QuestionThis is a question I asked Eric Jones. Ever since his reply he has been maxed out so I hope you can help. I will provide my original question to him, and his follow up question.
I have an old Craftsman Sears tractor Model number 917.255732. I recently began bringing it back to life from an extended sit. I got it running smoothly and began experimenting with the engine. While the engine was running, I had the throttle set all the way down and turned the, what I believe to be what controls the idle (number 18 from this diagram http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/getSubComp.pd?modelNumber=252707-062...), using it as make shift throttle. When the engine was off it would be in the "open" position. After starting the engine it would close, then open back to where the throttle was set. Using the idler as the throttle would allow me to rev the engine higher than the "rabbit" throttle position. The engine would run smoothly even at the high RPM's. I ran it off and on the first day, never running it top speed for very long. Then the next day I went to experimenting again, this time running the engine on high continuously. I let off the throttle and it revved down, sputtered out and died. After that it wouldn't start on it's own. I'd have to squirt carburetor cleaner into the air intake to get it started, and it'd run rough for a little bit and die. Hopefully I didn't ruin the engine. Any ideas on what I broke? Thanks in advance.
Did you run the engine faster than the "rabbit" position? Will the engine run if you move the throttle lever/carburetor butterfly shaft by hand?
Let me know.
Eric
And yes, I did run the engine faster than the "rabbit" position. It will not start at all anymore, even if I use starter fluid or carburetor cleaner. After it stopped on it's own the day I ruined it, I could start it with carberaetor cleaner and it would be able to run on it's own for a little bit afterwards then it would sputter out and die.
AnswerHi Jon,
Carburetor (QuickStart) is really not very healthy for the overall operation of the carburetor. It is highly corrosive and if it gets on any of the rubber seals or gaskets it will ruin them. If you are having so much difficulty involving the carb then try rebuilding the carb.
You can pick up a rebuild kit at any local small engine shop. Doesn't sound like you broke the engine though. Next time if you want to test for a no-start condition, just pour some gasoline (15 ml.)into the spark opening. Reinstall spark plug and see if it starts.
If it does start then, you have a fuel delivery problem.
Hope this helps.
Howard B.
