Preparation
Starting a lawn mower correctly is an important part of lawn care and maintenance. Before you begin, you need to make sure the lawn mower is prepared for use. This will include:
- Checking the gas tank
- Checking the oil levels
- Checking the spark plugs
Doing this essential preparation will ensure that your Troy Bilt lawn mower is in proper working order and will prevent any potential breakdowns.
Read the manual
Before you start for the first time, it is important to read the owner’s manual thoroughly. You should become familiar with the controls and safety features on your lawn mower. You will also need to check that all nuts and bolts are tight and that all belts, hoses, and cables are securely fastened.
To start your Troy-Bilt lawn mower, first turn the ignition switch “off”. Ensure that no one is around by yourself before starting the mower. Then pull up on the bail handle located on top of the lawn mower engine several times until you feel resistance before pushing it down to engage the choke lever. This will open up both airway systems needed for starting a cold engine.
After engaging the choke lever, proceed to push in on primer knob several quick times which helps add fuel into special chambers in order for more quickly firing of spark plug when key has been turned.
Next turn key forward to “start” position which will begin starting process of your engine. If engine does not fire after multiple attempts, be sure to check for proper amount of gasoline and oil levels; correct fuel-oil ratio might need adjusting as well. Other issue may simply be dead or improperly connected battery if electric starter is involved. Be sure double check connections or replace before restarting process.
Check the oil level
Before beginning any work on your Troy-Bilt lawn mower, it is important to check the oil level. Low or excessive levels of oil can cause damage to the engine if the machine is operated.
To check the oil level:
- Locate the dipstick on your Troy-Bilt lawn mower.
- Clean off any dirt or debris that has built up around it and on the dipstick using a clean cloth.
- Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth, then reinsert it into its slot.
- Remove the dipstick and examine it against a light source to read its markings.
- Compare the oil level on your dipstick to those indicated on its body – “low” and “full”. If necessary, add more engine oil as indicated by manufacturer’s guidelines in your owner’s manual.
- Add engine oil slowly using an appropriate funnel so as not to overfill and cause damage to internal components.
Check the fuel level
Before attempting to start your Troy-Bilt lawn mower, make sure that the fuel tank is correctly filled with the recommended type and amount of gasoline. You will see two or three lines on the tank – one for maximum capacity, one for minimum and sometimes one for a recommended level. Be sure to use the unleaded gasoline type indicated on your user’s manual and do not fill above the full line.
When finished, tighten the cap securely over the vent tube and wipe away any spilled gasoline with a clean rag.
Starting the Mower
Starting a Troy-Bilt mower can be a bit tricky, but with the right steps, you will be able to get your mower running in no time. Before you begin, make sure your mower is in good condition, has enough fuel in the tank, and all safety precautions are taken.
Now, let’s get started and discuss how to start a Troy-Bilt mower:
Insert the key
Start your Troy-Bilt lawn mower by beginning with the basic safety and preparation steps.
- Make sure the area around the equipment is clean and clear of debris, and check that the blade brake lever is engaged, so the blade will not turn once you start your engine.
- Once you have checked all safety procedures, locate the ignition key port, insert the key and turn it clockwise to start. If your engine does not start immediately with a single push of the key, then you may need to hold it a bit longer or try pushing it down again.
- Be sure to keep an eye out for any potential warning signs such as loud noises or smoke coming from beneath the mower’s hood. If these signs appear, it’s important to shut off the engine immediately and investigate what may be wrong before continuing.
Turn the key to start
To start the mower, begin by making sure the fuel cap is secure and that the gas tank is filled with fresh gasoline. Next, check that the oil level is correct before proceeding.
Next, move the throttle control to “slow” and grip the handles on both sides of the mower securely. Move the blade control lever to “off” and turn the key switch to “on” position then press in on the primer two times. Turn key switch to “start” position and hold momentarily until engine starts. Release key down to “run” position and allow engine to warm up for a few minutes. Lastly, push blade control lever out to engage blades when ready to use.
Push the primer button
In order to start the lawnmower, one must first locate the primer button. This is usually situated near the on/off switch. Once it has been identified, press and hold the primer button a few times in order to prime the engine. Each push briefly adds fuel to the carburetor which helps warm up the engine and ensure a smoother startup.
After priming, move to step two: Pull Start.
Troubleshooting
When starting a Troy-Bilt lawn mower, the most common problem is that the engine won’t turn over. Other issues include the engine turning over but not starting, the engine not responding to the pull cord and the mower not getting sufficient gas.
Troubleshooting these common issues can help you get your Troy-Bilt lawn mower up and running as soon as possible:
- Engine won’t turn over
- Engine turns over but won’t start
- Engine not responding to pull cord
- Mower not getting sufficient gas
Check the spark plug
The spark plug is a relatively simple component in the ignition system of your Troy-Bilt lawn mower and an essential part in starting the engine. If your Troy-Bilt lawn mower is not starting, it’s important to check that the spark plug is in good working condition before you attempt any other troubleshooting.
To begin, locate the spark plug on your Troy-Bilt lawn mower and disconnect the high tension lead (spark plug wire) from it. Make sure you are wearing protective gloves when handling the plug due to any potential electric shock hazard.
Next, use a standard spark plug wrench to carefully remove the spark plug from its housing. Check for any signs of corrosion, rust or other dirt buildup on the tip of the spark plug and also check that it’s secured to its lead without any breaks or gaps. If there is any buildup present, lightly tap out with a pin punch or screwdriver tip and clean off with a wire brush or abrasive pad until you have regained some clean metal surface area on the tip of the spark plug before inserting back into its housing. Also make sure all areas around where you will be working have been appropriately covered as some sparks may occur during this process.
