Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): John Deere L110, john deere l110, cylinder compression

Question
Hi John,

My L110 will not start.  It has 26 hours of use.  After being stored for several months, I installed a new battery, started the mower and drove it for sometime.  I did notice that the engine would start to cut out if I gave applied full throttle but thought it was probably just from not being run for awhile.  There appeared to be no problems with the mower because it ran and drove fine.  The next morning the mower was started but it ran very sluggish.  Unlike the night before, the mower had very little power.  After driving for a few minutes, I shut off the mower.  When I tried to restart the mower it backfired several times and would not start.  After several attempts to start the mower, the backfiring stopped but it still would not start.  I replaced the sparkplug but it still won't start.  I did remove the gas cap as I had read it can become clogged and cause problems with starting.  I found no clog there and it still would not start.  I know the oil needs to be changed, however I don't want to change it when it is cold and I don't think this would effect the starting.  I haven't replaced the fuel filter or checked any of the actual fuel line.  Before I go any further, I want to know if there is something more obvious I need to check.

Thanks,
Max

Answer
 Hello Max:

 Check the Fuel Pump. Is the Pump Working? If yes, then Remove the Solenoid from the Bowl of the Carburetor and Replace it with a Bolt of the Same Thread and Diameter and about 1/2 to 3/4 inches Long. With the Bolt in Place of the Solenoid, Run the Engine. If no Change in Operation of the Engine, then Check the Cylinder Compression. A Valve May be Stuck or Sticking. The Valves May need Reseating. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Mower at this Addy http://jdpc.deere.com/jdpc/servlet/com.deere.u90490.partscatalog.view.servlets.H... Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John