Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sears Craftsman Mower issues, sears craftsman, valve guides

Question
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Followup To
Question -
I have a Sears Craftsman 12 hp 38" deck model 917.254640 that you helped me with the starter kept running when the key was turned on. It ended up being the wiring to the ignition like you thought.

My problem now is multiple 1) the starter and the clutch wheel are intermitting in engaging. 2) when it did engage I got the mower stated, but when I engaged the blade and started moving was real sluggish when I hit the grass which was not very high and the deck is set at 2" the engine bogged and died. 3) Oil was blowing out of the exhaust.

Question for issue 1) does this model have a clutch switch if so where can I find it? I bought the tractor used about 3 years ago and have not been able to find any repair information for it such as wiring diagrams and such.

Issue 2 and 3 are probably linked some how and do you think for the age of the tractor is it worth getting into repairing or should I just cut my losses and buy something new?

Thank you
Answer -
Hi Chris,

The oil issue, if it is not overfull, could be due to worn valve guides but then the oil would smoke.  Could it be fuel coming out?  Do you mean a blade or wheel drive clutch?  

Michael

Unfortunately it is oil and it smokes like crazy when running. It is a wheel with teeth that lowers when you are first starting and when it begins to start or starts the wheel lifts up so the start does not catch.

Also I do not have to push the brake clutch all the way down to start as long as the parking brake lever is locked it will turn over the starter.

Answer
Hi Chris,

The starter bendix gear should be disassembled, cleaned and lubed with a light oil or silicone.  This should allow it to pull in, engage and return to it's resting position.

The smoke is most likely due to worn pistons or leaking valve guides.  Both caused by a worn engine. A compression test would comfirm this.
To repair or replace depends on whether you want to invest time and expense into the mower.  Maybe a few hundred dollars opposed to a new mower.  New has it's advantages also.

Best,
Michael