Choke Symbol For Lawn Mower: Know How to Use It Correctly

By Desmond J.

Last Update:

This post contains affiliate links, and we will be compensated if you buy after clicking on our links. Read our disclaimer.

Read our editorial process

If you’ve recently purchased a lawn mower, you might have noticed the choke symbol on its control panel, which can be puzzling.

Let’s clarify what the choke symbol means and how to use it effectively. Whether you’re well-versed in lawn mower operation or a novice, we’ll provide a straightforward explanation of the choke symbol’s purpose and how to use it properly.

What Is a Choke Symbol?


The choke symbol on your lawn mower plays a crucial role in managing the air-fuel mixture within the engine, especially during startup in cold weather conditions. This symbol or control mechanism optimizes engine performance and facilitates easier starting.

When the choke is set to the “On” position, it restricts airflow into the carburetor, resulting in a richer mixture with more fuel and less air. This enriched mixture is easier to ignite and generates the necessary heat to initiate the engine when it’s cold outside. Essentially, the choke symbol restricts airflow, ensuring the fuel-air ratio is ideal for cold starts.

Conversely, shifting the choke to the “Off” position allows air to flow freely into the carburetor, creating a leaner mixture suitable for regular operation. This adjustment is made once the engine has warmed up and can run smoothly without the need for extra fuel.

Typically associated with a metal plate attached to the choke lever, activating the choke symbol by moving the lever to the “On” position restricts airflow while moving it to the “Off” position permits unrestricted airflow.

How To Read Choke Symbols

Choke symbols on lawn mowers typically feature two distinct positions: “On” and “Off,” each signifying a specific setting for the choke. It is crucial to comprehend how to interpret the unique symbols on your specific mower model.

These symbols may differ from one mower model to another, making it vital to grasp the precise significance of the symbols on your equipment.

Below, we delve into various choke symbols and their corresponding meanings to help you understand them better.

“O” Symbol With a Line: “On” Position

In the lawn mowers, choke symbols can vary, but they generally consist of two positions: “On” and “Off,” representing the choke settings. For some mowers, an “O” symbol with additional lines is used. If you see an “O” with a horizontal or diagonal line, it means the choke is “On,” indicating restricted airflow for starting.

Conversely, an “O” with a vertical line signifies the choke is “Off,” allowing normal airflow. Another common pair of symbols on lawnmowers is the rabbit (open choke for operation) and turtle (closed choke for starting), indicating the choke’s status.

These symbols help users easily identify and adjust the choke as needed for different phases of engine operation.

Rabbit and Turtle Symbol

The rabbit symbol signifies that the choke is open, allowing unrestricted airflow. This indicates that the engine is prepared for regular operation.

Conversely, the turtle symbol indicates that the choke is closed, regulating airflow to ensure a consistent flow of fuel into the engine, enabling it to start.

These symbols are commonly used to indicate the choke’s status and assist users in easily understanding and adjusting it according to the engine’s needs.

“I” and “O” Choke Symbol

Some lawnmowers are equipped with choke symbols that include an “I” and “O” in conjunction with a red or blue switch positioned between them. These symbols and switches serve to control the choke’s status and airflow. Let’s delve into the specifics of how these symbols function and the possible alternatives for choke labels on different lawnmower models:

“I” Position (Choke On or Closed): When the switch is set to “I,” it indicates that the choke is engaged or in the closed position. This setting restricts airflow into the carburetor, creating a richer fuel-air mixture. It’s particularly useful when starting the engine in cold weather conditions because the enriched mixture is easier to ignite. To start the engine, move the switch to “I” when temperatures are low.

“O” Position (Choke Off or Open): In contrast, when the switch is set to “O,” it signifies that the choke is disengaged or in the open position. This allows unrestricted airflow into the carburetor, creating a leaner fuel-air mixture suitable for regular operation. You should move the switch to “O” when the engine has sufficiently warmed up and is ready for standard operation.

While the “I” and “O” symbols are common, not all lawnmower models use them. Some mowers feature alternative labels for their choke controls:

  • “Open/Close”: “Open” indicates the choke is off, while “Close” suggests that the choke is on.
  • “On/Off”: “On” signifies that the choke is engaged (closed), while “Off” means that the choke is disengaged (open).
  • “Start/Closed”: “Start” implies that the choke is on, while “Closed” indicates that the choke is off.
  • “Full Choke/Run”: “Full Choke” or simply “Choke” signifies that the choke is engaged or closed to restrict airflow, while “Run” indicates that the choke is disengaged or open.

