaner. 2. 
Replace spark plug(s). Set plug gap. 
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. 
Sharpen or replace blade. 4. 
Uneven cut  Deck not leveled properly. 
Dull blade. 2. 
Uneven tire pressure. 
Sharpen or replace blade. 2. 
Check tire pressure in all four tires. 
Troubleshooting
8
29