Craftsman Mower unable to start

[bertsmobile1]

read it carefully.
The manual usually has clearances WITHOUT SPRINGS installed in the repair section and valve clearances fully assembled in the specifications section.
This is so you can check how you are going when recutting the seats or shortening the valves to reset the lash

 

[Joed756]

Hi guys, first time poster here.
I am having trouble starting my mower this season.
It ran a dozen times fine. Now I can’t get her to run.
The engine spins roughly once as the key is turned and stops.
Craftsman 917270850
Briggs and Stratton 461707-0145-E1

There is a new Lawn and Garden battery installed as well as starting solenoid.

could my issue be the actual starter motor? Or by creeping the forum could it be a valve adjustment issue?
Thanks in advance for any advice.

That part where you say "it ran a dozen times" was that this season? Knowing that could narrow down your problem. If the engine has sat through a winter and now it won't start, I wouldn't even consider the valves, it's likely bad gas or the result of bad gas.

 

[NovaScotia1989]

That part where you say "it ran a dozen times" was that this season? Knowing that could narrow down your problem. If the engine has sat through a winter and now it won't start, I wouldn't even consider the valves, it's likely bad gas or the result of bad gas.

This season

 

[Tinkerer200]

While it could possible be the valve clearance, it is very unlikely on this engine. Much more likely is excessive carbon build up in the cylinder heads as you may have suspected from your question. Next bad cable connections especially where the ground cable attaches to the frame. The starter for these engines is taxed to its' limits when all is right. The starter also has a habit of wearing the top bushing oblong allowing the armature to rub the field magnets. I suggest you check all these possibilities before messing with the valves.

For a Service Manual for your engine, email me at address below, put in proper format and remind me engine model number and what you want.

Walt Conner
wconner5 at frontier dot com

 

[StarTech]

I am thinking either starter problem considering the engine age or carbon (foreign object) on piston or head cylinder head. But here is the valve adjustment info.

Opposed L-head twin cylinder engine

 

[Born2Mow]

what level of dis-coloration and grime is usually on the valve heads? If any.

The Intake will be black to neutral. The Exhaust will be the same color as the spark plug.

 

[NovaScotia1989]

Well fellas, it was indeed the valve clearance! Or the carbon build up!
thanks very much for your help!