A riding lawn mower is hands down the most efficient device for keeping your lawn in pristine condition...unless you lose its key!
About a month ago, my son wanted to try out my lawn mower with the excuse of lending me a helping hand. Of course, I let him have a go, only to have him come back without the key. All hell broke loose after that! But soon enough, my husband came to his rescue and suggested that I look for an alternative.
So, I let my son off the hook for the time being and began searching for ways to start my riding mower without the keys. To my surprise, I found that a screwdriver is perfect for the job. Of course, I didn’t believe it right away, so I tried it out. Did it work? You’ll only find out at the end of the article.
Howdy! I’m Stacy Smith, your neighborhood gardening enthusiast, and today, I’ve curated this guide on how to start a riding lawn mower with a screwdriver.
So, without further ado, let’s jump right in!
Starting A Lawn Mower With A Screwdriver
Before getting started, check the various parts of the lawn mower. Ensure that every component is in good condition and the gas and oil levels are sufficient. Now, depending on the type of screwdriver you own, here are two ways to start your riding mower without a key.
1. Using A Two-headed Screwdriver
A. Set The Mower In Parking Position
Start by engaging the parking brakes. Most lawn mowers are equipped with a lever that needs to be pulled for this step. Otherwise, you can use the brake pedals.
B. Withdraw The Cutting Blades
To ensure your safety, you must disengage the blades of the lawn mower before starting it. This will prevent a sudden back start that can cause severe accidents.
C. Locate The Battery
Once your riding mower is in a safe parking position, it is time to locate its battery. Most lawn mowers have the battery inside the machine’s hood, either on the left or right side. In other cases, you can find the battery under the chair.
Thereafter, you can follow the cables from the battery to find the solenoid or ignition coil. However, if you are unsure or a beginner at handling motor parts, I recommend referring to the user manual of your mower.
D. Spark The Starter And Ignition Coil
The engine chamber will have a small box hooked to its side. Once you can locate it, you’re almost done! All you have to do is bridge the gap between the ignition coil and the starter. You will need your two-headed screwdriver to perform this task.
Just touch the connectors of both sides to form an electric charge, and the lawn mower should be up and running. Make sure you are wearing gloves and following safety precautions, as this process may cause sparks in the mower.
Additionally, I would suggest this method for those who have had prior experience with motor parts and wires. A short circuit can be dangerous for you and the battery of the mower. Thus, if you are a beginner, I highly recommend asking a professional to help you out.
2. Using A Flathead Screwdriver
A. Ensure Your Safety
Similar to what I mentioned before, engage the parking brakes and disengage the cutting blades to prevent any mishap. It is better to stay safe than sorry, so I urge you to follow all safety precautions carefully.
B. Use A Flathead Screwdriver As The Key
A flathead screwdriver is one with a flat tip, used to undo screws with a straight notch. Ensure that the size of the screwdriver is smaller than the ignition hole.
Now, put the screwdriver into the hole carefully, keeping in mind the alignment so that the ignition chamber does not get damaged.
C. Rotate The Screwdriver
Since you’re using the screwdriver as a key, you’ll have to rotate it in a similar manner. Once you hear the engine start, keep the screwdriver in a rotated position until the lawn mower has completely started.
Although this method works for most lawn mowers, some have advanced security systems that do not allow this process.
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Starting A Lawn Mower With Jump Cables
An alternative for those who do not want to take the risk of damaging the ignition chamber can try this method. Ensure that you’re wearing rubber gloves at all times. Again, you will have to start by keeping the brakes on and disengaging the blades, and then perform the following steps.
A. Disconnect The Cables
Lift the hood of your lawn mower and find the battery. You will see the red and black cables attaching the two electric posts of the ignition coil. Disconnect them carefully.
B. Clean Up
Use a battery post cleaner to get rid of any dust, dirt, and corrosion on the posts. There’s a high chance of these posts accumulating rust and other residues with continued use, so all of that needs to go.
C. Reconnect The Cables
Ensure that each end of the black booster cable is fastened around the negative battery post and the metal deck, respectively. Similarly, the red cable goes around the positive post of the battery while the other end touches the metal piece. Remember that you must be wearing gloves at all times.
D. Remove The Cables
Once the engine starts, remove the red cable followed by the black cable, and close the hood.
Summing It Up
Those were my two fool-proof methods of using a screwdriver as the key along with a bonus method. I hope you were able to learn a thing or two with this brief yet informative guide, just as I learned not to trust my son with keys!Â
Before signing off, I urge you once again to ensure your safety while performing any of the tasks described above. Preferably, have someone nearby while you work with wires to avoid any mishaps.Â
With that, I’ll take your leave. Stay tuned for more informative guides on lawn mowers and other machines.
Till then, stay safe!