Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs & Stratton Engine - Model #42A707, briggs stratton engine, briggs stratton

Question
Hi Robert,

Yesterday, while mowing the lawn, my lawn tractor (MTD) started running erratically. I disengaged the mower blades,lowered the throttle and was able to get the unit back to my shed, where the engine finally died.  I couldn't get it restarted.

I cleaned the air filter & prefilter, cleaned the sparkplugs and made sure the carburetor was getting fuel.  When I tried restarting the engine, it would turnover, but not start. What would you suggest I do next (before taking it to the shop)?

Thanks
Paul

Answer
Paul, could be several things, blown head gasket, valve seat loose or leaking, loose manifold bad ignition coil ...etc.  Best to first to see if you have ignition (spark).... if so and you put a few drops of gas down the throat of the carb and it still does not start,,,you may haver to pull the heads......let me know what you find....bob