Briggs And Stratton Lawn Mower Surging: Fix Your Engine Now!
Briggs and Stratton lawn mower surging is a common issue that can be caused by blockages in the fuel supply, bad gas, a bad spark plug, or a dirty/faulty carburetor.
To fix the problem, you can start by checking and cleaning the air filter, inspecting the governor springs, making sure the fuel is not stale, checking the fuel lines and tank for any blockages, cleaning or replacing the carburetor, and ensuring that the O-ring seal and intake tube are properly sealed.
By following these steps, you can help prevent your lawn mower engine from surging and maintain smooth operation.
Understanding The Problem
Are you experiencing surging issues with your Briggs and Stratton lawn mower? Find out the possible causes and easy fixes for engine surging in this informative article.
From blockages in the fuel supply to dirty carburetors, we provide helpful solutions to get your mower running smoothly again.
If you’re experiencing surging in your Briggs & Stratton lawn mower engine, it’s important to understand the possible causes.
The surging can be due to several factors, including bad gas, a bad spark plug, or a dirty or faulty carburetor.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these issues:
- Bad gas: Using old or contaminated gas can lead to surging in your lawn mower engine. The impurities in the fuel can disrupt the combustion process, causing the engine to surge. This is why it’s important to use fresh, clean gas to avoid this problem.
- Bad spark plug: A worn-out or faulty spark plug can also contribute to surging. The spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. If it’s not functioning properly, the engine may experience irregular combustion, leading to surging.
- Dirty/faulty carburetor: The carburetor is an essential component that mixes air and fuel in the proper ratio for combustion. Over time, it can get clogged with dirt, debris, or varnish, disrupting the flow of fuel and air. A dirty or faulty carburetor can cause the engine to surge as it struggles to maintain a consistent fuel-air mixture.
Now that we understand the potential causes of surging in a Briggs & Stratton lawn mower engine, let’s move on to solutions in the next section.
Easy Fixes
If you’re experiencing surging with your Briggs and Stratton lawn mower, there are easy fixes to consider.
These include checking the fuel supply, spark plug, and carburetor for any blockages or issues.
If you’re experiencing your Briggs and Stratton lawn mower surging, there are several easy fixes you can try before taking it to a professional.
Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:
Checking The Air Filter:
- Remove the air filter cover and inspect the air filter for any signs of dirt or debris.
- If the air filter is dirty or clogged, clean or replace it as necessary.
- A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to surge.
Inspecting The Governor Springs:
- Check the governor springs for any signs of damage or disconnection.
- Ensure that the springs are properly connected and functioning.
- Faulty governor springs can cause irregular engine speed, leading to surging.
Dealing With Stale Fuel:
- Drain any old or stale fuel from the fuel tank.
- Refill the tank with fresh, clean gasoline.
- Stale fuel can cause engine performance issues, including surging.
Checking The Fuel Tank And Fuel Lines:
- Inspect the fuel tank for any signs of damage, such as leaks or cracks.
- Ensure that the fuel lines are properly connected and not clogged.
- Damaged fuel tank or clogged fuel lines can disrupt the fuel supply, causing surging.
Examining The Primer Bulb:
- Check the primer bulb for any signs of damage or deterioration.
- Make sure that the bulb is firm and not cracked or worn out.
- A faulty primer bulb can affect the fuel flow, leading to surging.
Inspecting Diaphragms Between The Carburetor And The Fuel Tank:
- Remove the carburetor and inspect the diaphragms for any signs of wear or damage.
- Replace any damaged diaphragms with new ones.
- Faulty diaphragms can affect fuel flow and cause surging.
Cleaning The Carburetor:
- Remove the carburetor and clean it thoroughly using carburetor cleaner.
- Pay attention to the small ports and jets and make sure they are clear of any debris.
- A dirty or clogged carburetor can cause engine surging.
Checking The O-Ring Seal That Seals The Carburetor Onto The Intake:
- Inspect the O-ring seal for any signs of wear or damage.
- Replace the O-ring seal if necessary.
- A faulty seal can lead to air leaks, which can cause surging.
Inspecting The Intake Tube:
- Look for any cracks or damage on the intake tube.
- Ensure that the tube is properly connected to the carburetor and the engine.
- Damaged intake tube can cause air leaks, resulting in engine surging.
By following these steps and conducting the necessary inspections and repairs, you can resolve the issue of a surging Briggs and Stratton lawn mower engine.
However, if the problem persists, it is recommended to consult a professional for further assistance.
Advanced Solutions
Advanced Solutions in Austin, Texas offers expert solutions for Briggs and Stratton lawn mower surging issues.
With experienced technicians and a range of services, they can diagnose and fix common problems like blockages, bad gas, spark plug issues, and dirty carburetors.
Trust Advanced Solutions to keep your lawn mower running smoothly.
Adjusting The Carburetor Settings:
Adjusting the carburetor settings is a common solution for fixing a surging Briggs and Stratton lawn mower engine.
