How to Tilt Your Lawn Mower Correctly
The recommended way to tilt your lawnmower is to tip it on its side with the carburetor side facing upwards. This prevents oil from entering the carburetor and air filter system. Incorrect tilting can cause problems like engine smoke, poor performance, and the need to clean or replace parts. With walk-behinds, wrong tilting while the piston is low can cause hydro-locking.
Tilting a riding mower is best done on its back with the front wheels lifted. Use jacks and jack stands to keep it stable. Tilting on its side should only be done if rear tilting is impossible. When tilted incorrectly, engine issues can result. Ensure fuel level is low before side tilting.
Blade Position and Manual Tipping
The "wobble test" shows blade position, indicating which side to tip onto. Mowers may have markings showing the correct blade side for even cutting, especially in high grass.
Manually tipping can damage blades or cause injury. Tip on a soft surface like grass to protect the mower. Ensure the spark plug is opposite the tilt side. Incorrect tilting can break the spark plug, flood the motor, or require repairs.
Troubleshooting Tip: Lawn Mower Won’t Start After Tipping on Side
The recommended way to tilt your lawnmower is to tip it upright with carburetor side facing upwards. This prevents oil from entering the carburetor and air filter system. Incorrect tilting can cause problems like engine smoke, poor performance, and the need to clean or replace parts. With walk-behinds, wrong tilting while the piston is low can cause hydro-locking.