QuestionI'm running a 9hp Kawasaki (FC290V) that has outlasted two mowers. By far the best small engine I have ever owned BUT the last time I mowed with it just quit after about 15 min. I checked the plug and no spark, so I put in a new one. Cranked up and ran fine for another 10 min or so. After it sat for nearly a month I went back and checked for spark and it was there. The rectifier and the igniter are bolted directly to the engine so on the theory that one of them might be breaking down when the engine gets hot I inserted a thick nylon washer between each and the engine. I cranked it up and it ran fine --for 15 min. Parts for this engine are expensive, but still available and I have no idea what needs fixing.
AnswerWhen were the valve clearances checked?
Are you using NGK spark plugs?
FYSA, most of the Kawasaki igniters are interchangeable...some ignitiers are cheaper for other engines.
Better than throw money away, you need to first figure out if it is spark, fuel or compression.
Google "small engine ignition tester" and buy one.
I use this one: http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/261170077678?lpid=82
This is a decent one as well: http://www.equipatron.com/briggs-stratton-19368-ignition-tester-replaces-19051.h
This tool is quicker but I prefer the less expensive model as I know they are very reliable for checking spark:
http://www.eastwood.com/spark-ignition-analyzer-checkspark.html
Let me know about the valves and have you tried running the engine with the gas cap a little loose?
Eric
