Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): honda 16.5 hp, spec numbers, swithes

Question
I own a 4 year old Craftsman 3000 42 in. cut with a honda 16.5 hp engine. Last season (2007) on ocasion it would not start for whatever reason.  This season it started fine for the first few mowings now its back to not starting.  It will either start right up or it will just turn over with no hope of starting.  Its getting gas and spark.  My starting procedure is the same either way. Swithes and micro swithes seem fine.  What to look for or replace?  Thanks

Answer
Hello Gary:

From your Description it Sounds like the Carburetor Solenoid is Sticking and Not Opening Completely. The Following is a Basic Instruction File I made for Checking the Carburetor Solenoid. Any Input is Appreciated. **Check for Current/Voltage (10.5 VDC Minimum) to the Carburetor Shut Off Solenoid when the Ign Switch is in the Spring Loaded Start Position and in the Run Position. If the Carburetor Shut Off Solenoid has Current, then On Some Solenoids you can Remove the Solenoid from the Carburetor and then Remove the Needle and Replace the Solenoid into the Carburetor to Test them. ****PLEASE DO NOT OPERATE THE MOWER WITH THE SOLENOID BYPASSED IN THIS MANNER. THIS IS "ONLY" FOR TESTING.**** For Others, Remove the Carburetor Solenoid and Go to the Hardware Store. Purchase a Bolt of the Same Diameter and Threads.It Needs to be 1/2" to 3/4" Long for the Horizontal Mount Solenoids and 1/4" Long for the Vertical Mount Solenoids. 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 Jet.** Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine or the Mower Model Numbers, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Engine Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. 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