Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere LX 173 Tractor

Question
As recent as a week ago I was mowing the lawn with my 1997 John Deere LX 173 tractor. Never had any issues with the tractor except last week. After shutting down the tractor for a lunch break, I tried to restart it but to no avail. I replace the spark plug first, then the gas filter, then the Air Filter than the gas cap per the owner's manual. The tractor cranks with no issues and runs for 30-40 seconds then shuts down. Any recommendations?? Thanks in advance.

Answer
It could be a bad fuel pump or a dirty carburetor...these are the most common symptoms based on your description.

What engine is on the mower?  A Briggs and Stratton or Kawasaki?

You can remove the spark plug and then remove the fuel line from the carburetor to check the fuel pump.  With the fuel line dis-connected and spark plug removed, just crank the engine and see if fuel flows/squirts out of the fuel line.

Eric