Craftsman 190cc Push Mower

[peabodyn]

I'm having an issue with an old Craftsman 7.25 190cc mower. It starts easily on the first pull and runs flawlessly, but if i shut it off when it's hot and then try to start it by pulling the rope, it will backfire once and then with repeated pulls it won't start until the motor cools. I don't think the timing is off because it starts easily when cold. After about 15 minutes it will start normally.

I've replaced the spark plug, thinking that it lost continuity when hot, I replaced the thermostat that is controlled by the muffler, I've even took the carburetor off and cleaned it thoroughly all to no avail. If i spray starting fluid into the carburetor during one of the no start times, it will start easily and continue running.

It's an old mower but runs great, so I 'd hate to toss it over this.

Does any have an idea why this mower won't start hot after I've thrown these parts at it?

Thanks

 

[Craftsman Garage]

Sounds like a bad ignition coil. When they get old, they become "heat-sensitive", which is why it doesn't want to start. Or bad gas cap vent/some other fuel system blockage.

 

[Auto Doc's]

Do you have the correct plug the engine calls for... not one that just fits. Parts stores are bad about giving out wrong plugs.

A tired ignition coil is a very good possibility but try cleaning the magnet face on the flywheel to see if the condition improves. Magnets can be strange about rust buildup. The coil air gap can be set with just a simple thin business card squeezed between the magnet and the coil face.

The numbers off of the side of the engine block opposite side from the carburetor would be helpful. If it is much older, the numbers will be stamped into the top starter cover.

B&S had many variations of this engine design.

Depending on the model it may just be a matter of being low on fuel. Some require fuel to be above half a tank for a hot restart.

Last thing I can think of is the valves need adjusting.