For lawnmowers with twin-cylinder engines, you might encounter an additional “Half Choke” label located between the “Full Choke” and “Run” labels. “Half Choke” suggests that the choke is partially open or closed. This setting is designed to prevent the mower from stalling when transitioning from “Run” to “Full Choke.”

If your lawnmower doesn’t have a “Half Choke” label and you’re uncertain about which choke setting to use, positioning the choke lever between “Full Choke” and “Run” allows the engine to adapt gradually to reduced airflow.

Should you find interpreting these choke symbols confusing, it’s advisable to consult your lawnmower’s owner’s manual. The manual typically provides detailed information about the meaning of each choke symbol and the recommended choke lever position for starting and operating your specific mower model.

How Does A Choke Work On A Lawn Mower

A choke on a lawn mower works by adjusting the air-to-fuel ratio in the engine’s carburetor to make it easier to start a cold engine. Here’s how it operates:

Normal Operation: When the engine is running at operating temperature, it requires a specific balance of air and fuel for optimal combustion. In this condition, the choke is typically in the “Off” or “Open” position. This allows a normal amount of air to enter the carburetor, resulting in a lean air-fuel mixture.

Starting a Cold Engine: When you start a lawnmower with a cold engine, the air and fuel mixture need to be richer (more fuel and less air) to ignite easily. This is where the choke comes into play. When you engage the choke by moving the lever or knob to the “On” or “Closed” position, it restricts the amount of air entering the carburetor.

Rich Mixture: With the choke on, the engine receives a reduced amount of air, creating a rich air-fuel mixture. This rich mixture is easier to ignite because it contains more fuel, making the engine start more readily, especially in cold conditions.

Warming Up: Once the engine has started and begins to warm up, the choke should be gradually moved to the “Off” or “Open” position. This allows more air to enter the carburetor, shifting the mixture back to the normal, leaner ratio suitable for efficient and smooth operation.

The choke temporarily alters the air-fuel mixture to favor richer combustion when starting a cold lawn mower engine. Once the engine is running smoothly and has warmed up, the choke should be returned to the “Off” position to achieve the correct air-fuel ratio for optimal performance.

Choke Location of The Lawn Mower

The location of the choke on lawn mowers can vary depending on the make and model of the mower. However, we can provide you with a general guide to where to look for the choke lever or knob.

  1. Under the Air Filter Cover: Often, the choke lever or knob can be found beneath the air filter cover. To access it, you might need to remove a cover or access panel.
  2. On the Engine: Some mowers have the choke control directly on the engine, usually near the carburetor. It may be on the side or top of the engine.
  3. On the Handlebar: On certain models, the choke control is on the handlebar of the mower for convenient access while operating.
  4. Integrated with Throttle Control: In newer models, the choke control may be part of the throttle control. To engage the choke, you would move the throttle lever to a specific “choke” position.
  5. Refer to the Owner’s Manual: If you’re uncertain about where to find the choke on your specific mower, consult the owner’s manual that came with the mower. It will contain precise instructions regarding the choke’s location and how to use it.

Remember, the choke is used to adjust the air-fuel mixture when starting a cold engine to facilitate easier starting. After the engine warms up, you typically need to return the choke to the “run” or “normal” position for regular operation.

Can You Operate a Lawn Mower With the Choke On?

You can technically operate a lawnmower with the choke on, but it’s not advisable for normal mowing. The choke is primarily used when starting a cold engine to provide a richer fuel mixture, which makes it easier to start. Once the engine is running smoothly and has warmed up, you should typically move the choke to the “run” or “normal” position.

Leaving the choke on while mowing can cause the engine to run too rich (too much fuel and not enough air), leading to several issues:

  1. Reduced Performance: The engine may not perform at its best, resulting in decreased power and cutting efficiency.
  2. Excessive Fuel Consumption: Running with the choke on consumes more fuel than necessary, leading to higher operating costs.
  3. Carbon Buildup: Over time, excessive fuel can cause carbon buildup on spark plugs and other engine components, potentially reducing their lifespan.
  4. Increased Emissions: Operating with the choke on generates more emissions, which is not environmentally friendly.

