Kohler Command won't start

[rookie1]

Hey guys,

I was given an older craftsman riding mower with a Kohler Command CV15S engine. It ran when I got it but it does not now. While it was still running I replaced the air filter and fuel filter. The new air filter is a bit bigger than the old one but I didn't think that would make that big of a difference. It didn't run well after that and then wouldn't start at all. I noticed that the oil smelled like gas and I believe that the gas backed up in the carburetor and into the oil through the oil breather tube. I replaced the carburetor and changed the oil and the oil filter. It still doesn't start. The battery would not spin over the engine without jumping it, but I attached a drill to the flywheel and spun the engine over fast enough to start it. It will not even fire. I tried to test the spark plug and it seemed to work fine. This mower was kept out in the rain before I got it and the outside of the engine is very dirty. I don't know if it is some kind of electrical short or something like that.

I don't really want to pay someone to fix a 20 year old mower. Any advice is appreciated!

 

[Auto Doc's]

Hello rookie1

This sounds like every electrical connection has to be taken off one at a time and cleaned well to renew the contacts. Once that is done, then consider other problems like a worn-out aged starter. Don't overlook the fuse and fuse holder.

A dab of valve lapping compound on each pin works wonders for cleaning terminal contact pins. Wash it off with spray brake cleaner as you go.

Left out in the weather is the biggest problem, 20 years old is really not an issue except for tires, belts and Pullies.

Hope this helps you.

 

[woodstover]

It could be your new airfilter element is not correct for venting the engine. I know the video attached applies to Kawasaki, but the same theory could apply to your B&S

 

[rookie1]

Thanks guys, hopefully now I'll be able to get it going.