Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): craftsman DYT 4000, water in the fuel, fuel hose

Question
Hi Nathan, I have a 2004 craftsman DYT 4000 and currently it is making a popping or backfiring noise. The RPM's are also oscillating and sometimes sounds like its going to die. I have cleaned out the carb two times and after I did that each time it ran perfect. After using it for an hour or two it starts having the same symptoms and continues to get worse. I replaced the fuel filter and cleaned the air filters. The oil is also fresh and the plugs look great in color. I also turned the key and held the fuel hose in a can pumping out about two cups of fuel. It was clean and I did not see any trash or water in the fuel. Do you have any ideas as to what the problem might be?
Thank you for your help!


Answer
Ok I am going to say that this mower maybe sat for a while before you restarted it and then it ran good plus you cleaned the carb right away you might have a coil that only works when it is cold and stops when its hot I seen this before or your fuel line is coming apart on the
inside I had this happen alot to newer stuff It must be the fuel line they use I would start with these two things.The coil you should be able to get tested at any small engine shop or run it till it dies then check for spark right after it dies either way should work

let me know I will give you some more tips