QuestionSorry if this question is similar to another, (http://en.allexperts.com/q/Small-Engines-Lawn-1746/2009/11/Starter-Motor-spin-en...), but my problem varies a little.
I picked up a free Craftsman's riding lawnmower from a family friend, it has a 20hp Briggs & Stratton engine it. Unfortunately it was outside for maybe a year or more with nobody starting it. After replacing the battery, spark plugs, and removing the gas tank to thoroughly clean it and fill it with fuel fresh from the gas station, the engine still wont start. The oil doesn't appear to be too dirty or watery, so I haven't changed that yet. Spark plugs are producing spark, battery is fully charged, and fuel is being delivered into the carb. Problem is, is that the flywheel wont spin fast enough to turn the engine over. When I remove the spark plugs and turn the key, there is combustion and the flywheel zooms into action - if i put the spark plugs back in... the flywheel barely turns.
What in the world is going on?!
Jeremy
AnswerDid you clean the battery cables ends and battery posts before installing the battery? With the battery dis-connected, did you disconnect the starter solenoid and starter cables and clean the connections with a wirebrush. Since it sat outside the terminals may not be makeing good connection.
Once the terminals are clean, you can try using a very small car battery and try jump starting the mower.
If the mower has sat a while there is a pretty good chance you will have to rebuild the carb.
Eric
