Craftsman M220 Lawn Mower Won't Start? Quick Fixes & Solutions

Craftsman M220 lawn mower won’t start due to potential issues with the spark plug or carburetor.

Table of Contents

Understanding The Common Causes Of Starting Issues

Understanding the common causes of starting issues is essential when troubleshooting a Craftsman M220 lawn mower that won’t start.

By identifying potential problems such as a clogged fuel line or a faulty spark plug, you can take the necessary steps to get your mower back up and running in no time.

In this section, we will explore the fuel-related problems, ignition system issues, and mechanical faults that may be preventing your lawn mower from starting.

Fuel-Related Problems:

Insufficient fuel: Ensure that there is enough fuel in the tank to start the mower. If the fuel level is low, refuel the tank and try starting again.
Contaminated fuel: Contaminants such as debris or water can disrupt the fuel flow and cause starting issues. Consider draining the old fuel and replacing it with fresh, clean fuel.

Clogged fuel filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict the fuel flow and prevent the engine from starting. Check the fuel filter and clean or replace it if necessary.
Stale fuel: Fuel can deteriorate over time, especially when left unused for a long period. If the fuel in your mower is old, drain it and refill with fresh fuel.
Fuel line issues: Damaged or clogged fuel lines can disrupt the fuel flow and prevent the engine from starting. Inspect the fuel lines for any visible damage or blockages and replace if needed.

Ignition System Issues:

Spark plug problems: A faulty spark plug can prevent the mower from starting. Inspect the spark plug for signs of damage or wear, and replace if necessary.
Improper spark plug gap: The spark plug gap should be set according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Check the gap using a feeler gauge and adjust if needed.
Ignition coil failure: A malfunctioning ignition coil can disrupt the spark and prevent the engine from starting. Test the ignition coil using a spark tester and replace if it fails the test.

Faulty ignition switch: A defective ignition switch can disrupt the flow of electrical power and prevent the mower from starting. Inspect the ignition switch and replace if necessary.

Mechanical Faults:

Clogged air filter: A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine and cause starting issues. Clean or replace the air filter as recommended by the manufacturer.
Engine flooding: Over-priming the engine can flood it with excess fuel, making it difficult to start. Let the mower sit for a few minutes to allow the excess fuel to evaporate before trying to start it again.

Blocked or worn-out carburetor: A blocked or worn-out carburetor can hinder fuel and air mixture, leading to starting problems. Clean or repair the carburetor to ensure proper functioning.
Engine compression issues: Low or uneven engine compression can prevent the mower from starting. Consult a professional technician to perform a compression test and diagnose any potential issues.

Checking The Fuel System

To troubleshoot a Craftsman M220 lawn mower that won’t start, you should start by checking the fuel system.

Ensure the fuel tank is filled with clean gasoline and inspect the fuel filter for any clogs or damage.

Checking The Fuel Tank:

Start by checking the fuel tank if your Craftsman M220 lawn mower won’t start. Here are a few steps to follow:

Ensure that the fuel tank is filled with an adequate amount of fresh gasoline.

Check for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks in the fuel tank.
Make sure the fuel tank cap is securely tightened to prevent air from entering the system.
If you suspect contaminated fuel, consider draining the tank and refilling it with fresh gasoline.

Inspect the fuel line connected to the tank for any blockages or clogs.

Inspecting The Fuel Filter:

A clogged fuel filter can prevent proper fuel flow, leading to starting issues. Take the following steps to inspect the fuel filter:

Locate the fuel filter in your Craftsman M220 lawn mower. It is usually located between the fuel tank and the carburetor.

Remove the fuel filter and visually inspect it for any signs of dirt, debris, or blockages.
If the filter appears dirty or clogged, it should be replaced with a new one.
Additionally, check the fuel lines connected to the filter for any blockages or damage.

Verifying Fuel Flow To The Carburetor:

If the fuel tank and filter are in good condition, the next step is to ensure that fuel flow is reaching the carburetor. Follow these steps to verify fuel flow:

Locate the fuel line that connects the fuel filter to the carburetor.
Disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor and carefully direct it into a suitable container.

Turn on the fuel valve or switch on the lawn mower (if applicable) and check if fuel is flowing freely into the container.
If there is no or weak fuel flow, there might be an issue with the fuel pump or the fuel line itself. Consider seeking professional assistance to diagnose and fix the problem.

Confirming Ignition System Functionality

Ensure proper functioning of your Craftsman M220 lawn mower with a comprehensive ignition system check. Confirm that all components are working optimally for a smooth start and efficient operation.

