Need Help on a Diagnosis

[jsala]

Hi folks,

I have a 4 year old Exmark Lazer HP 48" with a Kaw 19hp engine. I use it for home use to mow about 4 acres. Without any prior issues, today it just would not start. I normally keep it in a shed and start it to mow in warmer weather, but yesterday I brought it out and parked it next to my garage in preparation for using it early this morning to spread some weed&feed while the grass was still wet. it worked fine last night when I parked it. this morning it was very cool (around 45 degrees) and when I went to start it (choked) it sputter once and then nothing. I left it sit all day but even now that it is warn I can turn the engine endlessly without it turning over. Now, I am not technically savvy when it comes to engines, but I took out the spark plugs and they looked ok (not like I would expect if the engine was flooded). i cleaned them and put them back in. I have plenty of gas but it seemed the lack of firing pointed to a spark or fuel issue. In inspecting the fuel system I noticed that the inline fuel filter case only had a little fuel in it (I can see the fuel level through the filer case. I do not think this is normal but I never looked before. anyone know for sure? If not, is this possibly a clogged fuel filter or a problem upstream that is causing it not to pull fuel? Also, does anyone know if fuel filters for a Kaw are available at local parts stores (I have no close Exmark dealers, mine when out of business)?

I know I asked a lot of questions but if anyone has ideas or suggestions to find the problem I would really appreciate the help.

John

[jsala]

Well, I did some more digging into my problem. I have verified that I am getting fuel through my fuel filter. I also called the closest Exmark dealer (some 35 miles away) and they indicated that a fuel filter on a Kaw can show only partial fuel level. they guessed at a possible faulty fuel shutoff solenoid on the carburetor.

[rick2752]

You will have better luck posting this on the Mechanic and repair forum. There are some really good guys there. Turn the key on and use a test light to see if you are getting juice at the carb selenoid. You probably have a loose wire somewhere maybe at the key?

[jsala]

Thanks, but I got it figured out this evening. Add it up to a combination of marginal plugs and cold weather to cause it to severely flood the carburetor. I pulled the air filter and there was a puddle of gas in the bottom of the carburetor. So I soaked up the excess gas, disconnected the gas line, pulled and clean/dried the plugs, and then cranked the engine to clear any remaining gas. I then put the plugs back in without connecting the gas and cranked her and got a few cycles before the gas ran out. reconnected everything, turned her over with very little choke and she fired right up. I plan to replace the plugs over the weekend. I was really surprised how quickly the engine flooded as I only turned it over a few times that morning before giving up and using my other machine. Live and learn!