John Deere 14SB Rotary Mower won't stay started

destryrides

Forum Newbie
Joined
Sep 5, 2012
Threads
1
Messages
1
Hello,
My husband has early onset Alzheimer's and I am unemployed. I am more than willing to learn how
to maintain our lawn mower in order to save money we don't really have. Right now, the current problem is that the mower starts for about 1-2 seconds and then stops. What is your diagnosis? Is this something I can fix? Way back in 1979 I rebuilt a VW bus engine with some assistance.

thank you so much,
Kay aka destryrides
 

Lawnranger

Well-Known Member
Joined
Apr 18, 2012
Threads
6
Messages
671
Hello Kay,

I put together the following diagnosis check list and I hope it helps you. Also if anyone on the forum has any improvements to the check list below I welcome the comment and please contact me through the PM function on the forum.


To start and run an engine:

An engine needs three factors present and in the correct proportion to start and run properly - the correct air/fuel ratio (fresh, quality fuel is a must), sufficient compression (arguably 90 P.S.I. or better) and sufficient spark at the correct time. If one of these factors is missing or out of proportion, the engine will run poorly or not start/run at all. Your task is to find the missing factor by inspecting and testing the systems involved. Which factor is missing or out of proportion in your case?

If you do not know how to check for spark or perform the necessary checks and tests, youtube has some videos that will guide you through the process. Simply search youtube for what you want to test or check.

There are conditions that will prevent an engine from starting even though all three factors are correct such as a plugged muffler/exhaust, old/contaminated fuel and I am sure there are more possibilities but I will not try to list them all here so I am going on the assumption that one of the factors is missing and that all other components are functioning properly.

You will need a compression gauge to test compression so if you do not have one or do not have access to one you will need to take it to someone who can test it for you. You will also need a spark checker which can be made from an old, working spark plug by clipping off the side electrode, connecting the plug to the lead and resting the metal hex of the spark plug on the metal part of the engine but this is not always as easy as it seems as many engines have plastic shrouds and other obstacles in the way. My method of testing for lack of fuel is to spray a shot of carburetor cleaner directly into the carburetor (air filter removed) and try to start the engine. If the engine starts and runs for a second or two and then dies you most likely have a fuel delivery problem.

Perform the necessary tests, report back with your findings and you will receive further advice based on your answers.
 

twinfords

Well-Known Member
Joined
Aug 10, 2011
Threads
34
Messages
330
you need to clean the carburetor and change the fuel. take the bowl off the carb and spray some carb cleaner in the carb, remove all fuel from gas tank and add new, (your fuel may be old and breaking down) if this does not work go to steps outlined by lawnranger
 
Top