QuestionI have a Craftsman Model # 917388230 push mower with a 5hp B&S engine, Model 12M802, Type 1978-E1, Code 99011857. Mower had set up for about 6 to 8 months and would not
start. Removed Carb and cleaned. Cleaned with carb cleaner and poked small diameter wire through all the holes. Made sure that the float was not leaking and in good shape. Put new kit, (needle,seat, bowl gasket, and gasket that goes between the carb and the outside plastic housing with the primer bulb). Cleaned and made sure the bolt that holds the bowl onto the carb had all the holes clear of any blockage. After doing all this, the mower would start for a couple of seconds then die. It appeared that the butterfly in the carb would just open and close repeatedly then die. I tinkered with it long enough by holding the butterfly linkage that it finally warmed up and ran although it ran a little rough. Once it was warm, I could kill the engine and it would restart without priming. BUT, once it cooled off, I would prime it, crank it, and it would only run for about 10 to 15 seconds. I cranked it again, and this time I would push the primer bulb every 2 or 3 seconds while it was trying to run and eventually it ran long enough to warm up. I read on this web site that it could be the air filter so I replaced it. This did not help. The only other thing I might add is that I do not know for sure that it has the correct spark plug RJ19LM installed. One more note, I also tried running with and without gas cap, it made no difference. The motor does not smoke at all. Any thoughts? I am at a loss. Thanks, James
AnswerHello James:
Reclean the Carburetor. 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, Float Pin, Float 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. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM and Enter the Model and Type Numbers. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Engine you Wish to View. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. 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 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.
Respectfully
John
