Lawnmowers

[MidLifeCrisis2017]

I have a reasonable size lawn which takes ages to cut with my tiny Flymo. I was given a petrol mower but I find it impossible to start, I just don't have the knack. Any recommendations which won't cost the earth?

Can you get the petrol lawn mower to a repairer and ask them to check it's working OK. I had nightmares with mine when I first got it and someone in the know came and showed me exactly how to do it! It would save money to use what you have.

Embarrassingly no one else has a problem starting it, even ex DH came and cut my grass with it but cheeky to ask him every week!

We had the same problem so have ditched in and bought a Bosch electric mower, Rotrak I think it's called, wonderful, light and easy.

I have a petrol one which my OH can't start but I can...he floods it. It is a big old bugger. We have it at the allotment.

My one at home, is a rechargeable one, we have had it two years. It is light enough to hang up on a hook, and carry one handed but beefy enough to mow down anything in its path, which is good because my weeding and trimming technique is to throw everything onto the grass and mow the lot after a weeding session. All you have to do it take the battery indoors and recharge when it needs it. I do my neighbour's lawn with it and it can take a few uses to run out. It is ace.

We had the same problem so have ditched in and bought a Bosch electric mower, Rotrak I think it's called, wonderful, light and easy.

Ditto. It's a Rotak 14-17 ergo, if I read the label right in the dim light of the garage.

You can buy petrol mowers with either a push button or key start. Perhaps look for one second hand?

Much of the trouble with petrol lawnmowers is the fuel left in them over the winter. Unleaded goes off unless treated. Pour in some fresh and it may be better. There may be a small manual primer, looks like a black rubber button. Push this a few times until resistance is felt. Set throttle to the choke position which is often illustrated by a two bladed propeller icon. Pull the recoil start until it becomes harder, then release it back to the starting point and give it a good Sharp pull.

Another Bosch user - cost about £100 reduced from £140. Leaves nice stripes!