This mower started with the first crank each time last Summer. At the end of the season we ran it until it was emptied of fuel and stored it in our shed. Filled it with fuel this week and now it won't start. What should we try?
There's no primer or manual choke on that engine, correct? I'd try a few dozen more pulls after you filled it with fuel, just in case, and then pick up a can of starting fluid to spray in the air intake (a couple bursts should do it).
Interesting. Worth a try since they're cheapNew spark plug. I have a Craftsman pull start that sat in storage for 2 years. Wouldn't start when I got it out and I tried cleaning carb, etc....finally after 4 hours of messing with it, I went and got a new spark plug, started the first pull.
Neither, that is correct.
I'll try the fluid (which I have somewhere) but is it a good idea to empty the fuel at the end of the season or do you guys recommend a different method to store?
If all the above doesn't work, I'd look into what you filled it with as @BMW Dom suggested. I've seen it time and time again, where folks think the fuel is "fresh" in their storage can, when it's very old or has sat open to the atmosphere for a long period of time.
My guess based on experience with these engines is the auto-choke wax thermostat mechanism. TCW3 or any additive won't prevent this issue, it's a common failure on the newer auto-choke Hondas.Since I started using TCW3 in my fuel, I have never had a storage issue with my lawn and garden stuff, or motorcycles.
Yes, there is (or should be). My Honda mower has one.Is there a fuel shut off valve?
My guess based on experience with these engines is the auto-choke wax thermostat mechanism. TCW3 or any additive won't prevent this issue, it's a common failure on the newer auto-choke Hondas.
2-stroke oil also won't prevent storage problems. It will help, but I've had plenty of customers with 2-strokes that had varnished nasty fuel in them.
It's worked for me too. But I don't understand why.What's worked for me more than once is removing the air filter and as soon as it's started and running for 10+ seconds, snap it back in place.