How Do You Start a Craftsman Lawn Mower? (Complete Guide for All Models)

Quick Answer: How to Start a Craftsman Lawn Mower

To start a gas-powered Craftsman push mower, check the fuel level, set the choke to the closed position, place the throttle in the start position, then pull the starter cord with a firm motion until the engine catches. Once running, move the choke to the open position. For riding mowers, insert the ignition key and turn it to start. Electric models simply require a fully charged battery and a button press.

Understanding Your Craftsman Mower Type

Craftsman manufactures three primary mower categories, each with distinct starting procedures. Identifying your mower type is the first step to starting it correctly.

Gas-Powered Push Mowers

The most common Craftsman mower is the gas-powered push model, typically equipped with either a Briggs & Stratton or Honda engine. These mowers feature a manual starter cord, a choke lever, and sometimes a primer bulb. They require gasoline to operate and are best suited for small to medium-sized lawns.

Riding Mowers

Craftsman riding mowers are larger machines designed for expansive properties. They feature an engine-driven transmission, a steering wheel, and an ignition key system similar to a car. These mowers start via key ignition rather than a pull cord.

Cordless Electric Mowers

Battery-powered Craftsman mowers eliminate the need for gas and pull cords. These mowers start with a button press and rely on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. They produce no emissions and require minimal maintenance compared to gas models.

Pre-Start Safety and Preparation Checklist

Before attempting to start any Craftsman mower, complete these essential checks to ensure safe operation:

• Fuel Check (Gas Mowers): Fill the fuel tank with fresh gasoline if the level is low. Use regular unleaded fuel (87 octane or higher). Fuel older than 30 days can degrade, causing starting difficulties.
• Oil Level (Gas Mowers): Check the oil dipstick or sight glass. The oil should reach the full mark. Low oil can damage the engine and prevent starting.
• Blade Brake Engagement: Ensure the blade brake lever (the bar on the handle) is fully engaged. Most Craftsman mowers have a safety interlock that prevents engine start if the blade brake is disengaged.
• Spark Plug Inspection: If the mower has not started recently, visually inspect the spark plug for corrosion or debris. A fouled plug is a common cause of no-start conditions.
• Battery Charge (Electric Mowers): For cordless models, verify the battery indicator shows a full or near-full charge before starting.
• Clear Obstructions: Ensure the mower deck is free of grass clippings, sticks, or debris that could jam the blade.

Step-by-Step: How to Start a Gas-Powered Craftsman Push Mower

This is the most common Craftsman mower type and the standard procedure for most models manufactured in the past 10 years.

Step 1: Position the Mower on Level Ground

Place the mower on a flat, open area away from obstacles, children, and pets. This prevents accidental contact and gives you room to work if the mower lurches forward during starting.

Step 2: Prime the Engine (If Applicable)

Some Craftsman push mowers have a primer bulb located on the carburetor. If your mower has one:

• Locate the red or black rubber bulb on the side or top of the engine.
• Press the bulb firmly 3 to 5 times until you feel resistance or see fuel flow back into the carburetor.
• This step is especially important for cold starts or after the mower has sat idle for several weeks.

Newer models or those with automatic chokes may not have a visible primer bulb; skip this step if your mower lacks one.

Step 3: Set the Choke to the Closed Position

The choke restricts airflow to the carburetor, enriching the fuel mixture for cold starts. Locate the choke lever (usually a small lever or dial on the side of the engine):

• Move the choke lever to the “Closed” or “Choke” position. This is typically marked with a snowflake or “C” symbol.
• If the engine is warm (e.g., you stopped it moments ago), you may set the choke to the “Open” or “Run” position instead.
• Once the engine starts and runs for 10–15 seconds, gradually open the choke to prevent stalling.

Step 4: Position the Throttle Lever

The throttle controls engine speed. Set it to the start position:

• Locate the throttle lever on the handle or side of the mower.
• Move it to the “Start” or “Fast” position, usually the highest setting on the dial.

Step 5: Pull the Starter Cord

This is where you ignite the engine:

• Grasp the handle of the starter cord firmly with one hand.
• Stand to the side of the mower (not directly behind it) to avoid injury if it lurches.
• Pull the cord with a smooth, quick motion. Avoid jerky or slow pulls, as they are less effective.
• Allow the cord to retract fully between pulls.
• Repeat pulling until the engine catches and starts. Most Craftsman mowers start within 3–5 pulls on a cold engine.

