Getting your Husqvarna lawn mower ready for the spring and summer seasons after a long winter slumber is crucial for maintaining a pristine lawn. Proper preparation ensures a smooth start, prolongs the life of your mower, and saves you from frustrating breakdowns when you need it most. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step approach to effectively starting your Husqvarna lawn mower after winter, covering everything from essential maintenance checks to troubleshooting common starting problems.
Essential Pre-Start Maintenance Checks
Before even attempting to start your Husqvarna lawn mower, performing a thorough inspection and maintenance routine is paramount. Neglecting this step can lead to starting difficulties and potentially damage your mower’s engine. This phase focuses on the critical components that often suffer during the off-season.
Fuel System Inspection
The fuel system is often the primary culprit when a lawn mower refuses to start after winter. Gasoline can degrade over time, leaving behind varnish and residue that clog the carburetor and fuel lines.
First, carefully inspect the fuel tank. If the gasoline appears cloudy, gummy, or has a foul odor, it needs to be drained and replaced with fresh fuel. Always use the correct octane rating as specified in your Husqvarna owner’s manual.
Next, check the fuel lines for any signs of cracks, leaks, or stiffness. Brittle fuel lines can restrict fuel flow and cause starting problems. Replace any damaged fuel lines immediately. You can usually find replacement fuel lines at your local hardware store or online.
The carburetor is a delicate component that meters the fuel-air mixture. If your mower has been sitting for an extended period, the carburetor jets may be clogged with residue from old gasoline. Carburetor cleaning is often required. This might involve using a carburetor cleaner spray or, for more severe cases, disassembling the carburetor for a thorough cleaning. Consider watching a tutorial video for your specific Husqvarna model if you’re not comfortable with this task.
Oil Check and Change
The engine oil is the lifeblood of your lawn mower. Over time, oil can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and moisture, reducing its lubricating properties.
Before starting your mower, check the oil level using the dipstick. Add oil as needed to reach the “full” mark. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct type and weight of oil for your Husqvarna mower.
Ideally, you should change the oil before starting the mower after winter. This removes any contaminants that may have accumulated during storage. To change the oil, warm up the engine for a few minutes (if possible, even just pulling the cord a few times helps), then locate the oil drain plug and carefully drain the old oil into a suitable container. Replace the drain plug and refill with fresh oil. Dispose of the old oil responsibly at a recycling center.
Spark Plug Examination
The spark plug ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine cylinder. A faulty spark plug can prevent the engine from starting.
Remove the spark plug and inspect it for signs of wear, fouling, or damage. Look for cracked porcelain, excessive carbon buildup, or corroded electrodes. If the spark plug appears to be in poor condition, replace it with a new one. Use the spark plug specified in your Husqvarna owner’s manual.
Even if the spark plug looks relatively clean, it’s a good idea to clean it with a wire brush to remove any deposits. Check the spark plug gap using a feeler gauge and adjust it to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Air Filter Cleaning or Replacement
The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, leading to poor engine performance and starting problems.
Remove the air filter and inspect it for dirt and debris. If the filter is made of foam, wash it with warm, soapy water, rinse it thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it. If the filter is made of paper, gently tap it to remove loose debris. Replace the air filter if it is heavily soiled or damaged. Using a dirty or damaged air filter can significantly shorten the life of your engine.
Blade Inspection and Sharpening
While not directly related to starting the engine, inspecting and sharpening the blade is an important part of preparing your lawn mower for the season.
Disconnect the spark plug wire for safety. Inspect the blade for any signs of damage, such as cracks, bends, or excessive wear. Replace the blade if it is damaged. A damaged blade can be dangerous and can also affect the quality of your cut.
If the blade is simply dull, sharpen it using a file or a blade sharpener. A sharp blade will cut the grass cleanly and efficiently, resulting in a healthier lawn. Be sure to balance the blade after sharpening to prevent vibration.
Starting Procedure
Once you’ve completed the essential maintenance checks, you can proceed with starting your Husqvarna lawn mower. The starting procedure may vary slightly depending on the model of your mower, so always refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Priming the Engine
Most Husqvarna lawn mowers are equipped with a primer bulb, which injects a small amount of fuel directly into the carburetor to aid in starting.
