Thanks Steve
I bought some new 3 amp fuses today , fitted one and the mower operates for two seconds then cuts out. I then tried a 5 amp-thinking safer than the 13 amp- and that worked for longer without cutting out -is that safe enough? ( I might add I am not actually mowing when I test , just pressing the handle!) If not I think I may just buy a new mower-this one is ancient so perhaps too old for any repairs and even if it could be , probably more expensive than new.
Monica.

Monica, April 2010

Got to do a correction to you Peccavi the RCD should always be plugged in at source ie: the feed socket so current is cut throughout the cable length including any extension lead used.

Bob, April 2010

Monica - what you appear not to be doing is testing the fuse you take out each time - put it in a table lamp plug and see if the fuse is still good - if it is you can stop worrying about fuses and concentrate on the real fault - you will also save a few pennies on fuses.

Your 500W mower will operate fine on a 5A fuse - it's nothing whatsoever to do with personal safety from electrocution - a fuse is there to stop the wiring getting too hot and catching fire - it takes only a few milliamps to electrocute somebody.

My suspicion is that your mower - if it cuts out on a 5A fuse - has an electrical connectivity problem - a bad connection somewhere - in the plug, the cable, the control switch or in the internal wiring.

If it does not cut out on 5A then problem solved - when motors start they usually have an inrush current somewhat higher than normal operating current - a 3A fuse may well pop.

And if for some technical reason you are forced to use a 13A fuse you will be quite safe.

The key safety thing when using electrical equipment particularly outdoors is to have an earth leakage breaker (RCD) somewhere in the circuit - these do prevent accidental electrocution.

Good luck...

Peccavi, April 2010