Friday, December 4, 2015

Common Problems with Riding Lawnmowers


Relieving your worries with the biggest lawn-handling machines you have! 
It does not really matter if you’re an industrial farmer or just a homeowner with a big property, a riding lawnmower is still probably one of your best mate in garden catering. Many times it will satisfy your every needs, but still it may have problems now and then. And, like a friend, you will want to find out what the problems are, and try to help your friend in overcoming those obstacles. This article is a basic guide for that DIY, and if it does not cover the issue you’re facing, then you should seek professional help.


1. The engine does not crank

There are many causes for this problem, but you should start from the details. It may be just some safety triggers that need switching, and all the basic requirements for cranking are catered to. Time and again, owners worry about all sorts of thing only to realize later that the parking brake was off – leading to the engine not cranking.
If all the safety features are checked, but the issue persists, you should check the battery next. The cables might be loosened due to overwork, and if that is the case, then you just need to reconnect them, and it will be alright.
Other times, the battery is dead, and you either have to recharge it, or replace it completely. When checking, be sure to not spill any battery liquid over, because the acid inside is highly dangerous to clothing pieces and human skin.
Or, the battery fuse may have blown. Again, find the fuse on the battery, and replace it with a new, suitable one.

2. The engine does not start

If your engine cranks, but does not start, then you have to deal with the problem in another way.
The first of problems may lie in fuel levels. It is quite understandable that, if there isn’t enough fuel, the engine won’t start no matter what fixes you apply. Also keep an eye out for any clogging or blockage in the fuel line, which prevents the fuel from getting to the engine.
The next problem is usually at throttle configurations. Manufacturers have different sets of standard configuration, so you will need to check for accurate information before actually changing it.
Next to that is problems in the spark plug. The spark plug ignites fuel and start the engine, so if it is blown, then even if there is abundant fuel, the engine just will not fire off.

3. The engine is smoking

This problem most likely results from excessive oil. When there is too much oil in the tank, it easily spills out and get burnt, emitting a lot of smoke.
However, if the problem is not too much oil, then you should worry a bit more. You should then check the crankcase vacuum pressure. Usually, a defect part in the crankcase is the reason, and that part should be replaced promptly so as not to cause further damages.
After that, test start your engine and recheck the pressure again to be sure.

4. The engine vibrates too much

This means either an issue in the engine itself, or in the blades, pulleys and spindles.
If you find that the blades are bent, or the pulleys are out of place, quickly turn off the machine, replace if needed, and put them back in proper position. Sometimes it’s the belt, other times it’s the wheels, so you need to check as thoroughly as you can. Even some missing bolts can make the engine vibrates vigorously, and this problem if persists can lead to serious consequences.

End Notes

Again, I would like to emphasize that this is only a basic guideline for the most simple of riding mower problems. If it does not help you, or if you think that this is not quite adequate enough for you to get your hands dirty, a professional mechanic is always recommended. Wish you best of luck with your lawn caring!