While you can use the choke to start a cold lawnmower engine, it’s best to turn it off once the engine warms up for peak performance, fuel efficiency, and engine lifespan.

When Should You Run the Lawn Mower With the Choke On?

You might choose to run your lawn mower with the choke on in the following situations:

  1. Fuel Line or Filter Blockage: If there’s a blockage in the fuel line or filter that restricts fuel flow to the carburetor.
  2. Suboptimal Fuel Mixture: When the fuel in the tank has a less-than-optimal octane mixture, often due to water or additives in the fuel.

Before operating your mower in these cases, address the issues by clearing the fuel line, replacing the filter, or resolving fuel mixture problems, such as draining and refilling the tank with fresh fuel.

Summary

Understanding the choke symbol on your lawn mower is essential for smooth operation. Choke symbols can vary between machines.

When you see a closed symbol, it means the choke is on, regulating airflow to assist with engine startup, particularly in colder conditions.

On the other hand, an open symbol indicates that the choke is off, allowing unrestricted airflow. After the engine has warmed up, turning off the choke ensures efficient mower operation.

Kindly consider sharing this valuable insight with your fellow lawn maintenance enthusiasts, allowing them to enhance their mowing proficiency.

Related Posts:

  1. How To Clean Lawn Mower Air Filter
Photo of author
Written By
Desmond J.
I'm a lawn mowing expert and gardening enthusiast. I started my own lawn care business in college and have been doing it ever since. I love taking care of lawns and gardens, and I'm always looking for new ways to improve my skills. I'm also a big fan of composting and using natural fertilizers.

20 thoughts on “Choke Symbol For Lawn Mower: Know How to Use It Correctly”

  1. На нашей платформе содержание 18+.
    Контент подходит для совершеннолетних.
    У нас собраны видео и изображения на любой вкус.
    Платформа предлагает HD-видео.
    buy Hashish
    Вход разрешен только для совершеннолетних.
    Наслаждайтесь возможностью выбрать именно своё.

  2. Модные образы для торжеств этого сезона задают новые стандарты.
    Популярны пышные модели до колен из полупрозрачных тканей.
    Детали из люрекса делают платье запоминающимся.
    Многослойные юбки возвращаются в моду.
    Разрезы на юбках создают баланс между строгостью и игрой.
    Ищите вдохновение в новых коллекциях — оригинальность и комфорт превратят вас в звезду вечера!
    http://timepost.info/showthread.php?tid=177479

  3. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15300ST merges meticulous craftsmanship alongside refined styling. Its 39-millimeter steel case provides a contemporary fit, striking a balance between prominence and wearability. The signature eight-sided bezel, secured by eight hexagonal screws, epitomizes the brand’s innovative approach to luxury sports watches.

    https://www.tumblr.com/sneakerizer/784514036592214016/a-timeless-legacy-the-audemars-piguet-royal-oak

    Showcasing a white gold baton hour-marker dial, this model integrates a 60-hour energy reserve via the selfwinding mechanism. The Grande Tapisserie pattern adds dimension and uniqueness, while the streamlined construction ensures understated elegance.

  4. The AP Royal Oak 15400ST is a stainless steel timepiece launched as a modern classic within the brand’s prestigious lineup.
    Its 41mm stainless steel case boasts an octagonal bezel accented with eight iconic screws, a hallmark of the Royal Oak’s bold aesthetic.
    Powered by the automatic Cal. 3120 movement, it ensures precise timekeeping featuring a practical date window.
    Piguet 15400ST
    A structured black dial with Tapisserie texture accented with glowing indices for optimal readability.
    The stainless steel bracelet combines elegance with resilience, finished with an AP folding clasp.
    A symbol of timeless sophistication, it continues to captivate collectors among luxury watch enthusiasts.

