The engine will turn over but never engage. Ran just fine a few days ago!

To top it off, I have put a new battery in, changed the spark plugs, checked the air and fuel filters (both still clean). Can't figure out what's going on... anybody got any ideas?

Try spraying a little carburetor cleaner into the carb. If it runs on the carb cleaner at least you will know it is a gas problem.

Try spraying a little carburetor cleaner into the carb. If it runs on the carb cleaner at least you will know it is a gas problem.

I'm having the same problem. I got mine to start a few days ago, and then when I tried to run it yesterday, I couldn't get it to start. It will turn over, but not run. It will run with starter fluid sprayed into the carb, but won't stay running. Already checked the fuel line and the gas flows freely. I'm wondering if it's some sort of safety switch or wiring problem, or just the fuel - if it's not the fuel, any other ideas?

See post below

I'm having the same problem. I got mine to start a few days ago, and then when I tried to run it yesterday, I couldn't get it to start. It will turn over, but not run. It will run with starter fluid sprayed into the carb, but won't stay running. Already checked the fuel line and the gas flows freely. I'm wondering if it's some sort of safety switch or wiring problem, or just the fuel - if it's not the fuel, any other ideas?

Does the carb have a electric solenoid on the bottom of it with two wires going to it?

If it does then it could be a electrical problem.

If it doesn't then it is in the carb. Probably a stuck float valve or it's just gummed up from old gas and needs a good cleaning.

Does the carb have a electric solenoid on the bottom of it with two wires going to it?

If it does then it could be a electrical problem.

If it doesn't then it is in the carb. Probably a stuck float valve or it's just gummed up from old gas and needs a good cleaning.

It does have the solenoid. After multiple attemps to start it, I noticed that the solenoid was hot. Would this indicate a replacement is necessary? Can I bypass the solenoid? It will run if I use starting fluid (but of course dies).

It does have the solenoid. After multiple attempts to start it, I noticed that the solenoid was hot. Would this indicate a replacement is necessary? Can I bypass the solenoid? It will run if I use starting fluid (but of course dies).

First of all, DON'T USE STARTING FLUID! This will damage the engine. Whenever you try to run a small engine on a fluid besides gas make sure it is carburetor cleaner.

If it is getting hot then it is more than likely getting electricity to it. You can check this with a volt meter or test light. You can replace it with an older style plug. But, you really need to have it there for safety.

Try removing your gas line to the carb. Unplug the solenoid. Then take the solenoid off the bottom of the carb. It will leak the gas out that is in the bowl. You don't need to remove the bowl at this point. Once you have the solenoid in your hand plug the wire back onto it and turn the ignition switch on. See if the little plunger goes in. If it does then you probably have a clogged up carb. If it doesn't then turn the ignition switch off and unplug the wires. Try spraying some carb cleaner into the solenoid and working it in and out until it moves freely. Once it works freely plug it in again and see if it moves when you turn the key on. If it does then reassemble it and you will be ready to go. If not, then you need a solenoid.

I keep finding the jets loose in the carb bowl. I can't even figure out how they get there. Any ideas?