QuestionI have a Craftsman lawn mower, model #917.377271. This past summer the lawn mower has been getting more and more difficult to start. When I do get it started, the engine regularly sputters and then lacks power. I assume this is related to the carburetor, most likely being gummed up; but I'm not totally sure... If your thoughts are with the carburetor, could you give me the skinny for the step by step process on what I need to do to correct the problem... If you think it's something else please advise, plus the steps needed to correct the problem..
Usually I take this to a handyman to fix. But not this time, I'm trying to fix this problem myself!
many thanks,
AnswerMost problems these days are caused by a dirty carb. While you have a float style carb it is a little different than a standard Tecumseh carb. However, cleaning is the same.
YouTube has several videos on cleaning Craftsman or Tecumseh carburetors.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRU4lyDX_zo
The most important thing to do is blow compressed air from an air compressor through all the small carburetor orfices to make sure they are clean.
Search YouTube and compare the various videos for detailed directions.
Eric
