Why my lawnmower is revving high

Maintaining a beautiful and lush green lawn in your home or for commercial use, it is obvious that a lawnmower is mandatory equipment to mow the grass. Lawnmower is a complex machine and sometimes it develops faults. One of the most common problems is the REVVING HIGH while mowing and your mower acts like a car while you start mowing.

In this blog post, I will discuss “Why My Lawnmower is Revving High” and also provide a practical solution that you can perform easily at home and solve this problem. After reading this and following the steps briefly, you will be able to control the lawnmower’s throttle again at your ease.

Understanding Lawnmower Revving: The Basics

What is Revving in Lawnmowers?

Revving refers to the engine’s rotation speed, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). High revving occurs when the RPMs exceed the normal operational range, leading to excessive noise, potential engine damage, and inefficient lawn cutting.

The Top Five Reasons Behind High Revving in Lawnmowers

Compromised Airflow System

The Issue: A primary reason for high revving is a blocked or clogged airflow system. The airflow system, which includes components like the air filter, is essential for proper engine combustion. If your airflow system not working properly, there is a possibility that it also start surging. Over time, these filters can become clogged with debris, leading to airflow restrictions.

The Solution: Regularly inspect and clean your lawnmower’s air filter. If the filter appears damaged or exceedingly dirty, it should be replaced.

Carburetor Adjustments

The Issue: The carburetor mixes air and fuel for the engine. Incorrect adjustments or clogging in the carburetor can disrupt this balance, causing the engine to rev higher than necessary.

The Solution: Clean the carburetor and check for any blockages. Adjust the mixture screws to ensure a proper balance of air and fuel.

Fuel Quality Issues

The Issue: Old or contaminated fuel can cause several problems, including high revving. Over time, fuel can degrade, leading to poor engine performance.

The Solution: Drain old fuel from the tank and refill it with fresh, high-quality gasoline. Regularly check the fuel quality before use.

Governor Malfunction

The Issue: The governor regulates the engine’s speed. If it’s malfunctioning, the engine might rev too high.

The Solution: Inspect the governor for damage or improper settings. Adjust or replace as necessary.

Throttle Cable Wear

The Issue: The throttle cable controls the engine speed. Over time, it can become worn or loose, leading to unregulated revving.

The Solution: Regularly inspect the throttle cable. If it’s damaged or loose, adjust or replace it.

Implementing Solutions for Lawn Mower is Revving high: A Step-by-Step Guide

Dealing with Airflow Issues

• Locate the air filter housing and remove the filter.
• If the filter is dirty but intact, clean it using recommended methods.
• Replace the filter if it shows signs of wear or damage.

Carburetor Adjustments for Optimal Performance

• Locate your mower’s carburetor; refer to the user manual if necessary.
• Clean the carburetor thoroughly, ensuring all jets and passages are clear.
• Adjust the mixture screws to achieve the right fuel-air mix.

Fuel System Maintenance

• Safely drain old fuel into an appropriate container.
• Inspect the fuel tank for rust or debris.
• Refill the tank with fresh fuel.

Governor Inspection and Adjustment

• Turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug for safety.
• Locate the governor; consult the manual if unsure.
• Check for any visible damage or wear.
• Adjust the governor settings according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Throttle Cable Check and Replacement

• Inspect the throttle cable for any signs of wear or damage.
• Adjust the cable if it’s loose.
• Replace the cable if it’s damaged.

FREQUENTLY ASK QUESTIONS (FAQs)

Why is my lawn mower revving high?

The high revving of your lawn mower can be caused by various factors such as a stuck governor arm, misadjusted throttle linkage, or a dirty air filter. It’s important to check these components to determine the underlying cause.

How can I identify the common causes of high lawn mower RPM?

Common causes of high lawn mower RPM include issues with the governor arm, throttle linkage, air filter, or governor mechanism. These components may need adjustment, cleaning, or lubrication to resolve the high revving issue.

What tools do I need to fix a lawn mower with excessively high RPM?

To address high lawn mower RPM, you may need tools such as a screwdriver, pliers, wrench, and a clamp to access, adjust, and lubricate the governor arm, throttle linkage, and other relevant components.

How do I adjust the tension on the governor’s arm to reduce the lawn mower’s RPM?

You can adjust the tension on the governor’s arm by carefully tightening or loosening the linkage, ensuring it is correctly connected and lubricated. This can help reduce the revving of the lawn mower.

What should I do if my lawn mower’s RPM is unusually high?

If your lawn mower’s RPM is unusually high, it’s important to inspect the governor mechanism, throttle linkage, and air filter for any issues. Cleaning, adjusting, or lubricating these components can help correct the high revving problem.

How can I get to the governor’s arm of the lawn mower to solve the high-revving issue?

To access the governor arm of the lawn mower, you may need to remove the air filter and use appropriate tools to reach the mechanism. This can help you identify and solve the cause of the high RPM.

What are the sounds like when the lawn mower’s RPM is too high?

When the lawn mower’s RPM is too high, it may sound like the engine is revving excessively or running at an abnormally fast pace. This indicates a potential issue with the governor or throttle mechanism.

Can a dirty air filter cause the lawn mower’s RPM to be too high?

Yes, a dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, causing the RPM to increase. Regularly cleaning or replacing the air filter is essential to maintain the correct engine performance and prevent high revving.

How do I lubricate the throttle linkage to address the high RPM of the lawn mower?

You can lubricate the throttle linkage by applying a suitable lubricant to the moving parts, ensuring smooth operation and proper orientation. This can help prevent binding and solve the high revving issue.

What are the steps to take if the lawn mower doesn’t respond to attempts to correct its high RPM?

If the lawn mower doesn’t respond to attempts to correct its high RPM, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance. Additional troubleshooting and repair may be required to address the underlying cause of the issue.

FINAL THOUGHTs

The secret to a durable and efficient lawnmower lies in regular maintenance and a proactive approach to problem-solving. High revving, while a common issue, is a clear sign that your mower is pleading for attention. By gaining insight into the causes and remedies of high revving, you’re not only addressing immediate concerns but also preventing future complications.

The habit of regular check-ups and cleaning routines not only will ensure smoother operation but will also significantly extend the lifespan of your mower. In the world of lawn care, prevention is always more efficient than cure. By taking these simple yet effective steps, you can enjoy a well-manicured lawn with a mower that’s always up to the task.