How do you start a gas lawn mower?

Starting a gas lawn mower requires following some basic steps to get the engine going. With some preparation and knowledge of how to operate the mower, you can easily start it up and get to mowing your lawn. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly start a gas lawn mower.

Steps to Start a Gas Lawn Mower

Follow these steps to start up your gas lawn mower:

1. Check the oil – Before starting the mower, check the oil level and add more if needed. The oil level should be at the “Full” line on the dipstick.
2. Check the gas – Make sure there is fresh gas in the gas tank. Old gas or an empty tank will make it hard to start the engine.
3. Prime the engine – Locate the primer bulb on the engine and press it 2-3 times. This will pump gas into the carburetor and help the engine start up easier.
4. Engage the choke – Pull out the choke control knob or lever. This provides a richer air-fuel mixture to start a cold engine.
5. Check the blades – Make sure the mower blades are clear of grass clippings and debris which can obstruct them.
6. Turn on the ignition – Rotate the key or push the button to turn on the mower’s ignition. Do not start the engine yet.
7. Pull the starter cord – Grasp the starter cord handle and pull it out slowly until resistance is felt. Let it retract slowly. Then pull the cord rapidly and strongly to start the engine.
8. Wait for engine to warm up – Let the engine run for a few minutes to warm up before disengaging the choke.
9. Disengage the choke – Once warmed up, slowly push the choke knob back in to disengage it and let the engine run normally.
10. Adjust throttle – Move the throttle control out of the “Start” position to the normal operating range.
11. You’re ready to mow! – With the engine started and warmed up, you can now start using your lawn mower to cut grass.

Safety Tips

When starting and operating your gas mower, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Wear closed-toe shoes and eye protection.
• Make sure hands and feet are clear of moving parts.
• Do not tip the mower up when starting it.
• Start it in a clear area away from bystanders.
• Keep children and pets away from the mowing area.
• Shut off the engine before refueling.
• Let the engine cool before storing it indoors.

Troubleshooting Issues

If your mower won’t start, here are some things to check:

Issue	Solution
Engine won’t turn over	Battery may be dead. Recharge or replace battery.
Engine turns over but won’t start	There may be no fuel. Add fresh gas to the tank.
	The spark plug may be faulty. Replace the spark plug.
	The air filter could be dirty. Clean or replace the air filter.
Engine starts but dies shortly after	The choke may still be on. Make sure to disengage the choke.
	The carburetor may be clogged. Clean out the carburetor.

If the engine still won’t start after checking these issues, it’s best to take the lawn mower to an authorized service center for repair.

Maintaining Your Gas Lawn Mower

To keep your mower running smoothly:

• Check the oil regularly and top it off when needed.
• Replace the oil after 25 hours of operation.
• Replace the spark plug once a year.
• Replace the air filter as needed or every 100 hours.
• Sharpen or replace mower blades at least once a year.
• Drain old gas and add fresh gas before storing.
• Cover and store mower in a clean, dry area.

Choosing a Gas Lawn Mower

When shopping for a new gas mower, look for one with:

• An engine size that suits your lawn’s square footage. Smaller yards can use 190-300 cc engines. Larger yards often need 350 cc or more.
• Easy-start technology like SmartChoke to help start the engine.
• Side or rear discharge to better direct grass clippings.
• Wide, smooth-rolling wheels that are easy to maneuver.
• Height adjustment ability to cut grass from 1-4 inches tall.
• Comfort features like padded grips, easy controls, and an ergonomic handle.

Popular gas mower brands include Craftsman, Toro, Troy-Bilt, Honda, and John Deere. Compare features, engine types, prices and warranties when choosing the best gas lawn mower for your needs.

Self-Propelled vs Push Mowers

Self-propelled mowers have a drivetrain that powers the wheels to make pushing easier on flat lawns. Push mowers need to be pushed manually. Consider your strength, mobility, and lawn terrain when deciding between self-propelled and push mowers.

Walk-Behind vs Riding Mowers

For small to mid-size yards under 1/2 acre, a walk-behind gas mower is typically best. Riding mowers are ideal for larger yards, but are more expensive. Make sure to compare cutting deck sizes – wider decks can mow more grass in fewer passes.

Electric and Cordless Lawn Mowers

Gas isn’t your only option when shopping for lawn mowers. Electric and battery-powered cordless mowers are also popular choices.

Electric Mowers

Electric mowers plug into an outlet and typically have a 100-150 foot power cord. They are quiet, low maintenance, and better for small yards. Just be sure your lawn has accessible outlets to plug into.

Cordless Mowers

Cordless mowers run on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and offer about 30-45 minutes of mowing per charge. They are convenient with no cords, but batteries can fade over time. Cordless mowers work best for smaller lawns under 1/4 acre.

Using Alternatives to Gasoline

Many mowers today can run on gasoline alternatives like:

• Propane – Propane fuel produces lower emissions and can cost less than gas.
• Natural gas – Using a natural gas mower reduces emissions and noise.
• Ethanol/E85 – E85 fuel is a gasoline-ethanol blend made from renewable sources.
• Biodiesel – Biodiesel can be made from vegetable oils and other renewable sources.

