B+S 18Hp on ZTR Won't start

hobie · Dec 13, 2009

I have a Country Clipper mower with a flip up deck. The night before Thanksgiving I flipped it up to clean out wet leaves and grass. I left it flipped up so it would dry, and I could finish cleaning next time I was there. That turned out to be two weeks later, and at that time the motor wouldn't start. It turns over, but after much cranking still didn't start. Did I flood the engine leaving it tilted up? Ran out of time, but next visit plan on pulling plug, and changing all filters. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks, Brian

jhwentworth · Dec 13, 2009

"but next visit plan on pulling plug, and changing all filters."
Why? First, find out why it won't start. It's either fuel or spark. When you spin the motor over is there spark at the plug? What does the plug look like: dry, or wet with gas. Have you tried putting a teaspoon of gas into the carb? If no spark at plug check the safety interlocks.

hobie · Dec 14, 2009

Thanks! I haven't pulled the plug yet but will check for spark Tuesday, check safety locks...

hobie · Dec 15, 2009

Thanks! It was the safety switch under the seat. Running great now.

jhwentworth · Dec 16, 2009

It's not a bad idea to write down how the machine works when everything is working correctly. It's interesting that your ZTR allows the starter to spin but kills the ignition when the seat safety switch isn't closed; most machines kill the starter. Does your manual list the safety switches and describe how they operate?

hobie · Dec 16, 2009

The owners manual is fairly limited, but it does list the safety switches. I don't know if it describes how they work. I'll have to check that out. I should make a copy to keep at my home, as the mower is about 60 miles away. I should also start a log book, I've been very negligent in that. The more notes I make, the more I'd have to jog my memory! Thanks for the help.