How to Add Gas to the Lawn Mower Carburetor to Start It

Manufacturers of small engines used on lawnmowers were aware that mower engines were difficult to start when cold. To combat this manufacturers fitted carburetors, which mix gas with air in usable proportions, with chokes to allow more fuel than air for cold starting. When this wasn't enough, many owners began the unsafe practice of pouring liquid gasoline directly into the air filter or into the mouth of the carburetor. In light of this practice and in order to mix safety with effectiveness, manufacturers then installed a flexible bulb to add extra gas for cold starting.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Locate the primer bulb button on your lawnmower engine. While specific location information is in your owner's manual, the primer button is usually on either side or the front of the engine. It is usually black in color and approximately one-inch in diameter.

   • 2

     Check the area around you to ensure it is safe to start the engine.

   • 3

     Depress the primer button one time. You may feel the gas inside the bulb squeeze out of it and into the carburetor.

   • 4

     Start the engine following the recommended procedures outlined by the manufacturer.

   • 5

     Repeat Step 3 as necessary until engine starts.