jms2k said:
When I was mowing under a tree today, I got caught on some stray young branches. Ever since then, the engine continually surges when running, unless the choke is on.
I've been mowing all spring without any problems, fresh tank of new gas, etc. I winterize after the last mow in the fall. Any ideas of what I need to be looking for? Thanks!
Hi, JMS2k-
It sounds like the problem I had, My engine has auto throttle and surged without load, less so when under load. You could see the governor going back and forth as the surging occurred, with a period I would guess at 3 seconds or so.
I discovered oily gas in the carb bowl, due to overfilling of the oil sump. I flushed it thoroughly, but without disassembly of the carb, the surging continued. This was thought to be due to plugging of one of the jets. I don't have a carb cleaner kit, etc.
A new carb from Sears pars direct cost around $20 or less as I recall and solved the problem. Of course I'd check the air filter, which you probably did.
Hope that helps.
Frank
I still plan to disassemble the old carb when I have time. Mostly I am stingier with the oil.