skip to main content

Craftsman tractor wont start

16 years ago

Hi. I have a craftsman lawn tractor with an 18hp briggs and stratton twin engine 42" mower deck.

The problem I am having is with the starter I think. I got to crank it over the flywheel turns about to turns then the starter stops. I put a new battery and when I am doing this it is hooked up to the charger also. I feel like the starter is binding up.

Has anyone had this problem before?

You would be a real help

Thank you

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (4)

bill_kapaun
16 years ago
Which Briggs?
Model & Type#'s
0
paridgerunner
16 years ago
I had/have a a 18hp craftsman lawn tractor. Besides numerous other things, this happened to me often. If this is the same as yours you will need to take the top off of the mower, there is a start gear/bendix that engages the flywheel, more then likely this is stuck. You'll have to take a pair of pliers or something and push the bendix back down, try to start it again (just leave the cover off), it might take a few attempts at this, but it will finally line up and start again. Mine did this every few times I went out to mow. Hope this helps, I really don't like that mower very much.
0
Related Discussions
Craftsman lawn tractor wont start when hot
Q
Comments (1)
I'm thinking a mouse nest under the engine shrouding. Those meece just love to build their nests in there, and they even have an area to use as their toilet! If that has happened, the cooling air can not get down around and through the cooling fins on the cylinder and block, which then causes excessive heat build-up inside the engine, and that causes the engine to bind up, and cause more heat. Left go too long, and you'll be looking for an engine! Brfore buying a new magneto, or carburetor--check under the engine shrouds. Might get a surprise! I opened one up and found mother mouse in the last throes of child-birth! She and her kids didn't live long enough to become a problem!! "STOMP!" And, next fall, when you put it in storage, stuff a couple clothes dryer sheets in around the engine shrouds! Mice hate the smell, women love it!
...See More
Craftsman Tractor won't start
Q
Comments (1)
The fact it didn't fire with starter fluid (good way to ruin a small engine) indicates you don't have spark. As long as the PTO is switched OFF, the only thing that would prevent spark is a grounded kill wire or bad coil.
...See More
Craftsman Tractor won't start
Q
Comments (16)
This problem could be all the things mentioned by the others. Here is another idea that was not mentioned. I have experienced the same problem and the solution was very simple. When the key is turned to the crank position, battery voltage is sent to positive spade on the starter relay. A common wire (ground) is connected to the second spade on the starter relay. On many of the Craftsman riders, this common wire is connected to the frame with a sheet metal bolt located over the right rear tire. I have found secure bolts holding the wire tight, but no connectivity. If this is the case, find the wire, wiggle the bolt with a wrench and tighten down.
...See More
craftsman tractor won't start
Q
Comments (9)
model 28n707 type 0173-01. I'm starting to think its the needle and seat. I saw on one of these forums a link to where I could buy a kit with the needle, seat and bowl gasket for about $4.75 . anyone know the site? I can't find it again? thanks for the reply tomplum
...See More
davidandkasie
16 years ago
briggs motor are also bad about the valves needing adjustment. they get so slack tha tthe auto compression release won't work, too much compression and the starter cannot turn it over. pull your plugs and try it, if it free spins, then i bet you just need to adjust the valves.
0
walt2002
16 years ago
"briggs motor are also bad about the valves needing adjustment."

Which is why we need the model number, 18 hp 42" mower doesn't do it since not all B&S engines are prone to this and there are 2 or 3 B&S 18 hp engines that I can think of with different model numbers.

Walt Conner
0

Related Stories

REMODELING GUIDES You Won't Believe What These Homeowners Found in Their Walls

By Mitchell Parker

From the banal to the downright bizarre, these uncovered artifacts may get you wondering what may be hidden in your own home

HOUZZ TOURS Houzz Tour: New Love and a Fresh Start in a Midcentury Ranch House

By Mitchell Parker

A Nashville couple, both interior designers, fall for a neglected 1960 home. Their renovation story has a happy ending

CONTRACTOR TIPS 10 Things to Discuss With Your Contractor Before Work Starts

By Ventana Construction LLC

Have a meeting a week before hammers and shovels fly to make sure everyone’s on the same page

GARDENING GUIDES How to Stop Worrying and Start Loving Clay Soil

By Benjamin Vogt / Monarch Gardens

Clay has many more benefits than you might imagine

HOUZZ TOURS My Houzz: It All Started With a Rug

By Nanette Wong

One floor covering from Kazakhstan inspires a whole global vibe in a traveler’s San Francisco apartment

GARDENING FOR BUTTERFLIES A Quick-Start Guide to Bird-Watching for Fun and Learning

By Alison Hodgson

Set out some seed and grab your field guide. Bird-watching is an easy, entertaining and educational activity for the whole family

REMODELING GUIDES What to Consider Before Starting Construction

By Incite Design

Reduce building hassles by learning how to vet general contractors and compare bids

CRAFTSMAN DESIGN Craftsman Front Doors Make an Entrance

By Rachel Grace

For curb appeal, warmth and natural light, consider a classic Craftsman-style door for your home's entryway

ARCHITECTURE Roots of Style: See What Defines a Craftsman Home

By Steven Corley Randel, Architect

Charming features and intimate proportions have made Craftsman houses an American favorite. See their common details and variations

REMODELING GUIDES Houzz Tour: Turning a ’50s Ranch Into a Craftsman Bungalow

With a new second story and remodeled rooms, this Maryland home has plenty of space for family and friends

Sponsored

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery

233 Reviews

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery

More Discussions

Mower Blade rotation

1

Battery question on John Deere E130

2