Mower engine is flooded and won't start

Symptoms

• Strong gasoline smell near the engine
• Spark plug wet when removed
• Repeated pulling made things worse, not better
• Happened after using the choke or primer bulb too much

Likely causes

• CommonOveruse of the primer bulbPressing the primer too many times floods the carburetor with excess fuel.
• CommonChoke left on too longRunning the choke closed after the engine is warm over-enriches the mixture.
• PossibleRepeated failed start attemptsEach attempt with choke on adds more unburned fuel to the cylinder.
• Less commonStuck choke plateA choke that doesn't open on its own keeps flooding the engine every time.

What to do

1. Move the choke to the open/run position and set the throttle to fast.
2. Wait 10–15 minutes to let excess fuel evaporate from the cylinder and carburetor.
3. Pull the starter cord several times with the choke open and spark plug still installed to help clear the cylinder.
4. If it still won't start, remove the spark plug, wipe it dry, let the cylinder air out a few more minutes, then reinstall.
5. Start again with choke off (or barely engaged) and throttle at fast, without using the primer bulb.
6. Avoid using the primer more than 2–3 times on future cold starts.

Tools and parts

• Spark plug socket
• Rag

When to call a pro

If the engine floods repeatedly even with correct starting technique, a stuck choke or carburetor float may need professional repair.

Safety