Step 6: Open the Choke Once the Engine Runs

After the engine starts:

• Let the engine run for 10–15 seconds at the closed choke position.
• Gradually move the choke lever to the “Open” or “Run” position.
• The engine may sputter slightly as the choke opens; this is normal.
• If the engine stalls, return the choke to the closed position, wait a few seconds, then slowly open it again.

Step 7: Verify Stable Operation

Once the engine is running smoothly:

• Listen for a steady, consistent engine sound.
• Verify that no blue or black smoke is coming from the exhaust.
• Adjust the throttle to the desired cutting speed (usually marked on the lever).
• You are now ready to mow.

How to Start a Craftsman Riding Mower

Riding mowers use an automotive-style ignition system and differ significantly from push mowers.

Pre-Start Checks for Riding Mowers

• Ensure the parking brake is fully engaged.
• Verify the blade brake lever is in the neutral or disengaged position (you should not be able to engage the blades while starting).
• Check that the seat is firmly seated; many Craftsman riding mowers have a seat safety switch that prevents starting if the operator is not seated.
• Check the fuel level and top off if necessary.

Starting Procedure

1. Insert the ignition key into the keyhole on the dashboard.
2. Turn the key to the right (clockwise) to the “Start” position and hold it there. Do not force the key; it should turn smoothly.
3. The engine will crank and start. Release the key as soon as the engine catches.
4. Allow the engine to idle for 30 seconds to warm up.
5. If the engine does not start after 3–5 attempts, wait 10 minutes and try again. Repeated cranking can flood the engine.
6. Once running, adjust the throttle to the desired speed using the throttle lever.

If the Riding Mower Won’t Start

• Verify the battery: Riding mowers are electric-start and require a 12-volt battery. Check that battery terminals are clean and corrosion-free.
• Check the ignition switch: Turn the key; you should hear a click from the starter motor. If there is no sound, the ignition switch or safety interlock may be faulty.
• Engage the seat switch: Sit firmly in the seat and confirm the safety switch activates. Some mowers require the operator to be seated to allow starting.

How to Start a Cordless Electric Craftsman Mower

Electric Craftsman mowers are the simplest to start and require the fewest steps.

Battery Preparation

• Charge the battery fully before the first use. Most Craftsman lithium-ion batteries take 30 minutes to 2 hours to charge completely, depending on capacity.
• Insert the charged battery into the slot on the mower handle or engine housing until it clicks into place.
• Verify the battery indicator light shows a full charge (usually a solid green light).

Starting the Mower

1. Locate the power button on the handle or side of the mower (usually labeled “Power” or marked with a power symbol).
2. Press and hold the power button for 1–2 seconds. The motor will engage immediately.
3. Release the button; the blade will begin to spin.
4. Adjust the speed settings if your model has variable throttle control.

Safety Features

Most Craftsman electric mowers have a blade brake that stops the blade immediately when you release the handle. This is a critical safety feature; never override or bypass it.

Troubleshooting: Why Your Craftsman Mower Won’t Start

If your mower fails to start after following the correct procedure, work through these common issues systematically.

The Engine Doesn’t Crank at All (No Sound)

For Push Mowers:

• Blade brake not engaged: Most Craftsman push mowers have a safety interlock on the blade brake lever. Fully squeeze and hold the lever against the handle, then try starting again.
• Faulty spark plug wire: Check that the spark plug cap (the wire connected to the spark plug) is securely seated. A loose or disconnected wire prevents ignition.

For Riding Mowers:

• Dead battery: If you turn the key and hear nothing, the battery may be dead. Turn on the headlights; if they don’t illuminate, the battery is discharged. Charge or replace the battery.
• Loose battery terminals: Open the engine compartment and check that the battery cable connectors are tight. Corrosion (white or blue-green buildup) can also prevent electrical flow. Clean terminals with a wire brush and reconnect.

The Engine Cranks but Won’t Fire (Turning Over Without Starting)

Fouled Spark Plug:

• Remove the spark plug wire by twisting and pulling gently.
• Unscrew the spark plug with a spark plug socket.
• Inspect the plug tip for black carbon buildup or wet fuel.
• If fouled, replace the spark plug with the correct model number for your engine (found in your manual or on the old plug).
• Reinstall and reconnect the wire.

