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

i have aToro LX 420 riding mower and i have a Courage 18 hp Kohler engine and when i go to start it  i turn it over and it doesn't start the starter just whines i stop then try later then sometimes it startes but most of the time it doesn't start. but if i get it started it runs werid like iit's misfireing or skipping i don't no i really need help. this mower was just bought in this year in june . i need some help on what too do .

I bought my lx420 from HD two years ago and it has been running fine until couple days ago.  It cranks and won't start like it is not getting a spark of fuel. I have replaced the spark plug and fuel filter and it still doesn't start.  It also has a new battery.  I removed the air filter and sprayed ether in the carbuerator--it fires up right away but dies when after the ether burns out.  I suspect the carburator but would like any solutions before rebuilding or buying a new carb...
thanks, joe

For any genius out there.

• Kohler Courage 18
• Just started it, moved it from the garage, turned it off.  When back to restart and...
• Will not start or even turn over.  
  
• Starter/ Solenoid clicks (with a small whistle)
  
• Starter will not turn.
• Disconnected cable connects at battery, at selanoid, at starter.  Cleaned with steel wool.  The machine is three yrs old so most connections were not "dirty".
• Reconnected  - same result.  Clicks and a light whistle.
• Cross over the two poles on the switch/solenoid,  small amount of sparks arrupted (as expected) but the starter did not turn over.
• I sat on the seat to depress the safety switch.  I set the brake.  I engaged and released the blade pto.  
  
• Still, only clicks.

• Does anyone know what is happening?  
  
• Is it a starter problem?  A solenoid problem?  Is the dang engine locked up?