When you get a "new" old mower there are a few simple checks I would normally make in case it has a fixable fault that will damage it if you keep using it. Ordinarily that would mean checking that it has the correct amount of clean oil in the sump, the air filter is clean and correctly fitted, the cooling fins are clear, it has adequate spark, the compression feels OK, it starts easily, and it runs well through the whole speed and load range without any odd noises. I would probably check the tappet clearances as well, but that is just me. At that point, with an old mower like yours of no great value or collectibility, I would go ahead and use it, watching for odd symptoms starting to show up. None of those checks involves dismantling the mower beyond taking off the cooling air cowl and removing the spark plug.
Last edited by grumpy; 30/10/12 08:53 PM. Reason: Add detail
