I bought a well used, 2006 Poulan 300EX 42" riding mower back in 2012. The engine was a bit hard starting and a little balky, but the chasis and deck were in good shape. Fast forward two years, the mower has provided good service, but the motor finally seems to be giving out. I can't get it started. It backfires thru the muffler. Changed the plug, adjusted the valve timing, checked the flywheel key. I suspect the crankshaft is worn or damaged.
Deck and body are still in very serviceable shape. Looks like I can get a new Briggs Intek 19.5, a drop-in replacement, for about $400. I'm not familiar with any of the local mower repair places, so I don't know which shops are reputable. Should I bother with an attempt at a repair, or just drop in the new motor and be done with it?
Any thoughts appreciated.
Deck and body are still in very serviceable shape. Looks like I can get a new Briggs Intek 19.5, a drop-in replacement, for about $400. I'm not familiar with any of the local mower repair places, so I don't know which shops are reputable. Should I bother with an attempt at a repair, or just drop in the new motor and be done with it?
Any thoughts appreciated.
