What usually goes wrong
Most mower problems fall into a few patterns. Knowing which one you have helps Brandon tell you what to expect when you call.
- Won’t start at all. Often fuel that sat over the winter, a spark problem, or (on riding mowers) a battery or safety switch.
- Starts, then dies. Usually fuel delivery, frequently a carburetor gummed up by old gas.
- Runs only with the choke on, or surges. Another common sign of a fuel or air supply problem.
- Smoke, knocking, or leaking. Stop running it and have it looked at.
- Cuts poorly or vibrates. Can be the blade, the deck, or something bent. Worth checking before it gets worse.
Spring and fall are the busy times
In Michigan, most mowers come out in April after five months in a cold garage, and that’s when starting problems show up. Getting a mower looked at before the grass needs cutting, or in the fall before storage, means you aren’t waiting during the rush.
If yours won’t start right now, here’s what to check first.
Routine maintenance and oil changes
Regular oil changes are one of the simplest ways to help a mower engine last. Maintenance schedules vary by engine, so check your owner’s manual for its recommended interval. If you’d rather not deal with it yourself, Brandon does small engine oil changes.
Brands
Brandon has experience working on equipment from brands including Briggs & Stratton, Kohler, Honda, Toro, Craftsman, STIHL, Cub Cadet, John Deere. If your mower is a different brand, call and ask.
Getting your mower in
Call or text (734) 400-0790 with the brand, the model if you can find it on the deck or engine, and what the mower is doing. A photo of the model sticker sent by text helps. You’ll agree on a time to drop it off.