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dhappyjak · Jun 10, 2009, 01:08 AM

I have a craftsman lt1000. Recently while operating it, it sputtered then shut off. I had checked the oil prior to turning on the tractor. After it stalled there didn't seem to be any oil in the motor and after about 10 min later gas started coming out of the breather. I have replaced the carburetor, the starter, the battery and spark plug. All were needed. When I start the lawn mower, this is however, a high pitched whine from the engine that wasn't there before. I've got newspaper underneath to see if there is an oil leak but I'm afraid to run the tractor.

crigby · Jun 10, 2009, 06:37 AM

Hi,
Since you had gas run out the breather, the first thing to do is change the oil as it has gas in it and will not lubricate proper. If it has an oil filter, that also. 10W30 if it is Kohler, 30W if it is a Briggs&Stratton.
Whines can be many things. Trained ears can pinpoint them almost instantly by pitch, but that is not an easy task here. Try the oil first and get back.
Peace,
Clarke
PS Another post automatically alerts me by email.

dhappyjak · Jun 10, 2009, 06:45 AM

I forgot to mention that I already changed both

crigby · Jun 10, 2009, 08:19 AM

Hi,
I gather the location is not obvious since you asked. Running the engine for very short periods should be safe. A mechanics trick is to place the blade of a screwdriver against various vaious parts/places and the ear to the handle; it works like a stethoscope.
Alternately, you may well have one of those "headache" occurrences where you have near simultaneous failures of two separate components. Could easily be a failure of an idler in the drive system, for instance. Drives mechanics nuts. I have seen as many as four separate ones occur at very nearly the same time.
Peace,
Clarke