Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): B & S 20HP Intek V-Twin, john corrigan, mtd yardman


Question
John

I have an MTD Yardman RideOn Mower with a B & S 20HP Intek V-Twin motor, Model 407777, Type 0128E1, Code 990614YG.
The engine was running fine, but ran out of fuel. After filling with fuel, it started OK and continued running fine.
After stopping for about an hour, the motor would not restart.
I replaced the plugs and checked for spark; good strong spark. Still would not start.
Removed and cleaned air filters; still no start.
Replaced in-line fuel filter and checked operation of the fuel pump; fuel was being delivered to the carburetor. Still no start.
Poured some neat fuel down air intake horn. Engine fired and ran briefly but died.
Fuel cut off solenoid appeared to be working as there was an audible click when ignition turned on.
Assuming that there was probably a blockage in the carburetor, I dismantled same and blew out all orifices with compressed air, and physically checked the operation of the solenoid whilst the carburetor was dismantled.
On reassembly the problem remained. More fuel down the air horn; same result as before, run briefly and die.
All indications, to me and to others I have spoken with, is that I have a carburetor problem, although I can't seem to isolate and remedy it.
I thought perhaps it could be a valve problem, and I conducted a compression test on both cylinders; both recorded a reading of 190 psi, which I feel is probably quite good.
I would appreciate your thoughts, and a solution if possible.

Regards
John Corrigan

Answer
 Hello John:

 Even if the Solenoid Sounds Good it can be Bad. Remove the Gas line from the Carburetor Inlet Port. If the Gas is Free Flowing to the Inlet Port, then Remove the Solenoid from the Carburetor Bowl and Replace it with a Screw of the Same Thread and Diameter and 1/2 to 3/4 inches Long. Try to Start the Engine. What Happens? If it Continues to Run the Same, then Re-Clean the Carburetor. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John