Scag SW48A - 15KA Wont Start

[rmolter]

I recently purchased this walk behind as a back up. I bought it knowing that it did not run. Normally i would not have done this, but i got a great deal, and if all else fails i will have plenty of parts off of it to use on my other two. It has spark, seems to have compression(Getting a gauge tomorrow to measure), and is getting fuel, also tried starting fluid. It acts like its going to fire, and turns over a few times, but will never stay running. I pulled the valve covers and the valves seem to move ok when the motor is turned over. I am thinking its a timing issue, but not sure how the timing is set, or even if it can be set. I have strong spark. Not sure what to look into next. It doesn't have a ton of hours on it. I'll post back when i get the compression results tomorrow. Thanks in advance for the help.

SW48A with the 15hp Kawasaki

 

[timtractor]

I think I would check the main jet area in the carb or the needle and seat. There must be something restricting the fuel flow inside the carb being you can get it to run a short time.

 

[EngineMan]

Do has the above and check the main jet.....give the carb a good clean out.