Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): lawn mower engine dies after running a few minutes, fuel cap, gas cap

Question
Dear Expert,
Recently my lawn mower started having this problem,
After running a few minutes, the engine dies.
restart is fine but the problem persists.
Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance,

CRAFTSMAN ROTARY LAWN MOWER
5.5 horsepower 21"multi-cut
model no. 917.388810
bought at Sears 5 years ago.

Answer
Try to loosen your gas cap and see if the problem goes away.  IF so you have a bad fuel cap and your tank is not venting properly.

Another problem could be old gasoline.  Get some fresh fuel from the pump and try that.  If this still does not resolve the problem your carb will need to be serviced or replaced.

If your engine is equipped with a FUEL SHUT OFF valve is the valve turned on?

Let me know what you find!


David R