Is it a fuel pump?

[coffeesnob]

B&S Model 40000 Intek. The fuel filter is empty after sitting between mowings. I can wiggle the filter a minute or so and the filter fills up as normal I don't quite understand that But anyways to get the engine started I have to remove the air filter and and spray a bit of starting fluid then it will start and run fine. Is this the fuel pump. Mower is about 16 years old.

 

[StarTech]

More likely the choke is not fully closing.

 

[MParr]

More likely the choke is not fully closing.

He should test that. That's how I found the problem with my choke. Remove air filter, place a hand over the intake horn and crank. If it fires, the problem has been located.

 

[slomo]

Pray for no back fires too. Just manipulate the choke plate fully closed and crank away.

 

[slomo]

Pull the fuel line off AT the carb inlet. Drain into a glass jar. Look for a nice fat flow AND water at the bottom of the jar. No fat flow = bad pump. Water seen = dump entire fuel system including carb bowl.

Do a fuel system refresh. Pull and CLEAN the tank like a new one. FLOW test it with Diesel. Should see again, nice fat flow out of the tank. All new fuel line from tank to carb. New filter and shut-off valve too.

Remember to replace ALL the hoses around the fuel pump. Are probably rotted up by now.