Pulled the starter cord until your arm is sore, but your mower just refuses to fire up? It’s a frustrating weekend spoiler, and your immediate thought might be, “Right, this needs a professional service.”

The short answer is probably not - services maintain a machine when it is running and are required for maintenance/warranties to show you have been looking after your machine.

However, before you load a heavy machine into the boot of your car and head down to see us, there are three things you can check first.

1. Is there fuel (and is it the right kind)?

It sounds obvious, but double-check the tank. If there is fuel in there, ask yourself: how long has it been sitting in the tank or the jerry can?

In our humid Queensland climate, fuel goes stale quickly. If your fuel has been sitting around for more than a few weeks, it loses its volatility and absorbs moisture, which stops your engine from starting and gums up the carburetor.

  • Steve’s Top Fuel Tip: Always use standard 91 octane unleaded fuel in your mower. Many people think they are doing their mower a favour by putting premium 95 or 98 in the tank, but these small engines are specifically tuned for 91. Stick to standard unleaded, and always buy fresh fuel in small quantities. With fuel so expensive you may be tempted to opt for E10 to save money. It will not save you money as it attracts moisture and destroys the tiny internal components in small engines. It will cost you more in servicing and repairs!

2. Is the spark plug connected?

During operation, vibrations can sometimes cause the spark plug lead to wiggle loose.

  • Ensure the rubber boot/lead is pushed firmly onto the top of the spark plug.

3. Is the air filter clogged?

Your mower engine needs a precise mix of fuel and air to ignite. If the air filter is blocked with fine dust, dirt, oil, and grass clippings, the engine suffocates.

As Steve likes to say: “Trying to run a mower with a clogged filter is like trying to run a marathon with a sock in your mouth!”

What to do:

  • Open up the air filter housing.
  • If it’s a paper or foam filter coated in dry dust, give it a firm tap against a hard surface to knock the debris loose, or gently blow it out.
  • If the filter is soaked in oil or completely black with grime, it’s past its prime and probably in need of a service.

When to bring it to Tingalpa Mowers

If you’ve verified you have fresh 91 fuel, the spark plug is snapped on tight, the air filter is clean, and it still won’t start, then it’s time for the professionals.

Drop it into the workshop at Tingalpa Mowers, and our team will get it sorted, serviced, and running sweet in no time.