Is your Craftsman M220 lawn mower refusing to start? Don’t fret just yet! Before you start browsing for costly repairs or replacements, it’s essential to confirm whether the ignition system is functioning properly.

Inspecting Spark Plug Condition:

To ensure the spark plug is not the culprit behind your Craftsman M220 lawn mower’s starting problem, take a moment to inspect its condition:

Remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug.

Remove the spark plug using a socket wrench or spark plug socket.
Examine the spark plug for any signs of fouling, such as dirt, corrosion, or excessive carbon buildup.
If the spark plug is dirty or worn out, clean it with a wire brush or replace it with a new one.

Reinstall the spark plug and reconnect the spark plug wire securely.

Testing The Ignition Coil:

The ignition coil plays a vital role in starting your lawn mower by generating the electrical current needed to ignite the fuel.

Follow these steps to check its functionality:

Locate the ignition coil, usually situated near the spark plug.
Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug.
Use a multimeter set to the resistance (ohms) setting.

Attach the multimeter probes to the ignition coil terminals.
Check the resistance reading on the multimeter. If it falls within the manufacturer’s specified range, the ignition coil is functioning correctly. If not, consider replacing the ignition coil.

Checking The Safety Switch:

The safety switch on your Craftsman M220 lawn mower ensures that it will start only when certain conditions are met. It is essential to inspect this switch as well:

Locate the safety switch, usually positioned on the handle or around the engine.
Check if the safety switch is properly engaged. Ensure it is in the “ON” position.
Inspect the switch for any damage or loose connections.

Clean the switch contacts with a contact cleaner or replace the safety switch if necessary.

Remember, if these troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue, it may be best to consult a professional for further assistance.

Diagnosing And Addressing Mechanical Faults

Diagnosing and addressing mechanical faults in the Craftsman M220 lawn mower that won’t start can be a challenging task.

However, with careful inspection and troubleshooting, it is possible to identify the underlying issues and implement the necessary repairs to get it running smoothly again.

Examining The Blade Engagement Switch:

When your Craftsman M220 lawn mower won’t start, one possible culprit could be a faulty blade engagement switch. This switch is responsible for engaging the lawn mower blades while in operation. Here are some steps you can take to examine this switch:

Check if the blade engagement switch is in the proper position.

Inspect the switch for any visible signs of damage or wear.
Clean the switch to remove any debris or dirt that may be affecting its functionality.
Test the switch with a multimeter to ensure it is sending the correct signal to engage the blades.

Inspecting The Flywheel Key:

Another mechanical fault that can prevent your Craftsman M220 lawn mower from starting is a sheared or damaged flywheel key.

The flywheel key connects the flywheel to the crankshaft, helping to synchronize the engine’s ignition and rotation. Here’s what you need to do to inspect the flywheel key:

Remove the cover to access the flywheel.

Carefully examine the flywheel key for signs of damage or wear.
If the flywheel key is sheared or broken, it will need to be replaced.
Install a new flywheel key and ensure it is properly aligned with the crankshaft.

Verifying The Presence Of Compression:

Lack of compression in the engine can also be a reason why your Craftsman M220 lawn mower won’t start.

Compression is critical for proper combustion and engine operation. To verify the presence of compression, follow these steps:

Remove the spark plug from the engine.

Connect a compression tester to the spark plug hole.
Pull the starter cord or use the electric start to turn over the engine.
Observe the compression reading on the tester. It should be within your mower’s specified range.

If the compression reading is low or non-existent, you may need to check the piston rings or valves for leaks or damage.

Troubleshooting Tips For Common Issues

If your Craftsman M220 lawn mower won’t start, follow these troubleshooting tips for common issues.

Check the fuel supply, clean the spark plug, and ensure the air filter is free of debris. Additionally, inspect the carburetor and ignition system for any faults.

Cleaning Or Replacing The Air Filter:

Check the air filter: A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, making it difficult for your lawn mower to start. Remove the air filter and inspect it for dirt and debris.
Clean the air filter: If the air filter is dirty, it’s recommended to clean it. Use compressed air or gently tap it on a hard surface to remove any dirt or debris. Make sure it is completely dry before reinserting it.
Replace the air filter: If the air filter is damaged or thoroughly clogged, it’s best to replace it with a new one. Consult your mower’s manual or contact the manufacturer for the appropriate replacement filter.

