How To Change A Lawn Mower Spark Plug
When your car or truck needs a new spark plug, you likely head to your local auto parts store. Maybe you use their VIN lookup tool to find the right part. Then, the process of switching out the spark plug is fairly simple. Of course, cars and trucks aren’t the only things with motors. What do you do when your lawn mower needs a new spark plug?
Finding the Right Plug
The good news is that replacing a lawn mower spark plug is easy. If you can replace one in your car or truck, you can do it for your lawn mower. Even if you take your vehicle to the mechanic, you can learn how to change a spark plug easily. The first step is to know that you need to replace it. If your lawn mower is hard to start, the engine stops unexpectedly or your have poor fuel efficiency, the problem may be the spark plug.
There are a few different types of spark plugs. To determine which is the right one for your mower, check the owner’s manual. If you can’t find your manual, check the existing spark plug. It should have the part number on the ceramic insulator. Once you have your new spark plug, it is time to change the plug. This should take less than an hour depending on your experience. Many people can do it in significantly less time.
Steps for Changing a Lawn Mower Spark Plug
The process is simple. Before you start, make sure your mower is on a flat, stable surface such as a garage floor. Grab a screwdriver, socket wrench with a spark plug socket, feeler gauge, cleaner, brush and a knife.
- Disconnect: Disconnect the spark plug lead (ignition cable). You may need to remove the engine cover first.
- Remove: Using your spark plug socket, turn the plug counterclockwise to loosen it. If it is resistant to turning, don’t force it. Instead, apply some lubricant, let it soak for a few minutes then try again. It should be easy to remove.
- Adjust Gap: Using the feeler gauge, adjust the gap on the spark plug. You can determine the right gap based on the original spark plug.
- Install: Place the plug in position and tighten it using your hand. After that, tighten it a little further with the spark plug socket. Rachet it until it stops going down, then add an extra quarter turn.
- Reconnect: Attach the spark plug lead back to the new plug. Then, replace the engine cover.
Once you are done, dispose of the used parts. You can throw spark plugs in the garbage if you want or take them to a scrap yard if they are still in working order.
Get Started
Now that you know how to change a spark plug in a lawn mower, it’s time to get started! The process is easy, and anyone can learn how to do it. You may be surprised by how much you can achieve by yourself with a few tools and a little learning.