Finally, attach back onto its lead and reconnect to your Troy-Bilt Lawn Mower’s ignition system. Once this has been completed correctly try testing if your engine now starts correctly using by following instructions in your user manual further detailing how to start up this particular model range engine correctly.
Check the air filter
Air filters provide a key part in helping to maintain the function of your HVAC unit. An overheating system can be caused by a clogged filter, and the effects of this can even extend to other parts of the system. To avoid any unexpected heating or cooling issues, it’s important to check your air filter regularly and change it if necessary.
To check on your air filter, start by disconnecting power to the unit and removing the access panel. Then, locate the air filter itself – some filters are located at the furnace return duct or may be part of an air cleaning system. After unscrewing the metal end caps from each side of the filter housing, you’ll be able to remove it for inspection.
Carefully examine the filter for signs of dirt and debris build-up; depending on its type and size, if you find any residue you will likely need to replace it right away. Make sure that you choose a new model that is compatible with your existing HVAC unit model number – keep any receipts as proof of purchase when possible. Failing to replace an old model with another one designed specifically for your appliance risks low efficiency ratings or in more serious cases, breakdowns or even fire hazards.
Check the fuel filter
One of the most common causes of problems with a fuel-injected engine is a clogged fuel filter. The filter is designed to remove any impurities in the gasoline and prevent them from entering the injectors and damaging them. When the filter becomes clogged, it prevents the engine from getting enough fuel, which can result in incomplete combustion and a decrease in performance.
Therefore, it is important to check your fuel filter regularly and replace it if necessary. This can be done simply by removing the old filter and replacing it with a new one that matches your specific vehicle type. If you are unsure of what type you need, consult your owner’s manual or contact your local automotive parts store for help.
When replacing a fuel filter, be sure to use an approved fuel line kit for installation. This will ensure that all connections are properly sealed and will reduce any potential problems caused by air or moisture leaks. After installing the new filter, check it for any signs of damage before using your vehicle again. You should also check for any signs of air leaks around joints or connections as this could indicate that further inspection is necessary.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance is essential to achieving the best performance from your Troy Bilt lawn mower. Taking the time to check up on the mower before use will go a long way in ensuring consistent, reliable performance. Performing maintenance tasks such as replacing the oil, checking and replacing the spark plug, and cleaning the air filter will make sure your mower is running the way it should.
Let’s take a look at how to properly maintain your Troy Bilt lawn mower:
Change the oil
To ensure that your lawn mower engine is performing at its best and to prevent premature wear, it’s important to change the oil regularly. Troy-Bilt recommends changing the oil once a year before the start of the mowing season. It’s also recommended to check and replace your oil filter every other oil change.
You will need:
- Oil filter
- 5W-30 engine oil
- Funnel
- A pair of pliers
- Drain pan or buckets
To change the oil:
- Lift up deck and disconnect spark plug wire. Switch lawn mower off and place on level ground. Place drain pan beneath engine.
- Remove fill cap/dipstick, remove drain plug and allow the used oil to drain out of the engine into drain pan or buckets for proper disposal in accordance with local municipal ordinances (purchase a contactor pump from a local hardware store for easier draining). When all used engine has been drained, replace drain plug tightly by hand, tightening with a socket wrench if needed.
- Locate and loosen filter with pliers or wrench (do not use solvent). Once loose, spin out by hand, allowing old filter and remaining oil from housing area to empty into drain pan/buckets for proper disposal in accordance with local municipal ordinances (purchase contactor pumps from a local hardware store for easier draining).
- Apply small amount of fresh 5W30 motor oil to rubber seal on new filter; reinstall filter by hand tight – do not over tighten – until gasket contacts surface seat (stop turning when snug).
- Fill or top off with fresh 5W30 motor (we recommend Troy-Bilt Multi Grade SAE 30 Oil) through the fill spout using funnel – see owner’s manual for any other maintenance specifications related to your specific product regarding grade(s) and quantities of motor oils recommended for use in your power equipment’s application(s) as prescribed by manufacturer’s guidelines; replace dip stick firmly then remove excess via rag ensuring that dirt does not enter through fill spout area during this process when wiping down/cleaning area around fill spout opening after inspect dip stick indicator arrows verifying desired fluid level specification(s).
Clean the air filter
Clean the air filter regularly to keep your Troy-Bilt lawn mower in peak performance. Check the size of your air filter at your nearby lawn and garden parts store that sells Troy-Bilt replacement parts.
There are several different types of air filters, such as cotton and gauze, foam and paper elements, so being familiar with the type and size of your filter helps when replacing it. Once you have the correct size and type, take off the old air filter. If it is extremely dirty, you may want to replace it right away or wash it with water to remove any dirt particles that block airflow. Give the filter an hour or two to dry out before reattaching it back into position and securing it into place.
Be sure to also check for any cracks or tears in the rubber gasket that seals the filter onto its housing on regular maintenance checks:
- Check for any cracks or tears in the rubber gasket.
- Secure the filter into place.
Sharpen the blades
Sharp blades are essential to creating a consistent cut, which will ensure that your lawn remains healthy and even. To sharpen the blades on your Troy-Bilt lawn mower, disconnect the spark plug wire, wear heavy protective gloves, and place the mower on a hard, flat surface. You should then use a wrench to remove the blade from the mower. Take care to keep track of any washers or screws you may need in order to reassemble the blades later.
With a power grinder or metal file, sharpen each blade evenly, being sure not to overheat them while grinding. Once they are evenly sharpened and relieved of burrs created during sharpening with a stone, reassemble them using appropriate screws and washers. Finally, reconnect the spark plug wire and your blades should be ready for use!
