Pulled plugs=slight dry carbon around rim, changed, checked air filter=looks clean, changed fuel filter because I had one, checked both oil levels/ good. Fuel pump new from past year. It will crank and mow but when I disengage the blades and leave at idle for a few minutes it dies then doesn’t want to crank.So far it eventually does start- after cooling? Where do I go troubleshooting from here? Also, a BIG also- it has the original battery, so 10 years old! Still shows 14.5 volts and cables look fine but removed them, cleaned terminals added dielectric gel and reinstalled. I would’ve replaced it but OMG what a nightmare. Dealers wanted to sell me a battery with 300cca but owners manual states it needs a minimum of 480-550 cca. Called Hustler and they agree with owner manuals both theirs and Kawasaki's but nobody has this BCI group 45 battery at those cranking amps. Called Interstate battery and there is one MT-51 but it is a bit too tall,maybe. Current battery is 8”, Interstate is 8 15/16” And it's $205. Suggestions on why it's dying and what's up with mower dealers not using recommended battery to specs? One (my dealer) told me they use 300cca on all the mowers on their lot. I read but don’t know personally that this under amps can cause electronic, alternator, ignition, etc damage.
Help please
Help please