[nowwhatnapster]

Hi I have a Craftsman Lawnmower Model #917.257651

I can't get it started. I took it to a shop the beginning of this season (June 20) because it wouldn't start. I left fuel sitting in it over the winter. They cleaned the carburetor, changed oil, oil filter, fuel filter, spark plug, air filter, pre filter and replaced a fuel line. Set me back $270.

Their description on my bill:

WORK PERFORMED CARB SERVICE AND NEW FUEL FILTER REPRIME FUEL LINE AND PUMP NEW SHORT LINE ,PLUG AIR AND PREFILTER ,OIL FILTER AND OIL CHANGE ,SHARPEN BLADES CHECK OVER BELTS OK AND ALL WORKING CORRECTLY CHARGED BATTERY TEST DONE PZ


I used it 2 or 3 times then I let it sit for 3 weeks when the summer heat hit and grass slowed down. When I went to start it, it turned over but did not fire. I put some starter fluid in the carb and it fired but didn't start. I can see gas (and air) inside the fuel filter.

I drained the battery trying to start it so I charged that back up. Before I try starting it again I was hoping to get some input here on what to check.

I fix computers and servers for a living but I am a novice when it comes to engines. I want to try and fix it myself but I need direction.

 

[Bill Kapaun]

Give the battery a GOOD charge and get it LOAD TESTED. They don't last forever.

Which engine does this have? I can't tell from Sears website or the OM.


It does have a 3 AMP charging system. That's barely enough to keep the battery charged, assuming you are running it for a decent amount of time without a lot of frequent starts.

 

[38racing]

I have a manual for that model because it looks like my 944.604250. It has kohler cv15 or so I think. I suggest carb cleaner rather that the starter fluid for the fuel test. Have you checked that the choke is properly closing for starting? Turn key from off to run and listen for a click at the anti-backfire solenoid on bottom of carb. I had a no start due to a corroded terminal at the key switch tab that powers it.

 

[Bill Kapaun]

Further research shows the IDENTICAL engine in this tractor.

http://www.managemyhome.com/mmh/lis_pdf/OWNM/L0709181.pdf

On page 52/60, they have a break down of the carb.
Part # 31 is the Main Jet which is likely clogged.