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Fix a Lawn Mower That’s Been Rained On: DIY Repair Tips

Has a sudden rainstorm left your lawn mower in a sorry state? We’ve got the solution. Our easy-to-follow guide will have your mower back in working order swiftly.

To fix a lawnmower after rain: Drain old gas and oil, and replace with fresh. Remove and dry the spark plug; replace it if needed. Clean or replace the coil if it is rusted. Clean flywheel magnets. Run the mower to evaporate moisture. For severe damage, consult an expert.

Rain-soaked mower? It’s not the end of the world. Our easy-to-follow guide will help you restore your mower to its former glory. Read on to learn how to drain old gas and oil, remove and dry the spark plug, clean or replace the coil if rusted, and more!

Contents

You can fix your lawnmower in 10 easy steps:

● Step 1:Check if Your Lawn Mower Gets Wet: Is There Water in Your Lawnmower?

The first step is to ensure your lawnmower has water in it. The following problems can be:

– Hard Starting

Water is denser than gas, so it sinks at the bottom of the tank, and most of the mowers draw gas from the bottom. Therefore, when you start the mower, water will go into the carburetor before fuel and cause a problem with starting.

– Poor Performance

When the amount of water in the fuel is not very significant, the engine will start, but, likely, it will not accelerate properly when the throttle is increased.

In my two decades of experience, I’ve found that the immediate steps to take if a lawn mower gets rained on are crucial. Disconnecting the spark plug, drying the outside of the mower, and removing and drying the air filter can prevent further damage and are the first steps towards recovery.

– Running and Stopping

When there is a small amount of water in the fuel tank, although you can start the engine smoothly, your mower may suddenly stop running. Sometimes, it may start again, but the same thing can repeat.

– Fuel System Damage

If you notice any issues in the performance caused by the collected water in the mower’s fuel system, check your engine as soon as possible; otherwise, if you are too late, it may cause significant damage. Over time, you can prevent any damage to the mower, such as corrosion or rust.

– Engine dies under a load of working

Sometimes, the engine dies under the heavy load of work. The only solution is to dry the water accumulated at the bottom of the fuel tank and the carburetor.

● Step 2: Get a can of starter fluid.

The first thing you must do is get a can of starter fluid. This may be available in your local lawn or garden center.

● Step 3: Remove the air cleaner and turn off or cover the choke.

After that, remove the air cleaner and turn off or cover the choke. Also, disconnect the spark plug for safety purposes.

● Step 4: Spray starter fluid down the carburetor

Carefully spray the starter fluid down the carburetor.

● Step 5: Turn the ignition on

Turn the ignition on and try to start the lawnmower. If it is successful and the mower starts, turn it off, remove the air filter, clean it, and put it aside to dry. When the filter is completely dry, put the mower back together.

If the lawnmower does not start, continue to the next step.

● Step 6: Drain the oil and the gas.

Then, drain the oil and gas from the lawnmower. Keep in mind to drain the gas from the carburetor as well. It is essential to remove these fluids; water can also get into these compartments.

Common mistakes when fixing a rain-damaged lawn mower include trying to start the mower without drying it first, not checking the oil, and neglecting the air filter. I’ve seen these mistakes often in my 20 years in the field.”

● Step 7: Replace the oil and gas.

See if the oil you took out has water bubbles. If there are, then it is the most likely cause of the malfunction. Change the oil and gas with fresh fluids.

Now, attempt to start the lawnmower once again. If the lawnmower starts and works fine, do not read further steps.

● Step 8: Try inserting a new spark plug.

It is also possible that the problem originates from the spark plug. First, see if there is moisture in the spark plug. If there is, this moisture blocks a spark, and the mower does not start. Try drying it with sandpaper and try to start the mower again.

You can also try inserting a new spark plug in case the old one is not working. Do not read any further if your lawnmower starts working again correctly.

● Step 9: Check the coil for the rust

Turn the fuel shutoff valve to an off position to see if the coil inside the mower is rusted. Remove it and clean it with sandpaper or a small wire brush if it is rusted. If the coil has been eroded over time and is beyond repair, it is better to buy a new one.

● Step 10: Clean the magnets on the flywheel

Thoroughly clean the magnets on the flywheel inside the lawnmower. Replace the coil and the flywheel in their original position and tighten the coil. Now, restart your lawnmower.

Related Questions:

1) Can you mow wet grass?

It is advised to let the grass get wet before you mow it. But when mowing it, you have to be careful to cut one-third or less of the blades of the grass. If it is a rainy season and the grass is wet for a long time and continues to grow, it is OK to mow the wet grass, not let it grow too much, and produce seeds.

2) Why is my lawnmower oil milky?

If the oil of your lawnmower is of a whitish milky color, it is contaminated with water. The oil has a greenish-milky color because it contains antifreeze. If water is added to the oil due to water condensation in the engine, then the milky white color should disappear when you warm the lawnmower.

In my experience, many issues with a rain-damaged lawn mower can be fixed at home. However, if the mower still doesn’t work after drying and cleaning, it may need the attention of a professional.

3) Can lawnmowers get wet?

A lawnmower can not be completely waterproof. However, you can still use water to clean your lawnmower. Landowners are designed to tolerate a little rain on the land mower engine. So, there is no need to panic.

After the rain, please turn on the mower and heat it for a few minutes. The engine’s heat evaporates the water and clears the moisture to protect the motor from rust.

Remarks:

Although lawnmowers are generally made quite a bit waterproof, there can still be water damage in them. Typically, minor water damage should disappear when you heat the mower for a few minutes. The spark plug or the coil is wet when the damage is more severe.

