Recent content by Tornadoman

My old Kubota with the 15 hp Kohler became almost impossible to start. For a year we struggled with getting it to fire strong enough to overcome the compression release. Once running it was powerful and ran normally. Then, getting it ready for this summer's mowing I could not get it to start...

A plastic gas tank will usually have very little if any condensation. A metal tank is a whole other story. Lots of condensation. That is why most, if not all manufacturers of anything use plastic tanks.

LOOK CLOSELY>> The rivets did not come loose. The bottom pulley half cracked apart. I have seen this. It does happen, but usually when very old. Could the belt tension have been too tight? Pulleys out of alignment? Or just a defective part?

Years ago I had a similar problem with a Briggs and after much head scratching and consternation I discovered the flywheel key had sheared, causing the timing to be thrown way off.

You might want to repair it if it has some value. That crack can be gently tapped back and then TIG welded, but if it is a low-stress area you might want to experiment with some Alumaweld. I was skeptical when I ordered some but found out it really does work well.