Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs & Straton Engine - Stalling, briggs straton engine, hp briggs

Question
I have a 6 HP Briggs and Straton engine on my self propelled lawn mower. I purchased it at sears in 1995 and it has been running well until June. The engine would start right up when pumping the primer. However it would stall out in a few seconds.

I brought it to sears for service and tune up. It worked for a short time then it stalled and would only start after priming and stall again in a few seconds.

Do you have any experience with this type of problem? Any suggestions?

Thanks

Answer
Hi Peter,

This problem is common.  The engine starting only after priming, indicates a lack of fuel to the engine.  Check the primer bulb for any holes or tears.  Then, make sure you have a good fuel flow to the carb but the carb most likely has dirt, debris, gummed fuel or water 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.  A carb rebuild kit wouldn't hurt either.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael