Exmark Dies When Brake Is Released? Common Causes Revealed

The Exmark lawn mower is a popular choice among homeowners and commercial landscapers alike, known for its durability and reliability. However, like any machine, it’s not immune to issues, and one common problem that many Exmark owners face is the mower dying when the brake is released. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re in the middle of a lawn mowing job. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the possible causes of this issue, provide troubleshooting steps, and offer some tips to help you get your Exmark running smoothly again.

Understanding the Problem

The Exmark lawn mower has a complex system of components that work together to provide a smooth and efficient mowing experience. When the brake is released, the mower’s engine should continue to run, but if it dies, it can be a sign of a underlying issue. There are several possible causes for this problem, including:

  • Clogged air filter
  • Faulty spark plug
  • Low fuel level
  • Bad fuel
  • Worn or damaged brake pads
  • Loose or corroded connections

These are just a few of the possible causes, and it’s essential to investigate each one to determine the root cause of the problem. In this section, we’ll explore each of these causes in more detail and provide some troubleshooting steps to help you identify the issue.

Clogged Air Filter

The air filter is a critical component of the Exmark lawn mower’s engine, and a clogged air filter can cause the engine to die when the brake is released. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to stall or die. To check the air filter, follow these steps:

  1. Locate the air filter housing, usually found on the side or top of the mower deck.
  2. Remove the housing and inspect the air filter for any signs of debris or damage.
  3. Replace the air filter with a new one if it’s clogged or damaged.

It’s essential to replace the air filter regularly to ensure optimal engine performance. A dirty air filter can cause the engine to work harder, leading to decreased performance and potentially causing other issues.

Faulty Spark Plug

A faulty spark plug can also cause the Exmark lawn mower to die when the brake is released. A spark plug is responsible for igniting the fuel in the engine, and if it’s not functioning correctly, the engine can stall or die. To check the spark plug, follow these steps:

  1. Locate the spark plug, usually found on the side or top of the engine.
  2. Remove the spark plug and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage.
  3. Replace the spark plug with a new one if it’s worn or damaged.

It’s essential to replace the spark plug regularly to ensure optimal engine performance. A worn or damaged spark plug can cause the engine to misfire or stall, leading to decreased performance and potentially causing other issues.

Low Fuel Level

A low fuel level can also cause the Exmark lawn mower to die when the brake is released. If the fuel level is too low, the engine may not have enough fuel to run, causing it to stall or die. To check the fuel level, follow these steps: (See Also: Will Wd40 Remove Brake Dust? A Cleaning Guide)

  1. Locate the fuel tank, usually found on the side or rear of the mower.
  2. Check the fuel level by looking at the fuel gauge or by removing the fuel cap and checking the level.
  3. Refuel the mower if the fuel level is too low.

It’s essential to keep the fuel level at the recommended level to ensure optimal engine performance. A low fuel level can cause the engine to work harder, leading to decreased performance and potentially causing other issues.

Bad Fuel

Bad fuel can also cause the Exmark lawn mower to die when the brake is released. If the fuel is contaminated or has gone bad, it can cause the engine to stall or die. To check the fuel, follow these steps:

  1. Locate the fuel tank, usually found on the side or rear of the mower.
  2. Check the fuel for any signs of contamination, such as water or debris.
  3. Replace the fuel with fresh, high-quality fuel if it’s contaminated or old.

It’s essential to use high-quality fuel that meets the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure optimal engine performance. Using low-quality fuel can cause the engine to work harder, leading to decreased performance and potentially causing other issues.

Worn or Damaged Brake Pads

Worn or damaged brake pads can also cause the Exmark lawn mower to die when the brake is released. If the brake pads are worn or damaged, they may not be able to properly engage the brake, causing the engine to stall or die. To check the brake pads, follow these steps:

  1. Locate the brake pads, usually found on the side or rear of the mower.
  2. Inspect the brake pads for any signs of wear or damage.
  3. Replace the brake pads with new ones if they’re worn or damaged.

It’s essential to replace the brake pads regularly to ensure optimal brake performance. Worn or damaged brake pads can cause the mower to be difficult to control, leading to decreased performance and potentially causing other issues.

Loose or Corroded Connections

Loose or corroded connections can also cause the Exmark lawn mower to die when the brake is released. If the connections are loose or corroded, they may not be able to properly transmit the electrical signal to the engine, causing it to stall or die. To check the connections, follow these steps: (See Also: How to Remove a Brake Disc? A Step-by-Step Guide)

  1. Locate the connections, usually found on the side or rear of the mower.
  2. Inspect the connections for any signs of corrosion or looseness.
  3. Tighten or replace the connections if they’re loose or corroded.

It’s essential to keep the connections clean and secure to ensure optimal engine performance. Corroded or loose connections can cause the engine to work harder, leading to decreased performance and potentially causing other issues.

Troubleshooting Steps

Before attempting to repair the issue, it’s essential to troubleshoot the problem to determine the root cause. Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Check the owner’s manual for any troubleshooting guides or tips.
  2. Consult with a professional mechanic or the manufacturer’s customer support team if you’re unsure about the cause or solution.
  3. Use a multimeter to test the electrical connections and components.
  4. Check the fuel level and quality to ensure it’s at the recommended level.

By following these steps, you can identify the root cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to repair or replace the faulty component.

Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is key to extending the life of your Exmark lawn mower and preventing issues like the engine dying when the brake is released. Here are some tips to follow:

  • Regularly check and maintain the air filter to ensure optimal engine performance.
  • Replace the spark plug regularly to ensure optimal engine performance.
  • Keep the fuel level at the recommended level to ensure optimal engine performance.
  • Check and maintain the brake pads to ensure optimal brake performance.
  • Keep the connections clean and secure to ensure optimal engine performance.

By following these tips, you can help prevent issues like the engine dying when the brake is released and ensure your Exmark lawn mower runs smoothly and efficiently.

Recap

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the possible causes of the Exmark lawn mower dying when the brake is released, including clogged air filters, faulty spark plugs, low fuel levels, bad fuel, worn or damaged brake pads, and loose or corroded connections. We’ve also provided troubleshooting steps and tips for preventative maintenance to help you identify and repair the issue.

FAQs

Exmark Dies When Brake Is Released?

Q: Why does my Exmark lawn mower die when I release the brake?

A: There are several possible causes, including clogged air filters, faulty spark plugs, low fuel levels, bad fuel, worn or damaged brake pads, and loose or corroded connections. (See Also: Brake Calipers Sticking How to Fix? A Step by Step Guide)

Q: How do I troubleshoot the issue?

A: Check the owner’s manual for any troubleshooting guides or tips, consult with a professional mechanic or the manufacturer’s customer support team, use a multimeter to test the electrical connections and components, and check the fuel level and quality.

Q: How can I prevent the issue from occurring in the future?

A: Regularly check and maintain the air filter, replace the spark plug regularly, keep the fuel level at the recommended level, check and maintain the brake pads, and keep the connections clean and secure.

Q: Can I repair the issue myself, or do I need to take it to a professional mechanic?

A: Depending on the cause and complexity of the issue, you may be able to repair it yourself with the help of a repair manual or online resources. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the repair, it’s always best to consult with a professional mechanic.

Q: Is there a warranty on the Exmark lawn mower?

A: Yes, Exmark offers a warranty on their lawn mowers. Check the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer’s customer support team for more information on the warranty and its terms.