Press the primer bulb several times (usually 3-5 times) before attempting to start the engine. Avoid over-priming, as this can flood the engine.
Setting the Throttle and Choke
The throttle control regulates the engine speed, and the choke controls the amount of air entering the carburetor.
For a cold start, set the throttle to the “fast” or “high” position and engage the choke. The choke restricts airflow, creating a richer fuel-air mixture that is easier to ignite in a cold engine. Once the engine starts, gradually open the choke.
Pulling the Starter Cord
Grip the starter cord handle firmly and pull it slowly and steadily until you feel resistance. Then, pull the cord sharply and smoothly. Avoid jerking the cord, as this can damage the starter mechanism.
If the engine doesn’t start after a few pulls, repeat the priming and choke procedure. If the engine still doesn’t start, proceed to the troubleshooting section.
Electric Start Models
If your Husqvarna mower has an electric start, simply turn the key or press the start button while holding down the safety bail. Make sure the battery is fully charged before attempting to start the mower. If the battery is weak, it may not provide enough power to turn the engine over.
Troubleshooting Common Starting Problems
If your Husqvarna lawn mower refuses to start after following the above steps, it’s time to troubleshoot the problem. Here are some common starting issues and their solutions:
Engine Won’t Turn Over
If the engine won’t turn over at all, the problem could be a dead battery (for electric start models), a faulty starter motor, or a seized engine.
- Check the Battery: For electric start mowers, ensure the battery is fully charged and properly connected. Try jump-starting the mower with a car battery if necessary.
- Inspect the Starter Motor: If the battery is good but the engine still won’t turn over, the starter motor may be faulty. You may need to have the starter motor tested and replaced by a qualified technician.
- Check for Seized Engine: A seized engine is a serious problem that can occur if the engine has been stored improperly or if it has run out of oil. Try turning the engine manually using a wrench on the crankshaft. If the engine is seized, it will require professional repair or replacement.
Engine Turns Over But Won’t Start
If the engine turns over but won’t start, the problem is likely related to the fuel system or the ignition system.
- Check the Fuel Supply: Make sure there is fuel in the tank and that the fuel shut-off valve (if equipped) is open.
- Inspect the Spark Plug: Remove the spark plug and check for spark. Ground the spark plug against the engine block and pull the starter cord. If you don’t see a spark, the spark plug may be faulty or there may be a problem with the ignition coil.
- Clean the Carburetor: As mentioned earlier, a clogged carburetor is a common cause of starting problems. Clean the carburetor thoroughly using carburetor cleaner or disassemble it for a more thorough cleaning.
- Check the Air Filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and prevent the engine from starting. Clean or replace the air filter as needed.
Engine Starts But Stalls Immediately
If the engine starts but stalls immediately, the problem could be related to a lean fuel mixture, a vacuum leak, or a faulty fuel pump.
- Adjust the Choke: Try adjusting the choke to see if it helps keep the engine running.
- Check for Vacuum Leaks: Inspect the intake manifold and carburetor for any signs of vacuum leaks. Vacuum leaks can cause a lean fuel mixture, which can lead to stalling.
- Inspect the Fuel Pump: If your mower has a fuel pump, check to make sure it is working properly. A faulty fuel pump may not be providing enough fuel to the engine.
Preventative Measures for Next Winter
To avoid starting problems next spring, take preventative measures when storing your Husqvarna lawn mower for the winter.
- Drain the Fuel Tank: Drain all the fuel from the tank or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading over time.
- Change the Oil: Change the oil before storing the mower to remove any contaminants.
- Remove the Spark Plug: Remove the spark plug and pour a small amount of engine oil into the cylinder. Pull the starter cord a few times to distribute the oil, then reinstall the spark plug.
- Clean the Mower: Clean the mower thoroughly to remove any grass clippings or debris.
- Store the Mower in a Dry Place: Store the mower in a dry, sheltered location to protect it from the elements.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your Husqvarna lawn mower starts easily and runs smoothly for many years to come. Regular maintenance and proper storage are essential for prolonging the life of your mower and keeping your lawn looking its best.
What should I do if my Husqvarna lawn mower won’t start after winter storage?
