Engine Won't Start: Diagnosis and Solutions

One of the most frustrating experiences for any homeowner is when their small engine equipment refuses to start. Whether it's your lawnmower on a Saturday morning or your snow blower during the first winter storm, a non-starting engine can quickly derail your plans. In this section, we'll walk through the step-by-step process of diagnosing why your engine won't start and provide practical solutions to get your machine running again. By following these troubleshooting steps, you'll be able to identify common issues and often resolve them without the need for professional help.

The first step in diagnosing a non-starting engine is to check the basics. Ensure that there's fresh fuel in the tank and that the fuel valve, if present, is in the 'on' position. Next, verify that the spark plug wire is securely connected. If these simple checks don't solve the problem, move on to testing the spark plug itself. Remove it carefully and inspect for signs of wear or fouling. A quick way to test for spark is to reconnect the plug wire, ground the plug against the engine block, and pull the starter cord. If you don't see a spark, it's time to replace the plug or investigate further electrical issues.