Craftsman Lawn Mower: No Power & Will Not Start

Check Fuel Supply

• Always check the level of fuel in the fuel tank before starting work. Never leave gas in the Craftsman for very long, as gas will age after about 30 days, and as the gas degrades it will degrade the plastic and other parts it touches inside the carburetor. This bad or old gas will cause a drop in the fuel supply reaching the carburetor, so the engine will have no power, since no combustion is occurring. Check, clean or replace the fuel tank cap, fuel tank, fuel filter, fuel hoses and carburetor.

Check For Spark

• Without a source of ignition, the gas can't deliver the power needed to keep the crankcase moving. This ignition comes from the spark plug, which fires off the charge delivered up the ignition wires from the ignition module. Turn the ignition off, take the spark plug wire off the plug and unscrew the spark plug. Replace the spark plug if the tip is fouled. Check the plug wire for a loose connection. Let a professional handle other more complicated ignition system repairs.

Check Battery

• If your Craftsman lawn mower also operates with a battery, check that the battery still has enough life in it to keep the engine powered. Also, remove the two battery terminal clips from the positive and negative leads on the battery. Wipe off any corrosive elements on the clip, wire or battery terminals with a rag. Replace the battery if it's heavily corroded, damaged or running out of power.

Compression Low

• Compression exists in the engine to keep all of the parts moving inside their systems. This vacuum pressure, if lost, will shut down all of the engine's movements and nothing will receive power. Compression loss occurs through faulty seals or gaskets around the crankshaft and cylinder. Test the engine with a compression gauge to see if any air leaks are present. Allow a professional mechanic to address any further compression issues, as it may require major engine repair.