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A PowerSmart 170cc lawn mower is a budget-oriented gas push or self-propelled mower that many homeowners consider for small to mid-sized lawns. Searchers looking for this model often come in with a specific problem, so this review covers both the buying case and the no-start issue. Buy one if you have a flat lawn of roughly a quarter acre or less, want a simple engine you can maintain yourself, and accept that build quality will not match premium brands. Skip it if you need heavy-duty commercial runtime, have thick or uneven terrain, or cannot tolerate occasional carburetor and starting troubleshooting. If your unit already won’t start, the troubleshooting sections below walk through the most likely causes before you consider returning or replacing it.
Product Overview
The PowerSmart 170cc is a gasoline-powered mower built around a single-cylinder, four-stroke engine in the 170cc displacement class. Engines in this range are common across budget mowers because they offer enough torque for a typical residential cut without the weight or cost of larger motors. Manufacturers generally position this type of mower for homeowners with lawns in the small-to-medium range who want a straightforward machine.
Like most mowers in this segment, the unit uses a rotary blade and a cutting deck with adjustable height settings. Owners often report that the ease of starting and the simplicity of the controls are the main reasons they chose it. Because the engine design is standard, many of the maintenance tasks, such as spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning and oil changes, follow the same general procedures used on other 170cc engines. That makes the mower approachable for owners who are comfortable doing basic service at home.
Availability and exact configuration (push versus self-propelled, deck width, bagging options) can vary by model year and retailer, so check the specific listing and the owner’s manual before purchasing. The manual is also the best source for correct oil type, fuel requirements and torque specs, which matter for both performance and warranty coverage.
Key Features & Specifications
The table below lists the specifications that are typical for a 170cc PowerSmart-style gas mower. Confirm exact figures on the product listing or in the manual, since manufacturers revise specs between production runs.
| Feature | Typical Specification | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Engine displacement | 170cc, four-stroke | Adequate torque for standard residential cutting |
| Engine type | Single-cylinder, air-cooled gasoline | Simple design, easier home maintenance |
| Starting system | Recoil (pull) start, often with a primer bulb | No battery needed, but starting technique matters |
| Cutting width | Commonly in the 20 to 22 inch range | Determines mowing speed and passes needed |
| Height adjustment | Multi-position, typically central lever | Lets you match cut height to grass type and season |
| Fuel | Unleaded gasoline, fresh and ethanol-aware | Stale or ethanol-heavy fuel is a leading cause of no-start issues |
| Oil | Four-stroke engine oil, check manual for grade | Low or wrong oil can trigger safety shutoffs |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Engine design is standard for its class, so parts and service information are widely available.
- Recoil starting means no battery to charge or replace.
- Owners often describe the controls as simple, which suits first-time mower buyers.
- Routine maintenance (filter, plug, oil) is manageable with basic hand tools.
- Works well on flat, reasonably sized lawns where runtime is not a concern.
Cons
Performance Analysis
Performance on this class of engine depends heavily on three things: the condition of the fuel system, the sharpness of the blade and the mowing conditions. A 170cc engine has enough power for a typical residential lawn when it is properly tuned, but it will bog down if the blade is dull, the deck is caked with clippings, or the grass is taller than about a third of its height at the time of cut.
Owner feedback patterns tend to cluster around starting reliability. The most frequently mentioned issues are fuel that has degraded in the carburetor over winter, air filters clogged with dust and grass, and spark plugs with carbon fouling. Many of these problems resolve with cleaning and fresh fuel rather than parts replacement. Owners also commonly report that the mower runs best with the deck kept clean and the blade sharpened every 25 hours of use or at least once per season.
Cut quality is adequate for a rotary mower of this width. Expect a good cut on dry, evenly grown grass and more streaking or scalping on wet or unevenly cut turf. For guidance on cut-quality issues in general, see Why Lawn Mowers Cut Unevenly.
Who Should Buy This Product?
This mower fits homeowners with lawns of roughly 5,000 square feet or less who want a basic gas mower and are willing to do simple maintenance. It is also a reasonable choice for a second mower or a rental property where a simple machine is preferable. Look at When to Use a Compact or Small Lawn Mower to decide whether a compact model better matches your yard.
Skip it if you have a large property, a lot of slopes or a need for commercial-level reliability. In those cases a higher-tier mower will save time and frustration. If you are weighing tiers in general, What to Expect From Budget, Mid-Range and Premium Lawn Mowers gives a useful framework.
Buying Guide
Before buying any 170cc gas mower, check these points:
- Yard size and shape. Measure your lawn. Smaller, flatter yards suit a 20 to 22 inch deck.
- Push or self-propelled. Self-propelled drive helps on slopes and longer mowing sessions. Compare the two in Push vs Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers.
- Starting method. Recoil start is simple but can be hard on cold engines. Check whether the model includes a primer bulb and a choke.
- Warranty and parts access. Confirm who handles warranty claims in your region before you buy.
- Maintenance access. Make sure the air filter, spark plug and oil fill are easy to reach.
If you prefer a different style, these well-known alternatives are often compared with 170cc gas push mowers:
- Honda HRN216VKA (a push mower with a Honda engine, known for long-term parts support). View on Amazon
- Toro 22in Recycler (a push mower with a mulching and bagging option, popular with owners who want a simple walk-behind). View on Amazon
- Craftsman M115 (a budget-tier gas mower often compared on value). View on Amazon
Model names and configurations change, so verify the exact listing before purchase.
FAQ
Why won’t my PowerSmart 170cc lawn mower start?
The most common causes are stale fuel, a clogged carburetor, a dirty air filter, a fouled spark plug, a loose or disconnected spark plug wire, or the safety key or bail bar not engaged. Start with fresh fuel and the spark plug, then check the air filter and carburetor. For a full checklist, see Lawn Mower Won’t Start: Common Causes.
How do I prime a PowerSmart 170cc mower?
If the model has a primer bulb, press it three to five times until fuel is visible in the bulb. Set the choke to closed for a cold start, pull the starter cord firmly, and move the choke to open once the engine fires. Always follow the manual’s exact sequence for your model.
Does old fuel really cause starting problems?
Yes. Gasoline can break down within about 30 days, especially ethanol blends, leaving varnish that clogs the carburetor jets. Draining the tank or adding fuel stabilizer before storage prevents most of these problems.
How often should I change the oil and spark plug?
Manufacturers typically call for oil changes after the first 5 hours and then every 25 hours or once per season, and spark plug inspection at the same interval. Confirm the schedule in your manual.
Can I use this mower on a slope?
Owners generally recommend keeping slope work to gentle grades. Push mowers are harder to control on hills, and the manual will list the maximum slope angle the manufacturer allows.
When should I take the mower to a repair shop?
If you have cleaned the carburetor, replaced the plug and filter, and the engine still will not start, or if you notice smoke, knocking or fuel leaks, stop and have a qualified small-engine technician inspect it. Working with fuel and spark systems carries fire and injury risk, so consult a professional when in doubt.
Is this mower worth buying for a large lawn?
For larger properties, a self-propelled or higher-displacement mower will usually save time and reduce fatigue. A 170cc push mower is better suited to smaller, flatter lawns.
Final Verdict
The PowerSmart 170cc lawn mower is a reasonable choice for small, flat lawns where a simple gas engine and easy maintenance are the priorities. Its starting issues are usually fixable with fresh fuel, a clean air filter and a healthy spark plug, and most owners who keep up with basic service find it serviceable. If your yard is large, hilly or demanding, look at a higher-tier option instead. Browse the current model on Amazon: View on Amazon.
