Debugging A Gas-powered Motor ...

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Hi dave225,

I'm going to state some of the obvious suggestions only because you didn't mention them.

To test your spark, remove the plug BUT keep it 'connected' to the plug wire. Set the end of the plug on a piece of metal on the mower. If you can see a spark when you try to start the engine, then everything UP TO, and including, THE SPARK PLUG is fine. You may have to 'darken' the room/shed to see the spark. Just don't hold it in your hand when you try to start the engine! This test, in short, confirms that you have spark (and power) getting to the plug.

For starters, you might want to dump the fuel that's in the gas tank. Many, MANY times, fuel that sits in the tank over a Winter breaks down and manages to get a fair amount of water in it. Hence, it's not good to use! Drain it as best you can. After using NEW fuel, you may have some trouble starting, still, because there may be some old fuel in the line. Just keep trying.

Be sure your plug is properly gapped.

Other than that, wait to see what others have to say. AT worst, sometimes it pays to pay a Pro to look at it. My best to ya and hope this helps.

Jay J -Moderator

PS: God Bless America!