TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem / Cause
Engine will not start
Blade switch is engaged
Steering controls are not locked in the
neutral position
Park brake is not activated
Dead battery
Contamination in the carburetor or fuel line
Fuel supply shutoff valve is closed or in the
wrong position
Clogged fuel filter or fuel line
Ignition system faulty
Starter does not turn the engine over
Dead battery
Battery terminal cable contacts are defective
Blown fuse
Fault in the starter safety circuit. See Safety
System in the Maintenance Section
Engine runs rough
Faulty carburetor
Clogged fuel filter or jet
Clogged ventilation valve on the fuel cap
Fuel tank nearly empty
Fouled spark plugs
Rich fuel mixture or fuel-air mixture.
Wrong fuel type
Water in fuel
Clogged air filter
Engine seems weak
Clogged air filter
Fouled spark plugs
Carburetor incorrectly adjusted
Air trapped in hydraulic system
Machine vibrates
Blades are loose
Blades are incorrectly balanced
Engine is loose
32
Engine overheats
Clogged air intake or cooling fins
Engine overloaded
Poor ventilation around engine
Defective engine speed regulator
Too little or no oil in the engine
Contamination in the fuel line
Fouled spark plugs
Battery not charging
Battery terminal cable contacts are defective
Charging lead is disconnected
Fault in engine charging system
Mower moves slowly, unevenly, or not at all
Park brake activated
Bypass valve on pump is open
Transmission drive belt is slack or off
Air trapped in hydraulic system
Mower deck not engaging
Drive belt for the mower deck is loose
Electromagnetic coupling contact is loose
Blade switch is faulty or loose from cable
contact
Blown fuse
Transaxle leaks oil
Damaged seals, housing, or gaskets
Air trapped in hydraulic system
Uneven mowing results
Unequal air pressures in tires
Bent blades
Suspension for the mower deck is uneven
Blades are dull
Driving speed too high
Grass is too long
Grass has collected under the mower deck