Lawn mower won't run?
Question:i have a troy bilt 5.5 hp push mower. It is brand new, I have used it only about 4 times, However, I havent used it in the past 2 months or so. I got it to start by putting a couple of drops of gas in the air filter, but it will not stay running. It runs for like 3 seconds then just quits. I am completely lost. Any suggestions?
Answers:
If it runs for a few seconds, you're getting a spark. Not running any longer than a few seconds after squirting some gas in the intake seems to indicate that gas is not getting from the tank to the carb. Check that the gas tank is free of water (could have condensed or dripped in from a leak above?) or dirt. A 5 1/2-hp engine doesn't have a fuel pump, it's a gravity-fed setup, so check that the fuel line is not clogged in any way.
If you can, remove the air filter and keep squirting (spend $1 and get a plastic plant sprayer) a gas mist into the intake to keep it running. If it stays running, find what's blocking the fuel line.
If it doesn't stay running, replacing the spark plug is an inexpensive way to make sure you have a strong, reliable spark.
Just be careful with the gas. Remember, liquid gas doesn't burn, only the fumes do.
get new gas
Your gas may be old. You may also have a faulty spark plug. It's probably the cheapest place to start.
Clean air filter
Replace gas with new
Clean spark plug or get new
Check oil have seen some not run from low on oil do to sensor DO NOT OVERFILL though will be worse.
If it is brand new, take it back.
I agree with taking it back if it is new. If it is a Briggs engine, they have a diaphram carburator. I have repaired several of these where the diapharm doesn't fit well. If the diaphram isn't sealed it will not work. They make repair kits for the carbs for about $12.00 but the carb has to come off. If it is not a briggs engine it still sounds like a carburator problem. Have you removed the fuel line to make sure gas is running through it to the carb?
My Troy bilt has a Honda motor and it fires right up. Get a can of ether and squirt a shot in the air cleaner then pull the starter rope. I had a tecumseh engine on my last mower and needed ether to start it every time .
Unless it has auto choke leave choke on for a few secs until warm up then should keep running.Be sure fuel tank is at least half full.When through using before storing for long periods of time empty all fuel from tank then start and let run til out of fuel. then store.
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