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Followup To
Question -
I have a MTD w/Briggs Stratton 5 horse engine. I changed the spark plug and the gas, as it has been sitting for some time. The motor turns over but there is no spark but it is getting gas. What should I try. I put the spark plug in the cap and laid it aside and pulled on the rope but I didn't see any spark. What now?
Answer -
Does the engine have a low oil shut-off device? I checked the oil and it looked clean but am unsure of what a low oil shut off device is and what it looks like. Can you tell me what to look for and if I find it what should I do? Thank you
Let me know.
Eric
AnswerMost mowers do not low oil switches, you would see a wire connected to a device on the engine block.
Many of the "no spark" conditions on mowers are caused by the engine shut-off cable stretching from age or sticking and binding.
Make sure the cable is working correclty. A stretched cable will allow enough pull to release the flywheel brake allowing you to pull the string but not enough pull to release the shut-off switch.
Can you follow the shut-off cable down towards the engine? If so you may be able to actully see if the shut-off switch device is moving far enough to allow spark.
Your other option is to remove the blower housing (sheet metal top) and disconnect the small wire from the coil. Place the housing back on the engine and check for spark. If you have spark the coil is fine and the shut-off cable is the problem.
This is an easy problem but challenging to describe how to check.
Let me know if this helps or if I need to clairify.
Eric
