Identify the issue with the lawn mower
Before attempting to fix a lawn mower with no compression, it is essential to identify the root cause of the problem. Some of the most common issues that lead to low compression include damaged pistons, leaking valves, or blown head gaskets. Once you have determined the root cause, you can begin to troubleshoot and fix the problem.
Check the piston rings
If the lawn mower is experiencing low compression, checking the piston rings is the best place to start. Misaligned or broken piston rings can cause the engine to lose compression. To fix this problem, it is essential to replace the piston rings. You can purchase new piston rings from a local auto parts store or buy them online. If you do not have experience replacing piston rings, it is advisable to seek professional help.
Inspect the valves
If the piston rings are in good condition, the next step is to inspect the valves. Worn or damaged valves can cause low compression in lawn mowers. You can start by examining the valve seats and valves for signs of wear and tear. If you detect any issues, the best course of action is to replace them. You can buy the valves from a local auto parts store or online. Like with piston rings, it is advisable to seek professional help if you are not familiar with replacing valves.
Check the head gasket
If the lawn mower still has low compression, the next step is to check the head gasket. A blown head gasket can cause low compression by allowing gases to escape from the engine. To check the head gasket, you can use a compression tester to determine if the engine is losing compression due to a leaky head gasket. If the head gasket is faulty, it needs to be replaced. You can purchase a new head gasket from a local auto parts store or buy it online. Again, if you are not confident in replacing the head gasket, it is best to seek professional help.
Conduct regular maintenance
The best way to avoid low compression in lawn mowers is to conduct regular maintenance. This includes changing the oil, replacing air filters, and cleaning the carburetor. Regular maintenance ensures that the lawn mower functions optimally, and any issues are caught early, minimizing the risk of significant and costly repairs.
