Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B&S 6.5Hp engine wont start., safety aspect, type numbers

Question

I have a Sears push lawnmower model (917-388751) with a B&S 6.5Hp engine, model (BSP-123K02-0181) that will not start. I can fill it up with gas and the gas will drip out of the primer bulb. I can prime 3 times, even 50 times and it will not fire. I can remove the spark plug and put a small amount of gas into the cylinder and put the spark plug back and it will crank with the first pull. It will only run for a couple of seconds and shut back down. I purchased this mower a couple of years ago and probably hasn’t got 30 minutes total time on engine. All help is appreciated.

Thank You,
R.C.
rc5034@spydee.net  

Answer
 Hello Robert:

 From your Description it Sounds Like the Carburetor needs to be Cleaned and Rebuilt. The Gas has Formed Varnish that is Restricting the Gas Flow Through the Jets of the Carburetor. The Carburetor needs to be Removed, Disassembled and Soaked Overnight in Carburetor Cleaner(I use Gunk in the Gallon Can. It has the Tray for Soaking the Carburetor Parts. The Lid can be Replaced while the Carburetor is Soaking. I Like the Safety Aspect of the Gallon Can). Then Blow Out the Passages with Compressed Air and Install New Kit(approx. $15.00). Go to this Addy http://shop.briggsandstratton.com/BShopProductListingPage.asp?rsvp=0&PARENTID=0&... and Enter the Model Numbers 123K02 and the Type Numbers 0181 and Click Search. **This is the Mowers Engine Model and Type Numbers. You will Require these Number for All Parts and Some Parts Require the Type Number 0181-E1.** Now Select View PDF. This will Download a Breakdown/IPL for you to View Online. If you have Any Questions While Performing this Repair, Please Ask. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John