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

Question
Hi Michael!

My 12-year old son and I are trying to figure out how to "bleed the line" in our Craftsman OHV lawn mower.  It quit running and we were told there was probably gas in the line.

Thank you,

Robin

Answer
Hi Robin,

There should be gas in the line.  I'm sure you mean air in the line. :-)  You can remove the clamp and fuel line where it connects to the carb.  Fuel will run out so have a can and rags ready to catch any fuel, then connect it back to the carb.
Air in a line is rarely a problem though.  I suspect a lack of fuel flow to the engine.  
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, 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.
If carb removal is too involved to try, you could just remove the carb bowl and drain it.  You might be lucky and just have water there.

Let me know how you make out.
Michael