ed. I’m going to try to remove the starter tonight…will I be able to see the gears without getting into the engine?
21 hp 42 in. Deck Yard Tractor – CA Model

Experienced gardeners share their insights in answering this question :
Depends on the engine, briggs L-head opposed twins can be viewed by removing the sheet metal head cover near the starter, changing its starter is fun, as one of the bolts is under the flywheel, it can be changed without flywheel removal, with patience. Briggs Vanguard and Intek twins starters are easier to remove, the intek cowling has to be removed to see anything with starter in place but the starter can be removed with the cowling in place, the Vanguard has a few sheet metal covers that must be removed. If you’ve got a Kohler, starter removal is usually pretty straightforward, take the starter to a local repair shop for a comparison or test if you are unable to determine what’s wrong. A decent shop will at least inspect it and show you what a known good starter drive looks like.

How to Identify and Fix Common Gardening Problems ?

We provide a variety of viewpoints on how to identify and fix common gardening problems. Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced gardeners :

Worn bearings about to fail completely often make grinding noises, as well as unusual vibrations. The mandrels holding the mower deck`s cutting blades contain two bearings that need frequent lubrication to keep the bearings working properly. As bearings dry and overheat, seals fail and dirt enters the mechanism.
This sound is the result of friction from the gear teeth meshing inside the transaxle casing. These gears will wear slightly over time, and this sound should decrease. If the noise suddenly becomes louder, we suggest that an authorized service center inspect the unit.
Loose, Dirty or Disconnected Spark Plug in Your Lawn Mower: Check it out, clean off debris, re-connect and tighten. Dirty Air Filter: Clean or replace. Fuel Not Reaching the Engine: Tap the side of the carburetor to help the flow of gas. If this doesn`t work, you might need a new fuel filter.
If the riding mower makes a heavy clicking or a rapid clattering sound when the key is turned to the start position, there is a problem with the battery or a part of the starting circuit. The clicking noise comes from a part called the starter solenoid.
If you hear this grinding noise both while you`re driving and idling, it`s possible that worn-out bearings are to blame. If the grinding noise comes when you shift, it`s likely due to a worn clutch. Grinding when you turn a corner could be due to a CV joint that needs to be replaced or another suspension issue.
A common cause of grinding noises under your car are failing wheel or hub bearings. Wheel bearings allow the wheel and tire to rotate and are designed for low friction, while hub assemblies have an additional responsibility of securing the wheel and tire to the vehicle.
The most common reason for a surging lawn mower engine is a blockage in the fuel supply, but there are other possibilities: Bad gas. Bad spark plug. Dirty/faulty carburetor.
Clogged or Dirty Air Filters

Dirty air filters are one of the most common reasons lawn mowers sputter. Dirt can be present in the apertures that lead from the carburetor and the fuel filter and interrupt the flow of fuel supply to the combustion chamber. You want to be sure to clean or replace dirty air filters.

If the engine starts, but does not run smoothly, it means that the spark plug and ignition system are in order and you need to look elsewhere for the source of the problem. The usual culprit is air intake or fuel system related.
The most common causes of grinding noises in automobiles are worn-out brakes, a faulty CV joint, or transmission issues. It`s important to note that, whichever component is causing the grinding noise, it needs immediate repair. The following are common causes of grinding noise in automobiles.
If a mower is hard to start, it may be the result of a dirty carburetor and/or a clogged air filter. Use a screwdriver to remove the carburetor and clean any dirt out of it with a rag. Clean the air filter or replace it if it`s disposable.
You might notice a grinding noise when driving at low speeds. The most common causes are problems with your continual velocity joints, brake pads, wheel bearings or alternator. Examining each one of these parts can help you pinpoint exactly where the issue is.
If you notice your car making a grinding sound when it accelerates, your issue is likely to do with your transmission, a problem with your differential, a bad wheel bearing, a damaged CV joint, or a worn engine/motor mount.
There are a few reasons that could cause a loud noise with your grinder. First, ensure that after a grind that the amount of ground coffee in the filter is correct and not too low. Make sure the beans container is empty and ensure that the grinder funnel is clean and not clogged with coffee ground.

Discover Relevant Questions and Answers for Your Specific Issue

the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue

Engine won't start it kicks back at TDC – Craftsman 21 hp 42 in. Deck Yard Tractor – CA Model
ANSWER : Try the shear key under the flywheel

Engine dies when you release brake – Craftsman 21 Hp 42" Lawn Tractor Riding Mower Warranty
ANSWER : Check the safety switches

My 23 hp Kawasaki engine runs until it get warm, it will then stall and is hard to start after that. It seems to me as if something is cutting the fuel off, What could it be?
ANSWER : When it begins to stall, loosen the gas cap. If performance improves, clear the gas cap vent holes.

Gary

Key start turns and makes a whining “I sort of want to start” noise but does not engage the engine. Previously the key start was sort of touchy and the key had to in just the right position to engage the starter. Could this be a starter motor problem? If so what is the part/fix?
ANSWER : If it is whining, the starter motor is turning. You possibly may have a broken starter drive. This is the little gear on the starter shaft. It’s not too expensive and relatively easy to replace.

I have a Craftsman 21 hp, 42″ riding mower ~ 10 years old…when trying to start it, it just makes a loud metal noise like the gears are stripped. I’m going to try to remove the starter tonight…will I be able to see the gears without getting into the engine?
ANSWER : Depends on the engine, briggs L-head opposed twins can be viewed by removing the sheet metal head cover near the starter, changing its starter is fun, as one of the bolts is under the flywheel, it can be changed without flywheel removal, with patience. Briggs Vanguard and Intek twins starters are easier to remove, the intek cowling has to be removed to see anything with starter in place but the starter can be removed with the cowling in place, the Vanguard has a few sheet metal covers that must be removed. If you’ve got a Kohler, starter removal is usually pretty straightforward, take the starter to a local repair shop for a comparison or test if you are unable to determine what’s wrong. A decent shop will at least inspect it and show you what a known good starter drive looks like.

Hi i having a problem starting my mower it a Craftsman LT2000 18.5 Intek OHV Briggs & St i removed the battery and starter and had them both check both are…
ANSWER : Turnes over slow for 2 or 3 turnes then quick and maybe a start or goes bact to compression on engine

Is the battery 12 volt? – Craftsman 20 Hp 42" Deck Lawn Tractor
ANSWER : Yes. When you go get a new one try and spend alittle more and get the highest ctanking amp battery you can. Most auto part, walmart, lowes, homedepot or small engine repair stores will carry what you need.

I have a Poulan push mower that after mowing in a ditch started making a loud noise and running rough. It almost sounded as if metal was hitting metal. The mower was vibrating more than normal. I checked under the mower and nothing is hitting. After a few times of stopping the mower engine because it sound as if it is going to die down the mower will not start now. The shaft does not appear bent and the blade appears ok. The mower has oil, a good spark plug and a clean air filter. It was running fine until that moment. I did not see anything that I hit but it is possible I hit something in the ditch like a pine cone or branch. What could the problem be and how would I go about fixing it?
ANSWER : If you are sure the oil level is correct then it sounds like it’s about to die, unfortunately. A pine cone shouldn’t cause any damage, but a large branch may do so. Was it smoking before you shut it down? The vibration could be caused from a bent blade. It could also be caused from a part breaking in the motor. I wish I could have given you better news!

Good Luck,

Jim