Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawn mower problems, electrical issues, exact names

Question
michael,
ive been having a few problems with my mower, really it started since last summer but i figured its time to get it fixed. i have a tecumseh premier 5 hp. not exactly sure how old but diff. not new!
i have been going though this site and getting ideas to why it wont start!
i have taken apart the carb and cleaned it all out with carb cleaner including spraying in the primer and, i took of the little can below the primer where the float is and cleaned that up as well. i just changed all the oil in it and put a new plug in it too. still wont start! but when putting the carb back on the mower i couldnt remember what wire(paperclip looking thing)and the other one with the spring went where. i already cleaned that part all up so i cant see any marks to where it was. i put it back the way i thought it went but not sure, the one with the spring i put on the gov. and on the top of the plate above the carb where it swings against the throttle cable and the solid one i put on the gov. and above the carb right below the plate.i took off the gov. arm that holds the wires on and tried putting it back to where it was. maybe that could of been the problem, do they call this the linkage?
i really hope im not to confusing i dont know the exact names of all of this. would it be possible of any pictures that you can think of sending to help me out so i can get a rough idea?
also if you have any ideas of what else to check. air filter is fine and the tube going to the carb was also cleaned along with the gas lines cleaned so there is no blockage also the pipe after the carb going into the engine was cleaned too.
i guess im out of ideas and im not sure of any of the electrical issues.
sorry for this being so long just wanted to be as specific as possible!
if you could get back to me with any information that you might have i would greatly appreciate it!!
thanks again,
--rob


Answer
Hi Rob,

Sorry, I don't know where you can get pictures of the carb and governer linkage.  I would look closely for worn paint or metal at the linkage arms and carb throttle disk.  If still no sign, you could go to a local repair shop and look at new or used mowers of the same brand to see how they are connected.

Below is my general "no start" proceedure.

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.  Right after it quits, 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 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.
First, check the gas cap to make sure it is venting and not causing a vacuum in the tank.  If that's okay, 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.   A carb rebuild kit wouldn't hurt either.