Follow these steps to adjust the carburetor settings properly:
- Locate the carburetor on your lawn mower.
- Identify the adjustment screws on the carburetor.
- Start the engine and let it warm up.
- Use a screwdriver to turn the idle speed screw and the main jet screw until the engine runs smoothly at both idle and full throttle.
- Make small adjustments, turning the screws a quarter turn at a time, until the surging stops.
Remember to document the original position of the adjustment screws before making any changes, just in case you need to revert to the previous settings.
Checking The Throttle Plate:
A malfunctioning throttle plate can also cause a Briggs and Stratton lawn mower engine to surge.
To check the throttle plate, follow these steps:
- Locate the throttle plate on your mower’s carburetor.
- Inspect it for any dirt, debris, or damage.
- Clean the throttle plate using a carburetor cleaner and a brush.
- Ensure the throttle plate moves freely by manually opening and closing it.
- If the throttle plate is damaged or stuck, replace it with a new one.
Examining The Ignition System:
An issue with the ignition system can contribute to a surging Briggs and Stratton lawn mower engine.
To examine the ignition system, follow these steps:
- Remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug.
- Inspect the spark plug for signs of damage or wear.
- Clean or replace the spark plug if necessary.
- Check the ignition coil for any loose connections or damage.
- Test the ignition coil using an ignition tester to ensure it is providing a strong spark.
Inspecting The Fuel Pump:
A failing or clogged fuel pump can cause surging in a Briggs and Stratton lawn mower engine.
To inspect the fuel pump, follow these steps:
- Locate the fuel pump on your lawn mower.
- Check for any visible signs of damage or leaks.
- Remove the fuel pump and clean it thoroughly.
- Inspect the fuel lines for blockages or cracks.
- Replace the fuel pump or fuel lines if necessary.
Checking For Any Vacuum Leaks:
Vacuum leaks can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to a surging Briggs and Stratton lawn mower engine.
To check for vacuum leaks, follow these steps:
- Inspect all the hoses and gaskets connected to the carburetor for any cracks or damage.
- Use a can of carburetor cleaner to spray around the carburetor while the engine is running.
- If the engine idle changes or becomes smoother when sprayed in a certain area, it indicates a vacuum leak in that area.
- Replace or repair any damaged hoses or gaskets to eliminate vacuum leaks.
Cleaning Or Replacing The Fuel Filter:
A clogged fuel filter can cause fuel flow issues and result in a surging Briggs and Stratton lawn mower engine.
To clean or replace the fuel filter, follow these steps:
- Locate the fuel filter on your lawn mower.
- Remove the fuel filter from the fuel line.
- Clean the fuel filter using a brush or replace it with a new one.
- Inspect the fuel line for any blockages or damage.
- Clean or replace the fuel line as necessary.
Inspecting The Exhaust System:
An obstructed or damaged exhaust system can affect engine performance and cause surging in a Briggs and Stratton lawn mower.
To inspect the exhaust system, follow these steps:
- Visually inspect the exhaust pipe and muffler for any blockages, dents, or damage.
- Use a wire brush to clean out any debris or carbon buildup in the exhaust system.
- Ensure the exhaust system is securely attached to the engine.
- Replace any damaged or blocked components of the exhaust system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Fix My Briggs And Stratton Engine Surging?
To fix your Briggs and Stratton engine surging, check for a blockage in the fuel supply, bad gas, a bad spark plug, or a dirty/faulty carburetor.
What Causes A Briggs & Stratton Lawn Mower To Surge?
A Briggs & Stratton lawn mower can surge due to blockage in the fuel supply, bad gas, a bad spark plug, or a dirty/faulty carburetor.
Why Is My Briggs And Stratton Lawn Mower Surging Up And Down?
A Briggs and Stratton lawn mower may surge up and down due to various reasons. One possibility is a blockage in the fuel supply. Other factors include bad gas, a bad spark plug, or a dirty/faulty carburetor. To fix this issue, you can try checking the air filter, governor springs, fuel quality, and the carburetor and intake components.
How Do I Stop My Lawn Mower From Surging?
To stop your lawn mower from surging, check for blockages in the fuel supply and consider these possibilities: bad gas, bad spark plug, dirty/faulty carburetor.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing a surging Briggs and Stratton lawn mower engine, you’re not alone. While a blockage in the fuel supply is often the culprit, there are other possible causes, such as bad gas, a dirty spark plug, or a faulty carburetor.
But don’t worry, fixing this issue might be easier than you think. First, check the air filter and clean it if necessary.
Next, inspect the governor springs and make sure they are functioning properly. If your fuel has been sitting in the tank for a while, consider replacing it.
Additionally, check the primer bulb, the diaphragms between the carburetor and the fuel tank, and the carburetor itself. It’s also a good idea to ensure the carburetor is securely sealed onto the intake with an O-ring seal.
Ultimately, maintaining your lawn mower and performing regular maintenance tasks can help prevent engine surging.
