Lifan engine ran great until refueling - now won't re-start!

[Qckslvr]

Hi. I'm hoping someone out there can help me debug a VERY frustrating problem.

I was pressure-washing my wooden deck a few days ago using my "PowerPacPlus" 2000+ psi unit which is powered by a 2.5hp Lifan 152F engine. I use this device infrequently, and was very pleased when it initially started after just a couple of pulls. After an hour or so I could hear the engine surging, and knew it was running low on gas. In order to avoid a potentially difficult re-start if I let it run out completely, I shut it down and re-filled the tank. No go! Thinking the gas I had stored in the garage may have gone flat, I purchased new fuel, drained the tank, and re-filled it with the fresh gas. Still nothing! Since then, I have replaced the spark plug, even though the original was giving what looked like plenty of spark, removed, disassembled and cleaned the carburetor, and bypassed the "low-oil level" shutoff switch. It still has good spark, good compression and is getting plenty of fuel, but won't kick, even after spraying starting fluid directly into the carb. It feels like it wants to start, but it just won't. Does anyone have any magic I might try? Thanks in advance.

 

[gfp55]

Maybe you could post the Model # Serial # off the engine, not the sprayer, the engine, Maybe a picture or two also.

 

[Qckslvr]

I'd be happy to. The engine is a "Lifan", model #152F. It has a displacement of 98cc's., and is rated at 2.5 hp. The S. N. is: 60032268. There's not much online about these engines, and Lifan wasn't very helpful.

Although I've owned this unit for several years, I would estimate that it only has about 20 hrs. on it in total. Hopefully, I have attached photos to further define it. Each Forum seems to be different in this area. Thanks for your interest!

 

[Fish]

EEEEeeewww. Unplug the kill wires to the coil!!!! I am sure some Lifan reps are working on getting their own category on here!!!!

 

[BlazNT]

Is the spark plug wet with gas after you try to start?

 

[Qckslvr]

First, let me apologize if I rubbed anyone the wrong way! I meant no disrespect by my "not very helpful" comment. I just figured that someone would eventually ask me if I had contacted the O.E.M., and thought I might as well state that up front. I recognize that diagnosing a problem remotely is difficult at best, but thought they may have a history with this engine that could answer my question easily. That apparently is not the case.

Yes, the spark plug does become wet once I attempt to start it. Curiously, it doesn't run even when I spray starting fluid directly into the combustion chamber or into the carburetor. The fuel bowl fills as it should, and the float is free and empty.

 

[BlazNT]

Clean carburetor. I think its flooding the engine.

 

[Qckslvr]

Problem solved - At least for the time being!

After far too many pulls on the recoil starter, it became apparent that this engine was suffering from more than just a simple malady. I pulled the head this afternoon, and found that the intake valve was frozen in its open position. Crazy! After liberal applications of WD-40 and plenty of tapping with a hammer, I was able to work it loose, remove and re-install it and the engine runs great now. It started on the first pull when I re-assembled it, so I suppose it's happy again. I'll change the oil to flush out all the solvents I've been using on it, and hopefully it'll be good from now on. I just don't understand how the valve became dry in the first place. There seems to be a provision for splash-lubrication, but who knows? The exhaust valve was perfect. At least I'll know what to do if this happens again.

Thanks to all who cared enough to comment. :smile:

 

[BlazNT]

That is very good to hear you fixed it.

 

[graydog]

Re: Problem solved - At least for the time being!

After far too many pulls on the recoil starter, it became apparent that this engine was suffering from more than just a simple malady. I pulled the head this afternoon, and found that the intake valve was frozen in its open position. Crazy! After liberal applications of WD-40 and plenty of tapping with a hammer, I was able to work it loose, remove and re-install it and the engine runs great now. It started on the first pull when I re-assembled it, so I suppose it's happy again. I'll change the oil to flush out all the solvents I've been using on it, and hopefully it'll be good from now on. I just don't understand how the valve became dry in the first place. There seems to be a provision for splash-lubrication, but who knows? The exhaust valve was perfect. At least I'll know what to do if this happens again.

Thanks to all who cared enough to comment. :smile:

Qckslvr:
I commend you for coming back on here and giving an explanation of what you found and how you fixed it. :laughing::laughing::laughing: