Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Toro B&S Engine Wont Stay Running, toro recycler, briggs stratton engine

Question
John:
I have a Toro Recycler with a Briggs & Stratton engine.  The engine was surging (idling up and bogging down on its own volition).  Based on the advice you gave others on AllExperts, I removed the carb, broke it down and soaked it overnight in carb cleaner.  The next day I blew out ever hole I could see with compressed air.  I reassembled the carb and stuck it back on the engine.  Now, the engine will start and run only so long as the gas is primed.  If I prime the engine, the engine will start and run until it burns up the fuel from priming, then stalls out.  If I continue to prime the engine after it starts, it will continue to run.  Stop priming and it stalls out.  I disconnected the fuel line from the carb and gas freely runs out.  What do you recommend as next steps?  Thanks, Scott

Answer
Hello Scott:

Does this Carburetor have a Solenoid? If Yes, is there Current to the Solenoid? **If the Carburetor Shut Off Solenoid has Current, then Remove the Carburetor Solenoid and Go to the Hardware Store. Purchase a Bolt of the Same Diameter and Threads. It Needs to be 3/4" Long. 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 Jets. If the Solenoid is Working Properly, then Recheck the Carburetor Float and Needle Valve. Make Sure the Float is Not Sticking and is Moving the Needle Valve when the Float Moves. You May have to Re-Soak the Carburetor. Sometimes (Depending on the Age) I have to Soak Carburetors 3 Times to Get the Varnish Completely Out of the Passages. If the Carburetor is Not Cleaned after 3 Cleanings, then I Suggest to the Customer that they Purchase a New Carburetor. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Mower at this Site Addy, https://lookup3.toro.com/partdex/default.cfm and Select Start Parts Viewer. Now Enter the Model Numbers. Now Select View Assembly Drawings. 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