Mower hard to start

14 years ago

Lately I've been having issues getting my riding lawn mower to start up, once I can get it started everything works fine. I have checked the voltage on my battery and it reads exactly 12 volts. When I try to start it, the engine turns over very slowly. The mower is 14 years old and the only thing that I have ever replaced on it besides batteries and spark plugs is the solenoid. The engine is a 12.5 HP B&S I/C engine. I'm thinking that it could possibly be the starter.

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Comments (7)

nick_nl
Original Author
14 years ago
I should also mention that it tends to happen more often when I try to start it up again after it's been running awhile. I've also read that it could be a valve issue.
mownie
14 years ago
Nick, look on the engine and find the Briggs data plate (or decal).
Post the Model Number and the Type Number and we will be able to focus on your specific engine.
The generic description you gave sounds like it is one of the flat head engines, in which case......valve adjustment would not be a factor.
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nick_nl
Original Author
14 years ago
Model number is 28T707
type number is 1154E1
mownie
14 years ago
Yes, 28T700 series is a flat head engine, so there are no concerns about valve adjustment being a factor in hard start complaints.
Best to begin by having the battery load tested.
A battery voltage of about 12 volts is suspect to begin with as most batteries in good shape will show around 12.6 volts standing voltage.
Then I would inspect every battery cable on the mower to make sure all the connections are clean and tight.
Inspecting for clean and tight means actually removing, or at least loosening the bolts that secure the cable. Check both ends of each cable (at the battery AND at the other end of the cable. Check the ground cable as well as the positive cable. Check the cable from solenoid to the starter also.
Look for loose crimps that hold the end terminals to the cables.
Check for broken strands of wire that comprise the cable, a few broken strands will reduce the capacity of the cable to carry enough amps to really whip the engine over.
nick_nl
Original Author
14 years ago
I'll do that. Don't know if this is useful but when I had the issue again after I shut if off and tried to start it I removed the spark plug to relive any excessive pressure in the cylinder and it turned over fine.
nick_nl
Original Author
14 years ago
All the cables and connections look good. I read online about doing a quick and dirty load test by examining the voltage while starting the mower.
bill_kapaun
14 years ago
To quote mownie-
"Inspecting for clean and tight means actually removing, or at least loosening the bolts that secure the cable."

You could do voltage drop tests with your voltmeter instead, if you don't want to get your hands dirty.