My Kawasaki FJ180V, actually a FJ180V-AM75-M on a MTD Advance 53 SPKHW, does not start. The mower is almost new. I bought it this year and used it about 10 times. Already last time I needed to pull the recoil starter hard multiple times. For me the engine ran OK after the start last time and with hot engine restarted easily after a stop. But this time no chance.
- I did not tilt the engine
- The oil fill level is correct
- There is gas in the fuel tank, no diesel
- The air filter is clean
- The spark plug is black, but not sooted
- I cleaned gas from the spark plug and tried again without success
- The primer bulb is in perfect condition and properly in place. It says it requires pressing a single time. I tried slightly pressing one time, fully pressing one time, and pressing more than one time
- I checked the voltage spike on the spark plug connector - seems OK (I have an old analog voltmeter though and cannot confirm the exact voltage of the spike)
- I removed the plastic top (recoil starter and air filter housing) to view the governor and throttle - the links, springs and arm look OK to me (amateur): everything in place and moving freely
- I did not disassemble the carburetor
- Weather is still not cold - almost T-shirt temperature
I still have warranty and could bring the mower to the dealer. But two times an hour's drive, waiting few weeks, and finally they return it fixed but without any info about the issue that may reoccur. So, I thought I better ask here.
