Lawn Mower Mechanic Question

[TexasBob]

I have a pushmower that I bought used, guy said it sat up and needed a carb cleaning. I've done that many times before, so I took a $20 gamble. It is a newer craftsman with a carb I haven't seen before. The mower will start right up after a couple pulls, runs strong for 5 seconds, and dies like it is out of gas. On my old one with a metal bowl, the bolt up the middle was clogged up and the float was gummed up. Few shots of carb cleaner and it ran like a top. On this one, the bowl is plastic and the float and components are clean. Any thoughts? Will seafoam work even if it only runs a few seconds at a time?

[bwssr]

I have had that happen....air filter was nasty, and low oil

[Philip-TX]

Filter clean?
Fuel line good? (no cracks)

Get a rebuild kit. Replace the diaphragm/fuel pump.

[Jaybo31]

Filter clean?
Fuel line good? (no cracks)

Get a rebuild kit. Replace the diaphragm/fuel pump.

This. Take the filter off, get someone to start it and you put 2 fingers over the carb. Adjust the gap between your 2 fingers to let more or less air flow. If it will run this way its the diaphragm.

[Bill]

New air filter
New spark plug

Change oil

Then I'm out of ideas.

[Chuey]

you have a partial plugage in the carb take it apart and with i fine wire from a loaf of bread twist tie thing clean your ports .

[parkchief100]

Sell it to a $20.00 Gambler! Lol

[blacksunshine]

you have a partial plugage in the carb take it apart and with i fine wire from a loaf of bread twist tie thing clean your ports .

or compressed air...just don't lose the needle seat....

[Fishndude]

Air filter???

[yazoomike]

What brand of engine?? The only plastic bottomed carb i've seen is on the older tecumseh. They have o-rings around the main jet tube. If they are bad fuel will not flow up like needed.