I have recently purchased a new MTD 14hp 38" Rider Mower.
From day 1, the motor intermittently cuts-out/backfires. It has been back to my local MTD agents (Griffith Mowers, Booval Qld) about 5 times in 2 months.
First they replaced carby solinoid and made no difference.
They have tried other repairs/modifications but it hasnot made a difference.
I picked it up again today after being told that it has now been fixed but it backfired/cut-out at lease 10 times in 15 minutes while I tried to mow.
Have you any idea what the problem could be. I am not at all happy with this new mower. I have had 3 previous MTD Mowers & had no problem with them.
You didn't say what engine you have on your rider, but I would be checking the fuel quality. Today's crappy fuels can make the newer engines run like crap, even though the same fuel runs fine in the other mowers, chainsaw, weedeater, hedgetrimmer, edger, blower, and the kids go-kart.