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

Hi, I recently inherited a Craftsan II walk behind (self-propelled)mower model 917 372800, 5.5 GTS, OHV. I have cleaned the carb, bowl using fresh gas and oil and everything seems as it should be but..... maybe this is a dumb question, but, do i have to have the blade installed for it to start/ run? I was trying to see if i could get it going before spending money on it. (it came with no blade)
Thanks,
JD

I too agree with BORAT! The blade has to be installed to start and most manufactures will tell you in the owners manual not to start it without a blade installed! All of the newer machines have low oil cut-off switches etc which will also keep the engine from starting until you add the lubricant required!

If you have fuel, air, and spark- the engine should run! If it doesn't then you're missing one of those three components! Seeing it's an "older" machine I would be inclined to check the compression also especially if it has sat around for a long period without running! If it wasn't fogged I would not be hesitant to think you may have some other issues that require attention!