  5. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 16202ST features a sleek stainless steel 39mm case with an ultra-thin profile of just 8.1mm thickness, housing the advanced Calibre 7121 movement. Its mesmerizing smoked blue gradient dial showcases a signature Petite Tapisserie pattern, fading from a radiant center to dark periphery for a captivating aesthetic. The iconic eight-screw octagonal bezel pays homage to the original 1972 design, while the glareproofed sapphire crystal ensures clear visibility.
    https://linktr.ee/apro15202stwow
    Water-resistant to 50 meters, this “Jumbo” model balances robust performance with sophisticated elegance, paired with a steel link strap and reliable folding buckle. A contemporary celebration of classic design, the 16202ST embodies Audemars Piguet’s innovation through its meticulous mechanics and timeless Royal Oak DNA.

  6. Здесь вы найдете мессенджер-бот “Глаз Бога”, который проверить сведения о человеке по публичным данным.
    Бот функционирует по ФИО, анализируя актуальные базы в Рунете. Через бота можно получить 5 бесплатных проверок и глубокий сбор по имени.
    Инструмент обновлен на август 2024 и включает мультимедийные данные. Глаз Бога сможет проверить личность по госреестрам и отобразит результаты за секунды.
    https://glazboga.net/
    Данный инструмент — выбор при поиске граждан удаленно.

  7. Лицензирование и сертификация — ключевой аспект ведения бизнеса в России, гарантирующий защиту от непрофессионалов.
    Обязательная сертификация требуется для подтверждения безопасности товаров.
    Для торговли, логистики, финансов необходимо специальных разрешений.
    https://ok.ru/group/70000034956977/topic/158832931092657
    Нарушения правил ведут к штрафам до 1 млн рублей.
    Добровольная сертификация помогает повысить доверие бизнеса.
    Своевременное оформление — залог успешного развития компании.

  8. Looking for special 1xBet promo codes ? Here is your ultimate destination to unlock rewarding bonuses designed to boost your wagers.
    If you’re just starting or an experienced player, our curated selection provides exclusive advantages during registration .
    Keep an eye on seasonal campaigns to multiply your winning potential .
    https://doodleordie.com/profile/codepromo003
    Promotional offers are frequently updated to guarantee reliability in 2025 .
    Act now of limited-time opportunities to enhance your betting strategy with 1xBet.

  9. Прямо здесь доступен Telegram-бот “Глаз Бога”, который найти всю информацию о гражданине по публичным данным.
    Бот функционирует по номеру телефона, обрабатывая актуальные базы онлайн. С его помощью доступны 5 бесплатных проверок и глубокий сбор по имени.
    Сервис актуален на 2025 год и охватывает мультимедийные данные. Сервис поможет найти профили в соцсетях и отобразит информацию за секунды.
    https://glazboga.net/
    Это бот — идеальное решение при поиске граждан через Telegram.

  10. Searching for exclusive 1xBet coupon codes ? This platform is your go-to resource to access rewarding bonuses tailored for players .
    If you’re just starting or a seasoned bettor , the available promotions ensures exclusive advantages during registration .
    Stay updated on daily deals to multiply your rewards.
    https://bookmarking1.com/story19670579/1xbet-promo-code-welcome-bonus-up-to-130
    All listed codes are tested for validity to guarantee reliability for current users.
    Don’t miss out of exclusive perks to enhance your gaming journey with 1xBet.

  11. Прямо здесь можно получить сервис “Глаз Бога”, позволяющий собрать сведения о гражданине через открытые базы.
    Инструмент функционирует по ФИО, обрабатывая доступные данные в сети. Через бота осуществляется 5 бесплатных проверок и глубокий сбор по фото.
    Платформа обновлен на 2025 год и поддерживает мультимедийные данные. Глаз Бога гарантирует узнать данные в открытых базах и отобразит информацию за секунды.
    https://glazboga.net/
    Такой бот — идеальное решение при поиске граждан через Telegram.

  12. Здесь вы можете найти самыми свежими новостями регионов и глобального масштаба.
    Данные актуализируются в режиме реального времени .
    Представлены текстовые обзоры с эпицентров происшествий .
    Экспертные комментарии помогут понять контекст .
    Контент предоставляется в режиме онлайн.
    https://nbcollector.ru

  13. Discover detailed information about the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 15710ST here , including market values ranging from $34,566 to $36,200 for stainless steel models.
    The 42mm timepiece features a robust design with selfwinding caliber and water resistance , crafted in stainless steel .
    https://ap15710st.superpodium.com
    Check secondary market data , where limited editions fluctuate with demand, alongside rare references from the 1970s.
    Get real-time updates on availability, specifications, and investment returns , with free market analyses for informed decisions.

