Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 17 hp kawasaki, ring gasket, fuel tank cap

Question
Hi I have a 17 hp Kawasaki and when she idles she revs up and down and up and down.  When she is full throttle she seems to run fine.  What can I do to fix this problem?  Thanks Ed

Answer
ED

If your Engine idles roughly, unevenly, or surges.
Possible causes:

  1. Carburetor is dirty.
  2. Air leak in carburetor or intake manifold (e.g., bad O-ring, gasket, primer).
  3. Carburetor is improperly adjusted or needs service.
more Possible causes:

  1. Fuel line or fuel tank cap vent is clogged.
  2. There is water in the fuel.
  3. Fuel pump is defective.
  4. Governor is not set properly, sticking, or binding.
  5. Carburetor needs adjustment or service.
  6. Loose carburetor/intake pipe resulting in vacuum leak.