Craftsman 917.370430 won't start

[EdBread]

OK, lets make all this very simple.

Fuel to carb
Spark to cylinder
Compression
Timing / Governor
Have all ---> MUST START.

So, spray in some starter fluid, if it starts, then you immediately rule out a TON of possible issues that waste time chasing down dead ends.
Starter fluid, still wont start at all?

ELECTRICAL: Check the spark - $6 tool. Spark? yes? NO - try new plug, spark? yes/No? Check the magneto, the gap, the resistance. Check to see if there is a ground either the magneto or from the key - this could be something as simple as a key off/on ground. Also safety interlocks ( seat/brake/ mower - "kill - short to ground."

COMPRESSION compression test, leak down test

Be a diagnostician not a parts changer that defines about 90 % of all the "experts"


EM

 

[SoarinRed]

Hi all,
I am working on this mower and she won't start.
Cleaned carb with brushes and wire it is definitely getting fuel.
New air filter. Drained fuel tank and using new fuel.
Plug measures 15000 ohms which is good and light tester
lights when cord pulled. Sometimes pull cord kicks back and
sometimes there is a small back fire through the carb.
Checked flywheel shear pin and looks great.
Any other ideas?
Many Thanks in Advance.
PopIggy

Check the coil gap to flywheel and take some Emory clock and clean the facing on the flywheel. Try a new coil or check to see the resistance is within limits. Did you pull the float bowl and make sure it is full of gas and check the needle and seat for proper operation and float level is correct?

 

[Gord Baker]

OK, lets make all this very simple.

Fuel to carb
Spark to cylinder
Compression
Timing / Governor
Have all ---> MUST START.

So, spray in some starter fluid, if it starts, then you immediately rule out a TON of possible issues that waste time chasing down dead ends.
Starter fluid, still wont start at all?

ELECTRICAL: Check the spark - $6 tool. Spark? yes? NO - try new plug, spark? yes/No? Check the magneto, the gap, the resistance. Check to see if there is a ground either the magneto or from the key - this could be something as simple as a key off/on ground. Also safety interlocks ( seat/brake/ mower - "kill - short to ground."

COMPRESSION compression test, leak down test

Be a diagnostician not a parts changer that defines about 90 % of all the "experts"


EM

One other thing to check. IF you have an electrical fuel shutoff Solenoid (JD and Others) make sure you can hear/feel it click when you turn the key to ON. If you cannot, there is a rectangular 10 wire connector a few inches from the Ignition switch. Pry down lock and pull apart. Clean all terminals as best you can and spray with Zep Battery Care foam. RE and Disassemble a few times to enhance cleaning. If you cannot feel that solenoid click by holding it with your fingers as you turn key to ON, it is NOT Opening to allow fuel through the carb. By shutting off the fuel flow, this is how the engine is stopped when key is turned off. Then follow ED advice.

 

[riceski@gmail.com]

Hi all,
I am working on this mower and she won't start.
Cleaned carb with brushes and wire it is definitely getting fuel.
New air filter. Drained fuel tank and using new fuel.
Plug measures 15000 ohms which is good and light tester
lights when cord pulled. Sometimes pull cord kicks back and
sometimes there is a small back fire through the carb.
Checked flywheel shear pin and looks great.
Any other ideas?
Many Thanks in Advance.
PopIggy

Did you get this fixed? If not -email me riceski@gmail.com