A spark plug is an electric device and source of ignition for small engines. It’s used to help deliver an electric current from the ignition system to the combustion chamber, such as the kind that powers a lawnmower. Spark plugs are relatively simple electrical devices.
Lawn mower owners need to understand how spark plugs work and have the know-how to replace, change, and clean them. By doing this, you will make sure that your machine runs smoothly. To cut grass efficiently, you need a machine that runs smoothly. This article will briefly discuss lawn mower spark plugs, which will help you maintain your machine correctly.
How Does a Spark Plug Work?
The engines of most lawn mowers do not require batteries. They generate power for the spark plug by using a magneto instead.
Almost all ignition systems rely on generating a high voltage of 20,000 volts at precisely the right moment. In response to the voltage, a spark jumps across the spark plug gap, igniting the engine’s fuel.
The concept of a magneto is simple. Instead of generating continuous current, it produces a periodic pulse of high-voltage electricity.
Why is it essential to maintain your lawn mower’s spark plug?
You will lose quality to your electric charge as your spark plug gets dirty over time. If your spark plug is not regularly cleaned, you may experience this if you use your lawnmower extensively. If this happens, the fuel is not entirely burned, lowering the performance and output of your engine. If you want to avoid this, make sure your spark plug is maintained correctly.
How to Maintain The Lawn Mower Spark Plug
Here are some tips for maintaining your lawn mower spark plug.
Clean The Spark Plug
As soon as you locate the spark plug, you need to unplug the wire leading to it. To remove dirt or debris from the exterior, you can use a compressed air gun. You cannot let dirt in the cylinder bore as it will wear away the ring surface and score the bore wall.
Use Spray
While keeping the plug face downward, spray the space around the center electrode with a carburetor cleaner. This will remove any porcelain dust or debris that might cause a misfire, especially under load.
Apply Dielectric Compound
You need to coat the porcelain insulator and the secondary wire connection. The boot sits with a dielectric compound; as a result, the boots will be less likely to stick to the insulator, and corrosion will be reduced.
Make Sure the Plug is Damage-free
You should check the porcelain for cracks if the spark plug falls onto concrete or another hard surface. Ensure that the center electrode lines up with the side electrode and that it is straight.
What Are The Signs That Your Spark Plug Needs Cleaning?
The first things you need to check for are any anomalies. Spark plugs with working connections are typically light gray or tan. Carbon patches, oil deposits, or soot indicate a dirty spark plug that needs to be cleaned or replaced. The soot, oil, or carbon deposits block the electric flow, preventing igniting.
Spark Plug Replacement
You need to read the instruction manual thoroughly before changing your spark plug to ensure you use the right one. If you have an old spark plug, you can also read the code on the side because different manufacturers use distinct codes for spark plugs.
You need to apply a tiny amount of anti-seize compound to a spark plug before inserting a new one to make it easier to remove next time. To tighten the spark plug, insert it first with your finger and then tighten it with a wrench.
Call Mower Mobile Techs
Sometimes, it’s just easier to have someone else take care of your lawn mower, and that’s where Mobile Mower Techs come in. We will come to your residence or business and provide repair and maintenance work for your lawnmowers. Give us a call today!