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Regarding lawn mower maintenance, spark plugs are essential to keep in check. They ignite the fuel and air mixture in the engine to power the machine.
But when it’s time to replace a faulty spark plug, many people wonder: Are lawn mower spark plugs universal?
This article will discuss this question and provide the answer you need. Let’s get started!
Contents
Are Lawn Mower Spark Plugs Universal?
The answer is no! Mower spark plugs aren’t universal. Each engine type requires a unique spark plug. If you use an incorrect model, it can lead to damage.
NGK spark plug lawn mower
Common Types Of Mower Spark Plugs
There are several types of spark plugs for mowers. They are all different. The most commonly used types include copper, iridium, and platinum.
Copper varieties are the least expensive but have the shortest lifespan. Platinum types are more durable, last longer than copper, and are more expensive.
Meanwhile, iridium categories may have the longest lifespan. However, they’re the most costly.
It’s worth mentioning that not all mowers are compatible with all types of spark plugs.
How To Know Which Spark Plug For Your Mower?
To determine which spark plug suits your mower, consult the owner’s manual or check with the manufacturer.
Each machine has specific requirements for spark plugs, including size, heat range, and type.
Using the incorrect spark plug will cause damage to the engine. It also decreases performance and leads to engine failure.
Spending extra time and money to ensure you have the correct spark plug type for your equipment is better.
What Happens If You Use the Incorrect Spark Plug?
Using the incorrect spark plug may have severe consequences for your lawn mower.
If the spark plug is too hot or cold, it can cause pre-ignition or detonation. It eventually damages the engine.
The wrong spark plug can also cause misfires, which will decrease engine performance and cause it to run poorly.
Using the correct spark plug for the machine ensures proper function and avoids costly repairs.
Spark plug lawn mower size
How Long Does A Lawn Mower Spark Plug Last?
The lifespan of a lawn mower spark plug depends on various factors, such as:
- Usage frequency
- Engine type
- The type of spark plug
A standard copper spark plug typically lasts 10,000 to 20,000 miles or 25-30 hours of operation.
Meanwhile, an iridium spark plug can last up to 100,000 miles (1,000 hours of operation).
However, these numbers are just estimates. The actual lifespan of a spark plug varies depending on the usage and maintenance level.
A worn-out spark plug can cause many issues, such as difficulty starting the engine and decreased fuel efficiency.
Therefore, look for signs of a damaged piece and replace it promptly. Some common symptoms of a worn-out spark plug include:
- Difficulty starting the engine
- Rough idling
- Poor acceleration
- Decreased fuel efficiency
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to fix this component instantly.
For standard lawn mower and small engine maintenance,
you should check and/or replace spark plugs once a season or every 25 hours of use.
Is It Better To Clean Or Replace Spark Plugs Lawn Mower?
Over time, spark plugs become dirty or worn out, and deciding whether to clean or replace them becomes challenging.
Clean the Spark Plug
Cleaning the spark plug is an excellent option if the plug is dirty but still in good condition.
You can clean the spark plug using a wire brush to remove any debris or carbon buildup on the electrode.
You can also use a spark plug cleaner, which blows air through the plug to remove any dirt or carbon.
Cleaning the spark plug is a cost-effective method to prolong its life and get it to work correctly.
Nevertheless, you must ensure this component is still in good condition before cleaning it. Otherwise, it may not work correctly.
Replace the Spark Plug
Replacing the spark plug is best if worn out, damaged, or beyond repair.
A worn-out spark plug can cause problems, such as difficulty starting the engine, poor fuel efficiency, and misfiring.
A new spark plug ensures optimal performance and efficiency, allowing the engine to run smoothly.
Replacing the spark plug every 100 hours or at the beginning of each mowing season is advisable.
However, you must use the correct spark plug for your equipment, as different types and models require specific plugs.
You can watch this video to clean and replace this component:
How to Change your Lawn Mower Spark Plug
What Happens If You Put The Wrong Spark Plug In A Push Mower?
It’s easy to assume that all spark plug types are the same, but using the wrong one could cause serious problems.
If you put the wrong spark plug in a push mower, here are the problems you may encounter:
Reduced Performance
Using the wrong spark plug can reduce the performance of your push mower. The spark plug provides the spark that ignites the fuel in the engine.
If the spark plug is the wrong size or type, it won’t create the proper spark, leading to incomplete combustion.
Incomplete combustion reduces power and fuel efficiency and increases emissions. Over time, this can cause damage to the engine.
Engine Damage
Using the wrong spark plug can also cause severe damage to your push mower’s engine.
If this component is too long, it can hit the top of the piston when it moves up. It leads to significant impairment.
If the spark plug is too short, it won’t reach the fuel mixture, leading to incomplete combustion.
It can cause damage to the engine’s valves, pistons, and cylinder walls due to the unburned fuel mixture leaking into those areas.
Difficulty Starting
Lastly, using the wrong spark plug can cause difficulty starting your push mower.
If you use the wrong type or size, it won’t create the spark needed to ignite the fuel in the machine’s engine.
It may lead to your machine not starting at all or taking multiple attempts to operate.
Thus, you must use the correct spark plug to ensure your equipment starts quickly and runs smoothly every time.
Clean or replace spark plugs lawn mower?
The Bottom Line
Lawn mower spark plugs are not universal. Purchasing the correct type for your specific machine is crucial for proper engine function.
Consult your owner’s manual and purchase your machine’s correct spark plug type. This way, you can make sure your equipment runs at its best and effectively tackle your lawn care needs.
