Gas Walk-Behind Mower: Why does my lawn mower run rough?

A clogged orifice or jet in a carburetor prevents the engine from getting the mix of gas and air it needs. When the carburetor is clogged, the engine won't start, runs rough or won't stay running. It's usually more effective and cost efficient to replace the carburetor rather than rebuild it.

A clogged or dirty carburetor causes the engine to run rough or prevents the engine from starting. If you can start the engine using starter fluid but the engine won't continue to run, clogged carburetor jets may be the problem. Clean and rebuild the carburetor using a carburetor rebuild kit if the engine won't start or it runs rough because the carburetor isn't supplying the engine with fuel.

The spark plug gets electrical current from the ignition coils and sparks to ignite the fuel mixture in the cylinder, which drives the piston. The spark plug won't spark if it's coated with carbon deposits or oil residue, or if there's a crack in the ceramic insulator. The engine won't start or runs rough if the spark plug is bad. Replace the spark plug if it's damaged or coated with residue.

The flywheel key is a small metal rectangle that keeps the crankshaft and flywheel aligned when you tighten the flywheel nut. To protect more expensive components from damage, the flywheel key is designed to shear if the mower blade hits an object like a rock or tree stump hard enough to make the flywheel slip out of alignment with the crankshaft. If the flywheel key gets dented when the blade hits an object, the engine runs rough or vibrates severely. If the flywheel key shears when you hit an object, your lawn mower will stop running and won't start. If you inspect the flywheel key and find it dented or sheared, replace it.

Tune up a walk-behind mower when the engine runs rough or won't start. You may need to tune up the engine when it vibrates too much or won't stay running. Regular tune-ups prevent engine wear and improve engine efficiency. A walk-behind mower tune-up includes changing the oil, spark plug and air filter. It could also include sharpening or replacing the blade. Follow the steps in our How to tune up a lawn mower video to get your mower running smoothly again.