[lawnbizzz]

I bought this machine and it is in perfect condition but was not running at the time we purchased (used).

First, we got the machine running by spraying carb cleaner into the carb and it cranked right up, we also added fuel directly to the carb. It ran for a few seconds then died. Next, we made sure fuel was being delivered to the carb by unplugging the feed line and sure enough, gas comes pouring out while turning the key which tells me the carb is getting fuel.

We now have replaced the carb and are still having the same issue. Fuel pump is also brand new.

So I have replaced the fuel pump and carb, machine just will not start... What else could it be? Is there anything that may have to do with the choke perhaps? Anything electrical?

Your feedback is greatly appreciated.

 

[bwdbrn1]

Welcome to MLMF lawnbizzz. That has to be pretty frustrating.

You said you disconnected the fuel line, and it ran from the gas tank. I'm going to guess the line was between the fuel pump and the carb, and when you turned the key, it pumped gas.

Have you checked the bowl on the carb? Usually there is a screw or valve of some kind at the bottom of the carb bowl. If nothing comes out when you open that bowl drain, then the gas isn't getting to the carb.

If there is, then there may be a blockage in the carb itself.

Have you checked the spark plugs to see if they are wet as well? If they're dry, then the fuel isn't getting from the carb into the cylinder(s). Perhaps the float is stuck.

You should also check the operation of the choke to see that it is opening and closing as it should.

Hope that helps some, and I'm sure others will offer suggestions as well.

 

[themidniteryder]

I don't think it would be a choke problem as it should continue running after starting it on a prime of gas or carb cleaner. Is there an electric fuel solenoid on the bottom of your carb? If so, check that you are getting 12 volts to the solenoid and can hear or feel it click when you turn the ignition key to the on position.

 

[Five Points]

:welcome: Welcome to MLF lawnbizzz. I agree with both previous suggestions. You inspect those mentioned area, I believe you will find your issue. Let us know how it turns out and what you find.

 

[lawnbizzz]

Thanks a lot guys... I will bust out the mower again tomorrow but for now can someone please explain the function of the electrical wire that comes out of the bottom of the carb? I will test voltage tomorrow but WHAT is that wire for and if indeed it is not getting 12v at the solenoid, what should I do if its not getting 12 volts? Replace solenoid? Can I get this part at NAPA or do I have to get it from JD or Kohler?

 

[Five Points]

The wire goes to an electronic solenoid that when you shut your ignition off it will immediately shut the flow of fuel off to help prevent that loud backfire when shut the mower off. You should hear a little click from it when you turn the power off and on. If you have 12v at the solenoid when the ignition is on and the solenoid does not click off and on it may be stuck with some crud or shot. I've also seen the tip rust completely off. Not a hardware store item, but a mower shop or on line item.

 

[lawnbizzz]

Do you know the part number and/or the exact name of the part? Not jumping the Gun but I will troubleshoot, in case I need to replace it will be nice to know the part name etc... Thanks

 

[Mark / Ohio]

Here's a page from the manual about testing it:

I came up with John Deere part# AM128242 Solenoid Kit

Using the John Deere parts website but you'll want to verify it:

John Deere - Parts Catalog

 

[lawnbizzz]

OK

I tested the wire coming out of the bottom of the carb and with the key in the on poition it read 12.7 volts.

Now what should I do? I must get this thing running and cannot seem to find the solution.

Please help! Thanks

 

[Five Points]

With it plugged in do you hear a click coming from that solenoid when you turn the key on and off?

 

[lawnbizzz]

Yes there is a clicking sound at carb when turning key from off to on position...

 

[Five Points]

OK that means its working but without physically looking at it to make sure the needle is in good shape you can't rule it out. If you do take it off make sure you have an extra seal in case that one tears. I've seen the needle rusted off from the water that collects in the bowl from the ethanol separating or just rain seeping in from wherever.