A spark plug is an electrical device that is present in spark-ignited engine systems, and it’s used to help deliver an electric current from the ignition system to the combustion chamber. The spark plug ignites the compressed fuel in the combustion chamber, powering up the engine. Gas-operated lawn mowers use a spark plug in order to start them up.
If you own a lawnmower, it’s essential that you are familiar with how a spark plug works, and also to make sure you know how to properly remove, change, and clean it. This will ensure that your machine runs smoothly. A smooth-running machine is essential when it comes to cutting grass. Your lawn mower needs to start quickly and smoothly and run well without presenting mechanical problems. If you are knowledgeable about spark plugs, it will help you maintain your lawnmower properly.
How does a lawnmower spark plug work?
Lawnmowers need spark plugs because they ignite the mixture in the combustion chamber in order to power the machine. The spark plug releases a high-voltage electricity spark on its tip to trigger the combustion of fuel in the combustor.
Why is it important to maintain your lawn mower’s spark plug?
Over time, your spark plug will begin to get dirty, and the quality of the electric charge being released will lessen. This happens due to prolonged use of your lawnmower if you don’t clean your spark plug regularly. When this happens, there is incomplete fuel combustion, which ultimately lowers your engine’s performance and output. To prevent this, you need to clean and maintain your spark plug regularly in order to maintain optimal performance.
How do you clean your spark plug?
Start by removing the plug and check the appearance of your spark plug. The positioning of the spark plug is at the side or back of your lawn mower’s engine. Look for a small wire about a quarter-inch thick that leads to the top of a small cylinder protruding from the engine. If you are unsure about the positioning of the spark plug, read your lawn mower’s instruction manual.
Once you’ve located your spark plug, you need to unplug the wire leading to the spark plug. You can do this by pulling it off with your fingers. Now that the wire is disconnected, you can proceed to remove the spark plug. Using a spark plug wrench, gently turn it counterclockwise to loosen it. You can then proceed to remove it once it’s loose.
How do you know if your spark plug needs cleaning?
First, check the tip for any anomalies. An operational spark plug has a tan or light gray color. Any deviations such as carbon patches, oil deposits, or soot mean that the spark plug needs cleaning or replacement. The oil, soot, or carbon deposits can alter the electricity flow, preventing ignition at the tip. By cleaning your spark plug, you will be able to get rid of these deposits, allowing the plug to function effectively.
To clean your spark plug, dip the tip of the plugin rubbing alcohol, then scrub with an old toothbrush. The rubbing alcohol will cut through the oil and carbon deposits, allowing proper electrical current to flow. After washing the tip, rinse the tip again using rubbing alcohol. If the tip still has any oily or carbon deposits after drying, repeat the process until the tip is clean.
Changing Your Spark Plug
Sometimes, you might realize that your spark plug is not functioning properly even after thoroughly cleaning the tip. The spark plug might deliver a reduced quality of electric current, affecting functionality. All of these things are indicators that your spark plug has an electrical fault, which means it needs to be replaced.
Before replacing your spark plug, it’s essential that you read the instruction manual to make sure you use the proper replacement plug. Alternatively, you can also read the code number on the side of your old spark plug. Different manufacturing companies have distinct codes for each spark plug. However, most plugs are interchangeable, so you can usually use another manufacturer’s spark plug if needed.
When inserting the new plug, apply a tiny amount of an anti-seize compound to make the spark plug easy to remove next time. Then use your finger to insert the spark plug before using a wrench to tighten it. And you’re all set!
A lawnmower spark plug is an essential component of its engine because it helps initiate the fuel combustion process. Over time, your spark plug will become dirty and clogged with oil and carbon deposits, reducing its output. Therefore, it is important that you understand the basics of cleaning and replacing your spark plug regularly to ensure that your lawnmower is functioning optimally.
Greg’s Small Engine Service and Repair is a professional small engine repair company with locations in Reno, Lake Tahoe, and the entire Northern Nevada Area. We clean, repair, and fix spark plugs for all lawnmowers at an affordable cost. We will pick up your lawnmower, fix it, and deliver it back to you, saving you time and energy.
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