If your lawn mower is not working like it used to, this means that there is something wrong. Since this is powered by electricity or gas, chances are there is source of the problem is the motor. Here are some steps to help you assess what is wrong and then fix the problem.
First, before you get yourself
down and dirty, put on some gloves and wear some eye protection. You don�t want
anything to get on your hands or eye so it is better to be safe than sorry.
Next, disconnect the spark plug
so the engine will not accidentally start on its own when you are trying to
find out what is wrong.
Before you take apart the motor,
examine the spark plug because the problem could be right there in your hand.
Spark plugs will conk out due to wear and tear. If this is the case, you simply
have to buy a new one and then replace it. Should the lawn mower start and work
like it used to then your problem has been resolved.
If that didn�t work, examine the
ignition system. The best way to check is by touching the end of the spark plug
with a grounded piece of metal. If there is a spark, then this is not the
problem.
Sometimes there is already wear
in the wiring and this is what causes the problem. If this is the case, you
better bring it to the service center rather than working on it yourself.
The carburetor just like in a car
is the number one cause of engine trouble. To make your lawn mower work again,
all you have to do is clean it especially if this is covered with gunk. You can
clean it using some water and leaving it to dry. Another option is to run a
wire through it especially in those hard to reach places.
If the situation has not
improved, you better check on the fuel tank and gas lines. Should there be a
clog, try using either a thin wire or a light brush. It is also possible that
using some push primer will do the trick as this helps create the right air fuel
mix for the motor.
The problem may also originate
from your intake and exhaust valves. This can happen if you don�t change the
oil regularly. Unlike the other parts, you can�t clean it and put it back where
it is located. You have to buy new ones and although this will cost you some
money, it is still cheaper than buying a new lawn mower.
One part in the lawn mower which
is not that significant is the spark arrestor. This part is commonly found in
outdoor motors and sometimes it catches sparks. This should also be cleaned
because if no action is taken, your lawn mower could catch fire and the best
way to do that is with a wire brush.
The lawn mower is made up of many
small parts and if you do not take care of it properly, it may conk out on you
when you least expect it. To prevent that from happening, do some preventive
maintenance work every three or six months. If there is a problem and you don�t
know what to do, better get help rather than making things worse.
Article by: Clem C, Benton, Jr.
http://www.12path.com/cb/Clem/