First, ensure you’ve completed all the basic checks: fresh fuel, a clean air filter, a properly connected spark plug, and adequate oil level. A common issue after winter is stale fuel, which can clog the carburetor. Consider using fuel stabilizer before storing your mower to prevent this or completely draining the fuel tank and carburetor before storage. If the mower still doesn’t start, try using starting fluid sparingly and follow the instructions on the can.
If starting fluid doesn’t work or if the mower sputters and dies, the problem might be more serious. Check the spark plug for spark – a faulty spark plug will prevent ignition. You might also have a clogged carburetor that requires cleaning or replacement. If you’re not comfortable performing these repairs yourself, consult a qualified mechanic to avoid damaging your mower further.
How important is it to change the oil after winter storage?
Changing the oil after winter storage is highly recommended for the longevity of your Husqvarna lawn mower engine. Over time, oil can degrade and become contaminated with moisture and debris, especially during periods of inactivity. This contaminated oil loses its lubricating properties, potentially causing increased wear and tear on engine components when you start the mower for the new season.
By changing the oil, you remove these contaminants and ensure the engine is running with fresh, clean oil. Fresh oil provides optimal lubrication, reduces friction, and helps to dissipate heat, ultimately prolonging the life of your engine. Always consult your owner’s manual for the correct oil type and viscosity for your specific Husqvarna model.
Can I use the same fuel that was left in the mower over winter?
It is generally not recommended to use fuel left in the lawn mower over the winter. Gasoline can degrade and become stale over time, losing its volatility and forming varnish or gum deposits. These deposits can clog the carburetor and fuel lines, leading to starting problems and poor engine performance.
Stale fuel can also damage engine components and reduce the efficiency of the combustion process. It’s always best to drain any remaining fuel before storing the mower for the winter. In spring, use fresh, high-quality gasoline with the correct octane rating recommended in your owner’s manual. Consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the fresh fuel to prevent future degradation.
What type of fuel stabilizer should I use?
Choose a fuel stabilizer specifically formulated for gasoline engines and designed to prevent fuel degradation during storage. There are many brands available, but look for one that claims to protect against rust, corrosion, and gum formation. Read the product label carefully to ensure it is compatible with your Husqvarna lawn mower’s engine.
When adding the fuel stabilizer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct dosage based on the amount of fuel in your tank. It’s usually best to add the stabilizer to fresh fuel rather than old fuel. Run the engine for a few minutes after adding the stabilizer to ensure it circulates throughout the fuel system.
How do I properly clean the air filter after winter storage?
First, locate the air filter compartment on your Husqvarna lawn mower. Remove the air filter carefully, noting its orientation for reinstallation. Examine the filter for dirt, debris, and damage. If it’s a paper filter, gently tap it against a hard surface to dislodge loose debris. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions on paper filters.
If your mower has a foam air filter, wash it with warm, soapy water, then rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Squeeze out any excess water and allow the filter to air dry completely before reinstalling it. If the filter is excessively dirty or damaged, replace it with a new one that matches the specifications in your owner’s manual.
Why is it important to check the spark plug?
The spark plug is a critical component for starting your Husqvarna lawn mower, as it provides the spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the cylinder. Over time, the spark plug can become fouled with carbon deposits or corroded, which can weaken or prevent the spark from occurring. This can lead to difficulty starting the engine or poor engine performance.
Before attempting to start your mower after winter storage, inspect the spark plug. If it is dirty or corroded, clean it with a wire brush or replace it with a new spark plug of the correct type. Ensure the spark plug gap is set to the manufacturer’s specification, as an incorrect gap can also prevent the engine from starting.
What should I do if I’ve tried everything and my lawn mower still won’t start?
If you’ve checked the fuel, oil, air filter, and spark plug, and your Husqvarna lawn mower still won’t start, there may be a more complex issue at play. A clogged carburetor is a common culprit, often requiring professional cleaning or replacement. Other potential problems include a faulty ignition coil, a blocked fuel line, or compression issues.
At this point, it’s generally best to consult a qualified lawn mower repair technician. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and repair more complex engine problems. Attempting to fix these issues yourself without proper knowledge could potentially damage your mower further and lead to more costly repairs.