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B&S 4hp mower-hit or miss starting.

16 years ago

I was wondering if anyone has any ideas on why my mower is so difficult to start on occassion. It is the 4hp B&S engine, I have a new spark plug, new filter and new oil and gas in it. I have replaced the handle cut-off wire as it wasn't making a connection anymore, so thats not the problem. After 8-10 pulls it fired up this morning, but then this afternoon it would not start back up. If anyone has any ideas or tips, please let me know. Thanks.

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Comments (8)

bill_kapaun
16 years ago
Post some engine numbers.
Is it a primer or a choke?
slash-nevada
Original Author
16 years ago
yard machine by MTD.
Model 10A902
Type 2189 B3
Code 00090855
Briggs and Stratton 4hp engine.
It is the primer bulb type.
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bill_kapaun
16 years ago
When you prime it, do you wait a few seconds before pushing the primer again?
You might also have to prime it a few extra pumps, or maybe you are pushing it too many pumps?

Do look at the primer bulb to make sure there aren't any tears etc. and that it seems seated properly.
san_
16 years ago
we have a 4hp briggs & stratton (different model) that has always been difficult for me to start. usuall i just ask my husband to do it for me. 2 weeks ago it took forever and today, after rechecking the plug and air filter and gas, he gave up. he's on his way to the store to get a new plug and filter, just because. it's just so darned annoying that i came over here to see what sorts of mowers people recommend. i have no answer for you--just wanted you to know you aren't alone and good luck!
slash-nevada
Original Author
16 years ago
I used to just have to press the primer bulb 2 or 3 times, and one or 2 pulls and it would fire up. What I tried yesterday was to prime the bulb 5 times first, pull twice, prime once, pull twice, prime again, then it fired up. The last prime I could feel the bulb was stiffer and the gas flowing,maybe that was the key. Try the extra primes first off, see if that helps. Let me know if that works for you too. Also, this mower needs a strong pull, give it all youve got to really get the engine turning over. All I know is that a new lawnmower with the key-start is looking pretty good with all the pulling I have done lately. Good luck.
bill_kapaun
16 years ago
"The last prime I could feel the bulb was stiffer and the gas flowing,maybe that was the key"

"When you prime it, do you wait a few seconds before pushing the primer again?"

From the owners manual-
"...Press with finger. Wait 2 seconds between each press."

Something else that can have an effect is the oil you use.
IF you are using a "thicker" oil, there is more drag when cold. That makes the engine turn over a bit slower and thus, possibly harder to start.
I used to use 15W-40 in my Honda. I went to 10W-30 and starting was noticeably easier during "cool" Spring days when the temp was below 50.
roydavid
16 years ago
Check your float in the carb. Make sure there is no small particles in the bowl. If so, remove the carb and service it. Check to see if the inlet needle (float needle) is working properly. Also check your emulsion tude for debris.
bill_kapaun
16 years ago
What float?
What bowl?
What needle?
What emulsion tube?
I guess the rest of your post was accurate except removing the carb if there were small particles in the bowl.

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