Repairs Mower Cuts Off

smlmower

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May 11, 2017
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I have a Craftsman Lawn Tractor 17 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, Model #917.271652. After starting cold engine, tractor runs for about 20-30 minutes, then sputters and cuts off. After allowing to cool for 10-15 minutes, tractor will start and run for 5-10 minutes. This cycle will continue until complete cool down and then repeats - runs 20-30 minutes, shuts off, etc. Mower shuts off even idling in neutral sitting on level ground. I have replaced spark plug, fuel filter and coil. Any other ideas? Help! Thanks
 

bertsmobile1

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Nov 29, 2014
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You need to determine where the problem is first otherwise all you will get is pet problems from various posters.
To do this you need an inline spark tester that you can fit on the engine and leave there while mowing and a can of starter fluid.
When the mower is stopping, look at the spark tester.
If the tester is glowing or flashing regularly while the engine is dieing you have a fuel problem.
If the tester is flashing irregularly or not at all while the engine is dieing then you have an electrical problem.

You confirm a fuel problem by jumping off and trying a few SMALL SHORT puffs of starter fluid down the carb.
If it fires right up and you can keep it running for a couple of minutes then you definately have a fuel problem.

Get back with the results and we will give you some more testing proceedures.

The other biggie is a blocked fuel tank vent so try mowing with the cap loose.
 
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