Craftsman Lawn Mower Worked; Then, I changed battery, fuel filter and 1 spark plug...

[EasyEEE]

I have a 1999ish Craftsman 42" 917.270812 with a Briggs & Stratton Model 42E707 Type 2631 E1.

The battery was dead, so I replaced it. Decided to replace the (a) spark plug (forgot there were two when buying the plugs, it's been awhile lol), and the fuel filter.

I replaced the right spark plug first, and left the wire disconnected and the battery out while I worked on the fuel filter. Replaced the fuel filter - appears to be in the right direction. Connected the new battery and started it up. Because I was using tire sealant, I began to drive the mower around, with the blades NOT engaged. The motor sounded great, better than it had in awhile.

After about 3 to 4 minutes, I went to engage the blades. Reduced down to half power, so I disengage.. running fine. Re-engage blades, bogged down to half power then died.

UGH!

So I look at the spark plug - well, heck, I forgot to reconnect the wire. How was it running? Oh, it has TWO spark plugs. Ok. So, I reconnect the new spark plug, go to crank it up, it won't turn over. It turns and turns, but don't turn over.

Thinking it was flooded. I let it sit for 30 minutes or so.

Tried again, nothing.

I removed the air filter and tried. Nothing.

I disconnected the fuel filter, and fuel flowed from the motor down the hose and onto the ground, so, fuel was passing thru the filter for sure.

Removed the plugs, slightly wet, definitely not dry.

Read somewhere to turn it with plugs removed to exhaust gas out of the spark plug holes. Tried that, nada.

Left air filter off and spark plugs out over night (covered with clean cloth), thinking loaded with fuel. Still, nothing.

I've read about a bowl that may be full of fuel, but, I don't see a "bowl" on my engine.

Bottom line is, thing ran great, even on one spark plug, until I engaged the mower deck.. now, I can't get it to turn over.

Suggestions?

Thanks!

Brad

 

[Carscw]

I had one that would run with just one plug then not run with both plugs. Never found out why because everyone on here told me it can't run with put both plugs hooked up.
Anyways they will tell you to adjust your valves but as you will find out on this engine there is no valve adjustment.
I put on a new coil a new carb and it still did the same thing I got mad put the engine in a corner a few months later a blew the engine on one of my mowers put that engine on and been running perfect

(( racing is the only sport that you need two balls ))

 

[motoman]

Check spark timing. Perhaps flywheel shift due to sheared key. Do basics, compression, etc. See the troubleshoot charts this forum. The "bowl" is probably the carb "bowl," part of the carb which you cannot see without removal/disassembly.