Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawn mower dies when releasing clutch, poulan weedeater, drive assembly

Question
My Poulan/Weedeater riding mower have been perfect for the last 8 years.  All of the sudden it dies as soon as I release the clutch.  It starts fine and will continue to run as long as the clutch is in.

What do you think it can be?

Thanks,
Rob

Answer
Because it dies under load, I would first make sure the high speed mixture is correct.  If equipped with adjustment, try opening the high speed mixture screw 1/8 of a turn at a time until you have sufficient power to use the rider as usual.  If this is not the problem and it's a mechanical issue (seized idler pulleys, bearings, etc.), you will need to investigate further.  With the clutch in, everything in the drive assembly should rotate by hand with little or no resistance.  Let me know if you need more help.