[Jim]

I have a 12 year old LawnBoy 4 stroke (model 10249) that has run great for many years. Now it won't start. I have replaced the spark plug and tested for spark by holding the plug against a head bolt. I store it without any gas and have added fresh gas this year. I removed the air filter in case it is dirty and air wasn't getting through. I have now removed the carburator and cleaned the bowl and checked the float and needle. After attaching the carb, I removed the bowl and checked that moving the float allows gasto flow so no blockage between the tank and carb.

When I pull the cord, the mower roars to life but then stalls immediately. If I pump the priming button, it will run for about 30 seconds and then stall.

What else can I try???

 

[Mark / Ohio]

Unlikely the problem since you've already checked for fuel flow into the carb but might check the vent on the fuel cap or see if it stays running with the cap loose. Other then that it sure sounds like one of the small ports or jets in the carb still has a blockage.

 

[Jim]

Runs great - jet now clean!!

Thanks Mark.

After seeing your post, I opened up the carb again tonight. I must admit that I didn't realize that the nut that holds the bowl on is also a jet. I had confirmed the other jet was clean but there was a little dirt in the hole of the jet on the bowl nut.

Cleaned it out with a small wire and put it all back together and now it runs great.

Thanks again.

 

[Mark / Ohio]

Great to hear you have it running Jim!

 

[Brad]

There you go! That tiny jet (some have 2 or 3 little jets) will get you every time. So small you can hardly see them, easily overlooked. Have fun using your rejuvenated machine!