Engine only reuns with Choke

[Joe Sixpack]

I have a Craftsman with a 21hp Briggs. It just recently started to surge while in use and only smooths out when I have the choke a third out? Fuel pump going and needing a rebuild?

 

[Rivets]

Yes, time give the carb a good soaking over night and then rebuild with a new carb kit.

 

[Joe Sixpack]

Thank you, I will rebuild the Carb and the Fuel Pump!

 

[Carvel Loafer]

Check the intake manifold where it bolts to the carb. Mine is warped bad and it acts up including backfiring. When I smear some silicone on the joint it smooths out nice. Now I have a new manifold on order , it should be in next week.

 

[bulldogbones]

using the choke increases the vacuum for the fuel. So my guess would be a clogged fuel filter or clogged carb. Have you run the engine out of fuel recently??

 

[InaHurrytoscrewitup]

I have a Craftsman with a 21hp Briggs. It just recently started to surge while in use and only smooths out when I have the choke a third out? Fuel pump going and needing a rebuild?

Did this start (all of a sudden) or did you notice a difference in the way motor ran over a period of time - Did you get fuel from a different place then normal, by chance - Sounds like just a filter problem, When was last time it was replaced?

 

[Joe Sixpack]

Have rebuilt the carb and fuel pump. Everything seemed fine. Replaced the fuel line from the filter to the carb, looked a bit worn. Replaced the fuel filter, seemed fine and clear. Problem came on sudden. Also does not seem to have quite the same rpm,s. Same prob with fuel cap off.

 

[Joe Sixpack]

FOUND THE PROBLEM!!!!! "Even a blind Squirrel finds a nut once and awhile". Small Jet (pilot jet?) full of gunk. Should have done the soaking as suggested may have saved me the trouble. Thanks for the help and direction!