Problems With Snapper Lawn Mowers

Many homeowners choose a Snapper mower for cutting their lawn and maintaining a neat, attractive landscape. From time to time, problems may arise with your Snapper mower that prevent it from operating effectively. Identifying the issues that affect your mower will allow you to address them more efficiently so you can maintain a regular mowing schedule.

Engine Fails to Start

In Snapper mower models with recoil starters or electric starters, the engine may fail to start. The fuel tank should be checked to verify that it is not empty. If the tank is full and the mower still does not start, see that the engine has been properly primed according to the owner’s manual. Inspect the spark plug wires to ensure that they are all connected properly. In electric start models, verify that the wiring harness is not disconnected and test the battery to determine if it is dead. Some Snapper mowers have a fuel shut-off switch; check that the switch has not accidentally been shifted to the "Off" position.

Engine Stalls

During operation, a Snapper mower’s engine may stop running or stall unexpectedly. In some cases, the mower has simply run out of gas and requires a refill. Stale gas or gas that has been diluted by water or debris may also cause the mower to stall. If the fuel tank has a fresh, adequate supply, however, ensure that the mower’s blade control is held tightly against the handle continuously during operation. A Snapper mower may also stall if the engine’s air precleaner or air cleaner are full of debris. Cleaning these parts typically solves the problem. Defective spark plugs or spark plugs that are not gap-set properly may also cause a Snapper mower’s engine to stall. They should be examined for signs of wear and tear. If a Snapper mower’s fuel shutoff switch is accidentally shifted to the ‘Off’ position during operation, the mower may also stop running.

Mower Vibrates Excessively

Snapper mowers may experience excessive vibration during operation, which can make mowing the lawn difficult. In most cases a mower blade is bent, out of balance or otherwise damaged. Loose blades may also cause a Snapper mower to vibrate excessively. In addition some Snapper mower models come equipped with air lifts. If the lifts become loose or fall out, the mower may experience increased vibrations as well.

Mower Loses Traction

If a self-propelled Snapper mower loses traction while in operation, grass or other debris has likely become caked around the wheel drive components. A slipped driven disc or damaged belt may also cause the mower to experienced decreased traction. These parts may require cleaning or replacement. The most serious cause of traction loss in Snapper mowers is a damaged transmission. An authorized service technician should be consulted to deal with this issue.