Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

I have a brand new Ariens 926LE with tecumseh 9HP engine.  The first time I used it is was very hard to start. It will not start with the pull rope at all. Choke on , 3 primes, throttle up.  The only way I was able to get her started was to use electric starter n hit the primer while cranking engine . Once it starts it seemed to run fine. When I has doing the drive I noticed oil coming out the rubber tube . I shut it down. Changed oil to proper level.  I checked spark plug and it was black. I wanted to check air cleaner but I dont see where it is. I then went to get a new plug. Changed plug , oil at full.  Now I start it and its better but I still have to crank with electric starter n hit primer at same time. Once its warm i can start with rope but still have to choke the warm moter. I ran it for a bit pulled new plug and its black now too. I had a old international cadet with a 8hp briggs that fires up with ease. What do you think is my problem here. I do get a puff of black smoke when it first starts on choke but not a lot. Again once it starts it seems to run fine. Any Ideas or suggestions? Dave.        thomas4d@netzero.com