QuestionI have a Sears Craftsman Eager 1 mower, 3.8 hp. I believe (but am not positive) that it is a Tecumseh engine. I've had it for 12 years and it's been pretty reliable.
It started acting up a few weeks ago. If primed 6 or 7 times- it'll start, rev then die. If I keep pressing the primer button, I can keep it running, as soon as I stop- it quits.
I ran some "small-engine cleaner" fuel additive through it and managed to keep it running about 10 minutes by pushing the primer, then it would run poorly on its own but would die if any load was applied.
I took the float bowl off- it had no fuel in it. Does this sound like a full-fledged carb problem or could it be as simple as a bad gas line? (The gas line feels like it has fuel in it, but I am not experienced enough with small engines to be sure.)
thanks for your help
AnswerHi Doug,
Disconnect the fuel line at the carb inlet and check the flow from the fuel tank.
If good, then the carb most likely has dirt, debris or gummed fuel inside.
You will need to remove the carb, disassemble it, clean all the small internal openings and blow it out with compressed air. Probe each and every hole with a small wire. A carb rebuild kit wouldn't hurt either.
Let me know how you make out.
Michael
