Torque and Chrome

Why won't my lawn mower start?

I have a Craftsman self propelled push lawnmower with a 6.75 horse Briggs engine. It sat in the garage unused for several years. I pulled it out to use it the other day, and it barely turns over and stalls almost immediately. The oil level was ok, but the oil is old. The gas was really old. I drained the gas (it was discolored, an amber color, but clear) and put in fresh gas. Same problem. I pulled out the spark plug and wiped it off, but it didn't look that bad. I reinstalled it (without a torque wrench, sadly, went by feel). Still same problem. The blade doesn't seem to be restricted. Any ideas on what to do to get it running? The air filter is clean. The mower doesn't have a priming bulb.

Public Comments

1. Does it have a primer button? I don't know much about mowers, but I do know I have to push the primer button before I can start mine
2. Check your air filter.
3. check all the obvios make sure there is a spark by undoing the plug put it in the connector and push against something metal if there is make sure there is a correct gap between or no deposits on the end. failing that check fuel is getting in to the engine aslong as there is fuel and spark the engine will start hope this helps
4. If it set up with gas in it your carb. is dirty.You can try some "seafoam" or "B-12" (from an auto parts store) to clean the jets if it runs at all but if it won't start you are going to have to clean the carb. passages(if you are slow as me it may be a 4hr job)
5. Sounds like you have tried almost everything. Maybe you should try draining the float bowl by removing the screw on the bottom of it. And or.... Try removing the plug again and pulling on the starter a few times. Drop a couple drops of fresh gas in the hole and put the plug back in.
6. My guess is the carburator is plugged. SOMETIMES it'll work if you take off the air cleaner and plug the opening with your hand or a rag and pull the rope fast a few times. Most times if the carb isn't too bad, the suction will pull the fuel troug and it will start. I then put q tablespoon of carb cleaner inthe gas tank - it'll usually clean up the passages after a couple of tanks. otherwise you will need to rebuild the carburator.