Export thread

Problem: Bolens lawn tractor cranks but won't start.

B&S model: 294447 0108-01

I have an older Bolens lawn tractor. I'd estimate it's about 20 years old. We got it when I was a kid, and used it for 3-4 years. When we moved to a smaller lot, we stopped using it, so there's not that many hours on it. It sat for around 10-15 years, with only occasional use. There was no use at all over the past five years.

Last year I moved my family back near my parents, and took the time to get the tractor started again. I replaced the oil, fuel filter, spark plugs. It ran great for about 3-4 hours. Then, one day while I had it near the top of the property, it refused to turn back on. Ever since that point it cranks like a champ, but never actually starts.

Tried:

Replaced both magnetos. Verified that plugs are delivering a spark. Shot starter fluid directly into carburetor. Put gas directly into cylinder.

None of these things delivered even a split-second start. Based on my troubleshooting I have to believe that the electrical is working (because it's giving a spark). I also have to believe that the safety switches (under the seat and the brake) are working (again, because I have a spark). I also have to think that the fuel line and carburetor are OK (because even putting gas directly into the cylinder didn't deliver a short start).

What am I missing here? I'm not sure where to go next.

Spark, fuel, compression, and timing and it will run.

reynoldston said:

Spark, fuel, compression, and timing and it will run.

Click to expand...

So, please talk to me like I'm a 5-year old. I'm totally new to small engines. Before I started trying to get this working I didn't even know what a magneto was. What would you recommend doing next?

Remove the valve covers and check for bent push rods.

Nadroj said:

So, please talk to me like I'm a 5-year old. I'm totally new to small engines. Before I started trying to get this working I didn't even know what a magneto was. What would you recommend doing next?

Click to expand...

If you are 5 years old its just as well it doesn't run. First of all you needs tools of the trade. Spark, needs a spark tester that you can test for spark with the plug in the engine. Also you need a 1/4 gap of spark to test the coil. Fuel, Remove plug, is it dry or wet , try some starting fluid. Compression, need a compression gauge or a leak down tester, Timing, timing is something that can't be changed, but check flywheel key and coil air gap. This should get you started. Maybe check you-tube out because they have some very good information there some times.

reynoldston said:

If you are 5 years old its just as well it doesn't run. First of all you needs tools of the trade. Spark, needs a spark tester that you can test for spark with the plug in the engine. Also you need a 1/4 gap of spark to test the coil. Fuel, Remove plug, is it dry or wet , try some starting fluid. Compression, need a compression gauge or a leak down tester, Timing, timing is something that can't be changed, but check flywheel key and coil air gap. This should get you started. Maybe check you-tube out because they have some very good information there some times.

Click to expand...

Firstly have a nice cold beer and calm down.
The answer may have been a bit brief ( they complain that mine are too long but what you were told was right.

Start with checking the timing key in the flywheel.
If it is broken or missing the spark will be at the wrong time.
Check the distance of the coils from the flywheel. too close advances the spark, too far away retards or kills the spark.

Squirt some starter fluid down the plug hole.
If it goes bang then chances are the timing is close.
Squirt some starter fluid down the carb, bang neans the valve timing is some where near right.
No bang then pull of the rocker cover & do as already suggested.

A spark at a plug in air means nothing other than the safety switches are working.