Troubleshooting - MTD 12A-986Q795 Operator's Manual

SECTION 10: TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem Cause Remedy
Engine fails to start
Engine runs erratic
Engine overheats
Occasional skip (hesitates)
at high speed
Idles poorly
Excessive vibration
Mower will not mulch grass
Uneven cut
1. Blade control handle disengaged.
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.
3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.
4. Choke lever not in the "On" position
5. Blocked fuel line.
6. Faulty spark plug.
7. Engine flooded
1. Spark plug wire loose.
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
3. Vent in gas cap plugged.
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.
5. Dirty air cleaner.
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Engine oil level low.
2. Air flow restricted.
3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.
1. Spark plug gap too close.
1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too
wide.
2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.
3. Dirty air cleaner.
1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.
2. Bent cutting blade.
1. Wet grass.
2. Excessively high grass.
3. Dull blade.
1. Wheels not positioned correctly.
2. Dull blade.
1. Engage blade control handle.
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
4. Place choke lever to the "On" position
5. Clean fuel line.
6. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
7. Wait a few minutes to restart.
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh
gasoline
3. Clear vent.
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
5. Clean air cleaner.
6. Adjust carburetor.
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Remove blower housing and clean.
3. Adjust carburetor.
1. Adjust gap to.030".
1. Reset gap to.030" or replace spark plug.
2. Adjust carburetor.
3. Clean air cleaner.
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance
blade.
2. Replace blade.
1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until
later to cut.
2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then
mow again at desired height or make a
narrower cutting path.
3. Sharpen or replace blade.
1. Place all four wheels in same height
position.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above, contact your local authorized service dealer.
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