How to Buy a New Mower

If you are a first-time buyer, take heart. With so many choices in the market today, buying a lawn mower can be overwhelming. Briggs & Stratton is here to help make this experience as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

Before You Go Mower Shopping
Determine the type of mower that suits your yard the best - view on our lawn mower purchase checklist. Then answer these questions to help guide the selection process:

• Do you have a specific brand in mind? It is generally wise to compare brands on price, engines and features.


• Do you have a specific budget in mind? As with anything you purchase, you will find various price levels for mowers ranging from "economical" through mid-price to premium price.

Purchasing Your New Mower
At the dealer, describe your yard and the type of mowers you would like to look at based on what you decided from the step above.

Have the dealer explain available options to you. Have the dealer demonstrate how to raise and lower the mower deck, steps to starting the mower, and warranty information. Compare the various models on the show floor, and ask the dealer's opinion on which ones hold up the best (or come in for repair most often!).

When You Get Your Mower Home

Before You Mow: Take the time to read the owner's manual. You will find everything you need to know about using and maintaining your mower, including important safety tips.

Fueling Up Use a mid-grade gasoline to fuel your mower. In a well-ventilated area, carefully fill the mower's gas tank following the owner's manual directions and cautions. Remember: Gas expands in hot weather, so fill the tank only two-thirds full.

Starting Up To start your walk behind mower, the process generally is simple enough: you prime the engine by pressing a primer bulb, pull the blade control handle back, then pull the starter cord (don't let it go so that it snaps back). One or two pulls should start your mower. Riding mowers have electronic ignitions, starting with the turn of a key.