John Deere LX279

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So I bought this mower used, about 10 yrs old but seemingly pretty well maintained. It had been surging when idling/not under load. Last few weeks it ran for 5-10 mins then died. Now it turns over but won't start. New fuel pump when the old one [censored] out a few months ago. Pump is pumping gas and spark is good at both cylinders. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks.
 
Ok thanks fellas. Is removal/cleaning tricky? I don't have the service manual.
 
I found some info here:

http://manuals.deere.com/cceomview/OMM146413_G1/Output/146413g19.html#41567

But they don't specifically address carb removal/cleaning.

In general, you just remove the air filter housing, throttle cable, choke cable, fuel line, and any electrical wires and then simply unbolt the unit.

This kid actually has a decent video on general carb cleaning:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlYF8--dbY0

As soon as you remove the float bowl you'll get a good idea of just how gunked up it may or may not be. Be sure you check for broken o-rings and torn gaskets.
 
If you remove the air filter, you can spray carb cleaner (not starting fluid) down into the intake. If you can get it to start briefly like that, put some Sea Foam or other reputable stuff into the gas and start it with the carb cleaner with the choke fully engaged. Let it run with the choke on for a few minutes (as best you can). If it don't work, look on You Tube for carb cleaning demos.
 
After chasing fuel/running problems for several months, I finally tore into my John Deere 185 (17hp Kawasaki), and did a "Class A" inspection.

I ended up removing the gas tank and rinsing it out, replacing all fuel and vent lines, replacing the fuel filter and gas cap, removing the carburetor, disassembling and cleaning it, and then re-installing.

It runs better now than it did when it was new.
 
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