Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere RX95 Riding Mower, hp engine, gas tank

Question
John:

I have a John Deere RX95 Riding Mower with a Kawasaki 12.5 HP engine.  Ever since I had this mower (given to me by my in-laws) it will run for approximately 15 to 20 minutes and then shut down.  When it cools off, it will run again for a little while and shut down again.  I have been told that I need to replace the carburetor.  Any suggestions.  Do I really need to replace the whole carburetor.

Thank you,

Michael

Answer
Hello Michael:

You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Mower at this Site Addy, http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... and Enter the Model Numbers and Click Find. Then Select the Sectional File. Then Select the Section of the Mower you Wish to View Online. Usually the Igniter or the Gas Tank Cap or Outlet Port are the Cause for this Problem. Operate the Mower Until it Quits. Immediately Check for Fire at the Plug. If No Fire, then Replace the Igniter (Breakdown #13). If the Plug has fire, then Check the Tank and Ensure it is Clean and Trash is Not being Sucked to the Tank Outlet Port and Restricting the Gas Flow. If the Tank is Clean and 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. In your Case the Solenoid can be Overheating and Shutting Off the Gas to the Carburetor Jet. 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