Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Scott S1642 lawn tractor, vacuum line, afew minutes

Question
Tractor work great last week ,Started to used the tractor today.Started up just fine,started to cut the grass, That lasted couple of minutes, then it started to hesitate then it cut out. waited, started again, it only ran afew minutes,It started to hesitate again. Is it possible the fuel filter is the problem, I sprayed carb cleaner in the carb, no help.you advice would be appreciated. Mike

Answer
Problems like yours can be difficult to identify the root cause because it will start up again once it dies.

I would start by checking the air filter, replacing the fuel filter and spark plug.  Next I would disconnect and clean the battery cable ends and battery terminals with a wirebrush.  Not too likely either of this will fix the problem but I have fix a lot of problems like yours just by performing these tasks.

The next item I would tackle is the carb.  Remove, disassemble and clean the carb with compressed air from an air compressor.  Blow air through all the carb holes making sure it is clean.  You should also inspect the fuel line and vacuum line if you have a fuel pump.

At each step you can test the mower to see if there is an improvement.

Let me know if any of the above tasks solves the problem.

Eric