Ariens with B&S Intek 20HP V twin won't start normally

[JoeLawnGuy]

I've had this tractor for some time and it has always had an issue since new starting. I can always get it to start by "dribbling (priming)" some fuel down the intake cover.

I've replaced the fuel pump twice. Replaced the fuel filter, although nothing seems wrong with the filter. When disconnecting the line from the filter to the pump, fuel freely runs out the open line. Same thing with the fuel line to the pump ... if I disconnect the line at the fuel pump, it freely runs out the hose. I checked the gas cap and although I can't determine if the gas cap vent is clogged, simply removing the cap doesn't affect starting, at any rate, it runs just fine.

It seems to run just great once it is started. If shut off, sometimes it will restart and sometimes I end of having to "prime" it again through the intake. Always it will not restart after a few hours being shut off without priming.

What am I missing? Is there a way to check the pump getting the "pulse?" that makes it work?

Thanks in advance!

Joe

 

[ILENGINE]

I would start by making sure the choke is closing all the way.

 

[JoeLawnGuy]

That is certainly a possibility but when it's really hot outside and I shut it down sometimes for as little as 5 to 10 minutes, I wouldn't think the choke would be necessary. But, I'll check that out.