Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Deere JS63 B&S 6.5hp l/m self-propelled, internal areas, thin wire

Question
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Followup To
Question -
My mower won't start and I suspect either bad gas or plug. How can I get to the carb? Do I need to take the deck off to get to it & clean the lines or can fresh fuel remedy the job w/o dismantling. Earlier posts suggest using thin wire to clean line but I have no idea where to begin with that. Plug and wire look clean but I'll replace if you think that's one of the sources. Only used minimally for 4 years.  Thanks for the help.
Answer -
Hi Tom,

Check for spark at the spark plug.  Replace it if it looks fouled.  Try starting it by adding fuel to the carb.  The carb should be under the top cover.  The reference to using a wire, is when disassembling the carb.  I suspect a gummed up carb, especially if the fuel wasn't treated with stabilizer duning non-use.  You can try to get it running by adding fuel directly to the carb and sometimes it will clear up and be okay.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael

Thanks for the quick response. Are there any products to break up the gummy areas rather than disassemble? My hesitation in taking the carb apart is that I may need to take the engine off the deck to get a ratchet to the nut. I will try your first suggestions and see want happens. Thanks again for your expertise.

Regards,
Tom

Answer
Hi Tom,

If the fuel will not flow, then a carb cleaner additive won't be able to get to all the carb's internal areas.  If you can get it to run and stay running, then it will be okay and clean it self out over time but if not, it will need disassembly.  The carb should come off without engine removal.  You may need to raise the mower to bench height to have easy access to work on the carb.

Good luck,
Michael