QuestionJohn,
I have an old craftsman LT-10 36 inch deck 10hp from the 80's. Running fine last season. I changed the solenoid today and starts great but when I put it in gear I got about 20 feet then it bogged down and cut off. After that, I put it in gear and it would just move a foot or two and do the same thing. The number I have for it is 917.255275. It is a blast from the past but would love to keep using it, any suggestions?
Thanks
AnswerHello Sam:
>>Always Remove the Spark Plug Wire/s from the Spark Plug/s before Working on Any Small Engine unless the Plug/s must be Connected to the Coil/s for Diagnostic Reasons.
>>From your Description it Sounds like the Carburetor Float Needle Valve is Sticking and Starving the Engine for Fuel/Gas.
I Suggest you Soak and Clean the Carburetor First.
>>This Unit had Several Different Engine OEM's Mounted on it.
>>Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug or the Muffler. Many horizontal shaft, overhead valve engines have these numbers stamped into the OHV rocker cover. However, on certain overhead valve powered generators, the equipment manufacturer installs a decorative chrome rocker cover OVER the Briggs cover. If your engine has a decorative cover, it may be necessary to remove it in order to locate the Model, Type, and Code. If this is a Briggs and Stratton Engine, then you can Also Use this Site Addy; http://www.briggsandstratton.com/maint_repair/BS_modeltypecode.pdf for Assistance in Locating the Model, Type and Code Numbers of a Briggs and Stratton Engine.
>>To View a Breakdown of this Unit Go to this Site Addy, http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action?sid=PSHx20080114x00001 and Enter the Model Numbers 917.255275 and Click Search. From this Page you can View Diagrams and Parts Lists.
>>I am like you and Enjoy the Older Model Mowers and Small Engines from the Past. The Units were Built with Quality in Mind and were some of the Best Units ever made.
>>They can Last a Lifetime or Longer if Properly Maintained.
>>I have an Old Montgomery Wards Garden Tractor Unit that must weigh at least 400 Pounds and still Runs Great. It's All Steel with the Cast Iron 12HP Engine.
>>I have to Clean the Carburetor every 3 or 4 Years, but Other than Routine Maintenance, it has been a Very Good and Dependable Unit.
>>If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem, I Hope to be Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.
Good Luck
Respectfully
John
PS: I am Allowed to Answer 5 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Comments and Ratings are Greatly Appreciated. Thanks.
Respectfully
John
