QuestionI drained the fuel from my 11-hp Briggs & Stratton riding mower engine last fall and removed the battery. This spring, I've recharged and replaced the battery, refueled, changed the oil, and changed the spark plug. But the thing won't start.
When I turn the key, the starter winds up (and makes quite a loud whining noise), but the engine doesn't make a sound. It won't turn over, and doesn't make any motion. I had thought it was a problem with the gas line, or with no gas getting to the carb, but there's no hiccup or any indication that the starter is engaging the engine, as in the past when I've run out of gas... the engine at least tries to turn over.
There was a small tear in the plug wire, which I patched using electrical tape. The new plug is gapped properly, I believe, and is making a good connection with the steel ring inside the wire.
It's an old engine -- 15 years or more -- but was kept in immaculate condition by my father-in-law.
Any ideas?
Thanks in advance for any help you can give.
-craig
AnswerI believe you are telling me the engine is not even rotating, correct? If you hear the starter turning but it doesn't engage the ring gear on the flywheel, there is a problem with the starter bendix. You should be able to buy a new starter bendix kit (gear, spring, etc.). I also recommend that you remove the black tape from the plug wire and use some silicone to patch the tear in the wire. Once you have the engine rotating with the starter, let me know if it starts or you have another problem to discuss. Hope this helps.
