Briggs and Stratton Lawnmower Won't Start After Running – What's Wrong?

Do you have a Briggs and Stratton lawnmower? Are you experiencing trouble starting it after you previously ran it? Do you want to find out what the problem is? If your answer is Yes, you are in the right place. Like any equipment, your lawnmower can malfunction. One such issue with lawnmowers is a starting problem. Not just any starting problem, but failing to start after you had run it.

Mowers from Briggs and Stratton are not immune to this issue. Many things could cause your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower to fail to start after running. In this article, we will identify some of them. As we examine some of these problems, we will provide solutions for solving them where necessary. Then, we will present some tips for preventing starting problems with your lawnmower.

Why My Briggs and Stratton Lawnmower Won't Start After It Runs

Several things can cause this problem; we identify some of them below.

1) Empty Fuel Tank

Since Briggs and Stratton's lawnmowers use internal combustion engines, they need fuel, air, and spark for combustion. So, your machine, having previously functioned, may now be without one of these requirements: fuel. If this is the case, the lawnmower will not start, no matter how much you try.

To diagnose if this is the issue, check the fuel gauge if your lawnmower has one. If the fuel gauge is at its lowest point, or if there's no fuel in the tank upon visual inspection, the absence of fuel is likely why your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower is not powering on. Thankfully, this problem is an easy one to fix. Add more fuel to the lawnmower and try again.

2) Closed Fuel Shut Off Valve

Continuing with easy-to-troubleshoot issues, if you have powered down your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower, there is a possibility that you have closed the fuel shut-off valve. This valve is a switch that controls the fuel flow from the tank to the engine.

If you closed this valve after you turned off the mower and forgot to reopen it when restarting the machine, fuel will not reach the engine for combustion. As a result, your lawnmower will not start. If you have not checked the fuel shut-off valve, we recommend doing so to rule it out as the problem. Sometimes minor issues can lead to significant problems. Open the shut-off valve so fuel can reach your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower's engine if it is closed. Then, try starting the mower again.

3) Failing/Failed Spark Plug

As we stated earlier, one of the things an internal combustion engine needs to work is a spark. Spark plugs produce that spark in the engine. However, when a spark plug is faulty or worn out, it cannot fulfill this purpose. You may wonder why a bad spark plug worked just a few moments ago.

The answer is simple; a failing spark plug can still power an engine, albeit with some difficulty or after several tries. The spark plug may have failed after the last successful run. Thus, if you turn off the engine, that same spark plug might not be able to repeat the feat. Some symptoms of a failing spark plug include:

• Engine misfire
• Hard starts
• Poor performance
• Engine stalling
• Blackened or oily deposits on the spark plug
• Increased fuel consumption
• Corroded spark plug end

If you have experienced some of these symptoms, your spark plug was likely on its way out already. You will need to change the spark plug. Ensure the engine is cool before attempting to change the spark plug. Changing a Briggs and Stratton spark plug is not difficult, and you should be able to change it by following a few instructions. Check your machine's manual for steps on replacing the spark plug, or visit Briggs and Stratton's website for the same.

4) Dirty Or Clogged Fuel Filter:

Fuel filters play a crucial role in maintaining the engine's longevity by preventing dirt, debris, and other particles from entering and causing damage. Located in the fuel line, the fuel filter intercepts these particles. However, over time, the accumulated dirt can clog the filter, hindering fuel flow to the engine.

A clear indicator of a dirty fuel filter is when the lawnmower starts but then stops after a short period, signifying that while some fuel reaches the cylinder for combustion, it is not sufficient to keep the engine running. If your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower shuts down due to this issue, the clogged or dirty fuel filter may be the culprit, preventing it from starting again.

To resolve this, replace the fuel filter. While cleaning the filter might seem like a viable option, it is not recommended, as it could damage the filter. Even a small tear can allow more debris to enter the engine, potentially leading to more severe problems. Plus, a replacement fuel filter is relatively inexpensive and a safer option.

5) Inadequate Or Dirty Engine Oil

Corrected Text: Engine oil is vital for the proper functioning of numerous parts in your lawnmower, particularly the engine. It ensures that the moving parts within the engine are adequately lubricated, facilitating smooth operation and minimizing friction that could lead to damage.

Low oil levels can result in increased friction and heat, causing parts to wear out prematurely and potentially leading to the engine overheating. In such cases, the engine may shut off and will not restart until it has cooled down. Furthermore, dirty or insufficient oil can cause lasting damage to the engine.

To prevent these issues, regularly check the engine oil level using the dipstick cap, and ensure that the oil is clean and at the appropriate level. If needed, add more oil or replace it if it appears dark and sticky. After addressing the oil issue, attempt to start your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower again.

For the best results, refer to the lawnmower's manual or Briggs and Stratton's official guidelines to determine the correct type and grade of oil for your specific model.

Preventing Start-Up Issues with Your Briggs and Stratton Lawnmower

To avoid start-up issues with your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower, proactive maintenance is key. Here are some tips to help ensure smooth operation:

• Regularly Check Engine Oil: Ensure that the oil is clean, at the right level, and of the correct type and grade, as specified in your lawnmower's manual.
• Replace Fuel Filters Regularly: To prevent clogging and potential start-up issues, replace the fuel filter every season or every 3-6 months.
• Use Fresh Fuel: Gasoline can become stale if left in the tank for extended periods, leading to start-up problems. Only fill up with the amount of fuel you need for a specific mowing session to minimize wastage. Alternatively, use a gas stabilizer if you need to store fuel in the tank.
• Store Your Lawnmower Properly: After use, ensure the fuel tank is empty, or add a gas stabilizer to protect the remaining fuel. This is crucial, as lawnmowers are often not used regularly, and leaving fuel in the tank can lead to clogged carburetors and start-up issues due to stale fuel.
• Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular check-ups and maintenance with qualified mechanics, and address any unusual mower behavior promptly.

By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of start-up issues with your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.

Conclusion

A multitude of factors can contribute to starting issues in your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower, especially after it has been in operation. This article has shed light on several common issues, including an empty fuel tank, a closed fuel shut-off valve, a failing spark plug, and a dirty or clogged fuel filter. These components are integral to ensuring the proper delivery of air, fuel, and spark required for the engine's combustion process. The silver lining is that most of these issues can be diagnosed and resolved with relative ease.

However, if you find yourself unable to rectify the situation, seeking professional assistance is a wise decision. Alongside troubleshooting advice, this article has provided preventative measures to help avert starting problems in your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower. By adhering to these tips, you stand to save not only time and effort but also money.

To encapsulate, maintaining your lawnmower in prime condition is paramount. This involves conducting regular maintenance checks and addressing any emerging issues promptly, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your Briggs and Stratton lawnmower.