QuestionEric,
I tried the spark plug suggestion but to no avail. The mower did the same thing Saturday. I got about half of my yard mowed with the mower running fine...then it just choked down & died...wouldn'start again, even after sitting an hour to cool off(& yes I checked the fuel:-). I have noticed a couple other things: 1. the spark plug wire has a small crack in it where it attaches to the ignition module, & 2. The carbureter attaches to a plastic tube leading to the combustion chamber. I found "play" around that o-ring connection. Could either of these two items contribute to this problem? If not, what else do you think it might be? As clarification: the engine is a B&S, Quantum XTE 4.5 hp. Thanks again for your help on this.
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Followup To
Question -
I have a lawn mower with a Briggs & Stratton 4.5 hp engine. At the end of last summer it started "acting up" on me. After mowing fine for about 30 minutes(it usually takes me about an hour to mow my yard) it would begin to act as if it was losing power...choking out, etc. I have cleaned the air filter & gas lines but to no affect. It is not blowing black smoke nor does it use oil. I have given it regular maintenance(oil changes, air filters, spark plug)in the 6-7 years I have had it. Any suggestions?
Answer -
Have you recently changed the spark plug? Your problem sounds more like ignition trouble, but the electronic ignition modules very rarely malfunction...but spark plugs frequently malfunction.
Try using a differnet brand of spark plug, like NGK or ND.
Let me know what happens.
Eric
AnswerI would put some electrical tape on the wire, but I have never found a cracked plug wire cause your symptom.
The o-ring could cause the problem. Also, check the other end of the intake tube. I have found these to warp and/or the screws to come loose. Finally, check the head bolt torque. If you do not have a torque wrench, then just make sure they are hand tight using a 1/2 wrench or socket/ratchet.
Let me know if you find anything.
Eric
