Honda GCV 160cc lawnmower engine

I tipped this mower on its side but did so incorrectly. I tipped it with air filter and carburetor facing down and oil dipstick side facing up. After cleaning up the oil that leaked out through air cleaner; I replaced air filter but engine would only run for a few moments and then it died.

The engine will run fine without the air filter but once the air filter is installed it cuts out again.

Is there something clogged like oil in the air filter system or is it a carburetor problem? I have not cleaned the carburetor in over three years.

Thanks
Harry

 

You now have oil in the the carburetor.

 

You may need to replace the air filter again. Before you do, let it run for a while with no air filter so it can do some self cleaning. You might even see some oil spitting out with the filter removed. Let it clean out then try a new air filter.

This is not directed at you Harry, but I see so much if this and it still befuzzles me why people will do more work than needed....

Push/walk behind etc. mowers have a built in lever to raise the deck and access the blade and underneath. In what direction is the deck often lifted during normal operation? They are designed to be lifted by lowering, the handle raising the front of the deck. You can safely lift them this way resting the handle on the floor and securing it.

 

A paper air filter element will not flow air if it gets oiled. I would try dropping the float bowl to check for oil. You'll need to catch the contents, and should empty the fuel tank before doing loosening the bolt, or you'll have a mess. Crimping the fuel line can damage the line permanently, as the ethanol in todays fuel can damage the line internally.