Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Poulan Riding Mower Problem, fuel air mixture, mixture problem

Question
Hi, thanks for your time. I have a 2002 Poulan riding mower. 16 & 1/2hp briggs. The model number of the motor is 310707, type 0137-E1, code 020514ZE. It has a Nikki carburetor. It cranks good and mowes good in short grass, but when hitting higher grass, it starts coughing and spluttering. The air filter seamed to be clean. I'm waiting for it to rain to make the grass grow back up to start trying anything to fix it. Do you have any suggestions where or what is causing this problem I have heard that Nikki carbs cannot be fixed. They have to be replaced. I hope this is not the case. It has a solenoid screwed into the bottom of the bowl. Here is a video if needed that shows this solenoid if it will help. Just go to 1:02 in the video and there is the solenoid. http://youtu.be/oFmWcng37QI  If you know of a way of elimanating it, please advise. If you can tell me what you suggest or think is wrong with this engine and how to fix it, I will be sincerely grateful. It might not even be a carb problem. I'm just figuring that it might be. Thanks again. p.s. If the carb has to be replaced, do you know a website and part number where I may order one at the cheapest cost?

Stephen

Answer
Stephen
You probably have a fuel/air mixture problem. You should clean out and adjust your carburetor. The solenoid is needed this is what cuts the fuel off from continuing to flow into the carb and past the pistons and down to the oil tank.To check this just turn the key to on do not try to start the engine you should hear a click when it opens and another click when you shut the key off. If you hear no clicks it is a bad solenoid.




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