Hello

I have an older Craftsman lawnmower that will only start when it's warm outside. any other time it's either hard to start or wont start at all.

So does anyone know what would cause this.

Look forward to the replies.

Thanks.

I recommend you check the oil. If the oil is dark/dirty or "unknown" go ahead and replace it with a thinner weight oil or synthetic oil (5W30). I think the cooler weather causes the heavier weight oil to dampen the spin needed to start the engine. With a lighter weight oil the engine will spin easier in cooler weather and support the ignition process. Most engines have a drain plug on the bottom of the engine or on the topside near the base.
Patrick

Shouldn't have much to do with it, 5w-30 is a 30 weight at operating temp, 5 basically when cold... 5w-30 does make it pull over quite better in the cold, straight 30 will thicken..... practially turn to molasses in the cold weather... What brand engine? basic things to try is a new plug gapped to .30,.... does it have a primer? make sure thats working properly, no holes where there shouldn't be holes....

So what I'm wondering is if 10w30 oil is fine for a mower or should I use 5w30?

(I have a Craftsman Eager 1 mower).

Thanks.

10w-30 and 5w-30 are both 30 weights at operating temp, except 5w-30 has a tad better cold flow..... 10w-30 is more shear resistent.... This is if its conventional, if synthetic.... use either/or. When using straight hd-30. Use this above 40 degrees only...