Maintaining a lawn mower, especially a high-quality brand like Ariens, ensures that your lawn stays well-kept and your outdoor space looks pristine. However, when your Ariens mower refuses to start, it can be frustrating and leave you wondering where to begin the troubleshooting process. Fortunately, many common causes for a lawn mower not starting are simple to identify and fix. This article will guide you through the possible reasons, solutions, and maintenance tips to keep your Ariens mower running smoothly all season long.
Common Reasons for Starting Issues
A variety of factors can prevent your Ariens lawn mower from starting. Below are some of the most common culprits.
Lack of Fuel
If your mower won’t start, it’s important to first check the fuel tank. This may seem obvious, but sometimes the simplest solutions are overlooked. If the mower’s fuel tank is empty, it obviously won’t start. Ensure that there’s enough fresh fuel in the tank. It’s always best to use fresh fuel, as gasoline can degrade over time and cause starting issues. Stale fuel may also damage the fuel system and other engine components.
Old Fuel
Even if you’ve filled your tank recently, old fuel can be a major problem. Gasoline left in a mower’s tank or fuel lines for months will degrade, causing difficulty starting the mower. The presence of old fuel may clog the carburetor, leaving you with starting issues. This is especially true if your mower was stored during the winter months with fuel in the system.
Clogged Fuel Lines
Fuel lines can become clogged over time due to debris or the breakdown of old fuel. A clogged fuel line restricts the flow of fuel from the tank to the carburetor, preventing the engine from receiving the fuel it needs to run. Check the fuel lines for any visible blockages, cracks, or wear.
Dirty Carburetor
The carburetor is responsible for mixing the air and fuel in the correct ratio for the engine to function. If your mower has not been started in a while, the carburetor may have become clogged with fuel residue or dirt, preventing the engine from starting. A dirty carburetor can also be a problem if the fuel system has not been cleaned for a long time. In some cases, cleaning the carburetor can restore functionality to your mower.
Faulty Spark Plug
The spark plug ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber. If the spark plug is worn out or damaged, it may not create a spark, causing the mower not to start. Over time, spark plugs can collect carbon deposits or become corroded. If your mower is cranking but not starting, it’s worth inspecting the spark plug.
Bad Battery
A bad or weak battery is a common reason why your Ariens mower won’t start, especially if you have a battery-powered model. If the battery isn’t charged or it has died, the mower won’t have the power it needs to start. Additionally, check the battery connections for corrosion or looseness, which may prevent the mower from starting properly.
Ignition Switch Problems
Sometimes the issue isn’t with the engine but with the ignition system. The ignition switch, solenoid, or safety switch may be malfunctioning, preventing the mower from starting. If the ignition switch is faulty, it may not send the signal to the engine to start. Inspect the wiring and connections related to the ignition system to ensure they are intact.
Fuel System Check
The fuel system is crucial to your mower’s functionality. Here’s how to ensure the fuel system is in good condition.
Inspect Fuel Tank and Fuel Level
First, check the fuel tank to make sure it has enough fresh gasoline. Old fuel should be drained and replaced with fresh fuel to avoid clogging the fuel system.
Check for Fuel Line Blockages
Look at the fuel lines for any visible blockages or cracks. If the lines are damaged or obstructed, replace or clear them out. Clear fuel lines allow gasoline to flow freely to the carburetor.
Clean the Carburetor
If you suspect the carburetor is dirty, you can clean it by removing the air filter and carburetor cover. Then, spray carburetor cleaner into the carburetor and allow it to soak. Remove any dirt or debris with a soft brush and reassemble the mower. Cleaning the carburetor can often resolve starting issues related to fuel delivery.
Spark Plug Inspection
A worn or damaged spark plug is a common cause of starting problems. Here’s how to inspect the spark plug:
Locate the Spark Plug: The spark plug is typically located on the engine. You may need to remove a few components, like the air filter, to access it.
Remove the Spark Plug: Use a spark plug wrench to loosen the plug.
Inspect the Spark Plug: Look for signs of wear such as rust, damage, or heavy carbon buildup. If the spark plug is dirty or damaged, it needs to be cleaned or replaced.
Replace the Spark Plug: If the spark plug is too worn, replace it with a new one. A clean, new spark plug will create a strong spark for ignition.
Battery and Electrical Issues
If your mower is battery-powered or features an electric start, electrical issues may be the culprit.
Check the Battery
If your mower is not starting, begin by checking the battery. Ensure that it’s fully charged. If the battery seems weak or dead, recharge it or replace it if necessary. It’s a good idea to invest in a trickle charger if you don’t use your mower frequently.
Inspect Battery Connections
Next, check the battery terminals for corrosion. Corrosion can create a poor connection, preventing your mower from starting. Clean the terminals with a wire brush and reattach the battery cables securely.
Test the Ignition Switch
If the battery and connections are in good condition, the ignition switch could be malfunctioning. To test it, use a multimeter to check for continuity across the switch. If there’s no continuity, replace the ignition switch.
Air Filter Maintenance
A clogged or dirty air filter can prevent your mower from starting by restricting airflow to the engine. Here’s how to maintain your air filter:
Locate the Air Filter: The air filter is typically found under the cover near the engine.
Inspect the Filter: If the air filter is clogged with dirt or debris, it may need to be cleaned or replaced.
Clean or Replace the Filter: If the filter is reusable, wash it with soap and water, then allow it to dry completely. If the filter is too dirty to clean or is damaged, replace it with a new one.
Starter Recoil and Ignition Coil
If your mower still won’t start, the problem could lie with the starter recoil or ignition coil. Here’s how to check these components:
Check the Starter Recoil
The starter recoil mechanism is what helps pull the engine over during starting. If it is broken, the engine may not start. Check for signs of wear or damage, and replace the recoil if necessary.
Inspect the Ignition Coil
The ignition coil is responsible for sending electricity to the spark plug to create a spark. If the coil is faulty, the spark plug won’t fire, and the engine won’t start. Use a multimeter to check the ignition coil’s resistance and replace it if it’s not functioning correctly.
Professional Help
If you’ve gone through the troubleshooting steps and your mower still won’t start, it might be time to call in a professional. Sometimes, persistent starting issues can be caused by more complex problems, such as a malfunctioning engine or a serious electrical fault. If your mower is making unusual noises or performing inconsistently, seeking professional help can save you time and effort.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
To prevent starting issues in the future, regular maintenance is key. Here are some tips to keep your Ariens mower in top shape:
Seasonal Tune-ups
Before each mowing season, perform a thorough tune-up. This includes changing the oil, replacing the spark plug, cleaning the air filter, and inspecting the fuel system.
Clean Components Regularly
After each use, clean the mower’s components, including the deck, fuel system, and air filter, to prevent debris buildup.
Replace Essential Parts
Over time, parts such as the air filter, spark plug, and fuel filter will wear out. Replace these parts as needed to ensure your mower continues to run smoothly.
Conclusion
Ariens lawn mowers are reliable and efficient, but they can experience starting issues from time to time. By understanding the common reasons for starting problems and knowing how to troubleshoot them, you can get your mower up and running again quickly. Regular maintenance, such as checking the fuel system, inspecting the spark plug, and cleaning the air filter, will help prevent future issues and keep your mower in great condition for years to come. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult a professional for assistance.
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