Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): honda gcv160, honda gcv160, honda gcv 160

Question
I have a Honda GCV 160 that I mounted on a Snapper Hi Vac deck to replace the old Tecumseh engine 4 years ago. The engine ran great until this season. I filled it up with fresh fuel and it started on the second pull. It then stalled after about 10 seconds. Thinking it was a clogged fuel line, I cleaned the line, NG. I cleaned and rebuilt the carborator, NG. I bought a new carborator, NG. I took a step back and thought it to be electrical. I changed the plug, NG. I checked the coil and cut off switch, still NG. I bought a new coil thinking there was something in the coil shorting out. I still have the same issue. The mower starts on the first or second pull, runs for 10 seconds then stalls. It won't start again for a couple of minutes. When it does start the engine seems to run like it was brand new out of the box. I also checked the tank vent, it's Ok. Is there anything you can tell me about these engines. The numbers on the side are GCV-160 GJAE-1819059 A1A4.

Answer
Hello Joe:

Can you Use Starter Fluid and Keep the Engine Running? If Yes, then Check the Engine Compression. Does the Engine Start and Run Properly at All? If yes, then the Ign Module May be the Cause for this. If No, then Check the Timing. If the Timing Belt Jumps a Couple of Teeth, then this Problem will Occur. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Mower/Engine at this Site Addy, http://hayward.arinet.com/scripts/EmpartISAPI.dll?MF&app=ASP&lang=EN&TF=Mainfram... and Select the Catalog American Honda. 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. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. 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. Thanks.

Respectfully

John