Lawn tractor is flooded

[HaywardBound]

18hp twin (Briggs) in a '95 Wards mower.

Any tricks to get it going? I've pulled the plugs, cut the fuel off, starting fluid, and can't get it to go. I've also let it sit for 2 days and nothing.

I changed the plugs the last time this happened, and got it going. I have cranked it over with the plugs out also.

Thanks.

[BobT]

Are you certain it is flooded? Have you verified that you are getting a spark? If you're getting good fuel and spark it should go unless the timing has been messed with.

Bob

[IFallsRon]

If you're sure that it's flooded, I'd start by squirting some oil in the cylinder holes to lube it up and ensure that your compression is good. You may need to replace the plugs or at least clean them up with a carb spray.

[HaywardBound]

Yep, it is getting spark, but it seems weak. I tested the spark with a 'spark tester', and I could only see the spark when it was dark, not during the day but I think I have spark with every cycle.

Is it possible to have a weak spark? And what should be my next step?

[BobT]

Assuming the coil is driven by a magnet on the flywheel, has the motor been exposed to water such as rain or humidity? If there is rust on the flywheel, you could try and sand it off using a fine grit emery cloth. Try to slip the cloth between the coil and the flywheel to remove rust from the coil as well. I let a neighbor borrow my garden tiller one time and they inadvertantly left it outside where it was exposed to rain. I had problems getting it started and was given the above suggestion. It works fine now.

If you take the coil loose, there is a required gap setting but I don't know what it is.

Bob

[HaywardBound]

Quote:

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has the motor been exposed to water such as rain or humidity? .

Bob

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The motor was fine until I did a little PM with carb cleaner, and that is why I thought it was a fuel issue.

I'll pull the cover off and check out the coil.

Thanks.

[BobT]

The motor was fine until I did a little PM with carb cleaner

I would be inclined to think your problem is related to dirt that has been released by the carb cleaner and now is interferring with the flow of gasoline. Assuming you haven't taken the carb apart, have you gone through the carb to be sure it is clean? Maybe a carb kit will be in order?

Bob