How to Adjust the Governor on a Mower

If your lawn mower engine is running too fast or too slow and the adjusting the throttle does not make a difference, you may need to adjust the governor. A governor connects to the throttle and determines how fast the engine will run when the throttle is engaged. A governor adjustment can eliminate the need for buying a new lawn mower or having an expensive repair.

Socket wrench set
Screwdriver
Pliers

Instructions

- 1
  Trace the throttle cable to the engine and locate the governor. The governor consists of an arm connected to a shaft and is usually secured with a bolt or screw.
- 2
  Loosen the governor bolt or screw using the proper size socket and socket wrench or a screwdriver. Turn the bolt or screw counterclockwise to loosen it. Do not remove the bolt or screw completely.
- 3
  Push the governor arm down clockwise to open the throttle if the problem you are having is a weak throttle. Push the governor arm up counterclockwise to close the throttle for an engine that runs too fast.
- 4
  Turn the governor shaft the same direction you moved the governor arm. Use a pair of pliers to turn the shaft. Tighten the governor nut or screw and test the lawn mower. Readjust as needed.

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