Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Kohler Engine Wont Start, poulan pro lawn tractor, adjustment screws

Question
John, I have a Poulan Pro lawn tractor with a Kohler 16 hp engine purchased in 2000.  I drove it for 5 seasons then parked it for the last 2 seasons.  Now the engine turns over but will not start.  Suggestions?

Answer
Hello Bruce:

Is the Spark Plug Firing? What Happens if you Pour a Small Amount (approx 1oz) of Gas into the carburetor Throat(or Filter Housing at the Carburetor throat) and Try to Start the Engine? Send me the Model Numbers Off the Mower, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. The Proble can be a Safety Switch or the Carburetor Requiring Cleaning. I Suggest the First Thing you Do is  **Remove, Disassemble and Soak the Carburetor Overnight in Carburetor Cleaner (I Use Gunk). I have Found that Most People can Use a Breakdown/IPL and Disassemble the Carburetor Enough for Proper Cleaning. You Only have to Remove the Bowl (if Applicable), Float Pin (if Applicable), Float (if Applicable)  and Needle Valve and Any Adjustment Screws that Go Into the Carburetor Body. The Welch Plugs Do Not have to be Removed. Then Soak the Carburetor Body and Parts in a 1 Gallon Can of Gunk Carburetor Cleaner Overnight. The Can has a Parts Tray Inside it for the Small Parts. Once the Carburetor and Parts are in the Cleaner, you can Replace the Lid for Safety and to Prevent Accidental Spillage. Then Blow Out the Passages with Compressed Air. Install New Parts if Required.** If Cleaning the Carburetor Does Not Correct the Problem, then Send me the Model and Type or Spec Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. The Model Numbers May be Stamped Into the Blower Housing (metal engine cover) Above the Spark Plug. Send me the Model Numbers Off the Mower, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. 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