Fluctuating engine performance, stuttering and jerking are classic indications that a lawn mower is not responding to gas. There is an error in the well-balanced system of components that requires repair. Familiarize yourself with tried-and-tested measures to solve the problem here.
What to do if the lawnmower won't turn on the gas?
If a lawn mower does not respond to gas, this may be due to dirty components. Clean or replace the air filter, clean the spark plug and contacts, remove grass and soil from the blade bar (€65.00 on Amazon) and readjust the carburettor at idle.
Only a clean engine accelerates properly – tips for troubleshooting
Cleanliness is very important to ensure that a lawn mower runs smoothly. Even a single dirty component in the engine is enough to throw the well-balanced system out of balance. Now the centrifugal governor calls to the engine 'Come on, step on the gas!' The carburettor, on the other hand, reports 'How can it be without fuel!' Then the centrifugal governor turns to the linkage with the request 'Come with me, we're going into the basement until the carburettor reports that it's getting fuel again.'
This pattern goes on for quite a while until the operator loses his patience and presses the off button. The root of the problem must now be identified as part of a fault analysis so that the lawn mower can accelerate again.
Causal analysis – step-by-step to the culprit
The majority of lawn mower models are designed to be consumer-friendly, so that maintenance and repair work can be carried out yourself. You can identify and resolve the following causes without consulting a specialist:
- Remove and clean or replace air filter
- Pull the spark plug connector, remove the spark plug and clean it thoroughly including the contacts
- With the spark plug connector pulled out, use a brush to remove clumps of grass and soil from the cutter bar (€65.00 on Amazon)
- Readjust carburetor at idle
In the manufacturer's manual you can read where the components are located and how they are removed. If you discover during troubleshooting that the carburettor is dirty, numerous manufacturers offer repair kits. Experience has shown that it is more economical to install a new carburettor for a high-quality petrol mower. At this point, do-it-yourselfers reach the threshold at which it makes sense to hire a master craftsman.
Tip
Regular care effectively prevents complex repair work on the lawnmower. Clean the mower deck and blade bar after each lawn mowing to prevent wet grass from settling. Before winter, drain the fuel from the tank to prevent gum buildup during the long break.