With spring in full swing, homeowners are once again bringing their lawn mowers out of winter storage. Before putting it back to work, however, you should make sure that it is clean and well-lubricated, with all its parts working properly. To help you prepare, Hartill’s Mountain Saw & Tractor, a trusted power equipment repair specialist in Chewelah, WA, shares some of the common issues you may encounter with lawn mowers and how to resolve them.

Power Equipment Repair Expert Lists 4 Common Lawn Mower Issues

1. Refusing to Start

This frequently happens after a long hiatus. The first thing you have to check is if there is enough fuel in the tank. Next, inspect the spark plug to see if the wire is loose or if the plug needs to be cleaned, adjusted, or replaced. Check battery if applicable.  Other possible causes include a blocked air filter or fuel line, which can be addressed by cleaning or replacing it.

2. Sticking Starter Rope

If you are having difficulty pulling on the starter rope, the flywheel brake might be pressing against the handle. If the lawn mower blade touches the ground or if clippings get stuck near the center of the blade, the rope will also be hard to pull. Turn off the engine, disconnect the spark plug, and clean the inside of the blade to loosen it up.

3. Smoking Engine

This seems scary, but the problem is not always serious. It is often caused by a leak in the oil chamber, which could be due to damage or overfilling. If you mow on an incline, excess oil will spill over to the engine and burn off. While the mower is off, check the oil chamber for leaks and make sure the cap is secure.

4. Cutting Unevenly

If your grass looks jagged, your lawn mower’s blade might be bent or dull. Blades should be sharpened after 20–25 hours of use, which could mean once or twice a year, depending on how much lawn maintenance you perform. If the blade is bent or rusty, have it replaced. Uneven cutting can also be caused by wheels that are not positioned correctly.

If you need repair for your landscaping equipment, Hartill’s Mountain Saw & Tractor can assist with parts or service for small engines and tractors. Hartill’s is a full servicing dealer for outdoor power equipment, tractors and UTVs.  Give them a call at (509) 935-8829 with questions, visit their website for more information, or stop by their showroom at 101 W Robert Avenue in Chewelah.