Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): JD LX178 Carb?, adjustment screws, air mixture

Question
Hello John-

First, thanks for all the time and help you provide. You guys are GREAT!

I have a JD LX178. I took the carb apart and cleaned up last spring. I counted the turns on each of the screws when removing, but it just doesn't seem to have the power it had originally. It seems to bog down a bit on hills. Start-ups also seem smoky (dark grey), and it has a slight studder/popping as it's idling.

The carb is a Mikuni. I've read your previous postings, and found that it's listed on the JD parts "addy" you often reference, as "CARBURETOR (MARKED 32045 OR 32226) (LX178)". Can you recommend how to set each of the adjustment screws, and/or any other possible things to check?

Again, thanks so much for your time and willingness to share some knowledge!!

-Shane

Answer
Hello Shane:

The Following is the Instruction File for Setting the Air Mixture Screws. Any Input is Appreciated. The Procedure is the Same for 1 or 2 Mixture Screws, Just Use the Instruction File and Skip Over the Section with the Missing Mixture Screw (Usually the H Mixture Screw). Now Setting the Air Mixture Screws:  ****Turn the Idle Air (L) and Main Air (H) Mixture Screws In Until SNUG **Do Not Jam** Then Reverse Both Screws 1 1/2 Turns. Set the Throttle Full Open, Start the Engine. Turn the Main Air (H) Mixture Screw Clockwise Until Proper Revs are Obtained. Carefully Use your Finger and Move the Governor Arm to Rev the Engine Until you Reach Max RPMs and the Engine is Running Proper at Full Throttle Up a Grade. Occasionally you May have to Turn this Counter Clockwise to Achieve the Proper Revs. Now Allow the Engine to Idle. Set the Engine Idle Screw (Not Idle Air) so the Engine will Stay Running if Required. Now Set the Idle Air (L) Mixture Screw so there is No Hesitation when Throttling from Idle to Full Throttle. Reset the Engine Idle if Required.**** 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