Toro pow-r-drive mower runs erratically at all speeds?

I have a older 21" Toro Pow-R-Drive lawnmower I bought new about 15-18 years ago. It's been well cared for but all of a sudden the engine runs erratically at all speeds.

It starts right up with one pull (always has) so I don't think its an ignition problem. I've changed the spark plug but that didn't make a difference. I also took the bottom bowl off the carb to see if there was any sediment in it but there wasn't any.

I'd like to fix the mower if I can do it inexpensively because its easy to operate w/o all the safety devices and it has front wheel drive which makes it easy to manuever for trimming.

Does anyone have any ideas or suggestions on what the problem could be or what to try next?

Thank you.

 

Please post the engine manufacturer, model, type and code so we know what engine it has, it sounds like a fuel restriction, probably dirt or varnish build up in the main jet. Have a good one. Geo

 

It has a Tecumseh engine. The numbers I found on the tin above the spark plug are as follows:

TVS10044012B, SER# 8057C

Let me know if this isn't the right information.

Thank you.

 

The bowl nut is the main jet for the carb, it has several holes in it the one at the top is usually the problem, it is almost invisible, right at the edge of the upper thread, I use the wire from a twist tie to clean it, clean all the holes, botton, top and through the center and it will probably solve your problem. Refer to the pic below for reference. Have a good one. Geo

 

Thanks Geo, I'll give it a try and report back.

 

Geo said
I'm happy to report that Geo's suggestion worked. I'm amazed because I couldn't see any restriction since the hole is so small but ran a piece of wire from a twist tie through the hole followed up with compressed air and the engine runs smooth at all rpms.

Thanks again Geo.

 

Success is a wonderful sound. Have a good one. Geo