If the carburetor is rusted due to prolonged contact with water or if the oil or gas in the mower has been contaminated with water, you should follow the steps mentioned in this blog post. If it still does not work, it is better to consult an expert.

• Importance of Checking Your Mower’s Condition

Still, there is no need to panic because it is just a minor problem, and your mower will be fine. A wet mower can damage your lawn, so it’s essential to check the condition of your mower when ready to use it. Avoid using water when cleaning the mower; use a clean and dry cloth instead.

Part of the maintenance process is to ensure the mower is dry before storing it. How wet the mower gets can affect its performance, depending on its model and make. Be sure to avoid water damage to keep your mower in top condition.

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  1. Theodore Bennett says:

    I never thought about the impact of wet grass on lawnmowers. Interesting point raised in the article.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Theodore! We’re glad you found the information on wet grass and lawnmowers useful. Hope the guide helps you keep your mower in top shape.

  2. Kristin Reed says:

    I didn’t know draining the old gas and oil was so important after a lawnmower gets wet. Thanks for the tip.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for reading! We’re glad the tip helped you fix your mower. Remember to follow our guide for more maintenance tips. Happy mowing!

  3. Jayden Franklin says:

    Is there a way to prevent water damage to the lawnmower in the first place?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      To prevent water damage to your lawnmower, store it indoors or cover it with a tarp during rainstorms. Regular maintenance can help protect your mower from water-related issues.

  4. Sarah Banks says:

    Thanks for explaining why a lawnmower may die under a load of work. It makes sense now.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Glad you found it helpful, Sarah! Let me know if you have any other questions about lawnmower maintenance. Happy mowing!

  5. Nora Lucas says:

    Can you recommend a specific brand of starter fluid to use for this process?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      While specific brands vary, any starter fluid available at your local lawn or garden center should work effectively in this process. Just remember to follow the steps outlined in the guide for best results.

  6. Marilyn Meyer says:

    I appreciate the detailed steps provided in this article. Very useful information.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Marilyn! I’m glad you found the steps helpful. Let me know if you have any more questions or need further assistance.

  7. Leslie Bishop says:

    Is there a specific way to dispose of the old gas and oil from the lawnmower?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      To dispose of old gas and oil, take them to a local hazardous waste collection site. They will know how to handle these materials safely and properly.

  8. Lily Black says:

    The step-by-step breakdown of fixing a rain-soaked lawnmower is very clear and easy to follow. Thank you.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Glad you found the guide helpful, Lily! Don’t let a rain-soaked lawnmower get you down. Happy mowing!

  9. Derrick Morales says:

    I have experienced my lawnmower stopping suddenly, and now I know it may be due to water in the fuel tank. Useful information.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Glad we could help! Keep your lawnmower running smoothly with our easy steps. Happy mowing!

  10. Glen Russell says:

    I never knew that water in the fuel tank could cause so many issues with the lawnmower. Thanks for explaining.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Glen! We’re glad you found the information helpful. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out.

  11. Eduardo Lane says:

    I appreciate the guidance on checking the condition of the lawnmower before and after use. Good reminder for maintenance.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Eduardo! We’re glad you found the maintenance tips helpful. Keep your lawnmower in top shape for a pristine lawn all season long.

  12. Amelia Brewer says:

    I appreciate the emphasis on safety in the article, such as disconnecting the spark plug. Very important information.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Amelia! Safety is our top priority. Stay safe while fixing your mower after a rainstorm. Let us know if you need any more tips.

  13. Jo Bradley says:

    Thanks for the helpful guide on fixing a rain-soaked lawnmower. Very informative and easy to follow.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thanks, Jo! Glad you found the guide helpful. Let us know if you have any other questions or need more tips on lawnmower maintenance. Happy mowing!

  14. Harvey Stanley says:

    How often should I check my lawnmower after it has been exposed to rain?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Don’t worry – our guide will help you restore your mower after rain. Drain old gas and oil, replace the spark plug if needed, clean the coil, and run the mower dry.

  15. Megan Phillips says:

    Great video resources linked in the article. Very helpful for visual learners.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Megan! I’m glad you found the video resources useful. Hope they help you fix your mower quickly.

  16. Stephanie Richardson says:

    Can using a cover for the lawnmower prevent water damage during unexpected rainstorms?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      A cover can help prevent water damage to your lawnmower in unexpected rainstorms. Follow our guide to quickly restore your mower to working order after a downpour.

  17. Debbie Sutton says:

    This article oversimplifies the potential damage caused by rain to a lawnmower. The steps provided may not be sufficient for more severe damage. Additionally, the repetition of the same information is unnecessary.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Debbie. We appreciate your insights and will consider them in future posts.

  18. Tammy Franklin says:

    Great tips on cleaning the magnets on the flywheel. I will definitely follow these steps when needed. Thank you.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Tammy! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any further assistance with your lawnmower maintenance. Happy mowing!

  19. Arlene Little says:

    This article provided insights I never knew about maintaining a lawnmower. Very eye-opening information.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Glad you found the article helpful, Arlene! Remember to follow these steps to restore your lawnmower after a rainstorm. Happy mowing!

  20. Nicholas Chavez says:

    The explanation about why the oil in a lawnmower can turn milky was very informative. I never knew that before.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Nicholas! I’m glad you found the information helpful. Let me know if you have any other questions or need further assistance with your lawnmower.

  21. Jordan Fields says:

    Is it safe to attempt fixing the lawnmower myself or should I consult a professional?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty! Follow our guide to fix your lawnmower post-rainstorm. Take the DIY approach first, consult a professional if needed.

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