Hello,
I have a John Deer Riding Lawn Mower LX 173. It won't start. It ran fine last fall and I have a new battery on it. It will start with the help of starting fluid and run for just a second and then shut off. I found a hose disconnected on it but I'm not sure where it goes. It was laying near the seat (underneath). I'm not sure if it even goes to the lawnmower because I didn't see a place for it: :confused:

I purchased a new spark plug (should I put it on?)
It acts like it's not getting gas. Could it be the carburetor? Maybe it's out of adjustment?
How do you adjust that screw?

Thanks!

If it staets using starting fluid,that indicates,its getting fire,and is not getting fuel. Is it possible the line that's off goes to the carb? Is the shut off valve for the tank turned on?

I'm not sure about the shut off valve. I'll check that. I have someone coming to help me this evening but he doesn't know much about small engine repair. Do you think the spark plug is OK since it wants to start?
Thanks for all your help! I'm divorced with a 3 ac. Of grass :-)

I would say yes,as it does want to start,look around the bottom of the tank,there should be a valve .

http://images-partners-tbn.google.co...%3Fwidth%3D270


Good luck.

I'm thinking my boy might have something to do with it now.
I'm going to check the valve and hose when I get home.
I really appreciate your help. Thanks so much.
I guess I need a class on small engine repair. ;)
I'm usually pretty good at getting my weedeater and lawnmower going. (But not this time)
I'm afraid to check my weedeater :)

Well good luck with it ,and if that's not it post back,and we'll go further into it.:)

No starting fluid. It can damage a small engine, Use spary carb cleaner.

Since it spurts, I'm in agreement - fuel system. Carb and or valve.

I'll pick up come spray carb cleaner.
Thank you so much!

I would say that the carb is gummed up. I work on mowers everyday and that is a classic symptom of a dirty carb. They are fairly easy to work on but you have to be pretty careful. I would suggest a local mechanic that would clean it out for you. Shouldn't be more than a $50 fix.

Mjeep 1
Welcome to the site.
Just on a heads up the thread/post you answered is from march 31,2009

Most threads peter out on less then a week and few go longer then that read the original post dates

Again welcome to the site.