Frequently Asked Questions
Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before using your lawn mower. Wear appropriate clothing, including closed-toe shoes, long pants, and eye protection. Before mowing, clear the lawn of debris, stones, and toys to prevent projectiles. Never insert hands or feet near the cutting blade, even when the mower is turned off. Ensure the mower is off and the spark plug is disconnected before performing any maintenance.
If your lawn mower has tipped over, the oil may have flooded the engine or the carburetor. First, set it upright and check for any leaks or damage. Let it sit for a while so the oil can settle back down. Check your air filter; if it’s soaked in oil, replace it. Before attempting to start the mower again, remove the spark plug and clear any excess oil from the cylinder. Always refer to the user manual for specific troubleshooting after a mower has tipped over.
While universal blades are available, it’s important to ensure that they are compatible with your mower’s model and the blade’s length, width, and center hole match your mower’s specifications. Using the wrong blade can lead to poor cutting performance, potential damage to the mower, or unsafe operating conditions. Always check the mower’s manual for blade specifications or consult with a professional.
Long-term storage can cause several issues. The fuel may have degraded, which can gum up the carburetor. The battery, if your mower has one, may have lost its charge. Check if the fuel needs to be replaced with fresh gas and consider adding a fuel stabilizer. For the battery, try charging it. If it still doesn’t start, the spark plug or air filter may need to be checked or replaced.
First, ensure the mower is off and the spark plug is disconnected to prevent accidental starts. Use a putty knife or similar tool to scrape away clumped grass from the underside of the mower deck. To prevent future jamming, mow when the grass is dry and ensure the mower blade is sharp, as dull blades can cause grass to accumulate more easily. After cleaning, consider spraying a silicone-based spray under the deck to help prevent buildup.
A rattling noise from the engine could indicate loose parts or debris trapped inside the engine casing. Check for any loose screws, bolts, or other components that may need tightening. It might also be a sign of a more serious issue, such as a loose blade or engine component that requires immediate attention. If tightening external parts doesn’t resolve the rattling, it’s advisable to have a professional inspect the mower.
The frequency of mowing should be based on the growth rate of your grass, which is influenced by the season, weather conditions, and the type of grass you have. A general rule is the “one-third” rule: never remove more than one-third of the grass blade length in a single mowing. For many lawns, this will mean mowing approximately once a week during the growing season and less frequently when growth slows down.
The optimal grass height depends on the type of grass you have, but generally, most grass types benefit from being kept at around 2.5 to 3 inches tall. Keeping grass at its ideal height helps maintain lawn health, encourages deeper root growth, and prevents weeds. Adjust your mower blade to the height that is appropriate for your grass type, and remember to mow more frequently if the grass is actively growing to adhere to the one-third rule.
