Expert: John C. Bridgers Sr. - 7/6/2007

Question
QUESTION:    After my engine runs for a few minutes, it quits, like it is out if gas. upon inspection I notice that the primer pump has been sucked flat. When it comes back out the engine starts right up after priming again.
I have replaced the diaphragm.
The mower was purchased last year. used very little.
I have cleaned the tank
Also I have cleaned the air filter. I have started engine removed tank lid. and air filter. still sucks primer ball flat.

The primer ball is the original ball.
3.5 Briggs and strat. classic

ANSWER: Hello Roy:

The Carburetor is Dirty and the Passages to the Jets are Clogged.  Remove, Disassemble and Soak the Carburetor Overnight in Carburetor Cleaner (I Use Gunk). I have Found that Most People can Use a Breakdown/IPL and Disassemble the Carburetor Enough for Proper Cleaning. You Only have to Remove the Bowl, Float Pin, Float and Needle Valve and Any Adjustment Screws that Go Into the Carburetor Body. The Welch Plugs Do Not have to be Removed. Then Soak the Carburetor Body and Parts in a 1 Gallon Can of Gunk Carburetor Cleaner Overnight. The Can has a Parts Tray Inside it for the Small Parts. Once the Carburetor and Parts are in the Cleaner, you can Replace the Lid for Safety and to Prevent Accidential Spillage. Then Blow Out the Passages with Compressed Air. Install New Parts if Required. Replace the Primer Bulb. The Bulb has to be Removed to Soak the Carburetor. There is a Clip at the Base of the Primer and this Clip Must be Popped Out to Remove the Bulb. If you are Lucky and Can Remove the Clip Without Damaging it, you can Reuse the Bulb and Retainer Clip if the Bulb is in Good Condition. Send me the Model Numbers Off the Engine, Please. With these I can Locate the Proper Manual and Better Assist you. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting you Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: model 9J902

Took carb off, I see noe needle valve, set screws, float.
I don't see clip to remove primer bulb.

I do see two small beraring looking thing on the outside of the carb. Are these some type of air vents? should I be able to blow air through them?

Thanks for the help.

Email address is rharlow@gearheart.com if you have any drawing you can send.


Thanks

Answer
Hello Again Roy:

You have the Model that Uses a Plastic Retainer and O-Ring Seal. You can View a Breakdown/IPL of this Engine at this Site Addy, http://www.smallenginepartswarehouse.com/parts.asp and Select the Shop Online Parts Look Up. Then Select the Model Tab. Then Select the OEM and Enter the Model Numbers. Then Double Click on the Model in the Results Area. Now you can Select the Section of the Engine you Wish to View. This is an Older Style Tank Mounted Carburetor. The Ball Bearings are Fine Do Not Worry with them. This is a $20.00 Dollar (US) Carburetor and If you Follow My Instruction on Cleaning the Carburetor and there is No Effect on the Carburetor, then Replace it. It is a Disposable Carburetor. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John