Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawnmower, smoke blows, exhaust port

Question
Good morning,

I have a 13 yr old lawnmower with a Briggs & Stratten 4.5 hp pull start engine. I can't start it up. For awhile, when I pull the cord blue smoke blows thru the exhaust port. After frequent pulling of the cord, gas spews out the exhaust port thru the muffler. what can be the cause of this ?

Peter

Answer
Hi Peter,

Sorry for my delay.

Excess fuel coming out of the exhaust port ma be caused by too much fuel getting to the engine or an exhaust valve that is not closing all the way.  A compression test would indicate a valve condition.  Removing and inspecting the carb would be the next step.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael