Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): MTD - B&S 18HP Twin - no go w/o choke, mtd riding mower, rubber line

Question
Hi Eric --

I have a MTD riding mower with a B&S 18HP twin.  The engine starts great with the choke out.  Warms up fine, but when the choke is pushed in, the engine dies fast.  When I try and get going with the choke out - it dies.

It will sit there and warm for hours if I let it. but won't hold its own w/o choke.  I tinkered with the screw on the fron of the carb (w/spring) and that seemed to help a little but the engine still dies in Fwd/Rev.  Please help!

Roy

Answer
Normally this is a dirt carb.  Those engines also usually have a fuel pump.

The carb is very simple on those engines.  I would remove, dis-assemble the carb and clean with compressed air from and air compressor, about 40 psi.

Check the intake bolts/gaskets and the rubber line for the fuel pump; sometimes the engine crack and cause the fuel pump not to work.

Let me know what you find.
Eric