skip to main content

18hp Briggs twin Cyl won't start

13 years ago

I would really like a wire schematic for this Power Kraft 42" hydrostatic riding mower because after I replaced the ignition switch it wouldn't shut off with the key. I would have to shut it off by turning the throttle all the way down then choking it. I've used it like this for some months now, but after my last mowing session today, I stopped to sharpen the blades, now it wont start (cranks ok) and it does not have spark. A schematic would also help me diagnose the no spark. Any suggestions?

thanks!

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (7)

tomplum
13 years ago
Many times the IPL has a basic wiring diagram. Did you verify the proper switch was installed? If you unhook the small wire that when grounded kills the coil and unhook that, you will at least know if the coil is good yet or not. Engine and unit model #s from under the seat would be good if you need further help.
dswaters
Original Author
13 years ago
The engine model is 422707 and is an 'I/C' engine. What is IPL? The switch was a generic replacement switch, the factory replacement was way more money than what I have.
thanks!
Related Discussions
is a 18.5 HP briggs twin cyl worth $200 used?
Q
Comments (4)
An 18.5 hp horizontally opposed twin is likely to be a 46 series engine which originally started out as a 20 hp but towards the end of the "flat head" run, was used for everything from 16.5 hp up. You can tell by checking the model number. You see, it is not illegal to sell a larger hp engine with a lesser hp tag on it, not nice to sell a smaller one with a larger hp tag. If the oil is kept changed and kept full, should give good service. Keep the cooling fins clean, no grass clippings, etc. Walt Conner
...See More
18hp Briggs won't run. Fuel hoses?
Q
Comments (14)
Walt...Thanks for the help, I got the thing running finally it took it a while must of had to prime the carb but it ran...So I spent about 2 hrs adjusting the governor through trial and error and it seems OK but I am not sure it is quite right yet. I saw you had posted some instructions on other threads and thought you might be able to help. Here is what I did... 1. First adjusted the idle adjustment for idle condition. 2. Set throttle cable position based on the idle position allowin gthe "cam bracket" to interface with the governor arm pin. 3. Now the fun part...Throttle full on, I rotated the governor arm (into block) counter clockwise and rotated the linkage arm clockwise and locked into place. Again, this seemed to provide the best results but just not quite right. Any help would be appreciated. The modle is a 461707-0143 20hp opposed Briggs.
...See More
Briggs 16 V-Twin Won't Start
Q
Comments (30)
OK, try this just to make sure that something is not obstructing the fuel inlet (needle and seat passage). Connect a short length of fuel hose to the carb fuel inlet nipple. Now try to blow through the hose using your mouth/lungs. With the carb top removed, you should be able to hear the air coming in through the needle/seat. If you can't hear air coming in like that, something is obstructing the fuel inlet or needle/seat area. If you can hear air entering the carb inlet, then you have either a defective fuel pump, or something is wrong with the marine tank/fuel lines. While you have the top off the carb, fill the bowl with gasoline before putting the top back on. When the top is back on, try to start it. If everything is satisfactory with the carb itself, you should get about 30 to 40 seconds run off the fuel in the bowl (your results may vary).
...See More
BS 18HP Twin I/C won't run
Q
Comments (3)
the information from Walt applies. Here are a couple of additional ideas. If the fuel line from a rear fuel tank has cracks, the engine fuel pump may be drawing in air. The areas with clamps should be examined. If the mower has experienced outside storage, the fuel tank may have some water. Water may also be in the spare fuel can. The 10% ethanol fuel runs ok when it is fresh, however, if it is stored a long time, the alcohol may separate from the gasoline and absorb water.
...See More
walt2002
13 years ago
"The engine model is 422707 and is an 'I/C' engine. What is IPL? The switch was a generic replacement switch, the factory replacement was way more money than what I have.
thanks!"

Sometimes "cheap" can get really expensive.

Disconnect the "kill" wire where it connects to the coil at the back bottom. IF it has no spark now, coil is shot. Perhaps you bargain switch let some battery current to the kill wire.

