Diagnosing Power-Equipment Problems

Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-1512 -- More Projects »

Gardening by the Yard host Paul James has a long unused mower that won't start. Kris Stump, a power-equipment expert, checks it out:

Figure A

Figure B

The gas that's in it has been there for two years. Kris makes his first diagnosis: "Now it's no longer gas. It's turned to varnish."

Indeed, when Paul takes a whiff of the stuff he notices the difference. This old gasoline will cause problems for the machinery, clogging up the carburetor.

Kris checks the spark plug. If it's covered in black carbon buildup, the engine won't start.

With the spark plug showing clear evidence of carbon deposits (figure A, spark plug on right), Paul and Kris inspect the air filter and pre-filter (figure B). The buildup isn't as bad as it could have been, but the filters do show evidence of mold (the result of not having been used in two years) and need to be replaced.

Figure C

Figure D

The carburetor is dirty (figure C). Also, condensation has created a pool of water. Paul's carburetor has been exposed to enough gunk over the past two years that it's better for him to replace it altogether, but many dirty carburetors can still be used after a good cleaning.

Once the mower is back in working condition, Kris adds a stabilizer (figure D) to the new gas to help keep the fuel system clean.

Checklist for all power equipment

Regardless of whether it's a mower, blower, weed trimmer or chainsaw, they're all power equipment and the type of service they need is essentially the same. Each has a spark plug, air filter and fuel.

To maintain your machines, refer to your owner's manual and follow all safety instructions. Better yet, let the professionals handle it.

Air filters. These are dirt cheap, and replacement is easy. Any old bolts should also be replaced to prevent the machine from drawing in corrosion or rust.

It's a good idea to check your filter frequently. If you mow under dusty conditions, check it each time you take it out.

Oil. New oil is clear and amber. When it starts turning brown or black, it's time for a change. To change the oil, empty the old stuff by tipping your lawn mower (avoiding pouring fuel out of the carburetor).

Figure E

Mower blades. Maintaining sharp blades is important for keeping a healthy lawn. If mower blades are dull, they tear up the grass and leave a ragged edge that creates a perfect site for fungal diseases.

Paul is replacing his old blades, but will keep them as spares after he sharpens them (a grinder or file works).

Guests
Kris Stump
Smith Farm & Garden
Tulsa, Ok. 74145
Phone: 918-665-3364
Also in this Episode

Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-1512
•	Diagnosing Power-Equipment Problems
•	Solar Lights for the Garden
•	Hydroponics and Other Soil-Less Gardening
•	Moss, the Great Divider

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