Welcome to Robins DIY
26 High Street, Measham, Swadlincote, DE12 7HR
Safe payment
01530 270396
sales@robins-diy.shop

Blog Layout

Troubleshooting Guide: Why Won't My Lawnmower Start?

May 14, 2023

Addressing the Common Issue of Dirty Fuel and Carburetor Cleaning

cleaning carburettor

There's nothing more frustrating than trying to start your lawnmower only to encounter difficulties.

If you're facing this issue, a common culprit could be dirty fuel affecting your lawnmower's carburettor. In this blog post, we'll explore the problem of dirty fuel, explain how it can impact your lawnmower's starting process, and provide you with a troubleshooting guide to address the issue. Learn how to clean the carburettor effectively and get your lawnmower back to its reliable, starting self.


Signs of Dirty Fuel:

1.1 Starting Issues: Difficulty starting the lawnmower, including slow cranking, repeated engine stalling, or failure to start altogether.

1.2 Poor Performance: Uneven running, sputtering, or loss of power during operation.

Understanding the Carburettor:

2.1 Fuel Delivery System: The carburettor mixes fuel and air to create a combustible mixture for the engine.

2.2 Impact of Dirty Fuel: Contaminated fuel can clog the carburettor, disrupting the fuel-to-air ratio and hindering the engine's performance.

Troubleshooting and Cleaning the Carburettor:

3.1 Safety Precautions: Ensure the lawnmower is turned off and cool before starting any maintenance.

3.2 Accessing the Carburettor: Refer to the lawnmower's manual to locate and access the carburettor.

3.3 Disassembling the Carburettor: Carefully disassemble the carburettor, taking note of the position of each component for reassembly.

3.4 Cleaning the Carburettor: Use a carburettor cleaner or a mixture of clean fuel and a fuel system additive to remove dirt, debris, and varnish from the carburettor's parts.

3.5 Reassembling and Testing: Reassemble the carburettor and ensure all connections are secure. Test the lawnmower to verify if the starting issue has been resolved.

Preventative Measures:

4.1 Fuel Maintenance: Use fresh, clean fuel and store it in an appropriate container to avoid contamination.

4.2 Regular Maintenance: Follow manufacturer recommendations for scheduled maintenance, including air filter and fuel filter replacement.


When your lawnmower won't start, a dirty carburettor due to contaminated fuel is a likely culprit. By understanding the impact of dirty fuel and following our carburettor cleaning guide, you can resolve the starting issue and restore your lawnmower's performance. Remember to prioritize fuel maintenance and regular maintenance tasks to prevent future problems. Enjoy hassle-free lawn care with a properly functioning lawnmower.


Contact us now to book in your machine for a carburettor clean or service.


spark plug
by Lizzy Rodgers 07 May, 2023
Servicing lawnmowers
by Lizzy Rodgers 06 May, 2023
Aspen Fuel: The Benefits for Your Garden Machinery and Your Health
cobra lawnmower
by Lizzy Rodgers 05 Apr, 2023
Tips on mowing your lawn
Share by: