How To Start A Lawn Mower

How To Start A Lawn Mower? (Step-By-Step Guide)

5 minutes

Starting a lawnmower is not a hard nut to crack. Basically it’s a straightforward process. You don’t need a plan but all you need is a proper guideline. 

I guess you are looking for an actual guideline to start your lawnmower. Right? No worries. I have a perfect guideline for you. 

No matter which version or which lawnmower you use. Actually most of the lawnmower has almost a similar way to start. 

That’s why in this article, I will try to give you a proper guideline on how to start a lawn mower. Trust me, you won’t need anyone to start the mower after reading this article. 

So, without wasting time, let’s start the mower. 

A complete guide to starting a lawnmower

Basically, there are different types of models and different types of lawnmower available in the market. However, push and riding mower is the most frequently used lawnmower. 

Different types of mower have little bit different starting processes. But no need to be worried. In turn, we will give you the right guideline about the starting process of each mower. Just keep reading. 

How To Start A Lawn Mower

How to start a push lawnmower

Starting a push lawn mower is not a troublesome task. However, before starting the mower, make sure that all the parts of the mower are good in condition. 

Now, follow the steps outlined below to get a flawless start. 

Steps to follow: 

Step #1: Prepare Lawn Mower For Start

Take the lawnmower into an open, even, and grassy surface. Check the spark plug is properly attached to the mower. 

Step #2: Check The Oil Level

Check the engine oil. Bring out the lid of the oil tank and wipe the dipstick with a paper towel. Insert the dipstick again in the oil tank to check the level of the engine oil. If you see scarcity of oil, then fill the tank with manufacturers recommended oil. 

Step #3: Press The Primer Button

Find out the mower’s primer button and press the button 3 or 4 times. It will help to supply the gas into the lines for starting the mower. 

Step #4: Press The Throttle Lever

Now press the throttle lever into choke position. Don’t forget to do this.

Step #5: Pull The Mower Starter Rope

It’s time to pull the mower starter rope. Briskly pull the rope twice or thrice to start the mower engine. 

When the mower will start, you will hear the motor will run roughly. It happens because the throttle lever is in the choke position. Press the throttle lever into run position. 

Step #6: Adjust Cutting Height and Engage Mower Blade

Adjust the cutting height of the mower and engage the blade as well. 

Now, your push mower is completely ready for mowing. 

How to start a riding lawnmower

Riding lawn mowers are more comfortable than the push lawnmower. But you must be careful when you start riding lawn mower because it’s a heavy machine. 

If you lose control over the mower, then it may be a cause of serious damage to yourself as well as your lawnmower. 

So, follow the steps by step process to start your riding lawnmower without facing any difficulties. 

Steps to follow:

Step #1: Prepare The Lawn Mower For Starting

Take your lawnmower into an even surface. Take your position on the seat of the mower and make sure that all the levers and pedals are close to your quick access. 

Step #2: Engage The Foot Brake

Place your left foot on the brake and press it downwards to engage it. Hold the mower brake in that position. 

Step #3: Engage The Parking Brake

Engage the mower parking brake. You will find the brake beside your seat. 

Step #4: Press The Gear

Press the gear to the neutral position. You will find the gearbox close to the steering wheel. 

Step #5: Push The Throttle Lever

Push the throttle lever into choke position. 

Step #6: Insert The Mower Key

Now, insert the starting key in the hole of the ignition switch. Turn the key and hold the key in that position for at least 10 -15 seconds. If you fail in one attempt, try it again. 

Step #7: Move The Throttle Lever Into Fast Position

When the engine will start, press the throttle lever into the fast position. The mower will gradually start to run.

Now your riding mower is fully equipped to reign over your lawn.

How to start a riding lawnmower

Recommendations

  • Clean the spark plug before starting the mower.
  • Check the fuel tank and the gas tank. If gas or fuel is needed, fill both tanks with the manufacturer’s recommended brand. 
  • Clean the air filter or replace it if the filter is dirty. 

Final thoughts

I think it’s no more a difficult task for you to start your lawnmower. No matter which lawnmower you use. Just follow the guidelines and start your mower flawlessly. 

Hopefully, from this article, you got the right guideline on how to start a lawn mower. If you have any further issues, check the battery, as you may need to jump start the lawn mower.

If you yet face any kind of difficulties, then call any technician to find out the actual issue. It may cost some of your bucks.

Now, start your mower and have fun!

Todd L Miles
Lawn Mowers Enthusiast
I started "Landscape and Lawns Care" to provide clients with lawn care with better service, better products and, most importantly, better ethics. My promise to every customer is to give the greenest grass possible while controlling weeds, insects, and diseases! The most important thing is that I strive to always do the right thing for you, your lawn and your wallet!