I have an MTD lawnmower with a 5 hp B&S engine with primer. The oil was over-filled. I drained the oil/refilled and changed the spark plug. Now, I have to put starter fluid in the carb to get it to crank. However, it will crank but quickly die. It will not crank without the starter fluid. What should I do? Thanks

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Originally Posted by dbw4761

I have an MTD lawnmower with a 5 hp B&S engine with primer. The oil was over-filled. I drained the oil/refilled and changed the spark plug. Now, I have to put starter fluid in the carb to get it to crank. However, it will crank but quickly die. It will not crank without the starter fluid. What should I do? Thanks

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Do not use starter fluid! Starter fluid is extremely volatile and could cause irreparable damage. My suggestion is to leave it set and allow the excess oil to drain out of the combustion chamber. Some experts here may have other suggestions as well.

Once the excess oil has drained, you may still see smoking due to oil burning off internal components. This should only last for a short time. Next time you perform maintenance, start and quickly shut off the engine, let it settle for a few minutes, and then double check the oil level.

Use carb cleaner for starting fluid.

Remove the spark plug, drape a towel over the spark plug hole and pull the rope a couple of times. This will remove most of the oil and then replace the plug and put some oil in it to the fill level on the dipstick. Then try to start. If it starts allow it to run for about 2 minutes. Then drain oil and add fresh oil. If it doesn't start check the carb for blockages.