Yard Machine (MTD) dies when engaged
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Yard Machine (MTD) dies when engaged
Thanks in advance for any assistance. I have been reading around this sight and I think you all may be able to help me fix my mower without paid "professional" help.
Yard Machine 42" w/ Briggs and Stratton 17.5 HP
Model: 13AN682G729
Serial: 1D064B10049
I will start by saying I am a fairly mechanical person with a good understanding of electrical/electronic systems, but I haven't ever touched a mower before.
The mower runs perfectly fine until I go to engage the blade. It will run for for a minute or two and then it boggs down like it has a fuel problem. It boggs down faster if I am driving (larger load). There are a couple odd symptoms that are confusing me. First, when the mower is running and the deck is not engaged if I step on the left side step (facing the front of the mower as if im going to sit on it) the moter starts to bog down. If I stand one foot on that rail for 5-10 seconds it will die. It seems like a kill switch is being engaged with my weight pressing down in that area. Second, the deck shakes quite a bit. I think a pulley may be bent. I can't tell if its a fuel/carb issue, an issue of vibration starving the carb, a switch, or multiple problems.
Yard Machine 42" w/ Briggs and Stratton 17.5 HP
Model: 13AN682G729
Serial: 1D064B10049
I will start by saying I am a fairly mechanical person with a good understanding of electrical/electronic systems, but I haven't ever touched a mower before.
The mower runs perfectly fine until I go to engage the blade. It will run for for a minute or two and then it boggs down like it has a fuel problem. It boggs down faster if I am driving (larger load). There are a couple odd symptoms that are confusing me. First, when the mower is running and the deck is not engaged if I step on the left side step (facing the front of the mower as if im going to sit on it) the moter starts to bog down. If I stand one foot on that rail for 5-10 seconds it will die. It seems like a kill switch is being engaged with my weight pressing down in that area. Second, the deck shakes quite a bit. I think a pulley may be bent. I can't tell if its a fuel/carb issue, an issue of vibration starving the carb, a switch, or multiple problems.
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I suggest you start with a carburetor cleaning and see what transpires from there. You may have a safety switch issue but eliminate the carburetor first.
Send me a PM with an email address and I will send you some beneficial PDF documents for your tractor.
The deck vibration could be related to blades, pulleys or spindles. You will have to closely inspect all components for problems.
Post engine model, type and code numbers for further engine assistance.
This link may help with your carburetor:
What are the procedures to follow when overhauling the carburetor?
Send me a PM with an email address and I will send you some beneficial PDF documents for your tractor.
The deck vibration could be related to blades, pulleys or spindles. You will have to closely inspect all components for problems.
Post engine model, type and code numbers for further engine assistance.
This link may help with your carburetor:
What are the procedures to follow when overhauling the carburetor?
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went through carb as instructed. replaced fuel line and filter. ruined battery in the process of troubleshooting. i will update as soon as i'm sure, but it think all is cured. Thanks a TON for your help.
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still not working properly
It has been a while since my last post as its just now grass cutting season. I ordered the carb rebuild kit and replaced all part. I replaced fuel lines and fuel filter. I bought new blades and had them balanced. The deck seems to be running much smoother, but the mower still dies within 15-30 seconds of engaging the blade. It doesn't matter if I'm sitting still or driving, if I engage the blade the mower starts to sputter and die. If I disengage the blade the mower goes right back to smooth running. Anyone have any ideas before I catch this thing on fire? Thanks.