Is Your Mower Acting Up? These Parts Might Need Replacing?

If your mower has been giving you trouble lately, maybe it’s making weird noises, not cutting evenly, or just refusing to start, you’re in the right place. Just like any machine, lawn mowers need a little TLC (tender loving care) from time to time.

The good news? As per experts at Bushranger mower parts Australia, Most mower problems are caused by just a few common parts that wear out over time. Instead of rushing to buy a new mower, you might just need to replace one or two things. Let’s take a look at the usual suspects when your mower starts acting up.

1. The Spark Plug – The Tiny Part That Causes Big Problems

What It Does:

Spark plugs are a tiny but vital component that produces the spark required to start the engine of your mower. If it’s worn, dirty out or damaged, the mower could not even start, or it may not run at all.

Signs It Needs Replacing:

• Mower will not start
• The engine sputters or is rough
• Hard to start (you need to pull the cord several times)

How to Fix It:

Replacing a sparkplug is simple and inexpensive. Just:

1. Find where the spark plug is (usually in the vicinity of the engine, and covered with the Rubber boot).
2. Disconnect the plug using the socket wrench.
3. Examine the gap in the brand new plug (your manual will inform you of the correct dimension).
4. Insert the new plug manually first, and then tighten using the wrench.

Pro Tips: Replace your spark plug every year to ensure smooth start-ups.

2. The Air Filter – Your Mower’s “Lungs”

What It Does:

The air filter is designed to keep grass clippings, dirt and dust from the engine. If it becomes blocked the mower won’t “breathe” correctly and it will run sluggishly or overheating.

Signs It Needs Replacing:

• The engine is rough, or it stalls.
• Black smoke coming from the exhaust
• Power loss

How to Fix It:

Most mowers have an air filter made of paper (replace the filter) or an air filter (clean it using soapy water and allow it to dry).

1. Locate the cover for the air filter (usually on the rear from the motor).
2. Take out the filter that was previously used.
3. If it’s paper, replace it. If it’s foam, wash dry, dry, and lightly grease it prior to placing it back.

Pro Tip: Be sure to check your air filter at least every couple of mows. This is especially important if you’re cutting grass, which is dusty.

3. The Mower Blade – Dull Blades = Ugly Lawns

What It Does:

The blade is actually cutting your lawn. If it’s bent, dull or damaged your lawn will appear uneven as well as your lawn mower may need to be more efficient.

Signs It Needs Replacing:

• The grass looks torn, but not cut cleanly
• Uneven cutting height
• Noises, vibrations or a loud sound while mow

How to Fix It:

1. Remove from the ignition plug (safety first. ).
2. Place the mower onto its side (carburetor side facing up to prevent spills of oils).
3. The blade should be removed using an axe (some are bolts and some have a nut).
4. Sharpen the blade using the help of a file, to replace it in the event that it is severely damaged.
5. Make sure it is secured (a loose blade can be dangerous. ).

Pro Tip: Sharpen your knife at least once a year to get a perfect cut.

4. The Fuel Filter – Keeps Your Engine Clean

What It Does:

The fuel filter prevents dirt and other debris from getting into the engine. If it’s blocked, fuel won’t flow as it should which can cause stalling or difficult starts.

Signs It Needs Replacing:

• The engine starts but stops.
• Power loss or sputtering
• The fuel isn’t flowing as smoothly

How to Fix It:

1. Find where the filter for fuel is (usually located in the fuel line that runs between the tank and the engine).
2. Pin to tighten the clamps, both on sides to move the filter out.
3. Replace the filter with the exact same orientation (check whether there is an arrow that marks the flow of fuel).

Pro Tips: Replace your fuel filter every year, preferably when you are using old gas.

5. The Carburetor – The Heart of Your Mower’s Engine

What It Does:

The carburetor is a device that mixes air and fuel to create combustion. As time passes, it could become blocked by old fuel or dirt, which can cause problems with performance.

Signs It Needs Cleaning/Replacing:

• Engine won’t begin or continue running
• Black smoke coming from exhaust
• Poor acceleration

How to Fix It:

1. Take out the carburetor (check your manual for the steps).
2. Clean it using the carburetor cleaner and a tiny brush.
3. If you find that cleaning isn’t working then you might need the replacement.

Pro Tip: Use fresh gasoline and a fuel stabilizer to stop problems with the carburetor.

6. The Battery (For Electric Start Mowers)

What It Does:

If your mower is equipped with an electrical start system, it’s the battery that supplies the electric power. If it’s dead, the mower will not start when you push the button.

Signs It Needs Replacing:

• There is no response when pressing the start button.
• Weak cranking sound
• The battery will not hold charge

How to Fix It:

1. Examine the battery’s terminals for signs of corrosion (clean using baking soda and water).
2. If possible, charge the battery.
3. If it’s a bit old (3or more years) you should replace it.

Pro Tip: Keep your mower’s battery in the winter months to prolong its life.

7. The Drive Belt – Keeps Self-Propelled Mowers Moving

What It Does:

The drive belt transmits force from the motor to wheels. If it’s damaged or worn out your self-propelled mower will not be able to move with ease.

Signs It Needs Replacing:

• Mower isn’t moving when it’s engaged
• Grinding or squealing sounds
• The belt appears frayed or cracked.

How to Fix It:

1. Get rid of the mower deck (check the manual).
2. Release tension and take off the belt.
3. The new belt should be installed using the same pattern.

Pro Tip: Have spare belts around in case they are more worn than you imagine.

Conclusion 

Before you give up on your mower or spend money on a new one, check these common parts first. Most replacements are easy and affordable, and they can bring your mower back to life in no time.