Empty or Old Fuel:

• Check the fuel tank; if empty, add fresh gasoline.
• If the tank contains fuel older than 30 days, drain it completely and refill with fresh gas. Old fuel loses combustibility and can clog the carburetor.
• To drain, locate the fuel valve (often a small lever or knob at the base of the fuel tank) and set it to “Off,” then siphon or tilt the mower into a container.

Flooded Engine:

If you’ve pulled the cord many times without starting, the carburetor may be flooded (excess fuel). To clear a flooded engine:

• Set the choke to the fully “Open” position.
• Pull the starter cord 10–15 times without priming or closing the choke. This helps expel excess fuel.
• Wait 5 minutes and repeat the process if needed.
• If still flooded, remove and dry the spark plug, then reinstall it and try again.

The Engine Starts but Stalls Immediately

Choke Not Adjusted Properly:

• If the engine starts and then dies, the choke may be too restrictive or open too quickly. Start with the choke fully closed, let the engine run for 15 seconds, then gradually open it in small increments.

Dirty Carburetor:

• A dirty carburetor can prevent smooth fuel flow. If this is a persistent problem, the carburetor may need professional cleaning. Contact a Craftsman service center or local small-engine repair shop.

For Cordless Electric Mowers: Won’t Power On

• Battery not inserted fully: Remove and reinsert the battery, ensuring it clicks firmly into place.
• Battery discharged: Charge the battery for the full recommended time (30 minutes to 2 hours).
• Power button malfunction: If the button feels stuck or unresponsive, do not force it. Contact Craftsman customer service for a replacement.

Seasonal Starting Tips: First Start After Winter Storage

If your Craftsman mower has been stored for several months, starting it requires extra preparation.

Before First Spring Start

• Inspect the fuel: If you did not add fuel stabilizer before storage, the fuel is likely stale. Drain the old fuel completely and fill with fresh gasoline.
• Check the spark plug: Remove and inspect for corrosion. Replace if necessary.
• Verify oil level: Check the dipstick; add oil if needed.
• Charge the battery (Electric Mowers): Lithium-ion batteries can lose charge over months of storage. Charge fully before attempting to start.

First Start After Storage

For gas-powered mowers, the first start after winter storage often requires extra primer bulb presses:

• Press the primer bulb 8–10 times (more than a normal start) to draw fresh fuel into the carburetor.
• Set the choke to fully closed.
• Pull the starter cord with steady, firm motions. It may take 5–10 pulls to start.
• Once running, gradually open the choke to stabilize the engine.

Fuel Stabilizer for Future Storage

To prevent fuel degradation during off-season storage, add a fuel stabilizer (such as Sta-Bil or Briggs & Stratton fuel stabilizer) to your tank in the fall. This preserves fuel for months and makes spring starting much easier. Follow the product instructions for the correct dosage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Fuel Should I Use in My Craftsman Lawn Mower?

Use regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Avoid fuel blended with more than 10% ethanol (E10), as ethanol can damage carburetor seals and fuel lines. If your fuel pump or carburetor has been damaged by ethanol-blended fuel, use fuel labeled “Top Tier” from major brands like Shell, Chevron, or Costco. Always use fuel less than 30 days old; older fuel deteriorates and causes starting problems.

Why Does My Craftsman Mower Only Start When Warm?

A mower that starts when warm but struggles when cold typically has a choke issue. On a cold start, verify the choke is fully closed before pulling the cord. If the choke lever is stuck or the automatic choke (if equipped) is not functioning, the fuel mixture will be too lean, preventing cold starts. A fouled spark plug or weak battery (in electric models) can also cause this behavior. Replace the spark plug or battery if symptoms persist.

How Often Should I Perform Maintenance to Keep My Mower Starting Reliably?

Check and change the oil every 50 hours of use or at the start of each mowing season. Replace the spark plug annually or every 100 hours of operation. Keep the air filter clean by tapping it or replacing it as needed. Drain or stabilize fuel before storing the mower for more than 30 days. For cordless models, store the battery in a cool, dry place and recharge it monthly during off-season storage.

Can I Use Old Fuel from Last Season in My Craftsman Mower?

No, you should not use fuel older than 30 days without a stabilizer. Gasoline oxidizes and breaks down over time, forming gum and varnish that clog the carburetor and prevent starting. If you must store fuel long-term, add a fuel stabilizer per the manufacturer’s instructions. For season-to-season storage, drain the tank completely or run the mower until it is out of fuel before storing it for more than a month.