Be sure deck is disengaged all the way, parking brake is engaged and operator is sitting on the seat.
Battery is installed incorrectly
The battery must be installed with negative terminal attached to black ground wire. Negative is identified by "NEG" "N" or "-" The positive terminal "POS" "P" or "+" must be attached to the big red wire which goes to the solenoid. Charge battery fully before installing.
Battery is weak or dead
Check fluid level in battery.
If fluid is low, fill to just below split rings with water.
Charge battery fully.
Blown fuse
Replace with an automotive type fuse.
Check for loose connections in fuse box, bare wires, and pinched wires.
Loose engine ground wire
Engine should have a black ground wire running from engine to frame or mounting bolt.
Engine cranks but will not start
Throttle or choke not in starting position
Check operators manual for correct position for throttle control and choke for starting.
No fuel in carburetor
Gasoline tank is empty. Fill tank with fresh gasoline. Fuel line or filter is blocked with dirt or debris. Clean fuel line. Replace fuel filter.
Spark plug wire disconnected, spark plug fouled or faulty.
Connect spark plug wire. Check with spark plug tester. Clean and set gap to proper setting. Replace spark plug.
Dirty air filter
Clean or replace air filter.
Engine smokes
Engine oil is overfilled
Check oil level
Engine loses crankcase vacuum
Dipstick not seated properly or is broken.
Replace defective part. Engine breather is defective.
Replace engine breather.
Excessive vibration
Bent or damaged blade, pulley, or spindle.
Replace blade, pulley, or spindle.
Belt is damaged
Replace belt
Engine mounting bolt loose or missing
Tighten mounting bolt or replace bolt.
Engine is running at low RPMs
Make sure engine is at full throttle.
Cutting deck is not adjusted properly
Adjust deck
Dirt and debris built up under deck
Clean under deck after each use
Mower discharges, bags or mulches grass poorly
Engine speed is low
Make sure engine is running at full throttle.
Grass is wet or very tall
Cut when grass is dry. Cut at high setting then cut again at desired height.
Ground speed is too fast
Use slower ground speed. The slower you go the better the quality of cut.
Incorrect blades or dull blades
Make sure the correct blades are used and are on properly. Sharpen or replace blades.
Mower will not cut in reverse.
Safety switch
It is a safety feature. You must disengage cutting deck before putting mower in reverse.