OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Repairs and Maintenance Questions on Engines Questions On Briggs & Stratton Engines MTD Yard Machine 18.5hp

Got one of these lawn mower and the engine turns over but doesn't run its a 18.5hp twin. any ideas on what to look for ?? or is it better to replace the engine.

definately worth looking into to see why it wont go, a replacement engine is very pricey.

What are the likely things that go on these engines so I can make list and start at the top one after the other

Does it have spark when you turn it over?

Hi djr1718,
Here are a few things to look for, working on the principle that any internal combustion uses (ie. suck, squeeze, bang, blow,)it would be a good start to check the following:
Have you put in fresh fuel?
Is the carby getting fuel, and good fuel flow?
Has the engine got compression?
As Joe suggested, has it got a spark?
Is the plug new or the old one serviceable?
Is the muffler clear? (you would be surprised what can crawl in and make a nest!!)
Check these first, if it still won't run, we'll go futher
Best of luck,

Hi, it does still start but doesn't keep running, it is difficult to start if this helps

Hi djr1718, Ok, so it does run, then stops. That at least means you have some sort of a spark. Could you please physically check and answer the following:
1.Have you put in fresh fuel?
2.Is the carby clean and getting fuel, and good fuel flow?
3.Is the plug new or the old one serviceable?
4.Is the muffler clear? (you would be surprised what can crawl in and make a nest!!)

Not sure if this applies on a v twin briggs, could also be your valve clearances or a blocked breather too.

Hi Joe, yeah mate, you might be right there, but I thought we go the simple ones first, it could be timing as well.