OK, here's a challenge for y'all.
My 3-YO Snapper 31" RER ran just fine through the summer. Now during leaf cleanup, it's been towing the leaf wagon around for 4 weeks, no problems.
Yesterday, I fired up the mower deck, rotating just fine, no encumberances. I put it in gear, foot off the brake, engine just starts to labor, backfire, and jerk forward, stall if I let it go. Foot on the brake, deck engaged, clears right up, engine runs normal. Also, with no deck running, can drive around the yard (flat) with an occassional backfire. If I let this go, it stalls out, but will re-start right away.
I started with the easy stuff. One at a time, I did the following:
1. Thought I might have gummed up things pouring the last of the gas into the tank (fairly fress <1.5 months old) gas. - Carb spray into the carb and linkage. No change
2. Changed inline fuel filter - no change.
3. Changed spark plug - no change (plug looked ok other than usual burn)
4. lubricated brake pedal linkages all the way through. - no change.
5. Checked oil - good shape.
6. Checked electrical connections, all snug.
No other lifestyle changes for this mower. No damage, accidents or parties. Gets fairly light use - 1.5 hrs/week summer, winter vacation.
I would really like to finish up the lawn, with a good final mulching, but things ain't looking too good here. Would appreciate your suggestions.
Thanks!
Bill
