QuestionI have a tecumseh 16.5hp mower motor and it is very hard to start. Occasionally it jams and battery cant turn it over so you need to do it by hand.
seems to have spark and petrol getting to the cylinder, when the batt is fully charge it usually starts but if not in the first couple of goes it usually drains the battery trying. Any ideas please.
AnswerHi Tony,
Did you test the spark with a spark tester? Did you test the Battery? Is it fully charged?
If the spark is sufficient, here's a checklist of diagnostic tests you can perform.
- Check flywheel for damaged or sheared key.
- Check to make sure that the proper air gap is set on external coil
- Measure and correct if necessary proper point gap, check condenser and timing,
- See if there if the coil is emitting weak (Test) or intermittent spark.
- Check electric starter and battery (if you have one.)
From the sound of what you've described, possibly what you're experiencing is a result of a mechanical obstruction, which might be contributing to the no-start (hard-start) condition.
You can try to remove the spark plug, pour 1 tsp. of gasoline in the spark plug's hole, and reinstall the plug. See if the machine starts. If it does start, then you possibly a fuel supply problem exists.
I hope that you find this information helpful.
Regards,
Howard
