240 hard start, won't stay running.

joea99 · Jun 24, 2017

Have a 240 with 48 inch deck. Always been reluctant to start after sitting for weeks and would surge from time to time. Had to resort to ether to get it started. Now it will start, but not run above low idle. Won't run long enough to warm up. Fuel filter and air filter look fine. Gas is pretty recent, having mowed a month ago.

Ideas?

Kish318420 · Jun 24, 2017

Check and clean carb.

joea99 · Jun 24, 2017

Kish318420 said:
Check and clean carb.

Is there a "how to" on checking? By clean, I presume you mean dis assemble and soak? Are there rebuild kits available?

There seem to be several versions of this carb, when I check the John Deere site for their manuals.

Kish318420 · Jun 24, 2017

Since there are different versions you will need the complete carb model number, usually located on the body of the carb, then go looking for rebuild kits.

As for how to's, once you have the carb model, then google or search youtube for videos.

Also the TM (Technical Manual) or SM (Service Manual) or CTM (Component Technical Manual) for you model of tractor will have that info, since the manuals are for servicing it. Plus do not forget the PC (Parts Catalog) and of course the OM (Operators Manual)

bruceatlam · Jun 25, 2017

I've never had any luck trying to rebuild these carbs. So, my cheap advice is just go buy a new carb and be done with it.

Coyote machine · Jun 25, 2017

Surging which can be helped by adding some choke, usually indicates a low idle jet in the carb is acting up. Sometimes using something like Seafoam will clear it. If not, a carb rebuild is usually in order, or a replacement carb if that fails to solve the issue.
Spray carb cleaners wreak havoc with rubber o-rings and can make a situation like yours worse. Best to have a kit to rebuild at hand. Also, if wanting to clean jets/passageways best use a *MAF sensor spray since it won't damage rubber seals. *(Mass Flow Air Meter).

bruceatlam · Jun 25, 2017

One more thought, before you get too deep into a carb, make sure that you've checked the entire fuel flow path for any plugs or blockages. Start with the pickup inside the tank.

joea99 · Jun 28, 2017

So, I bought a can of Gunk "dip" and a couple cans of spray. Spray cleaned the outside, removed the bowl and soaked it overnight. Then sprayed every orifice I could find, dried it and put it back on. Cranked for a while and now runs better that it has in years.

Hope it lasts, Carb kits look like $90 complete carb almost $300.

DJRuss · Jul 13, 2017

I'm curious where you're able to find a rebuild kit. I've searched fruitlessly.

I cleaned mine recently by completely disassembling and cleaning all jets and passages but didn't have to replace anything. It was maybe a little dirty but not bad. The biggest issue found was that the choke was very hard to operate. I worked it loose and now cold starting is much easier.

I still get some surging so am thinking it's not getting enough fuel as bruceatlam mentioned or possibly a worn out ignition coil.