Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Tecumseh Engine - stalls when hot, hello bill, vapor lock

Question
Hello John,

I have a Tecumseh-based Toro snowblower Powermax 826 LE - 8HP.  It runs great for 30-45 minutes.  Then, it stalls.  I can wait 15-60 seconds and it starts immediately.  Then stalls after 3-5 minutes.  This repeats forever until the engine it completely cold.  I've tried brand new gas thinking that was it.  I got it in 2005 and it's behaved this way from the beginning (I'm not sure the very first time I'd used it though).  Do you know what causes this and what I can do about it?  If I guessed, it sounds like vapor lock that you'd hear about in the 60's-70's (a bit before my time).  I'd like to resolve this myself to alleviate the hassle of bringing it in for service and waiting several weeks to get it back.

Thank you - Happy Holidays!

Bill

Answer
Hello Bill:

This Problem can be Caused by 1 of the Following; The Following is a Basic Instruction File I made for this. Any Input is Appreciated. I Usually Suggest you Check the Following in this Order for a Problem like yours. 1- Check the Gas Tank Cap and Ensure it is Venting the Tank. A Vacuum Builds in the Tank and the Gas Flow Stops or Slows to a Point it Shuts Off the Engine. 2- Operate the Equipment Until it Quits (15 to 20min). Then Immediately Check for Fire from the Plug. If the Plug is Firing, then 3- Check the Carburetor Solenoid (if One). If the Carburetor Shut Off Solenoid has Current, then Remove the Carburetor Solenoid and Go to the Hardware Store. Purchase a Bolt of the Same Diameter and Threads. It Needs to be 3/4" Long. Put this Bolt in Place of the Solenoid. If this Corrects the Engine Problem, then Replace the Solenoid. ***NOTE: THIS IS FOR CHECKING THE SOLENOID ONLY I NEVER SUGGEST YOU OPERATE THE ENGINE WITH THE SOLENOID OUT OF THE CARBURETOR EXCEPT FOR TESTING PURPOSES*** Sometimes the Plunger is Moving, Just Not Far Enough to Allow the Gas to Enter the Jets. 4- Depending on the Model Mower, it can Also be the Pickup Tube in the Gas Tank. If No Fire, then Remove the Shut Off Wire from the Coil and Check for Fire. If Still No Fire, then the Ign Module or Coil is Bad. On JD Mowers; Remove the Igniter/Module and the Coil and have the Local JD Dealer Test them. Send me the Model Numbers Off the Unit and the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manuals and Better Assist you. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Have a Happy Holiday Season and May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Be Safe and Happy. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 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