Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): mower starts then stops, briggs stratton engine, john deere js63

Question
John,

Thankyou for your availability. About two weeks ago my son used the mower until it ran out of gas (my fault �I forgot to check). But ever since it would start for about 3 to five seconds and then die. No matter how much I primed it (doing it several times after pulling the cord) to see if it would keep going after initial start but no luck. I�ve changed the spark plug, cleaned the air filter, tried starting without the air filter, tried starting after spraying carburetor cleaner (with no ether) into the carb opening (removing the air filter), put a capful of gasoline into the same opening and tried starting (it sounded like it was choking), changed to fresh gas, and checked the oil (if that helps). I�m not a mechanic but do have an inclination to fix things when I can tell if it�s a reasonable project within my grasp. It�s probably a fuel delivery problem with dirt somewhere in the line and/or carburetor. I did have it serviced about 2 years ago but due to the fact I�m running short on the finances as of late and having no manual or instruction I took the mower apart myself to change the rewind cord (a first). In the process I checked to see if the tube from the gas tank to the primer was clogged (it was not). I figure (with expert help this time) that I can go further than I ever did before and perhaps attempt to clean a carburetor (if that is the issue). I'd also appreciate any diagrams and knowledge on parts so I can visually understand how to safely take it apart to resolve whatever the issue is. I have a John Deere JS63 self propelled mower with a 6.5 HP OHV Intek Briggs & Stratton engine. (Bought it new about 5 years ago). The engine number (found it on the flat metal piece over what I believe is the muffler on the side of the engine) is: 121602 0269 E1 000317 FA. Another number I found (on the muffler) is: 693331. Thanks again for whatever help you could provide.

Joe


Answer
 Hello Joe:

 Go to this Addy http://shop.briggsandstratton.com/BShopProductListingPage.asp?rsvp=0&PARENTID=0&... and Enter the Model Numbers 121602 and the Type Numbers 0269. Click Search. On the Next Page Scroll Down to the 2nd Listing and Click on View PDF. This will Download a Breakdown for the Engine. Page 4 of 17 has the Breakdown of the Carburator. From your Description, I Suggest you Clean and Rebuild the Carburator. Soak the Carburator Overnight in Cleaning Solution(not the plastic parts). Then Blow All the Passages Out with Compressed Air. If you have any Questions During the Clean and Rebuild, Please Ask. Hope this Helps. Let me know what Happens, Please. I enjoy knowing the Outcome. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John