I bought an old model Craftsman Honda type lawn tractor. It ran great when I bought it. Towed it home and boyfriend decided to "fix it up". He replaced worn wires and battery and for some reason I don't understand, the fuel pump. He bought a generic fuel pump at Autozone. Ever since it has spewed gas out the front of the motor, just below the air filter... is hard to start and to keep running. It dies with the least resistance, i.e. pushing manure across the paddock, and smokes like a chimney. I can't afford $100 to have small engine mechanic look at it. Any help would be appreciated.

I bought an old model Craftsman Honda type lawn tractor. It ran great when I bought it. Towed it home and boyfriend decided to "fix it up". He replaced worn wires and battery and for some reason I don't understand, the fuel pump. He bought a generic fuel pump at Autozone. Ever since it has spewed gas out the front of the motor, just below the air filter....is hard to start and to keep running. It dies with the least resistance, ie pushing manure across the paddock, and smokes like a chimney. I can't afford $100 to have small engine mechanic look at it. Any help would be appreciated.
If possible reinstall old fuel pump it sounds as though the present pump has far too much pressure for a small engine. Or buy a pump for the make & model engine you have.

Quick lesson here, stick to oem parts when available.

Thanks guys. I think your both right. But hey, what do I know? I'm just a "girl". Lol

Girl, shoot the boy. Autozone does not sell fuel pumps that are deisgned for a tractor. Jury rig at best. What size tractor is this and are you sure it has a Honda engine. I would also have SOMEONE else check the float and carb needle since a overly strong pump should not be able to push gas past the needle valve.

Go to tractor house USA