Mower Hard To Start

K

Kennykenny

Active Member
I acquired a Toro Super Recycler Model 20043, Serial # 9917359 push mower. It is an older mower, about 1999 but is in outstanding condition. I did a tune up, changed spark plug, replaced/cleaned the carb components, changed the air filter, blew out components with SeaFoam. I cleaned the entire mower well. Changed gas/oil.

There is a sticker on the mower still that says to press the primer bulb three times prior to starting. Doing the three pushes does not get the mower to start. I have been pushing the bulb around 6-7 pushes and then the mower starts after 6-8 pulls. Upon starting, the mower runs great.

My question is, are there other things that I can check/adjust/clean on the mower to change this start process and get it to start easier? Thank you.
 
Have you checked the fuel flow? Remove fuel line from carb and see if it flows freely. Drain in a glass jar. Let it sit, and inspect to see if there is water in it. If it doesn't flow freely, remove and clean fuel tank. Regardless, I'd replace fuel lines and filter. I'd also put in a cutoff valve, and turn the fuel off for storage.
 
It's possible the primer bulb is dried out and not making a good seal around its perimeter or has a small crack(s). Given the low cost of a replacement, I'd change that no matter what. Just a thought... good luck!
 
I’m guessing one or two things are causing the problem. 1. Gasket between the air filter body and carb is not sealing, causing the primer to not work properly. Gasket is dried out or filter body is warped. If you install a new gasket and/or filter body and it doesn’t solve the problem go to #2. 2. Float seat is swollen, causing a low fuel level in the float bowl, making it harder to prime. Remedy rebuild the carb, replacing the float needle and seat.
If you need to do this let us know and I’ll post the procedure I use.
 
Looks like you have been given excellent advice above. A short term solution, just to get you through the HOT current cutting season, is to give it a shot of starter fluid.

Then, once it is cooler, you can check the gasket, fuel flow, and primer bulb.
 
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