[JProctor]

Guys...not much of a troubleshooter on small engines, hence my question.

I have a Toro Recycler II w/ a 3.75 (4HP) B&S engine. A few weeks ago it began dying while mowing, but would restart. Then the next two time my son mowed, it would run for 5 minutes or so then die and would not restart.

I changed the plug knowing it had been a long time since doing so. I also went ahead and serviced it (oil/filter). That is when I noticed that when I depressed the priming bulb it did not feel "normal". I took the air cleaner back off and noticed when I would depress the priming bulb, it was not "spraying" fuel into the carburator.

Could this be the issue? I assume the carburetor works off a "vacuum" and if so, the issue with the priming bulb not functioning...is that an indication of a loss of vacuum? If so, what part do I actually need to replace? Does the bulb just come off? I couldn't tell...but didn't look REAL close. Given a little direction, I think I can replace any part required...I just haven't worked on a lawnmower engine since rebuilding one in junior high...and thats been a very long time.

thanks for any help.
Justin

 

[2cycled fruitcake]

ok, figuring your carb is mounted to the gas tank, sounds like the pickup tubes are clogged.
if you take the carb off&clean it, Don't use carb cleaner, soak it in denatured alcohol instead. the alcohol wont eat the plastic parts.

 

[Brad]

Plus change the diaphragm and carb gasket. Should all be an easy fix. (Make sure you put the gasket and diaphragm on in the right sequence.

 

[2 cycle freak]

Plus change the diaphragm and carb gasket. Should all be an easy fix. (Make sure you put the gasket and diaphragm on in the right sequence.

well need a "that was easy" smiley if he gets it running right again!

 

[JProctor]

Thanks guys...I'll stop by a local Toro dealer to pick up some parts and give it a go this weekend.

 

[Simon Smith]

Sounds like the diaphragm has pulled out of line, a common fault with these engines but simple to fix. Fit a new one whenever you take the carb apart.

We use carb cleaner on these every day without any problems with the plastic.

 

[2cycled fruitcake]

must be lucky,
i've seen the stuff eat anything non-metallic&
at very least soften&weaken it.
maybe different formula there? every one i've seen here, it warns about caustic ingredients

 

[JProctor]

thanks for the advise. I pulled the carb, replaced the diaphram, gasket and primer bulb...cleaned it all up and the mower runs perfectly!