Toro Super Recycler, 3 speed, w/Briggs & Stratton Quantum vertical shaft (128802-0615-01). My son's mower so I might not have all the pre-failure data exactly correct.
This mower has always been hard to hot start. About 10 days ago it was a no start. Checked for spark using a Lisle 50850 Ignition Spark Tester. Nothing.
About 5 days ago, I installed a new spark plug and Stens coil. Used a business card as a gauge for setting the coil gap. It started, but immediately begins to miss and puff white smoke. Eventually quit.
3 days ago I removed and disassembled the carb. Reamed all passages with a fine wire and sprayed with carb cleaner. It tried to start once but stalled.
2 days ago, I pulled the new plug. It was wet. I pulled the flywheel to check the key. It was fine.
I'm going to re-assemble tomorrow, but I am stumped.
Re: Toro Super Rectcker/B&S walk behind no start/hard start & miss
It was still a no start after I re-assembled so I took a shot and replaced the needle valve seat, needle valve, float and float pin. It tried to start but did not. Additional priming did not help.
I pulled the head. The gasket is good. The head has some carbon. The cylinder walls look perfect. The valve will be turned when off their seats and can not be turned when on their seats.
What about compression? If you have fuel and spark the other thing to check is compression. Is it too light to pull start the engine? Is the throttle spring install correctly?