  14. Searching for exclusive 1xBet promo codes? This site offers working bonus codes like 1x_12121 for registrations in 2025. Get €1500 + 150 FS as a welcome bonus.
    Activate trusted promo codes during registration to boost your rewards. Enjoy risk-free bets and special promotions tailored for casino games.
    Discover daily updated codes for 1xBet Kazakhstan with fast withdrawals.
    Every voucher is checked for accuracy.
    Don’t miss limited-time offers like 1x_12121 to increase winnings.
    Active for new accounts only.
    https://xn—-htbblufccvgdmek8j.xn--p1ai/forum/messages/forum1/topic35696/message280510/?result=new#message280510
    Enjoy seamless rewards with instant activation.

  15. Стальные резервуары используются для сбора нефтепродуктов и соответствуют стандартам давления до 0,04 МПа.
    Вертикальные емкости изготавливают из нержавеющих сплавов с усиленной сваркой.
    Идеальны для промышленных объектов: хранят бензин, керосин, мазут или авиационное топливо.
    Подземный пожарный резервуар 90 м2
    Двустенные резервуары обеспечивают защиту от утечек, а наземные установки подходят для разных условий.
    Заводы предлагают типовые решения объемом до 100 м³ с технической поддержкой.

  16. Ce modèle Jumbo arbore un boîtier en acier inoxydable ultra-mince (8,1 mm d’épaisseur), équipé du nouveau mouvement Manufacture 7121 offrant une autonomie étendue.
    Le cadran « Bleu Nuit Nuage 50 » présente un motif Petite Tapisserie associé à des chiffres luminescents et des aiguilles Royal Oak.
    Une verre inrayable traité garantit une lisibilité optimale.
    15400st audemars piguet
    Outre l’affichage heures et minutes, la montre intègre une fonction date à 3h. Étanche à 50 mètres, elle résiste aux activités quotidiennes.
    Le bracelet intégré en acier et la lunette octogonale reprennent les codes du design signé Gérald Genta (1972). Un fermoir déployant sécurisé assure un maintien parfait.
    Appartenant à la collection Extra-Plat, ce garde-temps allie innovation technique et élégance discrète, avec un prix estimé à ~70 000 €.

  17. Gambling is becoming an thrilling way to add excitement to your entertainment. Engaging with basketball, the service offers exceptional value for all players.
    Through real-time gambling to early markets, access a broad selection of wagering choices tailored to your interests. The easy-to-use design ensures that making wagers is both simple and safe.
    https://gingerparrot.co.uk/pags/mostbet_pakistan___official_betting_site___sports__casino___mobile_app.html
    Join now to experience the best betting experience available online.

  18. Размещение оборудования для наблюдения поможет защиту помещения в режиме 24/7.
    Современные технологии позволяют организовать надежный обзор даже при слабом освещении.
    Наша компания предоставляет широкий выбор устройств, адаптированных для дома.
    videonablyudeniemoskva.ru
    Профессиональная установка и консультации специалистов делают процесс максимально удобным для любых задач.
    Свяжитесь с нами, и узнать о лучшее решение для установки видеонаблюдения.

  19. Looking for browser-based adventures? Our platform offers a diverse library of multiplayer experiences and action-packed quests .
    Dive into cooperative missions with friends, supported by voice communication for seamless teamwork.
    Enjoy user-friendly interfaces designed for quick mastery, alongside safety features like SSL encryption for secure play.
    best online casino canada
    From fantasy RPGs to creative builders, every game balances fun and emotional rewards.
    Unlock premium upgrades that let you earn in-game perks, with subscription models for deeper access.
    Join of a global network where teamwork flourishes , and express yourself through immersive storytelling.

  20. Наш сервис способен найти данные по заданному профилю.
    Укажите имя, фамилию , чтобы сформировать отчёт.
    Система анализирует публичные данные и цифровые следы.
    пробить через глаз бога
    Результаты формируются в реальном времени с фильтрацией мусора.
    Идеально подходит для анализа профилей перед важными решениями.
    Конфиденциальность и точность данных — гарантированы.

Leave a Comment