B&S Model 09p7020149F1, 550E Series Throttle Linkage Issue

[Secret Ingredient]

I did a search and could not find anything that addresses my issue.

I have an MTD 21" self-propelled mower with a B&S 550E model # 09p7020149F1 motor. I received it from a relative who said it would not start. While working on it I realized that when pulling back on the bale that starts /stops the engine, the throttle cable would actuate the flywheel brake just fine, but the linkage to the carburetor never moves. I've looked at the parts diagrams and I can't make out what is what. I believe there is a problem where the throttle linkage connects to the parts that operate the flywheel brake but I don't know what. Any ideas?

I checked to see if the cable was stretched and simply not moving enough by putting a knot in the upper end of the cable. That did not help and now the cable is too tight : o

 

[ILENGINE]

That cable has nothing to do with the throttle. Not even connected to that system. That cable controls the flywheel brake to stop the blade from turning when released quickly and to actuate the kill switch to shut off spark to kill the engine. The throttle on that engine would be a single speed, and without the engine running will stay in the full throttle position due to the actions of the governor spring.

Try putting a small amount of fuel into the carb intake and see if it will try to start. If it starts and dies you have a carb problem and will need to remove the carb and clean it. If it starts and runs then most likely either a fuel quality problem, choke problem, or primer problem. In a few cases poor quality fuel can prevent starting on that style of engine. So make sure you have fresh fuel when attempting to start.

 

[Secret Ingredient]

Woohoo! Thanks so much for the help. I had already cleaned the carburetor, so I just put it back together and it started right up. I probably would have taken more of it apart before realizing my mistake. Thank again.