Have you ever been out mowing your lawn when your lawn mower suddenly starts sputtering, jerking, and won’t run smoothly? It’s an all-too-common problem that can leave any homeowner feeling stuck and frustrated.
But, don’t worry! In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of potential causes of lawn mower sputtering and how to diagnose and fix the issue so your lawn mower can be running smoothly again.
Short Answer
A sputtering lawn mower is likely caused by a lack of fuel or a dirty air filter.
It could also be caused by a spark plug with a weak spark, or a problem with the carburetor.
If the fuel is fresh and the air filter is clean, then it is recommended to check the spark plug and carburetor for any potential issues.
Causes of Lawn Mower Sputtering
When a lawn mower is sputtering, it is typically caused by a lack of fuel reaching the engine.
This can be due to a multitude of different reasons, ranging from a dirty air filter to a faulty spark plug.
In order to identify the cause of the sputtering, it is important to check the air filter, fuel line, spark plug, and oil levels of the lawn mower.
A dirty air filter can be a major cause of sputtering.
A dirty air filter prevents the engine from receiving enough air, which can cause it to sputter.
To prevent this from occurring, it is important to regularly clean the air filter and replace it when necessary.
A clogged fuel line can also cause the lawn mower to sputter.
This can occur when the fuel line is blocked or when the fuel filter is dirty.
To check for a clogged fuel line, remove the fuel line and inspect it for any blockages or debris.
If the fuel line is clogged, it should be cleaned or replaced.
A faulty spark plug can also be the cause of sputtering.
A faulty spark plug will not ignite the fuel properly, causing the engine to sputter.
To check for a faulty spark plug, remove it and inspect it for any visible signs of damage.
If the spark plug is damaged, it should be replaced.
Finally, a low level of oil in the engine can cause the lawn mower to sputter.
If the oil level is low, the engine will not be able to lubricate itself properly, which can lead to sputtering.
To check the oil level, remove the dipstick and inspect it for any visible signs of oil.
If the oil level is low, it should be topped up.
By checking the air filter, fuel line, spark plug, and oil levels of your lawn mower, you can identify the cause of the sputtering and make the necessary repairs or replacements.
Once the issue has been resolved, the lawn mower should run smoothly again.
Air Filter Check
One of the most common causes of a sputtering lawn mower is a dirty air filter.
When the air filter is clogged or dirty, it reduces the amount of air that can enter the engine, leading to an inadequate fuel/air mixture.
The air filter is designed to capture dirt and debris from the air before it enters the engine, ensuring that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently.
In order to prevent the air filter from becoming clogged, it should be checked and cleaned or replaced on a regular basis.
To check the air filter, remove the air filter cover and take out the air filter.
Visually inspect the air filter for any dirt, debris, or blockages that may be restricting air flow.
If the air filter is excessively dirty, it should be replaced with a new one.
Otherwise, you can use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt or debris that may be blocking the air flow.
Once the air filter is clean and free of any blockages, the cover can be replaced and the lawn mower should be ready to start up again.
Fuel Line Check
A sputtering lawn mower can be the result of a clogged fuel line, making it difficult for fuel to reach the engine.
To check the fuel line, first turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent the engine from starting.
Remove the fuel line from the carburetor and check for any blockages or kinks.
If there are any obstructions, replace the fuel line as soon as possible.
If the fuel line is not blocked, use a clean cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris and then reconnect the fuel line to the carburetor.
Make sure that the fuel line is securely connected and free from any leaks.
After the fuel line has been checked and any necessary repairs made, the mower should start up and run smoothly.
Spark Plug Check
When it comes to identifying the cause of a sputtering lawn mower, checking the spark plug should be a top priority.
If the spark plug is not working properly, the engine will not be able to ignite the fuel and generate power.
To check the spark plug, you will need to remove it from the engine and inspect it.
The spark plug should be clean and have a gap of 0.
025 to 0.
030 inches between the electrodes.
If it is dirty, corroded, or has a gap that is too large or too small, then it will need to be replaced.
You can test the spark plug by using a spark tester, which is a device that is designed to measure the spark generated by the plug.
If the spark tester does not show a spark, then the plug needs to be replaced.
It is also important to check the spark plug wire for any signs of damage or wear.
If the wire is frayed or cracked, then it will need to be replaced.
Once you have inspected and/or replaced the spark plug and spark plug wire, you should reinstall them into the engine and test the mower to see if the sputtering has stopped.
If not, then you will need to move on to the next step in the troubleshooting process.
Oil Level Check
When it comes to diagnosing why your lawn mower is sputtering, one of the first things you should check is the oil level.
If the oil is too low, it can cause the engine to run poorly and even seize up, leading to sputtering.
To check the oil level, you will need to locate the dipstick on your lawn mower.
This is typically located near the carburetor or air filter.
Once you locate the dipstick, remove it and wipe it off with a cloth or paper towel.
Reinsert the dipstick and then withdraw it again to check the oil level.
If the oil level is below the full mark, you will need to add oil to your lawn mower.
Make sure to use the type of oil and grade specified in your lawn mowers owners manual.
Once you have added the oil, check the oil level again to make sure it is at the full mark.
If the oil level is correct, you should move on to the next diagnostic step.
Making Repairs or Replacements
Making repairs or replacements to get your lawn mower running again can be an intimidating prospect, but it doesn’t have to be.
By understanding the possible causes of sputtering and taking the necessary steps to address them, you can get your lawn mower up and running again in no time.
The first step is to identify the cause of the sputtering.
The most common causes are a dirty air filter, a clogged fuel line, a faulty spark plug, or a low level of oil in the engine.
Once you have identified the cause, you can then take the appropriate action.
If the problem is a dirty air filter, the best solution is to replace it with a new one.
This is a relatively simple and inexpensive task that can be done quickly.
If the issue is a clogged fuel line, you will need to clean it out.
This can be done with a vacuum cleaner or a special fuel line cleaner.
If the spark plug is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
Finally, if the oil levels are low, you will need to add more oil to the engine.
Once the necessary repairs or replacements have been made, you should be able to get your lawn mower running smoothly again.
It is important to remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when making any repairs or replacements, as this will ensure that the problem is properly addressed and that your lawn mower will continue to run efficiently.
Lawn Mower Running Smoothly Again
Once the cause of the sputtering has been identified and addressed, it is time to get the lawn mower running smoothly again.
First, check to make sure the air filter is clean.
A dirty air filter can impede the flow of air to the engine and cause the mower to sputter.
If the air filter is clogged, replace it with a new one.
Next, inspect the fuel line.
If the fuel line is clogged, it will not be able to deliver enough fuel to the engine, causing the mower to sputter.
Be sure to clean or replace the fuel line as needed.
The spark plug is also important when it comes to getting the mower running smoothly again.
A faulty or worn spark plug can cause the mower to misfire or sputter.
Replace the spark plug as needed with a new one.
The last step is to check the oil levels.
If the oil is low, it can cause the engine to overheat and sputter.
Make sure to check the oil and add more if needed.
Once all of these steps have been taken, the lawn mower should be running smoothly again.
Be sure to periodically check all of the components mentioned above to ensure that the mower is running at its best.
Final Thoughts
A sputtering lawn mower can be a frustrating problem to deal with, but it doesn’t have to be.
By taking the time to check the air filter, fuel line, spark plug, and oil levels of your mower, you can identify and address the cause of the sputtering, and get your lawn mower running smoothly again.
So don’t let a sputtering lawn mower slow you down – take the time to check the components of your mower, and get your lawn looking great again!