How to Start a John Deere Lawnmower?

How to Start a John Deere Lawnmower? – John Deere riding mowers are a well-known tractor-style lawn mower that has been around for many years.

There are numerous models of riding mowers and lawn tractors from John Deere’s 100 series; however, the procedure for starting each one is identical.

Be aware that there could be minor differences in the location of things on your particular model of mower. So ensure you are aware of the exact location of everything by reading your manual or reading the labels on the tractor before you attempt the start.

Here are the steps on how to start a John Deere lawnmower:

  1. Start the engine in a well-ventilated area. 
  2. Insert the key into the mower’s ignition.
  3. Push the brake pedal down all the way and unlock the parking brake.
  4. Put the throttle lever into the choke position or half-speed position. 
  5. Turn the key to the start position for up to 5 seconds.
  6. Let the key return to the run position after the engine starts.
  7. Leave the engine running at half-speed for 2 minutes before moving.

There are many John Deere models of lawn tractors or riding mowers, but the procedure to start all of them is identical, minus slight differences in the locations of parts and components. It is possible to get precise information on these areas from the user’s manual for the model or the tractor’s body labels.

The process of starting the beginning procedure of a John Deere lawnmower is quite simple and can be done in a matter of minutes. Turning off the engine after you’ve completed mowing is equally crucial, and we’ll show you to do this as well. Therefore, we’ll get deep into the specifics before we go on.

How to Start a John Deere Lawnmower

How to Start a John Deere Lawnmower? – Steps 

Step 1: Start the engine in a well-ventilated area:

Don’t start the engine inside an enclosed area where exhaust fumes can’t escape. Start the mower outside, or let the windows and doors let air into the area should you decide to begin the engine in an enclosed garage or any other space.

If you cannot provide adequate ventilation where the mower is kept or stored, attach an extension pipe on the exhaust pipe and then run it outside, directing emissions.

Step 2: Insert the key into the mower’s ignition:

Put the key into the slot to the right of the steering wheel. Could you not turn it on yet? The key will automatically be in the stop position when you insert it.

Step 3: Push the brake pedal down all the way and unlock the parking brake:

Make sure you place your foot down on the pedal of your brake and press it until you can unlock the brake for parking. The parking brake lever is situated below the ignition downwards to open it.

Make sure the brake pedal is compressed. Based on the model, the brake pedal could be found on the left or right-hand side of the mower.

Step 4: Put the throttle lever into the choke position or half-speed position:

If your engine has a cold temperature, the throttle should be moved to the left side of the wheel to the choke position. Then, move it to the half-speed setting if your engine has been warm.

Certain riding mower models feature the choke knob instead of an option to choke the throttle. When this occurs with your mower, turn the throttle to half-speed, then remove the choke knob.

Step 5: Turn the key to the start position for up to 5 seconds:

Turn the key to the right, but not longer than five minutes. After 5 seconds, release the keys. If the engine does not start, Wait 10 seconds, then switch the key back to its starting position for five more minutes.

Repeat this procedure until the engine is running. It’s crucial to only switch the key to the starting position for five seconds in intervals of 5 seconds. 

  • If you continue to hold it for longer than that, you may end up damaging the starter.
  • If your mower isn’t starting and has been waiting a few minutes, check the tank for gas. You may have to fill the tank with gas.

Step 6: Let the key return to the run position after the engine starts:

Let go of the key once the engine is running. When you let go of The key automatically returns to the run position. The run position is the spot second from the left, instantly to the left of the start position.

Step 7: Leave the engine running at half-speed for 2 minutes before moving:

The engine should idle for 2 minutes to ensure it has time to warm up. The mower can be operated after waiting for 2 minutes. Do not let the engine idle for more than a few minutes at a time, or you could damage your engine. If you plan to stop working the mower for more than two minutes, go ahead and shut it down and then turn it back up after you’re prepared to go back.

John Deere Mower Starting Problems

John Deere’s mowers are extremely robust, but even the most reliable machines may encounter problems. It’s possible that your lawnmowers from John Deere will not start as they should for various reasons. Most of these problems aren’t too significant and can be solved using the machine. This blog provides step-by-step guides about how to handle these issues.

Let’s look at some of these issues:

Problem
Possible Causes
Problem
Possible Causes
The engine clicks but fails to start.
● Faulty starter (motor and/or solenoid)
● Weak/dead battery  
● Battery terminals corroded
● Loose or damaged wiring
The engine is hard to start.
● Dirty fuel filter
● Weak/dead battery
● Bad gas
● A faulty or dirty carburetor
● Misadjusted engine valves
● Faulty spark plug
● Dirty air filter
● Temperature below 0 oC (32 oF)

The problems mentioned on the list are typical for lawnmowers of all kinds. The best method to tackle the issues mentioned is to avoid them by regularly maintaining your lawnmowers by John Deere. Refer to the manufacturer’s manual to learn how to keep your mower in top shape. Maintenance boosts both the efficiency and longevity of equipment.

Final Words:

It is typical for lawnmowers who are new to the market to be confused regarding the turning off and starting process. If you’re a brand new John Deere mower owner, it’s time to make your confusion disappear. The tips in this article can help you to start and stop procedures. After doing these steps several times, you’ll be able to memorize them and no longer require referring to the directions. To ensure that your John Deere mower is running effortlessly, make sure to perform regular maintenance.

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