Walt Conner
kenny_v
13 years ago
Needs your help i have a 18hp Briggs & Stratton every time i turn the ignition the engine only turns half way every time can someone please help me..
walt2002
13 years ago
you might start by telling WHAT 18 hp twin as there are more than one and by the way, you should have started a new thread for your different problem.

Walt Conner
dswaters
Original Author
13 years ago
Thanks Walt2002, I have begun tearing down my mower to find the coil and wires, my time is limited so I will report on the 'kill wire' after I locate it and make a test.

Funny thing is I also have the same problem Kenny_v is having when starting on occasion. It's like a voltage drop when one of the cylinders are on compression stroke. Even if my battery is fully charged it will almost stop cranking after a half a turn, but then once it gets past that it cranks just fine. But if the battery is low it won't make it past that compression stroke. If you verify what the voltage is at the starter lug while trying to start, you can determine if the problem is voltage loss between the starter and battery, or the starter it's self. Mind you should also check for voltage drop on the ground side as well, place your volt meter leads between the starter case and the battery Negative terminal, there should not be more than .5 volts while trying to crank. Same on the positive side. Remember to prob the battery terminal, not the wire end, so that the connection will be included in the test. If you have a digital volt meter you don't need to worry which lead goes on which end, it will just show a 'minus' sign if the meter lesds are reversed, the value is what is important. Also remember to hold the key in the 'Start' position long enough for the reading to stablize, maybe 3 or 4 seconds.
Thanks!
Dave
walt2002
13 years ago
This is a common complaint with this engine, I have a list of possible causes IF you would like them. Address below, put in proper format.

Walt Conner
wconner5 at verizon dot net

Related Stories

FURNITURE Your Essential Sofa Buying Guide

By Susan Redman

Here’s what to consider when looking for a quality sofa that will last

EXTERIORS Where Front Yards Collide: Property Lines in Pictures

By Mitchell Parker

Some could be twins; others channel the Odd Couple. You may never look at property boundaries the same way again

BATHROOM DESIGN 18 Sumptuous Vanities for Singular Bathrooms

By Pangaea Interior Design, Portland, OR

Uncommonly beautiful or dazzlingly detailed, these dream vanities bring a rarefied air to bathrooms

HOUSEKEEPING 7-Day Plan: Get a Spotless, Beautifully Organized Garage

By Laura Gaskill

Stop fearing that dirty dumping ground and start using it as the streamlined garage you’ve been wanting

WINDOW TREATMENTS Embellishing Tricks for Cost-Effective Custom Curtains

By Nicole White Designs Interiors LLC

Get curtains that look high end — even if you don't sew — with just a little trim here or a little banding there

LIFE How to Prepare for and Live With a Power Outage

By Lisa Frederick

When electricity loss puts food, water and heat in jeopardy, don't be in the dark about how to stay as safe and comfortable as possible

MOST POPULAR First Things First: How to Prioritize Home Projects

By Alison Hodgson

What to do when you’re contemplating home improvements after a move and you don't know where to begin

SMALL SPACES Downsizing Help: Where to Put Your Overnight Guests

By Becky Dietrich, Interior Designer

Lack of space needn’t mean lack of visitors, thanks to sleep sofas, trundle beds and imaginative sleeping options

BEDROOMS Rethinking the Master Bedroom

By Laura Gaskill

Bigger isn’t always better. Use these ideas to discover what you really want and need from your bedroom

BEDROOMS How to Choose the Perfect Bedsheets

By Lisa Frederick

Don't lose any shut-eye over scratchy or ill-fitting sheets; our mini guide to materials, thread count and fit will help you sleep tight

Sponsored

39 Reviews

Ohio's Kitchen Design Showroom |11x Best of Houzz 2014 - 2022

More Discussions

Fall into Cleanliness: Join the Discussion on Fall Cleaning Services

0

can anyone identify these bugs?

1

Custom zero turn mower bag attachment

0

Looking for cordless walk behind trimmer

2

Looking for edger with blade

0