Check your mower manual to see if using alternative fuels like these are approved for the engine.

Safety Gear for Mowing

Be sure to wear appropriate safety gear when operating your lawn mower:

Eye Protection

Wear protective glasses or goggles to prevent eye injuries from debris thrown up by the blades.

Ear Protection

Use earplugs or muffs rated for at least 20 dB noise reduction to protect your hearing from the mower noise.

Closed-Toe Shoes

Wear sturdy shoes or boots while mowing to protect your feet from sharp objects on the ground.

Long Pants

Wear long pants to shield your legs from small sticks, grass clippings and hot exhaust.

Work Gloves

Good fitting gloves improve your grip on the mower controls and help avoid blisters.

Lawn Mower Features to Consider

With many types of mowers available, think about which features will best suit your needs:

Cutting Width

The wider the cutting deck, the more grass it can mow in a single pass. Look for a deck approximately 2-3 feet wide for average lawns.

Cutting Height

Adjustable cutting height settings let you cut grass from 1-4 inches high. Lower heights provide a cleaner cut.

Mulching vs Bagging

Mulching blades recycle grass clippings into the lawn. Bagging collects them for composting. Consider your needs and preferences.

Fuel Type

Choose from gas, electric corded, electric cordless, or alternative fuels. Factor in your yard size and fuel availability.

Drive System

Self-propelled models make moving uphill easier. Push mowers require more upper body strength to operate.

Ergonomic Controls

Look for easy-to-reach controls, adjustable handles, intuitive speed settings, and vibration dampening.

Maintenance Features

Some mowers have maintenance reminders, wash ports, and zero-turn steering for easier upkeep.

Regular Lawn Mower Maintenance

To maximize your gas mower’s lifespan, perform regular maintenance including:

Change Oil

Replace mower oil after the first 5-8 hours of use, then every 25 hours afterwards. Use fresh SAE 30 motor oil.

Check Air Filter

Inspect the air filter monthly and clean or replace it when dirty. Clogged air filters cause poor engine performance.

Sharpen Blades

Sharpen blades at least once per year, or more if mowing thick grass. Dull blades tear grass rather than cutting cleanly.

Inspect Spark Plug

Every 100 hours or seasonally, check that the spark plug is clean and the electrode gap is adjusted properly.

Clean Undercarriage

Clear grass buildup under the mower deck to prevent clogs and allow proper air circulation.

Check Tires

Make sure tires are inflated properly and free of damage. Good tire condition improves maneuverability.

Lubricate Wheels

Apply a lubricant such as WD-40 to mower wheel axles every 25 hours of use to prevent rusting.

Safety Tips for Using Lawn Mowers

Follow these important safety precautions when using your gas lawn mower:

• Wear closed toe shoes and eye/ear protection.
• Clear the mowing area of debris before starting.
• Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
• Never tip the mower to access the underside when engine is running.
• Don’t mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
• Shut off the engine before refueling or making adjustments.
• Never allow children or others in the mowing area.
• Mow up and down slopes, not side to side.
• Watch for hidden objects that could be thrown by blades.
• Stop engine and disconnect spark plug before cleaning blockages or servicing.

Signs Your Lawn Mower Needs Service

Here are indications your mower may require repair by an authorized service provider:

• Difficult starting or runs roughly
• Increased vibration or unusual noises
• Visible fuel or oil leaks
• Smoking or burning smell during use
• Cutting unevenly or poor cutting performance
• Dull mower blades
• Bent or damaged blades
• Worn tires, steering problems
• Mower tracks left or right while in use
• Cutting deck or hardware damage

Addressing issues promptly can often prevent bigger problems down the road. Follow recommended maintenance schedules and operating procedures to extend your mower’s lifespan.

Environmental Impact of Gas Mowers

While gas mowers provide the power needed for larger yards, they do come with some environmental concerns:

• Gas mowers produce air pollution from engine emissions.
• They generate noise pollution which disturbs wildlife and neighbors.
• Gasoline and oil can contaminate groundwater if spilled or disposed of improperly.
• Gas mowers utilize non-renewable fossil fuels.

You can reduce the environmental impact by:

• Choosing low-emission mowers certified by EPA or CARB.
• Using ethanol-blended fuel to reduce emissions.
• Checking and repairing engine problems promptly.
• Disposing of hazardous fluids properly.
• Converting to electric, solar, or manual lawn tools when feasible.

Conclusion

Starting and operating a gas lawn mower is straightforward with some basic guidance. Make sure to check fluid levels, prime the engine, engage the choke and pull the starter cord firmly. Allow the engine to warm up before adjusting the choke and throttle. Keep the mower maintained and always follow safety precautions. Wear protective gear and watch for debris when mowing. With proper use and care, your gas mower will provide years of reliable service.