Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawnmower repair, fuel flow, sears

Question
I have a three year old 4.6 lawnmower from SEARS.  I put in storage fully drained (policy) for 1 year. I filled fluids. I tried to start it up and the blade did not move.  I turned the blade and and it still did not do anything.      -Advise

Dennis Tillery
tillerys2@charter.net

Answer
Hi Dennis,

When you say that the blade did not move, do you mean it is frozen?  If the blade turns now but the engine will not start then follow my "no start" procedure below:

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 good, then try to start while squirting fuel or starting fluid into the carb intake.  If it starts, 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.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael