How to Jump-start a Lawn Mower Battery
As a lawn mower owner, there may be times when you want to mow the lawn only to find out that the mower won’t start. One of the probable causes of this issue is a dead battery.
A battery can die for many reasons, like if it hasn’t been used or stored for a long time, if the terminals are corroded, or if the charging system or alternator is broken. Fortunately, there are ways to jump-start a lawn mower battery to get your mower up and running again. This article will show you how to jumpstart a lawn mower battery, charge a dead battery, clean the terminals, and avoid future issues.
What are the Causes of a Dead Mower Battery?
Corrosion on Battery Terminals
Corrosion on battery terminals is one of the common reasons why mower batteries die. Corrosion can cause a weak connection between the battery and the mower’s engine, making it hard for the mower to start. Corrosion occurs due to exposure to weather elements, causing the battery terminals to rust or wear.
Faulty Charging System or Alternator
A faulty charging system or alternator is another cause of dead lawn mower batteries. A charging system or alternator that is not working correctly will not allow the battery to charge sufficiently, ultimately leading to a dead battery. If you notice dimming lights on your mower, it might signify a faulty charging system or alternator.
Inactivity or Long Storage Time
If you have not used your mower for an extended period, the battery might die. Inactivity or long storage times can adversely affect the battery as it may corrode or self-discharge, leading to a dead battery.
How to jump-start a Lawn Mower Battery?
There are several ways to jump-start a lawn mower battery. You can use jumper cables, a jump pack, or a car battery. Here is how to jump-start a lawn mower battery:
Using Jumper Cables
Connect the dead battery’s positive terminal to the charged battery’s positive terminal using a jumper cable. Then connect the charged battery’s negative terminal to the mower’s metal frame. With the jumper cables attached, start the mower and remove the jumper cables, starting with the negative cable, followed by the positive cable.
Using a Jump Pack
A jump pack is a type of battery that you can use to jump-start a riding mower or lawn mower. It is portable and easy to use. To use a jump pack and start your mower, attach the pack’s positive cable to the positive battery terminal of the mower, and then attach the pack’s negative cable to a metal frame or engine grounding point on the mower. Could you turn on the jump pack and start the mower?
Using a Car Battery
To jump-start a lawn mower, you can also use a car battery. Attach the red clamp to the positive terminal of the dead mower battery and then connect the other end to the positive cable on the car battery. Connect the black clamp to the negative cable on the car battery and the other end to the metal frame of the mower near the battery. Turn on the car, and the mower should start.
How to Charge a Dead Lawn Mower Battery?
If your battery dies and is not responding to jump-starting, you can recharge it using a battery charger, a trickle charger, or an alternator. Here is how to do it.
Using a Battery Charger
You can charge a dead battery using a battery charger. Start by disconnecting the battery from the mower. Connect the red cable of the charger to the positive terminal on the battery and the black wire to the negative terminal. Then plug the charger into a power source and wait for the battery to charge.
Using a Trickle Charger
A trickle charger is designed to deliver a low, constant charge to the battery. To charge your battery with a trickle charger, connect it to the battery, plug it in, and let it charge for a long time. This method is ideal for keeping your lawn mower battery charged during inactivity.
Using an Alternator
If your riding mower battery is malfunctioning, you may need to replace the alternator. An alternator is an essential component that generates electricity to recharge the battery. You can replace the alternator by removing it from the mower, taking it to a repair shop, and fixing or replacing it.
How to Clean Lawn Mower Battery Terminals?
Corrosion on the battery terminals can cause the battery to fail. To clean corrosion on the battery terminals, do the following:
Disconnect the Battery
The first step to cleaning the battery terminals is to disconnect the battery from the mower. This will prevent any electrical current from flowing through the wires, reducing the risk of electrical shock.
Remove Corrosion with a Wire Brush
Using a wire brush, remove any corrosion on the terminals, both positive and negative. Could you scrub the terminals thoroughly to remove any corrosion or dirt?
Reconnect the Battery and Fully Charge
Once you clean the battery terminals, reconnect the battery to the mower and secure it in place. Fully charge the battery before starting the mower to avoid premature discharge.
How to Prevent Future Battery Issues?
To prevent future battery issues on your lawn mower, consider the following tips:
Regularly Use the Mower and Charge the Battery
Regularly using your mower and charging the battery will help keep it in good condition. Frequent use keeps the chemicals inside the battery active, while proper charging ensures the battery is always at full charge, preventing premature discharge.
Store the Mower in a Dry Place and Disconnect the Battery
When you store your mower, please put it in a dry place and disconnect the battery to prevent corrosion and self-discharge. A wet and humid environment can cause the battery to corrode and discharge, leading to a dead battery.
Replace Old or Faulty Batteries
If the battery isn’t charging or the mower isn’t starting, it might signify a bad battery. Replace the old or faulty battery with a new one to avoid future battery issues on your mower.
Learn how to jump-start, charge, and clean the battery terminals of your lawn mower with these easy tips. Doing so can prevent future battery issues and keep your mower running smoothly, ensuring your lawn stays in top shape all season.
