Deere STX38 Gas Leak when starting
#1
06-13-11, 05:19 AM
Deere STX38 Gas Leak when starting
Hi all:
I have a circa 1995 John Deere STX38 with a 13HP Kohler OHV. When I first start it, with the choke on, and then drop into high, it leaks gas near the muffler, which is up front. It only leaks about a teaspoon or so, but it makes a mess of the driveway. It then stops leaking. When I have to stop the tractor and then restart it after engine is warm (without the choke obviously), there is no leak. Do I have a mixture problem, a choke problem, or a plain old leak? It's difficult to see exactly where it's coming from since I'm in the seat when starting. Not sure if I have tried starting it cold without the choke. Luckily it doesn't catch fire since the muffler is still cold, but it's annoying having to "sand" the gas puddle. Thanks for any feedback.
I have a circa 1995 John Deere STX38 with a 13HP Kohler OHV. When I first start it, with the choke on, and then drop into high, it leaks gas near the muffler, which is up front. It only leaks about a teaspoon or so, but it makes a mess of the driveway. It then stops leaking. When I have to stop the tractor and then restart it after engine is warm (without the choke obviously), there is no leak. Do I have a mixture problem, a choke problem, or a plain old leak? It's difficult to see exactly where it's coming from since I'm in the seat when starting. Not sure if I have tried starting it cold without the choke. Luckily it doesn't catch fire since the muffler is still cold, but it's annoying having to "sand" the gas puddle. Thanks for any feedback.
#2
06-13-11, 10:42 PM
Forum Topic Moderator
Your carburetor float needle is leaking while the mower isn't being used. When you crank it up, it blows this accumulated gas out the exhaust, making your mess. Clean the carb and replace the inlet needle and you'll probably be ok.
