QuestionHi Michael, A few days ago a neighbor was replacing his push mower and gave me his old Craftsman 3.5 HP 20" 3in1 Push Mower. According to the manufacturers plate it's a Model 944.362500 but I can't find it when I've Googled. I think it may be Canadian-spec.
It's not currently running; I'm sure all it needs is a good tune-up. I was wondering if you know anything about the engine on this model and where I might get the tune-up specs. Some things I'd like to know are:
-Does it have electronic ignition or mechanical points?
-Type of oil to use?
-It doesn't have a choke, intead it has a push-button primer (I think that might be the problem) so am wondering how to trouble-shoot it.
-Is there anywhere on the web I can download the owners as well as service manual?
TIA for your reply!
Cheers,
Daryl
AnswerHi Daryl,
I'm not sure about your model. Unless it is very old, it most likely has electronic ignition.
Use a straight 30 weight oil.
I don't know where you can get or download a manual.
Follow my proceedure below, to get it started.
Let me know how you make out.
Michael
You will need to determine if the problem is a lack of spark or a lack of fuel flow. Remove the spark plug, reconnect the wire and lay it against the engine head. Pull the engine over and watch for spark at the plug's electrode.
If no spark, check the safety switch, if equipped and the coil wiring. The coil may be bad.
If good, then try to start it while squirting fuel or starting fluid into the carb intake. If it starts and you can keep it running by adding fuel, then the carb most likely has dirt, debris or gummed fuel inside.
You will need to remove the carb, disassemble it, clean all the small internal openings and blow it out with compressed air. Probe each and every hole with a small wire. Adding a carb rebuild kit wouldn't hurt either.
