AboutJohn Expertise I specialize in two cycle questions and repair, specifically
chainsaws. But have worked on Outdoor Power Equipment for 18 years.
So lawn mower/small engines are also what I work on everyday. Being
in KY, snowblowers are very rare, so their drive systems I am not familiar with. Electrical work on Generators is something I do
not get into either, as I have no training in that area.
Also, I have little experience with boat motors, mini bikes, 4 wheelers, motorcycles, etc.
Experience I have worked in the Outdoor Equipment Industry since 1990,
and have been active giving online help to do-it-yourself types
since 2000, and also am skilled in parts lookup help as well. When
working at larger dealerships, I have always filled the "Two Cycle
Man" position, as it is an area that can be tricky to diagnose and repair.
Publications Online forums
Education/Credentials Briggs, Kohler, Tecumseh, Stihl schools and updates
Question QUESTION: I have a 2002 snapper 281123bve rear engine mower with an 11 hp Briggs and Straton engine. After standing it up on end this morning to check the blade the mower will not start. It started fine before I stood it up on end. The fuel tank was full when I stood it up. I have checked to make sure it is getting a spark and fuel—both were fine. I also checked all three safety switches and all appear to be working fine. I even changed the oil. What else can I check?
ANSWER: In general, these engines are mounted so that tilting them won't cause any problems.
So with fresh fuel and clean oil.I would first replace the plug and take off the air filter,
and try to start, and if still nothing, try putting a dribble of fuel in the carb while starting,
and if it starts and dies, then you know that you have a fuel problem. If you still have
nothing , then it is either spark or compression related.
If you tilted it up to look at the blade because you hit something, then it is possible that you sheared your flywheel key, and you have good spark, but at the wrong time.
Check these things out, and let me know what you find.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks for the response. I didn't hit anything just noticed that it was not cutting very good--was checking to see if I needed to sharpen the blade. I have replaced the plug and tried putting gas and starting fluid in carb--still nothing. How do you check the flywheel key?
Answer You need to remove the top cover and expose the flywheel. If it has a pull starter on it, then it will have an old fashioned type starter clutch, which screws on and holds the flywheel in place, and can be removed with tapping on an ear of the clutch counterclockwise, once it is spun off, you can look at the top of the flywheel at the shaft and see if it is intact. Replacing
the nut, it is important to re-tighten the nut down adequately.
