Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Lawn mower fires but wont go., gas seeps, crankcase oil

Question
Hi John I own a craftsman 18.0 42" riding lawn mower with a Kohler engine.  The numbers on the engine list FAMILY 2kaxs 4902GB dipsl 490 Model CV492S SPEC No. 27506 and ser#3210712713.  I've been using the mower 3 times a week fighting the dandelion wars and she no longer wants to run.  I put a new plug and oil and air filter for the season.  No fuel filter yet bought the wrong size.  I got a nice strong cranking and popping but it just wont take off and the gas is fresh.  I do have another problem that started last year, maybe its a contributing factor, a heavy gas smell filled the garage.  There was a small amount under the front guard area directly under the exhaust.  When starting the engine the exhaust would have a liquid discharge spritz the wall.  I've checked the fuse and wiring with no luck. Thanks for your help!

Answer
Hello Greg:

Check the Crankcase Oil for Gas Contamination. Usually the Problem with the Gas Smell and Gas Under the Guard is the Carburetor Needle Valve is Not Stopping the Gas Flow when the Engine is Not in Use. The Engine Floods and Gas Seeps by the Rings Into the Crankcase. Check the Carburetor Solenoid First. This can Cause Both Problems you are Having. Check for Current/Voltage (10.5 VDC Minimum) to the Carburetor Shut Off Solenoid. If the Carburetor Shut Off Solenoid has Current, then Remove the Carburetor Solenoid and Go to the Hardware Store. Purchase a Bolt of the Same Diameter and Threads. It Needs to be 1/2" to 3/4" Long. Put this Bolt in Place of the Solenoid. If this Corrects the Engine Problem, then Replace the Solenoid. ***NOTE: THIS IS FOR CHECKING THE SOLENOID ONLY I NEVER SUGGEST YOU OPERATE THE ENGINE WITH THE SOLENOID OUT OF THE CARBURETOR EXCEPT FOR TESTING PURPOSES*** Sometimes the Plunger is Moving, Just Not Far Enough to Allow the Gas to Enter the Jets. Sometimes Tapping on the Solenoid May Loosen it, but the Problem will Remain and Progressively Get Worse. You can View a Breakdown of the Engine at this Site Addy; http://www.kohlerplus.com/login.asp and Select Enter as Guest. Now Select the Thumbnail of the Catalog you Wish to View. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

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Respectfully

John