Adjusting Or Cleaning The Carburetor:

Locate the carburetor: The carburetor is responsible for mixing air and fuel in the right proportions. It can become dirty or misaligned over time, leading to starting issues.
Clean the carburetor: Use a carburetor cleaner to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated. Follow the instructions on the cleaner and ensure that all parts are thoroughly cleaned and dry before reassembling.
Adjust the carburetor: If cleaning the carburetor doesn’t solve the starting problem, you may need to adjust it. Refer to your mower’s manual for specific instructions on how to adjust the carburetor.

Replacing The Spark Plug:

Locate the spark plug: The spark plug ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine, providing the spark needed for combustion. If the spark plug is faulty or worn out, it can prevent your lawn mower from starting.
Remove the spark plug: Disconnect the spark plug wire and use a spark plug wrench to remove the old spark plug from the cylinder head.
Inspect the spark plug: Check the spark plug for signs of wear, such as a worn electrode or excessive carbon buildup. If any damage or wear is evident, it’s time to replace the spark plug.

Install the new spark plug: Ensure the new spark plug is the correct type and gap according to your mower’s manual. Carefully thread it into the cylinder head by hand, and then tighten it with a spark plug wrench until snug.
Reconnect the spark plug wire: Make sure the spark plug wire is securely connected to the spark plug.

Preventative Maintenance Tips For Reliability

Craftsman M220 lawn mower won’t start? Preventative maintenance tips can help. Check the spark plug, clean the carburetor, and inspect the fuel system to ensure reliability.

Regularly checking and changing the oil:

Check the oil level before every use to ensure it is at the recommended level.
Change the mower’s oil according to the manufacturer’s guidelines or after every 25 hours of use.

Use a quality oil that is suitable for small engines to ensure optimal performance.
Make sure to dispose of the used oil properly and follow any local regulations.

Cleaning the mower deck and undercarriage:

After each use, remove any grass clippings or debris from the mower deck and undercarriage.
Use a brush or hose to clean the underside of the deck and remove any caked-on dirt or grass.
Inspect the deck for any signs of damage or rust and address them promptly to prevent further issues.

Regular cleaning will improve airflow and prevent buildup, leading to better cutting performance.

Sharpening or replacing the mower blades:

Dull blades can result in an uneven and ragged lawn appearance.

Sharpen the blades at least once a season or more frequently if necessary.
Remove the blades from the mower and use a file or grinder to sharpen them to a fine edge.
If the blades are damaged or worn beyond repair, it’s best to replace them for optimal cutting performance.

To ensure your Craftsman M220 lawn mower starts reliably, preventative maintenance is key. Regularly checking and changing the oil, cleaning the mower deck and undercarriage, and sharpening or replacing the mower blades are essential tasks to keep your lawn mower in top condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Won't My Craftsman M220 Lawn Mower Start?

There are several possible reasons why your Craftsman M220 lawn mower won’t start. Check if the spark plug is dirty or faulty. Ensure that the fuel tank is filled with fresh gasoline. Make sure the ignition switch is in the “On” position.

If the problem persists, it may be necessary to inspect the carburetor or seek professional assistance.

How Do I Troubleshoot A Craftsman M220 Lawn Mower That Won't Start?

To troubleshoot a Craftsman M220 lawn mower that won’t start, start by checking the fuel tank and fuel filter for blockages or contamination. Ensure the spark plug is in good condition and properly connected. Clean or replace the air filter if necessary.

If the issue persists, consult the owner’s manual or contact a qualified technician for further assistance.

What Should I Do If My Craftsman M220 Lawn Mower Won't Start After Winter?

If your Craftsman M220 lawn mower won’t start after winter, try the following steps: check the fuel level and replace any stale fuel, clean or replace the spark plug, inspect the air filter for debris, check the ignition switch and battery connections, and clean the carburetor if necessary.

Conclusion

Starting your Craftsman M220 lawn mower may seem like a daunting task, but with the right troubleshooting steps, it can be easily resolved. First, check the fuel level and ensure it is filled with fresh fuel. Next, inspect the spark plug and clean or replace it if necessary.

Additionally, check the air filter for any build-up and replace it if needed. It’s also important to examine the carburetor and clean or adjust it accordingly.

Finally, double-check the ignition switch and the safety features such as the blade engagement lever and the seat switch.

By following these simple steps, you can get your Craftsman M220 lawn mower up and running in no time, ensuring a well-maintained and manicured lawn for all to enjoy.

Keep these troubleshooting tips handy for future reference and happy mowing!

Craftsman M220 Lawn Mower Won’t Start? Quick Fixes & Solutions