Tune-Up Terms to Know

Spark Plug
Shaped like a small cylinder with one end narrower than the other, the spark plug creates the spark in the combustion chamber of the engine, igniting the fuel and air mixture that allows the engine to run.

Air Filter
Generally made of paper or foam, the air filter captures dirt and debris, preventing it from reaching internal engine parts.

Rewind Cord
The rewind or "starter" cord is the cord with the small handle that must be pulled to start most walk-behind power mower engines. Mowers with electric starters start the engine with the turn of a key.

Oil Fill Cap
The oil fill cap is located at or near the top of the engine. Oil is very important as it lubricates internal engine parts to prevent them from binding up.

Oil Dipstick
The dipstick is located under the oil fill cap and is used to check the level of oil in the engine.

Mower Deck
The mower deck is metal housing that covers and protects the operator from the mower blades. [Most mowers have a lever on them so that the deck can be raised or lowered, depending on how much of the grass you want to cut.] Note: It's really the wheels on most mowers that get raised or lowered—not the deck itself.

Bale or Operator
Stop Control The control, usually another handle bar near the main lawn mower handle, engages or stops the blades from rotating and shuts the engine off.

Gasoline Fill Cap
This fill cap should be clearly marked on your mower. Fill only with clean, fresh gasoline (NOT a gasoline oil mixture) to ensure easy starts.

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